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

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or San Antonio?

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

Should I visit Oaxaca de Juarez or San Antonio? 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. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Oaxaca de Juarez travel costs.

San Antonio

San Antonio is a colorful, festive, and fun city. San Antonio is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See San Antonio travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and San Antonio: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oaxaca de Juarez or San Antonio?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Oaxaca de Juarez than San Antonio. While San Antonio is larger than Oaxaca de Juarez, Oaxaca de Juarez has more sights and attractions for tourists. Oaxaca de Juarez is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while San Antonio is known for its music and impressive beauty. Oaxaca de Juarez is more touristy than San Antonio and is popular for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. It is also home to Mercado Benito Juárez. San Antonio is popular for being the home to the Alamo, the popular RiverWalk area, and several world-class amusement parks.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from San Antonio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

San Antonio offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. It is known for its role in American history, and the city is famous as the location of the Alamo. It's also where you'll find the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail, the San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, and the Guinness World Records Museum, among others.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Oaxaca de Juarez, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

San Antonio has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find a mix of amazing and authentic Mexican food, simpler Tex Mex, and a number of Hill Country specialties. The city is filled with comfort food and the restaurants reflect the diverse character of the population. Popular local dishes include tacos, sweet potato fries, and chicken fried steak.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Antonio Better for Nightlife?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great destination for nightlife. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Oaxaca de Juarez know how to have a good time. 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 San Antonio has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife scene is diverse, with dance halls, breweries, and clubs. It has seen a recent boom in dance clubs, so there are plenty of places to party hard, or to have a more relaxing night out. The RiverWalk is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, particularly for tourists. Many conferences stay at hotels near the RiverWalk, so it's not uncommon to see professionals out and about after a day of networking.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Antonio Better for Music?

San Antonio is a popular place for live music. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a live music destination.

The music scene in San Antonio is active and vibrant. It's worth checking out The Aztec Theater, Sam's Burger Joint, and 502 Bar.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a live music destination.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Antonio Better for its Old Town?

Oaxaca de Juarez is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Oaxaca de Juarez offers plenty to see. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in San Antonio. The city is famous for its River Walk, which may feel slightly cheesy, but is still a unique and mesmerizing place to wander.

Is the Shopping Better in Oaxaca de Juarez or San Antonio?

Oaxaca de Juarez is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting San Antonio. From souvenir shops to local boutiques and chain stores, there are several shopping options around town. Check out the historic Market Square or the shops at Rivercenter for some of the city's most interesting shopping.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Antonio More Beautiful?

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

San Antonio is a gorgeous place to visit. The RiverWalk feels almost like a European city and its filled with colors and festiveness.

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

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Antonio Better for Families?

San Antonio is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, San Antonio is a very family-friendly destination. The RiverWalk is a fun family-friendly area. There's also Six Flags, SeaWorld and the San Antonio Zoo as well as a number of museums and other amusement parks in the area. It's easy to spend days having a great family vacation in this area and you can combine history, culture, and entertainment all in one setting.

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 San Antonio Better for Couples?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great destination for romance. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

San Antonio makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy taking a boat ride and exploring the many sites around town. The RiverWalk has many restaurants and a great atmosphere for a date night. There's also the botanical gardens and many outdoor spaces to explore.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options 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.

San Antonio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While its not on most backpacker's lists, it does have a fun atmosphere and a social setting.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Antonio Better for Students?

San Antonio is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit San Antonio. There are a couple of colleges in the area. This is also a major conference destination so it's possible to network and meet other professionals.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not popular with students.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is a good destination for its public transit. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options 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 mostly limited in San Antonio. Buses connect most of the city's tourist attractions, but you'll find life much easier if you have your own car.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Antonio a more walkable city?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a great destination for its walkability. However, San Antonio is a city with minimal options 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.

San Antonio is generally not a very walkable city. If you stick to the downtown area you will be fine getting around on foot. Outside of that area, you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in San Antonio or Oaxaca de Juarez?

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or San Antonio?

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

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

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic city of Oaxaca de Juarez. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of San Antonio. 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 San Antonio?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural destination of Oaxaca de Juarez. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find shopping and museums around the colorful city of San Antonio. 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 San Antonio?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the traditional city of Oaxaca de Juarez. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

San Antonio 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 San Antonio?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Oaxaca de Juarez. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

San Antonio 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 Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Oaxaca de Juarez or San Antonio?

San Antonio has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Oaxaca de Juarez. When comparing the sizes of Oaxaca de Juarez and San Antonio, 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.