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

Should you visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Charlotte?

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

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

Charlotte

Charlotte is a up-and-coming, growing, and evolving city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Charlotte travel costs.

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Charlotte: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


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

Visitors will generally find more to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Charlotte. While Charlotte is larger than San Cristobal de Las Casas, San Cristobal de Las Casas has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. San Cristobal de Las Casas is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Charlotte is more popular for its big city activities. San Cristobal de Las Casas is more touristy than Charlotte and is known for its historical buildings, local markets, and traditional churches. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is famous for the Cathedral of San Cristobal de las Casas. Charlotte is well known for its banking industry and growing Uptown area.

How is San Cristobal de Las Casas different from Charlotte?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Charlotte

San Cristobal de Las Casas is great for its historical sights. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Charlotte is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Mint Museum is a popular place to visit, as is the Gantt Center for African American Arts. Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and sports enthusiasts will enjoy a stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Charlotte

San Cristobal de Las Casas is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

San Cristobal de Las Casas has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Charlotte offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The food scene continues to grow and change around town. You'll find the latest trendy restaurant changes regularly, but dishes often include upscale southern faire or classic American. There are also many international restaurants, particularly Mexican, Thai, and Chinese.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Charlotte

San Cristobal de Las Casas is great for its evening party scene. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to San Cristobal de Las Casas for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Charlotte. Head Uptown for some of the best nightlife. The city has many bars and clubs that keep things fun late into the night.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Charlotte

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

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of San Cristobal de Las Casas. The town is filled with narrow pedestrian streets, colorful markets, and historic churches.

Charlotte does not have a historic old town.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Charlotte

San Cristobal de Las Casas is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Charlotte is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to San Cristobal de Las Casas specifically to go shopping. 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.

Charlotte is a great destination for shopping. Shopping malls such as SouthPark Mall or Carolina Place offer all of the standard retailers. Concord Mills is another favorite mall in the area. Aside from the malls, there is no shortage of shopping centers around town.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Charlotte More Beautiful?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Charlotte

San Cristobal de Las Casas is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Charlotte 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.

Charlotte is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Charlotte

Kids will enjoy a visit to either San Cristobal de Las Casas or Charlotte.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a family-friendly town. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Charlotte. There are a number of museums for kids, with one of the best being Discovery Place. It has many hands-on science based exhibits that kids will love. Another unique experience is a visit to the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Carowinds Amusement Park is also in the area as are many great parks, playgrounds, and natural areas.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Charlotte

San Cristobal de Las Casas is great for couples. Also, Charlotte 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.

Charlotte is a nice destination for couples. There are a number of date night activities around town, particularly Uptown. You can see a show or concert at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center or hit up one of the trendy bars or restaurants. There are also sporting events and other festivals that are fun to experience.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Charlotte

San Cristobal de Las Casas is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Charlotte is not a good destination 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.

Charlotte is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not a backpacker destination, there are some cheaper motels that budget travelers can stay at.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Charlotte

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

Plenty of students visit Charlotte. There are a number of smaller colleges in town, but the biggest university is the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not popular with students.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Charlotte

Visitors will find notable public transit in both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Charlotte.

San Cristobal de Las Casas has some public transit options. Urbano buses are minibuses that connect the town to the outlying residential areas. There are also colectivos that travel to nearby villages.

You'll find some public transit in Charlotte, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a light rail system as well as buses that travel around town.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Charlotte

San Cristobal de Las Casas is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Charlotte 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.

Charlotte is somewhat walkable. The Uptown area is the most walkable part of the city.

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

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

How long in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Charlotte?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Charlotte. In our opinion, San Cristobal de Las Casas has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Charlotte. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Cristobal de Las Casas, and 1-3 days is enough time in Charlotte.

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

Couples should spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Charlotte. 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 Charlotte 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 Charlotte? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Cristobal de Las Casas 2-3 
    Charlotte 1-3

One day in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Charlotte?

Even though San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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.

In Charlotte, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this up-and-coming destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Charlotte?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Charlotte, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. 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 Charlotte?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Charlotte. 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 Charlotte?

San Cristobal de Las Casas 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Charlotte. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, and The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Charlotte 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
    Charlotte Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $107
    Charlotte $225

The average daily cost (per person) in San Cristobal de Las Casas is $107, while the average daily cost in Charlotte is $225. 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 Charlotte in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $42
    Charlotte $118
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $84
    Charlotte $236
Compare Hotels in San Cristobal de Las Casas and Charlotte

Looking for a hotel in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Charlotte? 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 Charlotte


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 Charlotte Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $29
    Charlotte $33

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

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

Prices for flights to both Charlotte 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
    Charlotte $80

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 Charlotte

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


  • Pizza at Airport
    $4.03
  • Cracker Barrel Lunch (family of 4)
    $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $13
    Charlotte $43

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 Charlotte

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

  • Chains, Coffins, & Curses: Charlottesville Ghost Tours: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $27
    Charlotte $20


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


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

Charlotte has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of San Cristobal de Las Casas. When comparing the sizes of San Cristobal de Las Casas and Charlotte, 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.