A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Oaxaca de Juarez vs. Carmel-by-the-Sea for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea? 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 historic, cultural, and authentic city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Oaxaca de Juarez travel costs.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming, picturesque, and quaint town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches. See Carmel-by-the-Sea travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and Carmel-by-the-Sea: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez than Carmel-by-the-Sea, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Oaxaca de Juarez is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Carmel-by-the-Sea is more popular for its beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is famous for Mercado Benito Juárez. Carmel-by-the-Sea is well known for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Carmel Mission is a beautiful and fascinating Spanish mission that dates back to 1770. It's also well worth visiting the nearby Pebble Beach Golf Course. There are also a few fairytale style cottages in the area with some of the most notable being the Hansel cottage, the Gretel cottage, and the Tuck Box cottage.

Is the Food Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Oaxaca de Juarez have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Carmel-by-the-Sea. For such a small town there is a huge number of bistros and local cafes. Seafood is popular, but you'll also find international restaurants and more casual eateries.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Nightlife?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for nightlife.

Oaxaca de Juarez offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Beaches?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is great for its beaches. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a beach destination.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is considered a top beach destination. It's easy to walk to the beach from the village center. Just head down Ocean Avenue and you'll be at a beautiful beach with great scenery, surfing, and fun activities.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a beach destination.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for its Old Town?

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's easy to walk around the heart of town and pop in the many shops and galleries. The highest concentration of shops is found around the Carmel Plaza which has upscale brands as well as local items.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea More Beautiful?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful town with nice beaches and a European atmosphere.

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

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Families?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a city with good options for its family-friendly activities. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not always a place people visit with their families. Carmel is a good place to let the kids stretch their legs. There are also some good kid-friendly walks in the area.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Oaxaca de Juarez and Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a charming town with a beautiful coastline and plenty of cute hotels that makes for a great romantic getaway. There's wonderful shopping and many great restaurants where you can enjoy a local meal.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for backpackers. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels or accommodation options that appeal to backpackers.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Oaxaca de Juarez has a few public transit options. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are a couple of buses, but you can't really depend on them to get around.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez and Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a very walkable city. The village center is very walkable so it's easy to park you car and shop or walk to the beach.

For even more information, also check out Is Oaxaca de Juarez Worth Visiting? and Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Oaxaca de Juarez?

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Oaxaca de Juarez and Carmel-by-the-Sea. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Oaxaca de Juarez, and 1-3 days is enough time in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

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

Couples should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Carmel-by-the-Sea. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Oaxaca de Juarez, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With museums and nightlife around the authentic city of Oaxaca de Juarez, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town with plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With nightlife and food around the historic destination of Oaxaca de Juarez, there's plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.

A week in Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea, we can see that Oaxaca de Juarez is more expensive. And not only is Carmel-by-the-Sea much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Carmel-by-the-Sea would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Oaxaca de Juarez would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Oaxaca de Juarez than you might in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Oaxaca de Juarez or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Oaxaca de Juarez has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Oaxaca de Juarez and Carmel-by-the-Sea, 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.