A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Raleigh for Attractions, Food, Families, and Nightlife

Should you visit La Paz or Raleigh?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between La Paz and Raleigh can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

La Paz

La Paz is a authentic, cultural, and beautiful city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See La Paz travel costs.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a suburban-style, friendly, and southern city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife. See Raleigh travel costs.

La Paz and Raleigh: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in La Paz or Raleigh?

Visitors will generally find more to do in La Paz than Raleigh. While Raleigh is larger than La Paz, La Paz has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. La Paz is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Raleigh is known for its big city activities. La Paz is more touristy than Raleigh and is known for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also home to Balandra Beach. Raleigh is popular for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

How is La Paz different from Raleigh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Paz or Raleigh?

La Paz
Raleigh

La Paz is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

La Paz offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

Raleigh is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.


Is the Food Better in La Paz or Raleigh? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Paz
Raleigh

La Paz is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in La Paz is an experience not to be missed. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Raleigh. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

Is La Paz or Raleigh Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Raleigh

Evening events are good in both La Paz and Raleigh.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Raleigh. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

Is La Paz or Raleigh Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Raleigh

La Paz is a popular place for its resorts. However, Raleigh is not a resort destination.

La Paz has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Raleigh is not a resort destination.


Is La Paz or Raleigh Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Raleigh

La Paz is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Raleigh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting La Paz. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Raleigh is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Raleigh Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Raleigh

La Paz is very popular for the beach. However, Raleigh is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in La Paz. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

Raleigh is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Raleigh?

La Paz
Raleigh

La Paz is well known for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in La Paz. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is La Paz or Raleigh Better for Families?

La Paz
Raleigh

La Paz is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

La Paz is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

Raleigh offers lots of family activities. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Is La Paz or Raleigh Better for Couples?

La Paz
Raleigh

La Paz is a popular place for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

La Paz is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

Is La Paz or Raleigh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Raleigh

La Paz is well known for backpackers. However, Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

La Paz is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is La Paz or Raleigh Better for Students?

La Paz
Raleigh

Raleigh is notable for students. However, La Paz is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Raleigh. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

La Paz is not popular with students.

Is La Paz or Raleigh Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

La Paz
Raleigh

La Paz is a popular place for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in La Paz, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Is La Paz or Raleigh a more walkable city?

La Paz
Raleigh

La Paz is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for its walkability.

La Paz is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable.

Raleigh is generally not a very walkable city. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.


For even more information, also check out Is La Paz Worth Visiting? and Is Raleigh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Raleigh or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Raleigh?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both La Paz and Raleigh. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in La Paz than in Raleigh. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 2-3 days is enough time in Raleigh.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz than Raleigh 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 La Paz.


  • How many days in La Paz or Raleigh? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Raleigh 2-3

One day in La Paz or Raleigh?

In La Paz, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Raleigh. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in La Paz or Raleigh?

In La Paz, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that La Paz has to offer.

Raleigh is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in La Paz or Raleigh?

La Paz is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Raleigh. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in La Paz or Raleigh?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Paz. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting La Paz. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the suburban-style destination of Raleigh. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Raleigh or La Paz?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • La Paz Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Raleigh Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    La Paz $132
    Raleigh $231

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $132, while the average daily cost in Raleigh is $231. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for La Paz and Raleigh in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $47
    Raleigh $104
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $94
    Raleigh $208
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Raleigh

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Raleigh? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in La Paz


Hotels in Raleigh


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: La Paz Hotel Prices and Raleigh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $20
    Raleigh $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

  • La Paz International Airport (LAP) to La Paz hotels -Round-Trip Private Transfer: $159
  • La Paz hotels to La Paz International Airport (LAP) - Departure Private Transfer: $80

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Raleigh

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Raleigh:

  • Durham to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $134
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh Arrival Private Transfer: $139
  • Raleigh to Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) - Departure Private Transfer: $139
  • Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) to Raleigh - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $277

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Raleigh?

Prices for flights to both Raleigh and La Paz change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    La Paz $60
    Raleigh $99

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Paz

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in La Paz.

  • 3 Hours of Guided La Paz Street Food Tour: $77
  • 3 hrs SEAFOOD Tour in La Paz: $103

Typical Food Prices in Raleigh

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Raleigh:


  • The Pit Authentic BBQ (for 3)
    $84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Raleigh

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Raleigh.

  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Craft Beer Bar in Raleigh: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $11
    Raleigh $37

Tours and Activities in La Paz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for La Paz are as follows:

  • Mural and Sculpture Art Tour at the Peace Center: $40
  • Coral Farm Snorkel Tour: $55
  • Pearl Farm Experience and shop: $65
  • Half Day Sandboarding and Paddleboarding Experience in La Paz: $83
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $95
  • RZR Tour of Mogote Dunes and Sandboarding: $103
  • Unique Mexican Spirits Tasting & Pairing Experience: $105
  • holy spirit island tour: $108
  • La Paz Beaches Half Day Tour: $111
  • Holy Spirit Island Tour Sea Lions Snorkeling and Beach: $111
  • Most Popular Tour in La Paz Isla Espíritu Santo and Sea Lions: $122
  • Espiritu Santo Island Tour: $122

Tours and Activities in Raleigh

Here are a few actual costs in Raleigh for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Raleigh Downtown Smartphone Guided GPS App Walking Tour : $9.75
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Chapel Hill NC: $15
  • Durham African-American Historic Walking Tour: $18
  • Chapel Hill Historic Churches History and Architecture Tour: $18
  • Raleigh True Crime Tour: $19
  • Historic Oakwood: History & Architecture Tour: $19
  • Downtown Cary Historian-Guided Tour: $19
  • Raleigh African American History Tour: $19
  • Chapel Hill LGBT History Tour: $19
  • Guided Walking Historian Tour in Downtown Durham: $19
  • Chapel Hill True Crime Walking Tour: $19
  • Durham True Crime Tour: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $11
    Raleigh $27


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between La Paz and Raleigh, we can see that Raleigh is more expensive. And not only is La Paz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to La Paz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in La Paz 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 Raleigh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Raleigh than you might in La Paz.

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


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Raleigh?

Raleigh has a larger population, and is about 61% larger than the population of La Paz. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Raleigh, 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.


When is the best time to visit La Paz or Raleigh?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit La Paz or Raleigh in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Raleigh. Many travelers come to La Paz for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Raleigh in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, La Paz is a little warmer than Raleigh. Typically, the summer temperatures in La Paz in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Raleigh averages at about 79°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Raleigh this time of the year. In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Raleigh during summer. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Raleigh receives 259 hours of full sun in the summer.

Raleigh receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, La Paz usually receives less rain than Raleigh. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Raleigh receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Raleigh 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Raleigh in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Raleigh. Many visitors come to La Paz in the autumn for the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Raleigh for the city's sights and attractions during these months.

In October, La Paz is generally much warmer than Raleigh. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 27°C (80°F), and Raleigh fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Raleigh. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the autumn, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Raleigh. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 211 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in October than Raleigh. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Raleigh receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Raleigh 61°F (16°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Raleigh in the Winter?

Both Raleigh and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to La Paz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Raleigh because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Raleigh can be very cold. La Paz is much warmer than Raleigh in the winter. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 18°C (65°F) in January, and Raleigh fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Raleigh during winter. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Raleigh receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, La Paz usually receives less rain than Raleigh. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Raleigh 40°F (5°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Raleigh in the Spring?

Both Raleigh and La Paz during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to La Paz because of the beaches. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Raleigh this time of year.

In the spring, La Paz is a little warmer than Raleigh. Typically, the spring temperatures in La Paz in April average around 23°C (73°F), and Raleigh averages at about 60°F (16°C).

In Raleigh, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the spring, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Raleigh. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Raleigh receives 251 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in April than Raleigh. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Raleigh receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Raleigh 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Raleigh and La Paz

La Paz Raleigh
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 68°F (20°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 76°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 79°F (26°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 78°F (26°C) 4.9 inches (125 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 73°F (23°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 61°F (16°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 53°F (11°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)