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

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Raleigh?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Raleigh? 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.

Raleigh

Raleigh is a student-friendly, suburban-style, and friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and museums. See Raleigh travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and Raleigh: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez than Raleigh, 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 Raleigh is more popular for its big city activities. Oaxaca de Juarez is more touristy than Raleigh and is popular for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is famous for Mercado Benito Juárez. Raleigh is well known for its many museums and being the home to North Carolina State University.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from Raleigh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Raleigh is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there are a number of free museums in the area. There are also some kid-friendly options and other activities that are affiliated with the colleges and universities. Popular options include the NC Museum of Natural Sciences (free), the NC Museum of History (free), the NC Museum of Art (free), and Marbles Kids Museum.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Raleigh. In addition to the standard chain restaurants, you'll find a number of local eateries with great southern dishes. Try some southern classics like barbecue, pimento cheese, and fried chicken and waffles. There are also good international options including Nepalese, Laotian, and Ethiopian flavors.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Raleigh Better for Nightlife?

Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Raleigh is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Raleigh has a few options to choose from. Head to downtown Raleigh or the areas around NC State University for some of the best nightlife. Trivia nights and happy hours are popular and you'll find breweries popping up in many places.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Raleigh does not have a historic old town.

Oaxaca de Juarez has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Raleigh does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Raleigh?

Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular for its shopping areas. However, Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Raleigh is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Raleigh Better for Families?

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

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.

Raleigh is a family-friendly place to visit. For such a small city, Raleigh has a number of unique kid-friendly activities like the popular Pullen Park and Marbles Kids' Museum. Pullen Park has small rides and a playground that are perfect for young kids. There's also the NC Museum of Natural History which is free and fun to explore with kids.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Raleigh Better for Couples?

Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for couples. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for romance.

Couples visit Oaxaca de Juarez frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Raleigh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. While it's often overlooked by couples who want a weekend away, there are a number of museums and some nice restaurants to explore.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular for backpackers. However, Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Raleigh is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Raleigh Better for Students?

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

Raleigh is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a diverse student population with many nearby universities and colleges.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not popular with students.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular place for its public transit. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Oaxaca de Juarez, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 quite limited in Raleigh. The city's public transportation options are limited to a few bus lines that are mostly used by students.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Raleigh a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Raleigh is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Raleigh is generally not a very walkable city. The city is somewhat walkable in the downtown area, but everywhere else you'll need a car.

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

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

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or Raleigh?

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

Families should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than Raleigh. 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 Raleigh. 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh?

In Oaxaca de Juarez, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Raleigh. 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 Raleigh?

In Oaxaca de Juarez, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oaxaca de Juarez has to offer.

You'll find nightlife and food around the student-friendly city of Raleigh. 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 Raleigh?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Oaxaca de Juarez has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Raleigh 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 Raleigh?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oaxaca de Juarez. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Oaxaca de Juarez. 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.

Raleigh 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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Oaxaca de Juarez or Raleigh?

Raleigh has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Oaxaca de Juarez. When comparing the sizes of Oaxaca de Juarez and Raleigh, 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.