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

Should you visit Tulum or Roanoke?

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 Roanoke 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Tulum travel costs.

Roanoke

Roanoke is a outdoorsy, laid back, and scenic town. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and shopping. See Roanoke travel costs.

Tulum and Roanoke: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Roanoke?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tulum than Roanoke, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tulum is more touristy than Roanoke and is popular for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. Also, Tulum is famous for the Tulum archeological ruins. Roanoke is well known for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

How is Tulum different from Roanoke?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tulum is renowned for its historical sights. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

Roanoke is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

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

Tulum is a great town for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Roanoke is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

Roanoke offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Is Tulum or Roanoke Better for Nightlife?

Tulum is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

Tulum is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Roanoke. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

Is Tulum or Roanoke Better for Resorts?

Tulum is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a resort destination.

Is Tulum or Roanoke Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Roanoke Better for Beaches?

Tulum is renowned for the beach. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a beach destination.

Is Tulum or Roanoke Better for Hiking?

Both Tulum and Roanoke are destinations which offer excellent hiking.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Roanoke. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Roanoke?

Tulum is a great town for its shopping areas. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Roanoke is a great destination for shopping. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.

Is Tulum or Roanoke More Beautiful?

Tulum is a great town for its scenery and beauty. However, Roanoke 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.

Roanoke is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tulum or Roanoke Better for Families?

Tulum is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Roanoke is a family-friendly place to visit. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia Children's Theater.

Is Tulum or Roanoke Better for Couples?

Tulum is renowned for couples. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Roanoke is a very popular place to visit for couples. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

Is Tulum or Roanoke Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Roanoke is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

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

Tulum is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Roanoke is not known for its public transit.

While Tulum offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

Public transit is generally limited in Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

Is Tulum or Roanoke a more walkable city?

Tulum is a great town for its ease of walking around. However, Roanoke is not known for its walkability.

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

Roanoke is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

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

Should I spend more time in Roanoke or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Roanoke?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tulum and Roanoke. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tulum than in Roanoke. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Tulum, and 1-3 days is enough time in Roanoke.

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

In Tulum, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Roanoke, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this scenic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town 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 Roanoke?

In Tulum, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Roanoke. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Roanoke?

Tulum is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tulum has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Roanoke is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Roanoke. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Tulum or Roanoke?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tulum. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Tulum. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the laid back destination of Roanoke. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Tulum or Roanoke?

Roanoke has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Tulum and Roanoke, 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 Roanoke?

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 Roanoke in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Roanoke. Many travelers come to Tulum for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Roanoke in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tulum is generally around the same temperature as Roanoke. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 28°C (83°F), and Roanoke fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Roanoke. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. In the summer, Tulum often gets less sunshine than Roanoke. Tulum gets 232 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Roanoke receives 273 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Roanoke. Tulum receives a lot of rain in the summer. Tulum usually gets more rain in July than Roanoke. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Roanoke receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or Roanoke in the Autumn?

Both Roanoke and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Roanoke for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months.

Tulum is much warmer than Roanoke in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Roanoke fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

It's quite sunny in Roanoke. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Roanoke during autumn. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Roanoke receives 210 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Tulum. In October, Tulum usually receives more rain than Roanoke. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Tulum is November to April. The rainy season in Tulum is June to October. The hurricane season in Tulum is June to October.

Should I visit Tulum or Roanoke in the Winter?

Both Roanoke and Tulum during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Tulum for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Roanoke because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Roanoke can be very cold. In the winter, Tulum is much warmer than Roanoke. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tulum in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Roanoke averages at about 38°F (3°C).

It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the winter, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Roanoke. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Roanoke receives 165 hours of full sun.

Tulum usually gets less rain in January than Roanoke. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Roanoke receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or Roanoke in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Roanoke. The spring months attract visitors to Tulum because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Tulum is generally much warmer than Roanoke. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 27°C (81°F), and Roanoke fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Roanoke this time of the year. In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tulum usually receives more sunshine than Roanoke during spring. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies, while Roanoke receives 246 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tulum usually receives less rain than Roanoke. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the spring. November to April in Tulum is the dry season. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. June to October is the hurricane season in Tulum.

Typical Weather for Roanoke and Tulum