A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antwerp vs. Puerto Viejo for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Antwerp or Puerto Viejo?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Puerto Viejo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a genuine, cultural, and historical port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Antwerp travel costs.

Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a mellow, authentic, and laid back town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Puerto Viejo is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Puerto Viejo travel costs.

Antwerp and Puerto Viejo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Puerto Viejo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antwerp. Although Antwerp and Puerto Viejo are both popular with visitors, Antwerp has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Antwerp is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Puerto Viejo is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Puerto Viejo is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its surfing, snorkeling, and seafood. Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also home to Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Antwerp different from Puerto Viejo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antwerp or Puerto Viejo?

Antwerp is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Puerto Viejo is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Antwerp specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

Puerto Viejo offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There aren't any real museums in the area, but there are a couple of art galleries.

Is the Food Better in Antwerp or Puerto Viejo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Antwerp is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Puerto Viejo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Antwerp has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Puerto Viejo offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants have a local atmosphere and serve typical Costa Rican food or seafood. You'll find no shortage of rice and beans!

Is Antwerp or Puerto Viejo Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Antwerp and Puerto Viejo.

Antwerp is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

Many people head to Puerto Viejo for the nightlife scene. It's a laid back town during the day and at night there's a chill but lively atmosphere. You'll find a few bars and clubs that have live music, and it's not hard to find something interesting to do.

Is Antwerp or Puerto Viejo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Puerto Viejo is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Antwerp is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Puerto Viejo. You'll find the best snorkeling in Cahuita National Park, where you'll see coral and colorful fish. There's a dive shop in town as well, but most people enjoy the snorkeling in the area more.

Antwerp is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antwerp or Puerto Viejo Better for Beaches?

Puerto Viejo is well known for the beach. However, Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Puerto Viejo is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches in the area are beautiful and offer great waves for surfing and patches of coral reef for snorkeling. Many of the beaches are lined with forest and have a more laid back and less developed atmosphere than the beaches on the Pacific side.

Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Is Antwerp or Puerto Viejo Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Puerto Viejo does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antwerp. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Puerto Viejo does not have a historic old town.

Is Antwerp or Puerto Viejo Better for Hiking?

Puerto Viejo is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Puerto Viejo. The hike through nearby Cahuita National Park is a highlight for many visitors. It wanders along the coastline and takes about three hours to walk. You'll likely see some wildlife during your walk.

Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Puerto Viejo?

Antwerp is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Puerto Viejo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Antwerp specifically to go shopping. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Puerto Viejo is a great destination for shopping. You can wander through the town center and enjoy shopping at the local boutiques that sell clothes and other touristy items.

Is Antwerp or Puerto Viejo More Beautiful?

Puerto Viejo is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Antwerp is not a destination known for its beauty.

Puerto Viejo is a beautiful place to visit, too. The beaches are beautiful and lined with rainforests. There's also easy access to the beautiful Cahuita National Park.

Antwerp is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Antwerp or Puerto Viejo Better for Families?

Puerto Viejo is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Puerto Viejo is a very kid-friendly town. With its easy access to Cahuita National Park and many wildlife experiences, this is a great destination for the kids. Kids can see sloths and monkeys, or enjoy snorkeling and hanging out on a chill beach.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Is Antwerp or Puerto Viejo Better for Couples?

Puerto Viejo is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Puerto Viejo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's located on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica, which has a more laid back and less touristy atmosphere. While you won't find the larger resorts and tourist amenities in this area, couples who enjoy hiking and a local vibe will love their time here.

Antwerp is a good port city for couples to visit. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Is Antwerp or Puerto Viejo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Puerto Viejo is well known for backpackers. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Puerto Viejo is a great town to visit for backpackers. There's a local atmosphere and enough hostels and budget accommodation to keep backpackers happy. It's also easy to explore and makes the perfect place to chill out for a few days.

It's common for backpackers to visit Antwerp. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Is Antwerp or Puerto Viejo Better for Students?

Antwerp is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Puerto Viejo is not popular with students.

Antwerp is very popular with students. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Puerto Viejo is not popular with students.

Is Antwerp or Puerto Viejo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Antwerp and Puerto Viejo.

You'll find some public transit in Antwerp, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

While Puerto Viejo offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel the longer distances, but most people walk or bike around town.

Is Antwerp or Puerto Viejo a more walkable city?

Antwerp and Puerto Viejo both are very good when exploring on foot.

Antwerp is a very walkable port city. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

Puerto Viejo is a very walkable destination. It's a small town that's easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? and Is Puerto Viejo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Puerto Viejo or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Puerto Viejo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antwerp and Puerto Viejo. In our opinion, Puerto Viejo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Puerto Viejo than Antwerp. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 2-3 days is enough time in Puerto Viejo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Viejo than Antwerp 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 Puerto Viejo.

One day in Antwerp or Puerto Viejo?

In Antwerp, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cultural port city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

In Puerto Viejo, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antwerp or Puerto Viejo?

Antwerp is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the shopping. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Puerto Viejo, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Puerto Viejo has to offer.

Five days in Antwerp or Puerto Viejo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Puerto Viejo is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antwerp or Puerto Viejo?

Antwerp is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Puerto Viejo. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Puerto Viejo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Belgium, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Belgium, The Best 2-Week Tours in Costa Rica, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Costa Rica.

When comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Puerto Viejo, we can see that Antwerp 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. Even though Antwerp is in Europe and Puerto Viejo is in Central America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

When is the best time to visit Antwerp or Puerto Viejo?

Antwerp has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Puerto Viejo experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Puerto Viejo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Puerto Viejo. The summer months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Puerto Viejo throughout the year.

In the summer, Antwerp is much colder than Puerto Viejo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antwerp in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Puerto Viejo averages at about 26°C (79°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antwerp this time of the year. In the summer, Antwerp often gets more sunshine than Puerto Viejo. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Puerto Viejo receives 124 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Puerto Viejo. Antwerp usually gets less rain in July than Puerto Viejo. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Puerto Viejo receives 408 mm (16.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, September to October in Puerto Viejo is the dry season.

Should I visit Antwerp or Puerto Viejo in the Autumn?

Both Puerto Viejo and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to Puerto Viejo because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In October, Antwerp is generally much colder than Puerto Viejo. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 12°C (54°F), and Puerto Viejo fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Puerto Viejo during autumn. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Puerto Viejo receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Puerto Viejo. In October, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Puerto Viejo. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Puerto Viejo receives 198 mm (7.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Puerto Viejo is September to October. The rainy season in Puerto Viejo is November to January.

Should I visit Antwerp or Puerto Viejo in the Winter?

Both Puerto Viejo and Antwerp during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Puerto Viejo year-round.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Antwerp. Antwerp is much colder than Puerto Viejo in the winter. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Puerto Viejo fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In the winter, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Puerto Viejo. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Puerto Viejo receives 159 hours of full sun.

Puerto Viejo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Antwerp usually gets less rain in January than Puerto Viejo. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Puerto Viejo receives 319 mm (12.6 in) of rain this time of the year. November to January is the rainy season in Puerto Viejo.

Should I visit Antwerp or Puerto Viejo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Puerto Viejo. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the spring for the activities around the city. Puerto Viejo attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the spring, Antwerp is much colder than Puerto Viejo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antwerp in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Puerto Viejo averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Puerto Viejo during spring. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Puerto Viejo receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

Puerto Viejo receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Puerto Viejo. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Puerto Viejo receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Puerto Viejo and Antwerp