A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Oaxaca de Juarez vs. Asheville for Food, Old Town, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Oaxaca de Juarez

Oaxaca de Juarez is a authentic, traditional, and historic city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Oaxaca de Juarez travel costs.

Asheville

Asheville is a open-minded, eclectic, and outdoorsy mountain town. Asheville is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping. See Asheville travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and Asheville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez than Asheville. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Asheville attracts visitors for its music, resorts, hiking, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Oaxaca de Juarez is more touristy than Asheville and is popular for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. It is also well known for Mercado Benito Juárez. Asheville is famous for its fall foliage, artsy downtown, and local North Carolina barbecue.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from Asheville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Asheville and Oaxaca de Juarez. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville?

Oaxaca de Juarez is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. However, Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Oaxaca de Juarez are among the most recognizable in the world. There are many museums and historical sights in the city and nearby. The Oaxaca Cathedral is located on the city's main square, Zocalo. Also worth visiting is the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán and the Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude. Just a few kilometers outside of the city is the historic settlement of Monte Albán as well as the Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol. Also check out the Rufino Tamayo Museum and Museo Casa Juárez.

Asheville does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Oaxaca de Juarez is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Oaxaca de Juarez, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. This is a city for foodies. Of all the destinations in Mexico, this one always tops the list for its cuisine. The food is influenced by traditional ingredients like corn and many of the recipes have been passed on through the generations. Local dishes include mole, Oaxaca cheese, coloradito, and tlayudas.

Asheville has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Downtown Asheville is filled with local restaurants that serve everything from brunch to late night snacks. There are many vegan and vegetarian options as well as a number of international restaurants. Popular local dishes include North Carolina barbeque and country ham biscuits.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is superb in both Oaxaca de Juarez and Asheville.

Many people head to Oaxaca de Juarez for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene starts late in the evening and can continue into the early hours. Many people meet up around Oaxaca Zocalo and it's very lively in the evenings. You'll often find live music and a fun atmosphere. As the night progresses, many people make their way to Santo Domingo, which is where you'll find a number of bars and clubs.

Asheville has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has a fun and eclectic nightlife scene that centers around the city's breweries and live music venues.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville Better for Music?

Asheville is great for live music. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Asheville draws a good crowd. The city has grown into a world famous music destination that holds true to its mountain roots and independent artists.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a live music destination.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville Better for Resorts?

Asheville is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a resort destination.

Asheville has a handful of resorts to choose from. The most famous resorts in the area are the Biltmore Estate and the Grove Park Inn. Both offer luxury restaurants and beautiful grounds that are particularly nice during the holidays.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a resort destination.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville Better for its Old Town?

Oaxaca de Juarez is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Asheville is not particularly known for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Oaxaca de Juarez offers plenty to see. The historic center is filled with colonial Spanish architecture. It's laid out in a grid pattern and there are many historic monuments. The surrounding region also has a history that dates back 1500 years.

The old town area in Asheville is worth visiting. Downtown Asheville maintains much of its historic vibe, but it's smaller than some of the more notable old cities around the country.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville Better for Hiking?

Asheville is great for hiking. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Asheville for the hiking trails. Just outside of town are many great hikes to waterfalls or through the mountains. The hikes range in skill level and length but many pass through local forests or along the beautiful skyline.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville?

Oaxaca de Juarez is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Oaxaca de Juarez make it a world-class shopping destination. The region's indigenous populations are known for the artisan crafts and handmade items. Many visitors enjoy shopping at the city's markets, where you'll find handmade ceramics, hand blown glassware, and more.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Asheville. The city has many local shops that sell local crafts and independent art. The downtown area is filled with art vendors and you'll find the greatest concentration of shopping along the pedestrian-friendly Lexington Avenue.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville More Beautiful?

Asheville is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

Asheville is a gorgeous place to visit. With the surrounding mountains and the charming town, the area is filled with natural beauty.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville Better for Families?

Asheville is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Asheville is a very family-friendly destination. With its beautiful hiking, interesting nature centers, and outdoor adventure activities, this mountain town makes a great kid-friendly destination. There are outdoor adventure parks where kids can zipline or climb. There are also hands on farms and orchards for fruit-picking.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a family-friendly place to visit. For trampolines, bouncy houses, and other fun activities, head to El Llano Park on a weekend. There's also an outdoor playground and other fun activities for kids at Museu Infantil de Oaxaca. Kid-friendly restaurants are abundant, and if the kids enjoy hiking, you can head out of town for a day trip.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Oaxaca de Juarez and Asheville make for a superb place to visit.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city is famous for its cuisine, so food lovers will enjoy dining their way through town. There are also great hotels, beautiful gardens, and fascinating architecture.

Asheville is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy exploring the beautiful Biltmore Estates or visiting the spa at the Grove Park Inn. The quaint town makes a great honeymoon destination or a nice romantic getaway. There are luxury hotels or intimate bed and breakfasts that offer different options for couples on a romantic trip.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oaxaca de Juarez is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Oaxaca de Juarez. There are many very affordable hostels around town. The city is a mecca for backpackers in Mexico, and you'll find plenty of people to hang out with and great restaurants to explore.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Asheville. The town has an eclectic vibe that backpackers appreciate. There are a few good hostels around town as well as nearby campgrounds that are perfect for budget travelers or hikers.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville Better for Students?

Asheville is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not popular with students.

Asheville is a very popular mountain town for students and younger travelers. With its progressive personality and charming downtown, students enjoy spending time in this great town.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not popular with students.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a good destination for its public transit. However, Asheville is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Oaxaca de Juarez, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has colectivos, which are shared taxis. There are also buses and tuk tuks that you can use to get around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Asheville. There are buses around town, but almost everyone gets around by using their own vehicle. In particular, if you plan to hike or explore the Blue Ridge Mountains, you'll need a car. Many of the downtown hotels offer shuttle buses to the Biltmore area.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Asheville is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a very walkable city. It's a walkable city that's fun to explore on foot, particularly in the historic center.

Asheville is a somewhat walkable city. If you stay downtown and don't plan to explore the outlying areas, then it's possible to reach restaurants and shops on foot. Otherwise, you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Oaxaca de Juarez Worth Visiting? and Is Asheville Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Asheville or Oaxaca de Juarez?

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Oaxaca de Juarez and Asheville. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than in Asheville. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Oaxaca de Juarez, and 2-3 days is enough time in Asheville.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Asheville 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 Oaxaca de Juarez.

One day in Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Oaxaca de Juarez. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find live music and food around the eclectic destination of Asheville. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Oaxaca de Juarez. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find food and shopping around the outdoorsy mountain town of Asheville. If you have a weekend, this mountain town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Five days in Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville?

You'll find nightlife and food around the traditional city of Oaxaca de Juarez. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Asheville is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

A week in Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Asheville is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mexico City, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Oaxaca de Juarez Expensive? and Is Asheville Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Oaxaca de Juarez or Asheville?

Oaxaca de Juarez has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Asheville. When comparing the sizes of Oaxaca de Juarez and Asheville, 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.