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

Should you visit Tulum or Ottawa?

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 Ottawa 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 active, lively, and ancient town. With stunning beauty, Tulum attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Tulum travel costs.

Ottawa

Ottawa is a cultural, friendly, and welcoming city. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Ottawa travel costs.

Tulum and Ottawa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Ottawa?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tulum than Ottawa, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tulum is more touristy than Ottawa and is popular for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. Also, Tulum is famous for the Tulum archeological ruins. Ottawa is well known for its history, politics, and green space.

How is Tulum different from Ottawa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tulum is a world-class destination for its museums and history. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Tulum has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Many visitors head to Ottawa specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. As the country's capital, there are a large number of museums to explore. There are summer national museums in town which include the National Gallery of Canada, the Museum of History, the Science and Technology Museum, the Aviation and Space Museum, the Agriculture and Food Museum, the Museum of Nature, and the War Museum.

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

Tulum is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Tulum has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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).

Ottawa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The culinary scene highlights many Canadian classics like poutine and maple donuts (and, of course, the classic Tim Horton's), but you'll also find plenty of international options like shawarma.

Is Tulum or Ottawa Better for Nightlife?

Tulum is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Ottawa is lacking in good options for nightlife.

People head to Tulum just to party. 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.

Ottawa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's not the first place that comes to mind when you think about partying, but there are live music venues and a some great bars around town.

Is Tulum or Ottawa Better for Resorts?

Tulum is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Ottawa is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Tulum is a great 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.

Ottawa is not a resort destination.

Is Tulum or Ottawa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ottawa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Tulum a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Ottawa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Ottawa Better for Beaches?

Tulum is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Ottawa is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Tulum. 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.

Ottawa is not a beach destination.

Is Tulum or Ottawa Better for Hiking?

Tulum is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Ottawa is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Tulum. 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.

Ottawa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Ottawa?

Tulum is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Tulum. 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.

Ottawa is a great destination for shopping. You'll find large malls, outlets, and shopping streets that are fun to browse. Some of the favorite shopping areas include ByWard Market, Sparks Street, and CF Rideau Centre.

Is Tulum or Ottawa More Beautiful?

Tulum is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Ottawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Tulum attracts visitors from all around. Clear blue water, sandy beaches, jungle covered archeological ruins, and hidden cenotes make this a stunningly beautiful place to visit.

Ottawa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tulum or Ottawa Better for Families?

Tulum is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tulum. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ottawa. As the country's capital, you'll find a number of museums that will keep a kid's attention. In particular, check out the aviation, science, and nature museums. If you have a car, you can head out to Calypso Water Park, which is fun as well.

Is Tulum or Ottawa Better for Couples?

Tulum is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Tulum makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Ottawa is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with parks and green spaces where you can enjoy flowers or peaceful walks. Commissioners Park is particularly nice and known for its tulips during the spring season. Dow's Lake is a nice place for ice skating in the winter or kayaking in the summer. The city also offers a number of romantic restaurants and charming hotels.

Is Tulum or Ottawa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Ottawa is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a surprising number of hostels around town.

Is Tulum or Ottawa Better for Students?

Ottawa is a city with good options for students. However, Tulum is not popular with students.

Ottawa is a good city to visit for students. It appeals to international and Canadian students alike. It's known for its livability and diverse cultural scene.

Tulum is not popular with students.

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

Both Tulum and Ottawa offer notable 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.

Ottawa has some public transit options. There is both a public bus and light rail system.

Is Tulum or Ottawa a more walkable city?

Tulum is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Ottawa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Ottawa is somewhat walkable. Many of the urban neighborhoods are very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Ottawa or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Ottawa?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tulum and Ottawa. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tulum than in Ottawa. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Tulum, and 2-3 days is enough time in Ottawa.

Families should spend more time in Tulum than Ottawa. 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 Ottawa. 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 Ottawa 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 Ottawa?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Tulum. 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.

In Ottawa, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this welcoming destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tulum or Ottawa?

Tulum is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ottawa. 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 Ottawa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tulum. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Tulum or Ottawa?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tropical destination of Tulum. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the friendly destination of Ottawa. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Tulum and Ottawa, we can see that Ottawa is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Tulum or Ottawa?

Ottawa has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Tulum and Ottawa, 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.

When is the best time to visit Tulum or Ottawa?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Tulum or Ottawa in the Summer?

Both Ottawa and Tulum during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Tulum for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Ottawa in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tulum is generally a little warmer than Ottawa. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 28°C (83°F), and Ottawa fluctuates around 21°C (71°F).

In Ottawa, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the summer, Tulum often gets less sunshine than Ottawa. Tulum gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 268 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually gets more rain in July than Ottawa. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Ottawa receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or Ottawa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Ottawa. Many visitors come to Tulum in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Ottawa for the shopping scene during these months.

Tulum is much warmer than Ottawa in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Ottawa fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tulum usually receives more sunshine than Ottawa during autumn. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 116 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tulum gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Tulum usually receives more rain than Ottawa. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Ottawa receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Tulum is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. The hurricane season in Tulum is June to October.

Should I visit Tulum or Ottawa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Ottawa. Most visitors come to Tulum for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Ottawa because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Ottawa can be very cold. In the winter, Tulum is much warmer than Ottawa. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tulum in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Ottawa averages at about -10°C (14°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. In the winter, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Ottawa. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ottawa receives 93 hours of full sun.

Tulum usually gets more rain in January than Ottawa. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Ottawa receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or Ottawa in the Spring?

Both Ottawa and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Tulum because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Tulum is generally much warmer than Ottawa. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 27°C (81°F), and Ottawa fluctuates around 6°C (44°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually receives more sunshine than Ottawa during spring. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Ottawa receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tulum usually receives less rain than Ottawa. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Ottawa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Tulum is November to April. The rainy season in Tulum is June to October. June to October is the hurricane season in Tulum.

Typical Weather for Ottawa and Tulum