A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isla Mujeres vs. Norfolk for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Norfolk?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isla Mujeres and Norfolk. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a laid back, idyllic, and relaxing island. Isla Mujeres is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Isla Mujeres travel costs.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a maritime, authentic, and blue collar city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Norfolk travel costs.

Isla Mujeres and Norfolk: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Norfolk?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Isla Mujeres. Although Isla Mujeres and Norfolk are popular destinations, Isla Mujeres has more sights and attractions for tourists. Isla Mujeres is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Norfolk attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Isla Mujeres is more touristy than Norfolk and is known for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. It is also well known for the Underwater Museum of Art. Norfolk is famous for its naval base and military presence.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Norfolk?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Norfolk and Isla Mujeres. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isla Mujeres or Norfolk?

Norfolk is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Isla Mujeres is a mediocre island for its museums and history.

Norfolk offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Isla Mujeres. Nobody really heads to this island for the museums.

Is the Food Better in Isla Mujeres or Norfolk? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isla Mujeres is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Isla Mujeres makes for a great culinary experience. The island has many restaurants, particularly along Hidalgo Street in the Centro area. They typically have a laid back island vibe and serve local seafood or other popular cuisines.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Isla Mujeres or Norfolk Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Isla Mujeres and Norfolk.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Isla Mujeres. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but those who spend the night will enjoy hanging out at the beach bars along Playa Norte. Many have a laid back vibe and some have live music or DJs.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Norfolk. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is Isla Mujeres or Norfolk Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Norfolk is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Isla Mujeres is a great choice. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

Norfolk is not a resort destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Norfolk Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Norfolk is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Isla Mujeres a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. There are many great snorkeling and diving areas just off the island. It's easy to arrange tours that will take you to the best spots. Popular areas include Manchones Reef, the Underwater Museum of Art, and Garrafon Natural Park.

Norfolk is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Norfolk Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Isla Mujeres. The island has spectacular beaches where the white sand meets the blue water. The idyllic setting is the perfect place to relax with a drink or soak up the island vibe. Playa Norte is an award winning beach that has calm water and stunning snorkeling. Playa Centro has many restaurants and bars, and you'll likely see people sunbathing topless. There's a beach club at Playa Albatros as well as hammocks, umbrellas, and recreational activities.

Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Norfolk?

Both Isla Mujeres and Norfolk are nice shopping destinations.

Isla Mujeres offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the best opportunities to pick up gifts or souvenirs. You'll find local jewelry, art, and handicrafts.

Norfolk has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Is Isla Mujeres or Norfolk More Beautiful?

Isla Mujeres is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.

Isla Mujeres is a gorgeous place to visit. Beautiful beaches with white sand and blue water make this a beautiful destination. The underwater world is also spectacular to explore.

Norfolk is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Isla Mujeres or Norfolk Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Isla Mujeres is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the outdoor sports, which include kayaking, surfing, cave exploration, and snorkeling or diving. There are also opportunities to get up close with marine life or spend the day playing at a water park.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Isla Mujeres or Norfolk Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres is a must-visit destination for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

Isla Mujeres makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's a world class honeymoon destination and couples enjoy the white powdery sand beaches, turquoise blue waters, and laid back island vibe. There's diving and snorkeling as well as romantic hotels and wonderful local restaurants.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is Isla Mujeres or Norfolk Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isla Mujeres is a great destination for backpackers. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Isla Mujeres. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Norfolk is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This is an often overlooked area for backpackers.

Is Isla Mujeres or Norfolk Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Isla Mujeres is a popular place for its public transit. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Isla Mujeres, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are two bus routes around the island that are operated by Isleños Bus.

Public transit is mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Is Isla Mujeres or Norfolk a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Isla Mujeres is very walkable. The most walkable part of the island is the North part, which is the town center.

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable place. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Isla Mujeres Worth Visiting? and Is Norfolk Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Norfolk or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Norfolk?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Isla Mujeres or Norfolk to fill your time. In our opinion, Isla Mujeres has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Norfolk. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Norfolk. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Isla Mujeres, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Norfolk. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Isla Mujeres that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Norfolk if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Isla Mujeres.

One day in Isla Mujeres or Norfolk?

In Isla Mujeres, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Norfolk, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this blue collar city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Isla Mujeres or Norfolk?

In Isla Mujeres, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Isla Mujeres has to offer.

Norfolk is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Norfolk?

Isla Mujeres is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the maritime destination of Norfolk. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isla Mujeres or Norfolk?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isla Mujeres. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Isla Mujeres. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Norfolk is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Isla Mujeres and Norfolk, we can see that Norfolk is more expensive. And not only is Isla Mujeres much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Isla Mujeres would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Isla Mujeres and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Norfolk would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Norfolk than you might in Isla Mujeres.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Isla Mujeres Expensive? and Is Norfolk Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Norfolk?

Norfolk has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Isla Mujeres. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and Norfolk, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.