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

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia? 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. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Oaxaca de Juarez travel costs.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a diverse, historic, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Philadelphia is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and Philadelphia: 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
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Philadelphia than Oaxaca de Juarez. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Philadelphia is very popular for its theatre productions, music, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Oaxaca de Juarez attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, and shopping. Oaxaca de Juarez is more touristy than Philadelphia and is known for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. Philadelphia is famous for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also well known for The Liberty Bell.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Philadelphia

Spend time exploring the fantastic sights and museums in either Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia.

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.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Philadelphia are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is great for theatre. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Philadelphia. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a theatre destination.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Philadelphia

Oaxaca de Juarez is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Oaxaca de Juarez is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Dining out in Philadelphia is an experience not to be missed. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Philadelphia

The vibe at night is very good in both Oaxaca de Juarez and Philadelphia.

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.

Philadelphia has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia Better for Music?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Philadelphia

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

The music scene in Philadelphia draws a good crowd. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a live music destination.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Philadelphia

Oaxaca de Juarez is a must-visit destination for its old town. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

The rich history of Oaxaca de Juarez can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Philadelphia offers a nice historic old town area. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Philadelphia

Oaxaca de Juarez is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Oaxaca de Juarez draws large crowds to its 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Philadelphia. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia More Beautiful?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Philadelphia

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

Philadelphia is a gorgeous place to visit. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.

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

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Philadelphia

Philadelphia 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.

Philadelphia is a very family-friendly destination. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

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 Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Philadelphia

Oaxaca de Juarez is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Philadelphia is a good city for couples to visit. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.


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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Philadelphia

Oaxaca de Juarez is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Philadelphia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Oaxaca de Juarez is extremely popular 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.

Philadelphia is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia Better for Students?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Philadelphia

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

Philadelphia is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not popular with students.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Public transit in Philadelphia is fairly effecient and thorough. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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.


Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Philadelphia is a very easy city to get around on foot. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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.

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

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

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Philadelphia. 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Oaxaca de Juarez 2-5 
    Philadelphia 2-3

One day in Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia?

In Oaxaca de Juarez, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic 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.

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. 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 Philadelphia?

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.

People visit Philadelphia because there is so much to do. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. 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 Philadelphia?

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.

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia?

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.

Philadelphia is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the museums. 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 for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $51
    Philadelphia $224

The average daily cost (per person) in Oaxaca de Juarez is $51, while the average daily cost in Philadelphia is $224. 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 Philadelphia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Oaxaca de Juarez $18
    Philadelphia $119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Oaxaca de Juarez $36
    Philadelphia $238
Compare Hotels in Oaxaca de Juarez and Philadelphia

Looking for a hotel in Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia? 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 Philadelphia


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 Philadelphia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $12
    Philadelphia $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Oaxaca de Juarez

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

  • Xoxocotlan Airport: Private Transfer to Oaxaca City: $82
  • Visit Puerto Escondido: Private Transfer from Oaxaca: $588
  • Taxi Transfer from Downtown Oaxaca to the Airport: $20
  • Shared Transfer from Downtown Oaxaca to the Airport: $7.51
  • Shared Departure Transfer: Hotels to Oaxaca Airport: $46
  • Shared Arrival Transfer: Oaxaca Airport to Hotels: $46
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Oaxaca Airport (OAX) : $43
  • Private and safe transfer from the airport to the hotel in Oaxaca: $60
  • Private Transfer from your Hotel in Oaxaca to the Oaxaca Airport: $13
  • Private Transfer from the Airport to your Hotel/house .: $89
  • Private Transfer from the Airport to your Hotel in Oaxaca : $67
  • Private Transfer Airport Hotel in Oaxaca: $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

Also for Philadelphia, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Philadelphia City to Baltimore City - Private Car Transfer: $210
  • Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadephia Airport PHL by SUV: $146
  • Private transfer from PHL to Philadelphia Downtown: $130
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Luxury SUV: $115
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL) to Philadelphia - Arrival Private Transfer: $109
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $104
  • Private Transfer Philadephia to Philadelphia Airport PHL by Sedan: $94

Is it cheaper to fly into Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia?

Prices for flights to both Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia $84

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
  • Tour with Legends Night Walk and Dinner Included: $42
  • Central Oaxaca Food Tour: $55
  • Electric Bike Food Tour in Oaxaca: $56
  • Oaxacan Dinner on Agronomic Biodiversity: $56
  • 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

Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

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

  • Nibble Food Tour: $58
  • Philadelphia Italian Market Public Food Tour: $59
  • Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market : $59
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Behind The Scenes Food Tour: South Philly & Italian Market: $95
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $105
  • City Cruises Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet: $123

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Oaxaca de Juarez $12
    Philadelphia $28

Tours and Activities in Oaxaca de Juarez

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

  • Shared Santa Maria Del Tule Bike Tour: $45
  • “Las Nieves” Monte Albán, Arrazola, Cuilapam 6h Bike Tour: $120
  • 3 Hour Oaxaca Private Tour, 100% customisable - Best Rated : $45
  • 5 Hours Guided Day of The Dead Evening Walking Tour in Oaxaca: $109
  • 7 Hrs Guided Day of the Dead Crafts & Gastronomy Tour from Oaxaca: $199
  • Agave Adventures Mexico: $94
  • Amazing Monte Alban and City tour Private Tour: $200
  • Amazing Waterfall Adventure in the Sierra Madre Mountains : $80
  • Amazing experience in the mountain of San Jose del Pacifico: $200
  • An adventure for the senses: Mezcal, fields and crafts.: $78
  • Ancestral Mezcal Experience + ceramics + Alebrijes + Market: $199
  • Ancestral Mezcal Tour Experience A pre Hispanic Heritage: $64

Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Philadelphia's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2.5 Hour Philadelphia History Tour with Washington War Tent Show: $45
  • 3-Hour Private Favorite & Secret Bars Walking Tour Philadelphia: $35
  • 90 Minute History Walking Tour of Old City Philadelphia: $29
  • Alexander Hamilton Private Group Walking Tour in Philadelphia: $250
  • Arabic Walking Tour of Historic Philadelphia for 2 hours. : $75
  • BYOB Historically Hilarious Trolley Tour of Philadelphia: $49
  • Badass Women's History Walking Tour of Philadelphia: $59
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off (24, 48, 72 Hours): $68
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia Founding Fathers Walking Tour : $32
  • City Sightseeing Philadelphia HOHO Bus Tour + Bookable Extras: $39
  • Classic Philadelphia City Bike Tour: $79
  • Dark Philly Adult Night Tour: $38

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Oaxaca de Juarez $13
    Philadelphia $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Oaxaca de Juarez

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

  • 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: $100
  • 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 Philadelphia

Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Philadelphia Prohibition Pub Crawl: $50
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


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


Which is Bigger, Oaxaca de Juarez or Philadelphia?

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