A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. Edmonton for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Tulum or Edmonton?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tulum and Edmonton can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tulum

Tulum is a lively, ancient, and archeological town. Tulum is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Tulum travel costs.

Edmonton

Edmonton is a cultural, authentic, and friendly city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Edmonton travel costs.

Tulum and Edmonton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Edmonton?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Tulum. Although Tulum and Edmonton are both popular with visitors, Tulum has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Tulum is more touristy than Edmonton and is known for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. It is also home to the Tulum archeological ruins. Edmonton is popular for its many festivals and lively personality.

How is Tulum different from Edmonton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Edmonton and Tulum. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tulum or Edmonton?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Tulum that are not to be missed. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Edmonton can be an interesting and educational experience. You'll find a number of good museums around town such as the Royal Alberta Museum, Muttart Conservatory, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and the Art Gallery of Alberta.

Is the Food Better in Tulum or Edmonton? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tulum is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Edmonton is not a good city for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Tulum makes for a great culinary experience. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Edmonton. You'll find a mix of casual cafes, international eateries, and more upscale dining options.

Is Tulum or Edmonton Better for Nightlife?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Tulum is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Edmonton. There's a mix of nightclubs, bars, and breweries around town. Head to Jasper Avenue for the high end clubs or check out a live show at one of the active theaters around town.

Is Tulum or Edmonton Better for Resorts?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Edmonton is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Tulum is a perfect choice. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

Edmonton is not a resort destination.

Is Tulum or Edmonton Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Edmonton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Tulum is not to be missed. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

Edmonton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Edmonton Better for Beaches?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Edmonton is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Tulum is a very popular vacation destination. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

Edmonton is not a beach destination.

Is Tulum or Edmonton Better for Hiking?

Tulum is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Edmonton is not a hiking destination.

Tulum is a popular spot for hiking. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.

Edmonton is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Edmonton?

Both Tulum and Edmonton are superb shopping destinations.

Tulum is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in town.

Edmonton is well-known for its shopping. The city is home to the West Edmonton Mall, which is the largest shopping mall in Canada, and among the largest in the world. The mall includes hundreds of shops, restaurants, a hotel, ice rink, movie theaters, an aquarium, and Galaxyland, which is one of the largest indoor amusement parks in the world. The mall is divided into themed sections that represent iconic places from around the world such as Europa Boulevard and Bourbon Street.

Is Tulum or Edmonton More Beautiful?

Tulum is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Edmonton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Tulum is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Clear blue water, sandy beaches, jungle covered archeological ruins, and hidden cenotes make this a stunningly beautiful place to visit.

Edmonton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tulum or Edmonton Better for Families?

Tulum is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Tulum is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

Edmonton is a family-friendly town. Many families live in town so if you're visiting for a few days you'll find plenty to do with kids. Most of the activities are concentrated in the downtown areas and along the south side of the North Saskatchewan River. The whole family will enjoy a visit to Telus World of Science. There's also the Edmonton Valley Zoo, the Alberta Aviation Museum, and Galaxyland, as well as many other activities.

Is Tulum or Edmonton Better for Couples?

Tulum is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Tulum has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

Edmonton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a good theater scene, so you can enjoy dinner and a show. There are also quaint cafes, mellow breweries, and plenty of cultural activities like art museums.

Is Tulum or Edmonton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Edmonton is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Tulum. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

Edmonton is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers overlook this city, but there is a hostel in town where you can stay.

Is Tulum or Edmonton Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Tulum and Edmonton offer good public transit options.

Tulum has a few public transit options. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

Edmonton has some public transit options. The city has both bus and light rail systems.

Is Tulum or Edmonton a more walkable city?

Tulum is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Edmonton is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

Tulum is very walkable. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore on foot.

Edmonton is a somewhat walkable place. There are parts of the city that are very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Tulum Worth Visiting? and Is Edmonton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edmonton or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Edmonton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Tulum or Edmonton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Tulum than Edmonton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Tulum, and 1-2 days is enough time in Edmonton.

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

Couples should spend more time in Tulum than Edmonton. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Tulum that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tulum than Edmonton 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 Tulum.

One day in Tulum or Edmonton?

The beautiful town of Tulum offers museums and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Edmonton, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this authentic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Tulum or Edmonton?

Tulum 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edmonton. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tulum or Edmonton?

Tulum is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Tulum, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Edmonton is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Edmonton. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tulum or Edmonton?

Tulum is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the friendly destination of Edmonton. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Tulum Expensive? and Is Edmonton Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tulum or Edmonton?

Edmonton has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Tulum and Edmonton, 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.