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

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Roanoke?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or Roanoke? 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 traditional, historic, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Oaxaca de Juarez travel costs.

Roanoke

Roanoke is a outdoorsy, laid back, and scenic town. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and hiking. See Roanoke travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and Roanoke: Pros and Cons

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

You'll generally find more things to do in Oaxaca de Juarez than Roanoke. Oaxaca de Juarez is bigger than Roanoke, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Oaxaca de Juarez is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Roanoke is more popular for its hiking. Oaxaca de Juarez is more touristy than Roanoke and is known for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is famous for Mercado Benito Juárez. Roanoke is well known for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from Roanoke?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Oaxaca de Juarez has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Roanoke is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Roanoke is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Roanoke offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Roanoke Better for Nightlife?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

The nightlife in Oaxaca de Juarez has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Roanoke. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke does not have a historic old town.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Roanoke Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to Roanoke for the hiking trails. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or Roanoke?

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many people travel to Oaxaca de Juarez specifically to go shopping. 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.

Roanoke is a great destination for shopping. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Roanoke Better for Families?

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

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.

Roanoke is a family-friendly place to visit. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia Children's Theater.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Roanoke Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Oaxaca de Juarez and Roanoke make for a high quality 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.

Roanoke is a very popular place to visit for couples. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Oaxaca de Juarez, as it is a very popular city for 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.

Roanoke is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Roanoke 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, Roanoke is not known for its public transit.

While Oaxaca de Juarez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or Roanoke a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Roanoke is not 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.

Roanoke is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

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

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

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or Roanoke?

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

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

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 outdoorsy destination of Roanoke. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Roanoke?

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 shopping around the scenic town of Roanoke. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Roanoke?

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.

Roanoke 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 Roanoke?

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.

Roanoke 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 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 Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Oaxaca de Juarez or Roanoke?

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