Chichen Itza v. Tulum?

Travel Info
I am traveling to the Riviera Maya and I am considering bypassing the tour to Chichen Itza in lieu of the tour to Tulum.

Am I wrong in assuming that Chichen Itza and Tulum are comparable Mayan civilizations?

Travel Tips

The ruins at Chichen Itza are much more expansive and much more impressive than Tulum.

Tulum has a great natural setting but it is small relative to Chichen Itza. Also, because Tulum is relatively small and very assessable it's almost always crowded, while Chichen Itza does get a lot of visitors too, it's size doesn't make it seem crowded.

My first trip to Cancun many years ago I was uncertain if I wanted to miss a day away from the beach to see Chichen Itza but I'm glad I did. I was so fascinated by Chichen Itza that I have since been to 12 other ruins and will be returning this winter to see more.

Personally, I love ruins but I know they are not for everyone. If you are not sure, you can always take a morning and see Tulum. From the Mayan Riviera you could leave your resort after breakfast, see the ruins shop at the market there, swim at the beautiful beach and still get back to your hotel for lunch. After that - see what you think, if you feel like you are interested in more ruins then book for Chichen Itza, if not the just enjoy the rest of your holiday.

If you have the time, I'd recommend you see Chichen Itza, my wife also recommends the trip and she's not nearly as fanatical as me.
Others

I've been to both and I'm pretty glad I did. They are comparable Mayan civilizations, but they pulled out all the stops when they built Chichen Itza.

The structures at Chichen Itza are actually quite amazing. Pyramids and temples are built to mathematical accuracy, the Mayans have also designed areas in Chichen Itza were you can hear interesting echo effects. During the spring and fall equinoxes, the sun sets over the temple and a wierd snake shadow is projected on the ground. The Mayans sure came up with a lot of sophisticated touches.

Tulum seemed to be more of a working coastal city, where Chichen Itza seemed to be a place of worship or a capital city. It's also interesting, but for different reasons. Tulum has great views and a great beach.

If you're renting a car and driving, Chac Mool ruins are on the way to Tulum.
I've been to both and they are both worth visiting but if I had to pick, Chichen Itza hands down, will make your trip worth it...