A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers San Cristobal de Las Casas vs. Atlanta for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta?

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

Should I visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta? 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a charming, colorful, and cultural town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. San Cristobal de Las Casas offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See San Cristobal de Las Casas travel costs.

Atlanta

Atlanta is a suburban, cultural, and diverse city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Atlanta travel costs.

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Atlanta: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta?

You'll generally find more things to do in Atlanta than San Cristobal de Las Casas. Atlanta is bigger than San Cristobal de Las Casas, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Atlanta is better known for its museums and attractions and big city activities, while San Cristobal de Las Casas is more popular for its historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. San Cristobal de Las Casas is more touristy than Atlanta and is known for its historical buildings, local markets, and traditional churches. Atlanta is well known for its world class aquarium, its role as host of the 1996 Olympic Games, and its influence during the Civil Rights Movement. Also, Atlanta is famous for the Georgia Aquarium.

How is San Cristobal de Las Casas different from Atlanta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Atlanta and San Cristobal de Las Casas. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Atlanta

Atlanta is very popular for its museums and history. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Atlanta from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The museums range in topic from history to science and art. The country's largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, is in Atlanta as well. It's home to whale sharks, stingrays, and a diversity of marine life. Other museums around town include the Atlanta History Center, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, the High Museum of Art, the World of Coca Cola, the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, and the Delta Flight Museum. There are also many monuments and sites including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Many visitors head to San Cristobal de Las Casas specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The town is filled with historical churches such as the main Cathedral of San Cristobal. While this is the most notable church, there are also smaller churches worth visiting like the Templo Santo Domingo, Iglesia de Guadalupe, and Iglesia de San Cristobal. For museums, make sure you check out the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya, Na Bolom, and Museo de Ambar.


Is the Food Better in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Atlanta

Both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Atlanta offer very good local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in San Cristobal de Las Casas. The cuisine is a mix of Spanish-influenced cured meats such as ham and sausage, as well as indigenous flavors like tamales and burritos. There's also a lot of great pizza around town as well as several Asian restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Atlanta. It's a huge city with a wide selection of restaurants including international, local, and classic southern styles. Fried chicken, biscuits, diner food, and barbecue are all popular. For a classic southern breakfast check out The OK Cafe and for a quintessential Atlanta experience go to The Varsity.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta Better for Nightlife?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Atlanta

The very good nightlife scene is relatively similar in San Cristobal de Las Casas and Atlanta.

San Cristobal de Las Casas has a large number of nightlife venues. There's an active nightlife scene that includes everything from late night clubs to salsa lessons. Most tourists who want to party head to the pedestrian streets around the plaza. There are countless bars where you'll likely find a crowd late into the night. Some clubs have a cover charge on weekends but, in general, drinks are cheap and getting around is easy.

Atlanta is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse with trendy bars, dance clubs, and huge music halls. There are a number of neighborhoods that each have their own atmosphere. For some of the best nightlife check out the upscale bars in Buckhead, the music venues in Midtown, the hipster vibe in Edgewood, or the laid-back atmosphere in Virginia Highland.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta Better for its Old Town?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Atlanta

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great town for its historic old town charm. However, Atlanta does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to San Cristobal de Las Casas to see the historical old town. The town is filled with narrow pedestrian streets, colorful markets, and historic churches.

Atlanta does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Atlanta

Shoppers can find a variety of fantastic stores in both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Atlanta.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in San Cristobal de Las Casas. The nearby villages are famous for their weaving, leather, pottery, and embroidery, so many visitors pick up souvenirs at the colorful markets around town. This is one of the best towns in Mexico to purchase local items, and you should definitely set aside time to explore and shop.

The abundance of shops in Atlanta make it a world-class shopping destination. There are a number of great shopping districts around town. Atlantic Station is popular with a movie theater and ice skating. Buckhead has boutique and local vendors and Lenox Square has a large shopping mall.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta More Beautiful?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Atlanta

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Atlanta is not a destination known for its beauty.

San Cristobal de Las Casas offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Set against the backdrop of mountains, this town is colorful and charming.

Atlanta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta Better for Families?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Atlanta

Atlanta is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Atlanta is a very family-friendly destination. There is no shortage of playgrounds around town, but a highlight of any trip is a visit to the Georgia Aquarium. It's the largest aquarium in the United States and its home to whale sharks, hammerheads, dolphin shows, and more. It is so much more than just an aquarium, and it truly is a not to be missed experience. Also worth a visit are Zoo Atlanta, the Center of Puppetry Arts, Stone Mountain, Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Lego Discovery Center. If you have the chance to see the Atlanta Braves play, that's also a rewarding experience.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas. While kids may not appreciate the town's beauty and culture, they will have fun exploring the night market or taking a chocolate-making class. There are pedestrian streets where everyone can explore without fear of traffic and pizza restaurants that appeal to the kids as well.


Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta Better for Couples?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Atlanta

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great town for couples. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy culture, markets, traditional cuisines, and new experiences will love their time here. It's a fun place to simply wander. You can explore the markets and then eat at a local restaurant before making your way back to your boutique hotel.

Atlanta is a nice destination for couples. It's a big city, so there are a number of date night activities available such as orchestra concerts, theater shows, and fine dining. The city also has many outdoor areas like Lake Lanier and Piedmont Park. The Georgia Aquarium is world class, and there are other amazing museums around town as well.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Atlanta

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit San Cristobal de Las Casas. There are a number of hostels in town as well as budget-friendly hotels. Backpackers love the laid back nature of this town as well as the many markets and nature-oriented activities.

Atlanta is a good town to visit for backpackers. While it's usually overlooked by backpackers, there are actually a couple of hostels around town and a surprising number of activities worth experiencing. The city's large airport make it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta Better for Students?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Atlanta

Atlanta is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not popular with students.

Atlanta is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. There are a number of universities in town such as Emory, Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, and Morehouse College. The city is sprawling, but it's also full of entertainment and activities that students will enjoy.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not popular with students.


Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Atlanta

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Atlanta is not known for its public transit.

While San Cristobal de Las Casas offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Urbano buses are minibuses that connect the town to the outlying residential areas. There are also colectivos that travel to nearby villages.

Public transit is generally limited in Atlanta. For such a large city, the public transportation system is very limited. MARTA is the main transit authority and there are a few subway lines that cross the city as well as bus routes running around town.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta a more walkable city?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Atlanta

San Cristobal de Las Casas is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Atlanta is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a very easy town to get around on foot. Walking is the best way to experience the town. Most of the sights can be reached on foot and there are pedestrian-only streets that let you avoid the traffic.

Atlanta is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are walkable, but most of the sights are spread out and require a car to access. Within neighborhoods, there are a few places that are more pedestrian-friendly such as Downtown, Midtown, Virginia Highlands, and Buckhead.

For even more information, also check out Is San Cristobal de Las Casas Worth Visiting? and Is Atlanta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Atlanta or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

How long in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta?

It's fun to spend time in either San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Atlanta due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Cristobal de Las Casas, and 2-4 days is enough time in Atlanta.

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

Couples should spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Atlanta. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in San Cristobal de Las Casas that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Atlanta 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas.


  • How many days in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Cristobal de Las Casas 2-3 
    Atlanta 2-4

One day in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Each neighborhood in Atlanta has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta?

San Cristobal de Las Casas might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Cristobal de Las Casas has to offer.

Each neighborhood in Atlanta has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Atlanta. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This city offers something for everyone.

A week in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Cristobal de Las Casas. Since San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Atlanta. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Atlanta or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • San Cristobal de Las Casas Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Atlanta Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $107
    Atlanta $204

The average daily cost (per person) in San Cristobal de Las Casas is $107, while the average daily cost in Atlanta is $204. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for San Cristobal de Las Casas and Atlanta in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $42
    Atlanta $90
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $84
    Atlanta $180
Compare Hotels in San Cristobal de Las Casas and Atlanta

Looking for a hotel in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in San Cristobal de Las Casas


Hotels in Atlanta


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: San Cristobal de Las Casas Hotel Prices and Atlanta Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $29
    Atlanta $44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Cristobal de Las Casas

Also for San Cristobal de Las Casas, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer Hotel in San Cristobal de las Casas to TGZ Airport: $53

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Atlanta:


  • MARTA Subway Ticket
    $4.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Atlanta

Also for Atlanta, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Sno Roth Luxury Car Service and Airport Transfer : $75
  • Round Trip Private Transfer from Atlanta Airport to your Hotel : $40
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta in Luxury SUV/Van: $147
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta in Luxury SUV: $148
  • Private Transfer: H. J. Airport ATL to Atlanta by Business Car: $131
  • Private Transfer: Atlanta to H. J. Airport ATL in Luxury SUV/Van: $146
  • Private Transfer: Atlanta to H. J. Airport ATL in Luxury SUV : $148
  • Private Transfer: Atlanta to H. J. Airport ATL in Business Car: $130
  • Private Transfer from Atlanta City to Atlanta (ATL) Airport: $103
  • Private Transfer Atlanta Airport ATL to Atlanta City: $38
  • Private One-way Transfer from Atlanta Airport to Atlanta: $83
  • Private Car Transfer From Atlanta Airport to Atlanta Metro Area: $67

Is it cheaper to fly into San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta?

Prices for flights to both Atlanta and San Cristobal de Las Casas change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $37
    Atlanta $74

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Cristobal de Las Casas

For San Cristobal de Las Casas, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • City Tour with Dinner Pizza and Wine: $71

Typical Food Prices in Atlanta

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Atlanta:


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    $15
  • Lunch
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Atlanta

For Atlanta, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 2 Hour Historic Market Food Tour and Hands-On Biscuit Class: $65
  • City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $69
  • City Lights Night Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop: $69
  • Historic Market Food Tour and Biscuit Cooking Class: $70
  • Macaron Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar in Atlanta: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Wine Bar in Atlanta: $75
  • Sushi Making Cooking Class With a Local Chef: $75
  • Atlanta : 2-Hour Gnocchi Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • Ponce City Market 2.5-Hour Weekend Food Tour: $99
  • Walking Food Tour: $106
  • Midtown Atlanta Food Tour with 6 Tastings of Southern Flavors: $109
  • Buhi Food Tour Global Flavor Journey: $130

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $13
    Atlanta $56

Tours and Activities in San Cristobal de Las Casas

For San Cristobal de Las Casas, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Adventure through the Grottos del Arcotete, and Rancho Nuevo: $39
  • Adventure to the Sumidero Canyon Viewpoints and Chiapa de Corzo: $42
  • Bike Tour Chiapas Indigenous Peoples: $61
  • Canyoning El Chorreadero Cave- Adventure Chiapas: $156
  • Food Walking Tour San Cristobal de las Casas: $71
  • From San Cristobal : Sima Tour of the Cotorras and El Aguacero: $112
  • From San Cristobal Tour to Agua Azul, Misol Ha and Palenque: $83
  • Full Day Tour of Montebello Lakes and El Chiflon Waterfall: $60
  • Full-Day Sumidero Canyon Tour with Boat Cruise from San Cristóbal de las Casas: $84
  • Maya Cultural Tour From San Cristobal: Chamula, Zinacantan: $45
  • Montebello Lakes and Chiflon Waterfalls Tour: $48
  • Palenque Archaelogical Site, Agua Azul and Misolha Waterfalls Combo Tour: $105

Tours and Activities in Atlanta

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Atlanta.

  • 2-Hour Food, History and Street Art Tour of Ponce City Market: $95
  • 2.5hr Guided Segway Tour of Historic Atlanta: $69
  • 2.5hr Guided Segway Tour of Midtown Atlanta: $69
  • 3-Hour Atlanta Beltline Food, Street Art and History Tour : $99
  • 3-Hour Private Atlanta MCU Comics Inspired Film Location Tour: $175
  • 90-Minute Guided Sightseeing Tour: $45
  • 90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Trolley Tour in Atlanta: $36
  • ATL Remix Tour: $80
  • Art on the Streets: Private Atlanta Public and Street Art Tour: $159
  • Atlanta 5 Hour City Tour by Air-Conditioned Bus: $70
  • Atlanta Beltline Cocktails and Bites Experience: $129
  • Atlanta Comedy City Tour: $42

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $27
    Atlanta $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Atlanta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Atlanta:

  • Atlanta's Spirits and Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $29
  • Atlanta's Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Half-Day Wine Tastings in the North Georgia Mountains : $115
  • Full-Day Wine Country Wine Tastings From Atlanta : $130
  • Private Luxury Wine Tour from Atlanta to North Georgia Vineyards: $133
  • North Georgia Mountains Three Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $144
  • North Georgia Mountains TWO Vineyard Wine Tasting Tour: $155
  • Bartram Trail Hike plus Wine Tasting: $159
  • Elijay Hike w/ Waterfall & Wine Tasting Private Tour from ATL: $230
  • Georgia Vineyards Wine Tour: $2,300


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is San Cristobal de Las Casas Expensive? and Is Atlanta Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, San Cristobal de Las Casas or Atlanta?

Atlanta has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of San Cristobal de Las Casas. When comparing the sizes of San Cristobal de Las Casas and Atlanta, 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.

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