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

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Portland?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Portland? 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 stunning, vibrant, and picture-perfect town. Playa del Carmen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Portland

Portland is a progressive, quirky, and eclectic city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Portland offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Portland travel costs.

Playa del Carmen and Portland: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Playa del Carmen than Portland. While Portland is larger than Playa del Carmen, Playa del Carmen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Playa del Carmen is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Portland is more popular for its music, hiking, and small town charm. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Portland and is popular for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. Also, Playa del Carmen is famous for La Quinta Avenida. Portland is well known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Playa del Carmen or Portland.

Playa del Carmen offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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.

While most people don't head to Portland specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Playa del Carmen is a town with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Playa del Carmen or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Playa del Carmen is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Playa del Carmen or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a popular place for its music scene. However, Playa del Carmen is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Portland is active and vibrant. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Playa del Carmen is not a live music destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Portland Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

Playa del Carmen is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Portland is not a resort destination.

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

Playa del Carmen is very popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Playa del Carmen is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Portland Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

Playa del Carmen is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Portland is not a beach destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is a great destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Portland?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Portland and Playa del Carmen.

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Playa del Carmen or Portland More Beautiful?

Playa del Carmen is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Playa del Carmen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Portland is a beautiful place to visit, too. Surrounded by mountains and filled with parks and greenspace, many people find this town to be quite beautiful.

Is Playa del Carmen or Portland Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Playa del Carmen is an extremely popular town to visit for families. 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 kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Playa del Carmen or Portland Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Playa del Carmen is a great town for couples, as it 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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

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

Portland is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Portland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Playa del Carmen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Is Playa del Carmen or Portland Better for Students?

Portland is a popular place for students. However, Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Playa del Carmen and Portland.

You'll find some public transit in Playa del Carmen, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

While Portland offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Playa del Carmen or Portland a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is very popular for its walkability. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Portland is a very walkable town. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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

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

How long in Playa del Carmen or Portland?

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

Families should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Portland. 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 Portland. 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 Portland than Playa del Carmen 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 Portland.

One day in Playa del Carmen or Portland?

The beautiful town of Playa del Carmen offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the laid-back destination of Portland. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Portland?

Playa del Carmen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the eclectic city of Portland. If you have a weekend, this city 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 Playa del Carmen or Portland?

Playa del Carmen is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Playa del Carmen, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Portland 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 Playa del Carmen or Portland?

Playa del Carmen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Playa del Carmen has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

Portland 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 2-Week Tours in Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Portland?

Portland 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 Portland, 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 Portland?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

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

The summer brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Portland. Many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Playa del Carmen is a little warmer than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Playa del Carmen in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen this time of the year. In the summer, Playa del Carmen often gets less sunshine than Portland. Playa del Carmen gets 223 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen receives a lot of rain in the summer. Playa del Carmen usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Portland and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Portland because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Playa del Carmen is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 26°C (79°F), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually receives more sunshine than Portland during autumn. Playa del Carmen gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Playa del Carmen. In October, Playa del Carmen usually receives more rain than Portland. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen.

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

Both Portland and Playa del Carmen during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

It's quite cold in Portland in the winter. Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 23°C (73°F) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. In the winter, Playa del Carmen often gets more sunshine than Portland. Playa del Carmen gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

Portland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Portland. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Playa del Carmen in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. Playa del Carmen usually receives more sunshine than Portland during spring. Playa del Carmen gets 259 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Portland. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Portland and Playa del Carmen