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

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Columbus?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Columbus? 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 cultural, authentic, and traditional city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Oaxaca de Juarez travel costs.

Columbus

Columbus is a down-to-earth, authentic, and friendly city. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Columbus travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and Columbus: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will generally find more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez than Columbus. While Columbus is larger than Oaxaca de Juarez, Oaxaca de Juarez has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Oaxaca de Juarez is more touristy than Columbus and is known for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. It is also home to Mercado Benito Juárez. Columbus is popular for its youthful energy and its growing arts scene.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from Columbus?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Oaxaca de Juarez from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Columbus offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include the Center of Science and Technology, the Franklin Park Conservatory, the Columbus Museum of Art, and the Ohio History Center.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is a world-class destination for its restaurants. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Columbus. Hearty and heavy comfort food is the mainstay in this town. There's pizza, casseroles, sausage, and milkshakes around town.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Columbus Better for Nightlife?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Oaxaca de Juarez has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Columbus has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The live music scene is growing. There are also a growing number of breweries around town.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Columbus does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Oaxaca de Juarez is revered around 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.

Columbus does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Columbus?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Oaxaca de Juarez. 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.

Columbus offers some nice shopping areas. In addition to the standard shopping malls and retail outlets, there are some interesting shops in the Short North Arts District, German Village, and Easton Town Center.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Columbus Better for Families?

Columbus 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.

Columbus is a very family-friendly destination. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a highlight for many families. Right by it is the Zoombezi Bay Waterpark. For hands-on science-based activities check out the Center of Science and Industry. Kids will also love the Legoland Discovery Center or the Anthony-Thomas Candy Factory. There are also many outdoor parks, greenways, and playgrounds to visit.

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 Columbus Better for Couples?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a very popular place for romance. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Oaxaca de Juarez makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Most people don't think of Columbus as a couple's destination. You'll find restaurants and music venues that make for a nice date night. There are also wine tours and other entertainment options.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

Columbus is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there is a hostel in town for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Columbus is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Oaxaca de Juarez has some 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 generally limited in Columbus. While there's a bus system, you'll really want to have a vehicle to get around town efficiently.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Columbus a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Columbus is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Columbus is a somewhat walkable place. The older neighborhoods are the most walkable, but if you want to get around town, you'll need to have a car.

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

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

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or Columbus?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Oaxaca de Juarez or Columbus to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Columbus because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Oaxaca de Juarez, and 1-2 days is enough time in Columbus.

Couples should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Columbus. 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 Columbus 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 Columbus?

The city of Oaxaca de Juarez offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Columbus. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Oaxaca de Juarez or Columbus?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Oaxaca de Juarez, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the down-to-earth city of Columbus. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. 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 Columbus?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Oaxaca de Juarez, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Columbus is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Columbus?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Columbus is a great place to explore. 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 Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Oaxaca de Juarez or Columbus?

Columbus has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Oaxaca de Juarez. When comparing the sizes of Oaxaca de Juarez and Columbus, 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.