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

Should you visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Sedona?

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

Should I visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or Sedona? 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 cultural, charming, and colorful town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. San Cristobal de Las Casas is a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See San Cristobal de Las Casas travel costs.

Sedona

Sedona is a dramatic, scenic, and striking town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Sedona is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Sedona travel costs.

San Cristobal de Las Casas and Sedona: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less charming
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sedona. Although San Cristobal de Las Casas and Sedona are popular destinations, Sedona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sedona is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while San Cristobal de Las Casas attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. San Cristobal de Las Casas is famous for its historical buildings, local markets, and traditional churches. Sedona is famous for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats. It is also well known for Red Rock Crossing Park.

How is San Cristobal de Las Casas different from Sedona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Sedona

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

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Sedona. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Sedona

Both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Sedona offer high quality 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 Sedona. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Sedona

San Cristobal de Las Casas is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

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 Sedona. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Sedona Better for Resorts?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Sedona

Sedona is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a resort destination.

Sedona is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a resort destination.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Sedona

San Cristobal de Las Casas is great for its old town. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting San Cristobal de Las Casas. The town is filled with narrow pedestrian streets, colorful markets, and historic churches.

Sedona offers a nice historic old town area. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Sedona Better for Hiking?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Sedona

Sedona is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Sedona. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Sedona

Shoppers can find a variety of first-rate stores in both San Cristobal de Las Casas and Sedona.

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 Sedona make it a world-class shopping destination. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.


Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or Sedona More Beautiful?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Sedona

Sedona is very popular for its scenery and beauty. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Sedona is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The surrounded countryside is filled with dramatic desert landscapes and striking red cliffs.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a beautiful place to visit, too. Set against the backdrop of mountains, this town is colorful and charming.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Sedona

Sedona 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.

Sedona is a very family-friendly destination. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.

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 Sedona Better for Couples?

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Sedona

Sedona is very popular for romance. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Sedona makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

Couples visit San Cristobal de Las Casas frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Sedona

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

Many 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.

Sedona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Sedona

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Sedona is not a good destination 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 Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

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

San Cristobal de Las Casas
Sedona

San Cristobal de Las Casas is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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.

Sedona is a somewhat walkable town. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have a car.


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

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

How long in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Sedona?

In either San Cristobal de Las Casas or Sedona, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Sedona than San Cristobal de Las Casas because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Cristobal de Las Casas, and 3-5 days is enough time in Sedona.

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

Couples should spend more time in Sedona than San Cristobal de Las Casas. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Sedona that are perfect 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 Sedona 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 Sedona? Ideal Length of Stay
    San Cristobal de Las Casas 2-3 
    Sedona 3-5

One day in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Sedona?

San Cristobal de Las Casas might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Sedona, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this desert small town offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Sedona?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Sedona, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful small town offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Sedona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Cristobal de Las Casas. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Sedona, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this dramatic small town offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This town offers something for everyone.


A week in San Cristobal de Las Casas or Sedona?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful town of Sedona. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sedona 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
    Sedona Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $107
    Sedona $200

The average daily cost (per person) in San Cristobal de Las Casas is $107, while the average daily cost in Sedona is $200. 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 Sedona in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $42
    Sedona $93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $84
    Sedona $186
Compare Hotels in San Cristobal de Las Casas and Sedona

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


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 Sedona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $29
    Sedona $40

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 Sedona?

Prices for flights to both Sedona 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
    Sedona $83

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sedona

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

  • The VIP Experience, Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show Tickets: $135
  • Sedona/Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Day Trip with Dinner & Sunset: $252

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $13
    Sedona $19

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

Typical Entertainment Prices in Sedona

For Sedona, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Red Rock Fantasy Light Show (for 2)
    $10

Tours and Activities in Sedona

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

  • 2 Hours Private Spiritual Healing Tour in the Nature of Sedona: $200
  • Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park Sedona, Arizona Experience: $300
  • Arizona Ghost Adventure: $150
  • Arizona Winery All-Inclusive Tour with Lunch & Tastings: $199
  • Best E-Bike Tour of Sedona with Private Local Guide: $140
  • Best UFO Tour of Sedona: $110
  • Cemetery Ghost Adventure Cottonwood, Az: $45
  • Chuck Wagon Supper & Western Stage Show at Blazin' M Ranch Ticket: $85
  • Everything Sedona (20+ Mile) - Sedona Helicopter Tour: $186
  • Explore Sedona's Vortexes: 2.5 Hour Jeep Tour of Mysticism: $136
  • Five Star AZ Wine Crawler Tour 4- 12 PPL : $139
  • From Flagstaff or Antelope Canyon Full-Day Tour: $306

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    San Cristobal de Las Casas $27
    Sedona $13

Sample the Local Flavors in Sedona

Also in Sedona, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Bliss - Sedona’s Most Luxurious Wine Tour - Lunch Included!: $115
  • Sedona-Jerome Scenic Vortex, Wine Tasting Grand Tour. See It All!: $199
  • 4 Hours Private Wine Tour in Sedona: $205
  • The Classic Sedona Wine Tour: $219
  • Voted Best in Sedona-Private Wine Tour of Vortex, Wine & Shopping: $225
  • Private Wine Tour in Sedona, Arizona: $275


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


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

San Cristobal de Las Casas has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Sedona. When comparing the sizes of San Cristobal de Las Casas and Sedona, 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.