A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isla Mujeres vs. Saint Petersburg for Resorts, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg?

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 Saint Petersburg. 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. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Isla Mujeres travel costs.

Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg is a fun-filled, underrated, and relaxed coastal city. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping. See Saint Petersburg travel costs.

Isla Mujeres and Saint Petersburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Isla Mujeres. Although Isla Mujeres and Saint Petersburg are popular destinations, Isla Mujeres has more sights and attractions for tourists. Isla Mujeres is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty, while Saint Petersburg attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Isla Mujeres is famous for its award-winning beaches, underwater marine life, and tranquil atmosphere. It is also well known for the Underwater Museum of Art. Saint Petersburg is famous for its warm weather, sandy beaches, and outdoor activities.

How is Isla Mujeres different from Saint Petersburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg?

Saint Petersburg is notable for its sights and museums. However, Isla Mujeres is a mediocre island for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Saint Petersburg. There are a variety of history, science, and art museums in the area. The Dalí Museum, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, The Florida Holocaust Museum, and Imagine Museum of Contemporary Glass Art are some of the favorites.

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 Saint Petersburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Isla Mujeres and Saint Petersburg can be an enjoyable experience.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Isla Mujeres. 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.

Saint Petersburg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's location on the Gulf Coast means that seafood is everywhere. You'll enjoy fresh oysters, fried calamari, grilled fish, and fried shrimp on many menus. Casual restaurants and local eateries are common around town.

Is Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are nice in both Isla Mujeres and Saint Petersburg.

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 Saint Petersburg. There are beachside bars, rooftop restaurants, and dance clubs around town for those looking for a night out.

Is Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg Better for Resorts?

Isla Mujeres is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Isla Mujeres is a perfect choice. Despite its small size, there are a range of impressive resorts on the island. Accommodation ranges from affordable hostels to stunning luxury resorts.

With a selection of resorts, Saint Petersburg makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find most of the resorts near the beach. Many have pools and they range in style and budget level.

Is Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Isla Mujeres is terrific for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Saint Petersburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Isla Mujeres is not to be missed. 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.

Saint Petersburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg Better for Beaches?

Isla Mujeres and Saint Petersburg both offer first-rate beaches.

Isla Mujeres offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Saint Petersburg. You'll find great sandy beaches with calm blue water and a relaxed atmosphere. Some of the best beaches include Egmont Key, Fort DeSoto Beach, Maximo Beach, and St. Pete's Municipal Beach.

Is the Shopping Better in Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg?

Both Isla Mujeres and Saint Petersburg 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.

Saint Petersburg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find plenty of shopping malls and shopping centers around town. Along the boardwalk and in John's Pass Village there are also restaurants and souvenir stores.

Is Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg More Beautiful?

Isla Mujeres is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Saint Petersburg 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.

Saint Petersburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg Better for Families?

Isla Mujeres is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its family-friendly activities.

Isla Mujeres is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Saint Petersburg is a very kid-friendly island. The beaches, waterparks, nature reserves, and entertainment centers all offer plenty of activities for families. There are plenty of places to play, laugh, and act silly around town so the whole family can have a good time. There's also the Great Explorations Children’s Museum and other educational opportunities for the young ones.

Is Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg Better for Couples?

Isla Mujeres is terrific for romance. Also, Saint Petersburg is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Isla Mujeres has plenty to offer. 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.

Saint Petersburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are sunset cruises, long sandy beaches, nice restaurants, and many other romantic activities around town. You can wander down the boardwalk or enjoy nature at the gardens and nature parks around town.

Is Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isla Mujeres is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Isla Mujeres is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a handful of hostels on the island that offer budget accommodation and a social atmosphere.

Saint Petersburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the list for many backpackers, but budget travelers will appreciate the affordable accommodation around town.

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

Isla Mujeres is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Isla Mujeres offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are two bus routes around the island that are operated by Isleños Bus.

Public transit is generally limited in Saint Petersburg. There's a bus system, but most people rely on their own car to get around.

Is Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg a more walkable city?

Isla Mujeres is great for its walkability. However, Saint Petersburg is not a good destination 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.

Saint Petersburg is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, but you really need a car to access most places.

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

Should I spend more time in Saint Petersburg or Isla Mujeres?

How long in Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Saint Petersburg due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Isla Mujeres, and 2-4 days is enough time in Saint Petersburg.

Families should spend more time in Isla Mujeres than Saint Petersburg. 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 Saint Petersburg. 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 Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the idyllic destination of Isla Mujeres. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Saint Petersburg, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this underrated coastal city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the idyllic island of Isla Mujeres. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Saint Petersburg is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the beaches. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg?

Isla Mujeres is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the underrated destination of Saint Petersburg. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. 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 Saint Petersburg?

Isla Mujeres is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Saint Petersburg is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Isla Mujeres and Saint Petersburg, we can see that Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Isla Mujeres or Saint Petersburg?

Saint Petersburg has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Isla Mujeres. When comparing the sizes of Isla Mujeres and Saint Petersburg, 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.