A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Playa del Carmen vs. Baltimore for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Baltimore?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Baltimore? 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.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a vibrant, picture-perfect, and scenic town. The beauty of Playa del Carmen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Baltimore

Baltimore is a colorful, historic, and vibrant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Baltimore travel costs.

Playa del Carmen and Baltimore: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Playa del Carmen or Baltimore?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Playa del Carmen than Baltimore. While Baltimore is larger than Playa del Carmen, Playa del Carmen has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Playa del Carmen is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Baltimore is known for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Baltimore and is known for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. It is also home to La Quinta Avenida. Baltimore is popular for the Inner Harbor and its many water based activities.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Baltimore?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Baltimore and Playa del Carmen. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Playa del Carmen or Baltimore?

Baltimore is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Baltimore offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is known for its historic ships that are found in the Inner Harbor. There are many other museums around town as well like the American Visionary Art Museum, the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. Many days can be filled exploring the many art, history, or science museums in the area.

While most people don't head to Playa del Carmen specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. If you're willing to head out of town, there are world class Mayan ruins not far away, but if you want to hang out near town, then you'll likely spend most of your time enjoying outdoor water activities.

Is the Food Better in Playa del Carmen or Baltimore? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Baltimore is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Baltimore is an experience not to be missed. The city's location near the Chesapeake Bay means that there are many great local seafood dishes. Blue crab is a regional favorite and is often served as crab soup, crab dip, or crab cakes. You'll find many famous restaurants in the Inner Harbor, but if you want something more local you should check out Little Italy or Fells Point.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Playa del Carmen. You'll find a good number of overpriced tourist restaurants in the area, but if you do some research you'll also find amazing and authentic Mexican food as well. There is everything from food trucks to fine dining that offer ceviche, tacos, or burritos. There are also plenty of places to grab pizza or burgers.

Is Playa del Carmen or Baltimore Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Playa del Carmen just to party. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.

Many people head to Baltimore for the nightlife scene. It's a vibrant city with many night time activities like breweries, night clubs, and cocktail bars. There's even outside the box activities like ballroom dancing or arcade bars.

Is Playa del Carmen or Baltimore Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Baltimore is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Playa del Carmen is a perfect choice. You'll find a huge number of luxury resorts in the area, particularly along the beach. There are fancy pools and beachfront properties that offer the perfect vacation retreat.

Baltimore is not a resort destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Baltimore Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Baltimore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Playa del Carmen is not to be missed. There's not a lot to see right off of the beach, but there are plenty of snorkeling excursions in the area that take you to beautiful reefs. The diving is world class as well and you'll find wonderful reefs, bull sharks, and hidden gems.

Baltimore is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Baltimore Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Baltimore is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Playa del Carmen is a very popular vacation destination. The area is filled with world class beaches, long stretches of white sand, and beautiful blue water. You might even stumble across a sea turtle or two while you're swimming.

Baltimore is not a beach destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Baltimore Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Playa del Carmen. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Baltimore is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Baltimore?

Baltimore is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Baltimore. Shopping is a great way to experience the different neighborhoods around town. For high end shopping head to Harbor East. For a bit more history check out Federal Hill. Hampden is known for its quirky style and Fell's Point is particularly popular with tourists.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Playa del Carmen. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

Is Playa del Carmen or Baltimore More Beautiful?

Playa del Carmen is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Baltimore is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Playa del Carmen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Baltimore is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Playa del Carmen or Baltimore Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular family destinations. From eco parks to kid-friendly snorkeling opportunities, there are many activities for kids of all ages. There are also adventure parks and playgrounds that are perfect for a fun afternoon.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Baltimore. The National Aquarium is a highlight for many families. It's an impressive aquarium with dolphins, sharks, puffins, and fish. Also in town is the Port Discovery Children’s Museum which has many interactive exhibits. The Maryland Science Center, the Maryland Zoo, and the many historic ships in the harbor also offer educational opportunities for kids. For something a bit different, check out Urban Pirates in the Inner Harbor.

Is Playa del Carmen or Baltimore Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Playa del Carmen has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches and tropical jungles make this a paradise honeymoon destination. You'll find luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and countless opportunities to enjoy the stunning setting. Take a sunset cruise of explore one of the many natural wonders in the area.

Baltimore is a good town for couples to visit. Most visitors spend the majority of their time around the Inner Harbor. There are restaurants and romantic hotels that are perfect for couples. The city also has many entertainment options and other activities that make for a great date night.

Is Playa del Carmen or Baltimore Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Playa del Carmen and Baltimore are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Playa del Carmen. It's filled with tourists staying at luxury resorts, but you'll also find a couple of hostels tucked away in town. If you're interesting in scuba diving, then it's well worth the trip.

Baltimore is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most international travelers overlook this city.

Is Playa del Carmen or Baltimore Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Baltimore is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Baltimore offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are water taxis and a free downtown bus service that's called the Charm City Circulator. MTA also operates a metro and a light rail system.

While Playa del Carmen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Is Playa del Carmen or Baltimore a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Baltimore is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Playa del Carmen on foot is easy. It's a compact and very walkable town. La Quinta is the main strip and it's pedestrian-only.

Baltimore is a very walkable destination. The downtown area is the most walkable part of the city. In particular, the Inner Harbor and Fells Point are particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting? and Is Baltimore Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Baltimore or Playa del Carmen?

How long in Playa del Carmen or Baltimore?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Playa del Carmen and Baltimore. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Playa del Carmen than in Baltimore. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Playa del Carmen, and 2-3 days is enough time in Baltimore.

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

Couples should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Baltimore. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Playa del Carmen that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Baltimore 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 Playa del Carmen.

One day in Playa del Carmen or Baltimore?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the town of Playa del Carmen. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 food and shopping around the colorful destination of Baltimore. 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 Playa del Carmen or Baltimore?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the picture-perfect destination of Playa del Carmen. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find shopping and museums around the vibrant city of Baltimore. 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 Playa del Carmen or Baltimore?

You'll find nightlife and food around the stunning town of Playa del Carmen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Baltimore 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 Playa del Carmen or Baltimore?

Playa del Carmen is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Playa del Carmen, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Baltimore 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 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Playa del Carmen and Baltimore, we can see that Baltimore is more expensive. And not only is Playa del Carmen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Playa del Carmen would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Playa del Carmen 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 Baltimore would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Baltimore than you might in Playa del Carmen.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Playa del Carmen Expensive? and Is Baltimore Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Baltimore?

Baltimore has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Playa del Carmen and Baltimore, 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.

When is the best time to visit Playa del Carmen or Baltimore?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Baltimore in the Summer?

Both Baltimore and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Baltimore for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Playa del Carmen is generally a little warmer than Baltimore. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 28°C (82°F), and Baltimore fluctuates around 78°F (25°C).

It's quite sunny in Baltimore. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually receives less sunshine than Baltimore during summer. Playa del Carmen gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 283 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. It's quite rainy in Playa del Carmen. In July, Playa del Carmen usually receives more rain than Baltimore. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Baltimore in the Autumn?

Both Baltimore and Playa del Carmen during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Baltimore in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Baltimore in the autumn. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 26°C (79°F) in October, and Baltimore fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. In the autumn, Playa del Carmen often gets more sunshine than Baltimore. Playa del Carmen gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 196 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually gets more rain in October than Baltimore. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Baltimore in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Baltimore. Many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Baltimore for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Baltimore can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Baltimore. Typically, the winter temperatures in Playa del Carmen in January average around 23°C (73°F), and Baltimore averages at about 32°F (0°C).

In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. Playa del Carmen usually receives more sunshine than Baltimore during winter. Playa del Carmen gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Baltimore receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Baltimore. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Baltimore in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Baltimore. Most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Baltimore because of the activities around the city.

In April, Playa del Carmen is generally much warmer than Baltimore. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 27°C (81°F), and Baltimore fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baltimore. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen this time of the year. In the spring, Playa del Carmen often gets more sunshine than Baltimore. Playa del Carmen gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Baltimore receives 225 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in April than Baltimore. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Baltimore receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Baltimore and Playa del Carmen