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

Should you visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Richmond?

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

Should I visit San Cristobal de Las Casas 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a charming, colorful, and cultural town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See San Cristobal de Las Casas travel costs.

Richmond

Richmond is a historical, growing, and friendly city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Richmond travel costs.

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Richmond: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will generally find more things to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Richmond. While Richmond is larger than San Cristobal de Las Casas, San Cristobal de Las Casas has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Cristobal de Las Casas is more touristy than Richmond and is popular 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. Richmond is well known for its cultural and historical sights.

How is San Cristobal de Las Casas different from Richmond?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the great sights and museums in either San Cristobal de Las Casas or Richmond.

San Cristobal de Las Casas offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Many visitors head to Richmond specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in San Cristobal de Las Casas is an experience not to be missed. 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.

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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Richmond Better for Nightlife?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

San Cristobal de Las Casas has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Richmond 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.

Richmond does not have a historic old town.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Richmond More Beautiful?

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

Richmond is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

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

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 Richmond. 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Richmond Better for Couples?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is notable for couples. Also, Richmond is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas is notable for backpackers. However, Richmond is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or Richmond Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Richmond. There are a couple of colleges and universities in town such as Virginia Commonwealth University.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not popular with students.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas is very good for its public transit. However, Richmond is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

San Cristobal de Las Casas has a few 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.

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

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas 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.

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 San Cristobal de Las Casas Worth Visiting? and Is Richmond Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Richmond?

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

Families should spend more time in San Cristobal de Las Casas than Richmond. 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 Richmond. 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 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas.

One day in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Richmond?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

In Richmond, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this growing 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 Richmond?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in San Cristobal de Las Casas, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Richmond, 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 Richmond?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Richmond. 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 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas and Richmond, we can see that Richmond 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 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 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 Richmond Expensive?.

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

Richmond has a larger population, and is about 48% larger than the population of San Cristobal de Las Casas. When comparing the sizes of San Cristobal de Las Casas 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.