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

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs? 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Oaxaca de Juarez travel costs.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a outdoorsy, ritzy, and chic city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Palm Springs travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and Palm Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez. Although Oaxaca de Juarez and Palm Springs are both popular with visitors, Oaxaca de Juarez has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Oaxaca de Juarez is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Palm Springs is known for its nightlife, resorts, and hiking. Palm Springs is more touristy than Oaxaca de Juarez and is popular for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. Oaxaca de Juarez is popular for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. It is also home to Mercado Benito Juárez.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from Palm Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Palm Springs

Oaxaca de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Oaxaca de Juarez that are not to be missed. 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.

Palm Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.


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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Palm Springs

Oaxaca de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Oaxaca de Juarez has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Palm Springs has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs Better for Nightlife?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Palm Springs is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from cocktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

Oaxaca de Juarez has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs Better for Resorts?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Palm Springs

Palm Springs is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Palm Springs is a great choice. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a resort destination.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs Better for its Old Town?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Palm Springs

Oaxaca de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town. However, Palm Springs does not have a historic old town.

Oaxaca de Juarez offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Palm Springs does not have a historic old town.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs Better for Hiking?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Palm Springs

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

Many visitors go to Palm Springs for the hiking trails. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby Trail.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Palm Springs

Oaxaca de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Palm Springs is well-known for its shopping. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs Better for Families?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Palm Springs

Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is a very family-friendly destination. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

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 Palm Springs Better for Couples?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Palm Springs

With fun activities for couples, both Oaxaca de Juarez and Palm Springs make for a great 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.

Palm Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Palm Springs

Oaxaca de Juarez is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Palm Springs is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While the city is more famous for its upscale clientele, there's actually a hostel in town for backpackers.


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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Palm Springs

Oaxaca de Juarez is very good for its public transit. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city 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 Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Palm Springs

Oaxaca de Juarez is notable for its walkability. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Palm Springs is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

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

Should I spend more time in Palm Springs or Oaxaca de Juarez?

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Oaxaca de Juarez, and 2-4 days is enough time in Palm Springs.

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

Couples should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Palm Springs. 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 Palm Springs 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.


  • How many days in Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oaxaca de Juarez 2-5 
    Palm Springs 2-4

One day in Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs?

In Oaxaca de Juarez, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this authentic city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the chic destination of Palm Springs. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the ritzy city of Palm Springs. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. 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 Palm Springs?

In Oaxaca de Juarez, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this traditional destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Palm Springs 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 head to the area for the nightlife. 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 Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Palm Springs or Oaxaca de Juarez?

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

  • Oaxaca de Juarez Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Palm Springs Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $51
    Palm Springs $244

The average daily cost (per person) in Oaxaca de Juarez is $51, while the average daily cost in Palm Springs is $244. 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 Oaxaca de Juarez and Palm Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oaxaca de Juarez $18
    Palm Springs $120
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oaxaca de Juarez $36
    Palm Springs $240
Compare Hotels in Oaxaca de Juarez and Palm Springs

Looking for a hotel in Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs? 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 Oaxaca de Juarez


Hotels in Palm Springs


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: Oaxaca de Juarez Hotel Prices and Palm Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $12
    Palm Springs $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oaxaca de Juarez

Also for Oaxaca de Juarez, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Taxi Transfer from Downtown Oaxaca to the Airport: $20
  • Private Transfer to Oaxaca Airport (OAX): $22
  • Transfer Hotel to Oaxaca Airport private service: $26
  • Oaxaca city: Roundtrip Private/Shared Airport Transfer: $27
  • From Oaxaca One way shared transfer to San Jose del Pacifico: $29
  • Oaxaca Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca de Juárez - Arrival Transfer: $30
  • Oaxaca Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $30
  • Oaxaca hotels to Oaxaca Airport(OAX) - Departure Private Transfer: $30
  • Private Transfer Airport Hotel in Oaxaca: $34
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Oaxaca Airport (OAX) : $43
  • Shared Departure Transfer: Hotels to Oaxaca Airport: $46
  • Oaxaca Airport (OAX) to Oaxaca de Juárez - Round-Trip Transfer: $60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palm Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palm Springs:

  • Private Transfer from Palm Springs Municipal Airport to Ontario: $287
  • Private Airport Transfer in Palm Springs: $214
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to Desert Hot Springs Arrival Transfer: $201
  • Desert Hot Springs to Palm Springs Airport PSP Departure Transfer: $201

Is it cheaper to fly into Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs?

Prices for flights to both Palm Springs and Oaxaca de Juarez 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
    Oaxaca de Juarez $22
    Palm Springs $92

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Oaxaca de Juarez

For Oaxaca de Juarez, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Oaxaca Street Food Tour - Best Rated : $35
  • Central Oaxaca Food Tour: $55
  • Food Tour at the Mercado de Abastos: $57
  • Tradicional Oaxacan Dinner on Agronomic Biodiversity_01: $60
  • Oaxaca: Vegetarian Cooking Class: $65
  • Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class: $66
  • Oaxaca: Cooking Class with No Set Menu &Local Market Tour: $70
  • Flavors of Oaxaca: Cooking Class with No Set Menu and Local Market Tour: $75
  • Secret Food Tour: Oaxaca de Juárez: $75
  • Oaxaca Central de Abastos Market Food Tour : $78
  • Oaxaca: 10 Mexican Salsas Cooking Class with Taco Tasting: $80
  • 10 Mexican salsas, enjoy cooking and tasting them in Oaxaca: $80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Palm Springs

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

  • Private Palm Springs Cooking Class with a Fun Local Chef Stephen: $199

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $12
    Palm Springs $29

Tours and Activities in Oaxaca de Juarez

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Oaxaca de Juarez.

  • Oaxaca Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $5.13
  • Oaxaca: Colonial City Bus Tour: $5.45
  • Walking Tour Oaxaca: $5.59
  • Oaxaca: Legends Tour Mezcalbús: $6.53
  • Oaxaca: Monte Alban, Cuilapam, and Artisan Villages Tour: $20
  • Oaxaca: Guided Bike Tour to the Largest Tree in the World: $20
  • Oaxaca: Oaxaca City Beyond the Surface Walking Tour: $22
  • Half Day Teotitlan Del Valle Village Shared Tour : $25
  • Monte Albán Morning Half-Day Tour –Small Group, Transport & Guide: $27
  • Oaxaca : City Tour: $27
  • Oaxaca: The Art of Death walking tour: $27
  • Montealban Tour: $28

Tours and Activities in Palm Springs

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Palm Springs are as follows:

  • Palm Springs Windmill Guided Tour by Golf Cart: $55
  • 10+ Self-Guided Driving Tours from Las Vegas: $45
  • 100+ Self-Guided Audio Tours: Driving & Walking Bundle: $100
  • All-In-One California Self-Guided Driving & Walking Bundle Tour: $50
  • Bombay Beach Salton Sea and Salvation Mountain Guided Art Tour: $225
  • Covered Wagon Adventure & BBQ: $129
  • Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Drag Queen Hosted Mobile Theater Palm Springs Sightseeing Tours: $125
  • Earthquake Canyon Express Downhill Bicycle Adventure: $149
  • Food Adventure Game: $99
  • French Bicycle Tour of Palm Springs: $152
  • Golf Cart Tour in a 6 Passenger Cart in Palm Springs California: $195

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $13
    Palm Springs $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Oaxaca de Juarez

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Oaxaca de Juarez:

  • Oaxaca Pub Crawl: $17
  • Oaxaca Pub Crawl with Mezcal Shots and Live Music: $18
  • Check out Hierve el Agua, Mitla, the Tule Tree, Rugs, and a Mezcal Distillery Tour: $49
  • Hierve el Agua, Tule Tree, Mitla and Mezcal Distillery Tour: $50
  • From Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery: $54
  • Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery tour: $55
  • Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery Tour: $55
  • Personalized Tour to Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery: $101
  • Oaxaca: Mezcal Distillery Tour with Tastings: $125
  • Mezcal Distillery Day Trip: $134
  • Artisanal Mezcal distillery in an authentic Zapotec village : $150
  • Oaxaca: Hierve el Agua, Mezcal Distillery, and Lunch Tour: $272

Sample the Local Flavors in Palm Springs

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Palm Springs:

  • Palm Springs Bar Crawl: $15


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


Which is Bigger, Oaxaca de Juarez or Palm Springs?

Oaxaca de Juarez has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Oaxaca de Juarez and Palm Springs, 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.