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

Should you visit Playa del Carmen or Richmond?

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

Should I visit Playa del Carmen or Richmond? 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 scenic, stunning, and vibrant town. With stunning beauty, Playa del Carmen attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Richmond

Richmond is a friendly, historical, and growing city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Richmond travel costs.

Playa del Carmen and Richmond: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will generally find more to do in Playa del Carmen than Richmond. While Richmond is larger than Playa del Carmen, Playa del Carmen has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Playa del Carmen is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Richmond attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Richmond and is known for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. It is also well known for La Quinta Avenida. Richmond is famous for its cultural and historical sights.

How is Playa del Carmen different from Richmond?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Richmond offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a long history which you can learn about at one of the many museums. There's the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, and the Black History Museum. There are also landmarks and historical homes.

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 Richmond? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Playa del Carmen and Richmond can be difficult as they are each nice in their own way.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Playa del Carmen area. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Richmond. The food scene has been growing around town, and there are food halls and local restaurants that serve diverse and interesting dishes. You'll find Indian, Asian, and European restaurants in addition to local classics.

Is Playa del Carmen or Richmond Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Richmond. You'll find diverse bars and clubs around town. Pubs are usually laid back with a relaxed atmosphere. You'll also find live music that includes bluegrass, country, and jazz.

Is Playa del Carmen or Richmond Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond is not a resort destination.

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

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Richmond Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond is not a beach destination.

Is Playa del Carmen or Richmond Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Playa del Carmen or Richmond?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Richmond 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 Richmond. You'll find shopping malls and shopping centers around town, but there are also eclectic shopping streets and boutique outlets.

Is Playa del Carmen or Richmond More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Playa del Carmen attracts visitors from all around. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Richmond is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Playa del Carmen or Richmond Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Richmond is a family-friendly town. The Children's Museum of Richmond offers hands-on exhibits that will keep young ones entertained. Another fun option is the Science Museum of Virginia. The city also has parks and outdoor places to explore as well as playgrounds and kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Playa del Carmen or Richmond Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Richmond is a nice destination for couples. Kayaking or tubing on the James River is a great activity for couples. There are also museums and many restaurants that are perfect for a date night.

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

Playa del Carmen is very good for backpackers. However, Richmond is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Richmond is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination, and most people breeze through town.

Is Playa del Carmen or Richmond Better for Students?

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

Richmond is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

Playa del Carmen is not popular with students.

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

Playa del Carmen is very good for its public transit. However, Richmond is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Playa del Carmen has a few public transit options. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Public transit is mostly limited in Richmond. There are buses around town, but the availability and reliability is limited.

Is Playa del Carmen or Richmond a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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

Richmond is somewhat walkable. There are some walkable neighborhoods such as the Fan and Museum District, but most people prefer to get around by car.

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

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

How long in Playa del Carmen or Richmond?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Playa del Carmen or Richmond to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Playa del Carmen than Richmond because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Playa del Carmen, and 1-2 days is enough time in Richmond.

Families should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Richmond. 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 Richmond. 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 Richmond 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 Richmond?

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 food and shopping around the friendly destination of Richmond. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Playa del Carmen or Richmond?

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 shopping and museums around the historical city of Richmond. 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 Richmond?

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.

Richmond 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 Richmond?

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.

Richmond 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 Richmond, we can see that Richmond 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 Richmond would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Richmond 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 Richmond Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Playa del Carmen or Richmond?

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Playa del Carmen and Richmond, 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 Richmond?

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 Richmond in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Playa del Carmen and Richmond. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Richmond for the family-friendly experiences.

Playa del Carmen is around the same temperature as Richmond in the summer. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Richmond fluctuates around 78°F (26°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Richmond this time of the year. In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. Playa del Carmen usually receives less sunshine than Richmond during summer. Playa del Carmen gets 223 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 305 hours of full sun in the summer.

Richmond receives a lot of rain in the summer. Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Playa del Carmen usually receives more rain than Richmond. Playa del Carmen gets 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Richmond receives 5 inches (128 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Playa del Carmen as well as Richmond. Many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Richmond in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Richmond. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Playa del Carmen in October average around 26°C (79°F), and Richmond averages at about 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Richmond. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen this time of the year. In the autumn, Playa del Carmen often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond. Playa del Carmen gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 221 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Playa del Carmen usually gets more rain in October than Richmond. Playa del Carmen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen is June to October.

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

Both Richmond and Playa del Carmen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Richmond for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Richmond can be very cold during winter. In January, Playa del Carmen is generally much warmer than Richmond. Daily temperatures in Playa del Carmen average around 23°C (73°F), and Richmond fluctuates around 36°F (2°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen usually receives more sunshine than Richmond during winter. Playa del Carmen gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Richmond receives 169 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Playa del Carmen usually receives less rain than Richmond. Playa del Carmen gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Richmond receives 3.2 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Richmond and Playa del Carmen during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Playa del Carmen is much warmer than Richmond in the spring. The daily temperature in Playa del Carmen averages around 27°C (81°F) in April, and Richmond fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In Richmond, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. In the spring, Playa del Carmen often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Richmond. Playa del Carmen gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Richmond receives 265 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen usually gets less rain in April than Richmond. Playa del Carmen gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Richmond receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen.

Typical Weather for Richmond and Playa del Carmen