A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. Seattle for Attractions, Nightlife, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Tulum or Seattle?

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 Seattle 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 ancient, archeological, and tropical town. With stunning beauty, Tulum attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Tulum travel costs.

Seattle

Seattle is a bustling, progressive, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food. See Seattle travel costs.

Tulum and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Seattle?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Seattle than Tulum, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Seattle is better known for its theatre productions, music, and big city activities, while Tulum is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Tulum is more touristy than Seattle and is known for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. Seattle is well known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. Also, Seattle is famous for The Space Needle.

How is Tulum different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Tulum is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Tulum on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Tulum or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a city with good options for theatre. However, Tulum is not a theatre destination.

Seattle offers a number of shows and performances. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Tulum is not a theatre destination.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Tulum and Seattle.

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).

Seattle has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Tulum or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Tulum is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Seattle has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Tulum or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is a well-known place for live music. However, Tulum is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Seattle is very popular with diverse venues. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Tulum is not a live music destination.

Is Tulum or Seattle Better for Resorts?

Tulum is renowned for its resorts. However, Seattle is not a resort destination.

Tulum offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Seattle is not a resort destination.

Is Tulum or Seattle Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is renowned for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Seattle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Tulum specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Seattle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Tulum is renowned for the beach. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

The beaches in Tulum are among the best in the world. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Is Tulum or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Both Tulum and Seattle are destinations which offer high quality 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 Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Seattle?

Tulum is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Tulum or Seattle More Beautiful?

Tulum is notable for its scenery and beauty. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and 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.

Seattle is a gorgeous place to visit. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.

Is Tulum or Seattle Better for Families?

Tulum is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Tulum is known to be 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.

Seattle is a family-friendly town. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Tulum or Seattle Better for Couples?

Tulum is renowned for couples. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Tulum has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Tulum or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tulum is notable for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Tulum is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

Seattle is a good town to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Tulum or Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is a well-known place for students. However, Tulum is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Tulum is not popular with students.

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

Both Tulum and Seattle 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.

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Tulum or Seattle a more walkable city?

Tulum and Seattle both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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

Seattle is a very walkable town. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Seattle?

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

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

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.

Each neighborhood in Seattle has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Seattle. 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 Seattle?

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 shopping and museums around the bustling big city of Seattle. 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Tulum or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Tulum. When comparing the sizes of Tulum and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Tulum or Seattle in the Summer?

Both Seattle and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tulum for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Seattle because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Tulum is generally a little warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 28°C (83°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

It's quite sunny in Seattle. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during summer. Tulum gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Tulum. In July, Tulum usually receives more rain than Seattle. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tulum or Seattle in the Autumn?

Both Seattle and Tulum during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Tulum because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

Tulum is much warmer than Seattle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the autumn, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually gets more rain in October than Seattle. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Tulum. June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Tulum.

Should I visit Tulum or Seattle in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Seattle. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Tulum this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Tulum is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tulum in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Seattle averages at about 42°F (5°C).

In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tulum usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during winter. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

Seattle receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Tulum usually receives less rain than Seattle. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tulum or Seattle in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Seattle. Many travelers come to Tulum for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Seattle in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Tulum is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 27°C (81°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Seattle. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. In the spring, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun.

Tulum usually gets less rain in April than Seattle. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Tulum is the dry season. June to October in Tulum is the rainy season. Also, June to October in Tulum is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Tulum