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

Should you visit Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego?

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

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

San Diego

San Diego is a fun-filled, hip, and dynamic coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. San Diego is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See San Diego travel costs.

Oaxaca de Juarez and San Diego: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Diego than Oaxaca de Juarez. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. San Diego is very popular for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Oaxaca de Juarez attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and shopping. San Diego is more touristy than Oaxaca de Juarez and is known for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo. Oaxaca de Juarez is famous for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene.

How is Oaxaca de Juarez different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its historical sights. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Oaxaca de Juarez are world-renowned. 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 Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Dining out in San Diego is an experience not to be missed. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is superb in both Oaxaca de Juarez and San Diego.

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.

San Diego has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego Better for Music?

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

The music scene in San Diego draws a good crowd. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a live music destination.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a resort destination.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in San Diego. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a beach destination.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its old town. However, San Diego 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.

San Diego does not have a historic old town.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to San Diego for the hiking trails. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego More Beautiful?

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

San Diego is a gorgeous place to visit. Many people enjoy city's beautiful coastline and surrounding natural beauty.

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

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego 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 Diego is a very family-friendly destination. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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 Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Oaxaca de Juarez is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

San Diego makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Oaxaca de Juarez is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Oaxaca de Juarez is not popular with students.

Many students frequent San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Oaxaca de Juarez is not popular with students.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination 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 San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

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

Oaxaca de Juarez is great for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

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.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

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

How long in Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego?

In either Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, San Diego has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in San Diego than Oaxaca de Juarez. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Oaxaca de Juarez, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

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

Couples should spend more time in San Diego than Oaxaca de Juarez. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in San Diego that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Oaxaca de Juarez than San Diego 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 Diego?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Oaxaca de Juarez. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxed destination of San Diego. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the traditional destination of Oaxaca de Juarez. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the idyllic coastal city of San Diego. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego?

You'll find nightlife and food around the authentic city of Oaxaca de Juarez. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

San Diego is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego?

Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

San Diego 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 beaches. 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

Which is Bigger, Oaxaca de Juarez or San Diego?

San Diego 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 Diego, 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.