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

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen? 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Oaxaca de Juarez travel costs.

Aspen

Aspen is a vibrant, artsy, and outdoorsy ski town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Aspen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and shopping. See Aspen travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and Aspen: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Aspen than Oaxaca de Juarez, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Aspen is better known for its skiing, music, resorts, hiking, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Oaxaca de Juarez is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and shopping. Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. Aspen is well known for its world-class skiing, many food, film, and music festivals, and its stunning mountain hikes. Also, Aspen is famous for The Maroon Bells.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from Aspen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen Better for Skiing?

Aspen is an unbeatable place for skiing. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Aspen should be on your list. Near the town, there are 4 separate ski resorts. In town you'll find Aspen Mountain, which is known for it's black-diamond runs. Aspen Highlands, a couple miles away, has a mix of slopes and is less crowded. Buttermilk attracts many freestyle skiers and Aspen Snowmass is considered one of the best family-friendly ski areas.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a skiing destination.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Oaxaca de Juarez on the map. 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.

Aspen does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Oaxaca de Juarez and Aspen can be an enjoyable experience.

For foodies, Oaxaca de Juarez is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Aspen has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The town hosts many food festivals and there is a growing selection of diverse restaurants. In town you'll find cafes and restaurants that cater to both the local crowd and the travelers who flock to the area during peak seasons.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is excellent in both Oaxaca de Juarez and Aspen.

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.

Aspen has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The people in Aspen know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene includes craft beer, live music, and dancing. There's a local vibe, particularly during the off-season times when the tourist crowds are less.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen Better for Music?

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

The music scene in Aspen draws a good crowd. Popular music venues in town include Silver City Mountain Saloon and Belly Up Aspen.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a live music destination.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen Better for Resorts?

Aspen is great for its luxury resorts. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a resort destination.

Aspen is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Popular resorts in the area include The Little Nell, Hotel Jerome, and St. Regis Aspen.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a resort destination.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Aspen does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Oaxaca de Juarez is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Aspen does not have a historic old town.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to Aspen for the hiking trails. During the summer and fall seasons, hiking is a great way to explore Aspen's nearby beauty. Popular trails include the Ute Trail, the Lost Man Trail, and the famous Maroon Bells Scenic Trail.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen?

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Aspen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aspen. There are many great local shops and art galleries where you can pick interesting items or fine art.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen More Beautiful?

Aspen is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

Aspen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Surrounded by the mountains and set amongst a beautiful natural setting, this town will take your breath away.

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

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen.

Oaxaca de Juarez offers lots of family activities. 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.

Aspen is a family-friendly place to visit. Families that enjoy skiing together, hiking, rock climbing, and having adventures will enjoy a visit to this town. Aspen Mountain is not a great option for beginning skiers, but further away, Aspen Snowmass offers good beginner slopes.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Oaxaca de Juarez and Aspen make for a excellent 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.

Aspen is a very popular place to visit for couples. Aspen is both a popular ski destination as well as an established town. There are many great restaurants and activities that couples can enjoy and the setting is cute and very scenic, making it a beautiful and romantic destination.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for backpackers. However, Aspen is a ski town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Aspen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Because it is both a town and a ski resort, there are a couple of more affordable accommodation options. Even so, this is an expensive destination that isn't always ideal for budget travelers.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez and Aspen both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Oaxaca de Juarez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has colectivos, which are shared taxis. There are also buses and tuk tuks that you can use to get around.

Aspen has a few public transit options. There are several shuttle buses around the town.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez and Aspen are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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

Aspen is a very walkable city. The town is compact enough that it can be explored on foot. If you're planning to head into the mountains to hike, you'll likely need a car.

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

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

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen?

In either Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Aspen has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Aspen than Oaxaca de Juarez. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Oaxaca de Juarez, and 3-5 days is enough time in Aspen.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Aspen 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 Aspen?

In Oaxaca de Juarez, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Aspen is a small town where visitors enjoy the live music and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This ski town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oaxaca de Juarez. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Aspen is a small town with plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a fun place to experience. In Oaxaca de Juarez, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Aspen is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen?

You'll find food and shopping around the traditional destination of Oaxaca de Juarez. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Aspen 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Oaxaca de Juarez or Aspen?

Oaxaca de Juarez has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Aspen. When comparing the sizes of Oaxaca de Juarez and Aspen, 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.