A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Buzios vs. La Fortuna for Couples, Families, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Buzios or La Fortuna?

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

Should I visit Buzios or La Fortuna? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Buzios

And you can't forget about the food. See Buzios travel costs.

La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a scenic, popular, and stunning town. The beauty of La Fortuna is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and nightlife. See La Fortuna travel costs.

Buzios and La Fortuna: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Arenal Volcano


Is there more to do in Buzios or La Fortuna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in La Fortuna than Buzios, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. La Fortuna is more touristy than Buzios and is popular for its hot springs, luxury resorts, and volcanic views. Also, La Fortuna is famous for Arenal Volcano. Buzios is well known for

How is Buzios different from La Fortuna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Buzios or La Fortuna?

Buzios
La Fortuna

La Fortuna is adequate for its historical sights. However, Buzios does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to La Fortuna specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time outdoors exploring the area, but there are also some museums that highlight local art and culture.

Buzios does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Buzios or La Fortuna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Buzios
La Fortuna

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Buzios and La Fortuna.

Buzios has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find fresh seafood, Brazilian flavors, and international cuisine. Many beachfront restaurants serve dishes like grilled fish, moqueca (Brazilian seafood stew), and shrimp pastéis. Rua das Pedras, the town's main street, is packed with places to eat. There's everything from fine dining to casual eateries that offer pizza, sushi, and Argentine barbecue. The city also has many street vendors where you can grab a meal for very little money.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the La Fortuna area. It's a touristy mecca, and there are a number of decent restaurants around town. The area has some of the freshest local ingredients and the food reflects that. You'll find restaurants both in the center of town and along the road between the town and the hot springs.

Is Buzios or La Fortuna Better for Nightlife?

Buzios
La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities La Fortuna has a few options to choose from. The larger resorts usually have a couple of bars onsite. There are also local bars and pubs throughout the town. While things often quiet down by 9:00, you will probably be able to find a laid back place to enjoy a drink with friends.

Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Buzios or La Fortuna Better for Resorts?

Buzios
La Fortuna

La Fortuna is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Buzios is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, La Fortuna is a great choice. There are many larger international resorts in the area. Many offer spectacular views, spas, and beautifully maintained pools that take advantage of the area's hot springs.

Buzios is not a resort destination.


Is Buzios or La Fortuna Better for Hiking?

Buzios
La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a great town for hiking. However, Buzios is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to La Fortuna for the hiking trails. The area is filled with stunning hikes that take you through different landscapes and ecosystems. You'll likely see some wildlife, visit spectacular waterfalls, and, of course, catch views of the impressive Arenal Volcano.

Buzios is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Buzios or La Fortuna?

Buzios
La Fortuna

La Fortuna is adequate for its shopping opportunities. However, Buzios is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, La Fortuna has some nice offerings. You'll find a couple of good souvenir shops around town where you can pick up some locally made items.

Buzios is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Buzios or La Fortuna More Beautiful?

Buzios
La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a great town for its scenery and beauty. However, Buzios is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of La Fortuna is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, lush rainforests, and dramatic views of the volcano. There are countless hikes and a plenty of opportunities to soak up the natural setting.

Buzios is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Buzios or La Fortuna Better for Families?

Buzios
La Fortuna

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Buzios or La Fortuna.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Buzios is very family-friendly. Families enjoy hanging out at Ferradura Beach, which usually has calm waters where you can swim and play. A boat tour around the peninsula lets families explore hidden beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and even spot marine life. Strolling down Rua das Pedras in the evening offers a mix of delicious restaurants, ice cream shops, and lively street performances. For a bit of adventure, families can take a buggy ride to explore the scenic coastline and visit panoramic viewpoints like Mirante do Forno.

La Fortuna is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love exploring the outdoors and seeing some of Costa Rica's best environments. There are plenty of hiking trails, but if you're looking for short and simple, head to Ecocentro Danaus, which has a half mile flat walking loop and a butterfly garden. Another good option is Bogarin Trail, where you might see a sloth. And of course you have to check out Arenal Volcano National Park.

Is Buzios or La Fortuna Better for Couples?

Buzios
La Fortuna

La Fortuna is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Buzios is not as popular, but is still a nice for couples.

La Fortuna makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. There are amazing resorts and spas in the area that make for a truly luxurious and romantic holiday. Many couples visit for their honeymoon, and whether you enjoy exploring nature or pampering yourself in a five star setting, there really is something for everyone.

Buzios is a good for couples to visit. There are sunset cruises along the coast that offer champagne and beautiful views. You can also take a stroll down the charming Rua das Pedras and enjoy a meal at a cozy restaurant. A day at the beach is a fun activity and adventure-loving couples can explore hidden coves on a boat tour, go snorkeling together, or take a scenic hike to Mirante do Forno for stunning panoramic views.

Is Buzios or La Fortuna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Buzios
La Fortuna

For backpackers, both Buzios and La Fortuna are superb places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Buzios. There are hostels, beaches, and a variety of activities that backpackers can enjoy. With over 20 beaches and plenty of affordable street food, this is a great spot for budget travelers. You'll also find many other backpackers in the area.

La Fortuna is a very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. As one of the top places to visit in Costa Rica, this town has a number of hostels that cater to the backpacker crowds.


Is Buzios or La Fortuna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Buzios
La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Buzios does not have public transit.

While La Fortuna offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are public buses throughout the area as well as private transportation services, taxis, and car sharing.

Buzios does not have public transit.

Is Buzios or La Fortuna a more walkable city?

Buzios
La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Buzios is not a walkable destination.

La Fortuna is a somewhat walkable place. While the town itself is very walkable, many of the area's attractions can only be reached by car.

Buzios is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in La Fortuna or Buzios?

How long in Buzios or La Fortuna?

It's fun to spend time in either Buzios or La Fortuna. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Buzios due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Buzios, and 2-4 days is enough time in La Fortuna.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Fortuna than Buzios 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 La Fortuna.


  • How many days in Buzios or La Fortuna? Ideal Length of Stay
    Buzios 2-5 
    La Fortuna 2-4

One day in Buzios or La Fortuna?


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With food around the of Buzios, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of La Fortuna. 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.


A weekend in Buzios or La Fortuna?


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With food around the destination of Buzios, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this .

La Fortuna is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Buzios or La Fortuna?


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Buzios, a popular , is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this . Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in La Fortuna. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Buzios or La Fortuna?


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Buzios is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic destination of La Fortuna. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Brazil, The Best Eco Tours in Brazil, The Best Adventure Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Eco Tours in Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, La Fortuna or Buzios?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Buzios is $91, while the average daily cost in La Fortuna is $123. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Buzios and La Fortuna in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Buzios $36
    La Fortuna $51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Buzios $72
    La Fortuna $102
Compare Hotels in Buzios and La Fortuna

Looking for a hotel in Buzios or La Fortuna? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Buzios


Hotels in La Fortuna


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: La Fortuna Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Buzios $18
    La Fortuna $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Buzios

Also for Buzios, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Beach Resorts to Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) - Private Transfer: $45
  • Beach Resorts to Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) - Departure Transfer : $45
  • Tour in Buzios City Tour, Lunch and Transfer: $60
  • Rio de Janeiro Transfer from Buzios to Airport (GIG)(SDU): $73
  • Private Transfer from Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro: $91
  • Private Transfer Buzios to Rio de Janeiro: $91
  • Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) to Beach Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $91
  • Executive private transfer from GIG Rio Galeao airport up to 4 pax to Buzios: $115
  • Executive private transfer from GIG Rio Galeao airport up to 3 pax to Buzios: $115
  • Private Transfer from Buzios Port to Cabo Frio Airport (CFB): $118
  • Private Transfer from Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) to Buzios Port: $118
  • Private transfer Minivan from GIG Rio Galeao airport up to 6 pax to Buzios: $134

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Fortuna

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Fortuna:

  • Puerto Viejo de Limon: Transfer to La Fortuna de Arenal: $400
  • Private VIP Transfer La Fortuna to Tamarindo, Flamingo & Conchal: $299
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Arenal La Fortuna: $295
  • From San Jose Airport To Arenal - La Fortuna - PRIVATE TRANSFER: $295
  • Private Transfer From San Jose Airport To Arenal La Fortuna: $290
  • Private One-Way Transfer from/to La Fortuna to Papagayo Peninsula: $289
  • Private Transfer from Arenal La Fortuna to San Jose Airport: $255
  • Private Transfer to/from Liberia Airport to La Fortuna Area (Arenal Volcano): $250
  • Private Transfer La Fortuna to (SJO)Airport – 1–6 Passengers: $249
  • Private Transfer La Fortuna To Int. Airport Liberia From 1 to 6 passengers: $249
  • One-Way Private Transfer from La Fortuna (Arenal) to Liberia Guanacaste Airport: $241
  • Transfer from Arenal to SJO Airport or Hotels for up to 5 passengers ( One way) : $240

Is it cheaper to fly into Buzios or La Fortuna?

Prices for flights to both La Fortuna and Buzios change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Buzios $40
    La Fortuna $47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Fortuna

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in La Fortuna.

  • Farm to Table Cooking Class : $43
  • Skip the Line: Mineral Hot Springs Full Day Ticket w/ Optional Lunch or Dinner: $47
  • Typical Costa Rican Cooking Classes in La Fortuna: $48
  • Costa Rican cuisine Cooking Class at Rancho Don Lelo: $54
  • Costa Rica The Chela Cooking Experience : $55
  • Costa Rican Cooking Class: $57
  • Cooking Class "Cook Like a Local" La Fortuna: $63
  • Private typical cooking class with a Costa Rican family: $70
  • Rainforest Night Walk and Authentic Costa Rican Dinner from La Fortuna: $71
  • Horseback Riding and Cooking Class with Lunch : $72
  • Cooking and Salsa Dance Lesson Combo : $74
  • Private cooking class in organic farm at La Fortuna: $75

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Buzios $25
    La Fortuna $44

Tours and Activities in Buzios

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Buzios.

  • Tour of the most beautiful beaches and islands of Buzios by Buziana Tour: $11
  • Boat Tour Open Bar A Floor Arraial do Cabo : $13
  • Buggy Ride in Buzios by Buziana Tour: $19
  • Tour of Bugre in Arraial (Buggy): $21
  • Boat Tour in Arraial do Cabo: $23
  • Catamaran Boat Tour in Búzios: $26
  • Half-Day Schooner Sightseeing Trip in Buzios Peninsula Beaches: $27
  • 3-hour Small Group Buzios Peninsula Open Air Trolley Tour: $31
  • Buzios Trolley City Tour: $31
  • Tour in Boat Tour in Buzios: $38
  • Underwater Adventure in Diving and Snorkeling: $46
  • Schooner Tour in Buzios - Departure from Buzios: $51

Tours and Activities in La Fortuna

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for La Fortuna are as follows:

  • La Fortuna's 3 Essentials Private Tour: $280
  • Sky Adventures Arenal : Zipline - Sky Tram & Sky Walk (guided): $260
  • 12-Cable Zipline Canopy Tour Over Waterfalls: $111
  • 3-In-1 Río Celeste: Tubing, Natural Pool and Jungle Night Tour.: $80
  • 7 Nights Costa Rica Fully Guided Adventure: $1,850
  • 7-Cable Zipline Canopy Tour Over La Fortuna Waterfall: $91
  • ARENAL DISCOVERY ADVENTURE (1): Volcano Hike, Waterfall & Lunch: $179
  • ARENAL DISCOVERY ADVENTURE (3):Hanging Bridges, Waterfall & Lunch: $191
  • ATV Tour Discovery Adventure Double : $170
  • ATV Tour Experience in Parque Ecologico Volcan Arenal : $130
  • ATV adventure Tour in La Fortuna: $95
  • Adventure Pass: $167

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Buzios $17
    La Fortuna $11

Sample the Local Flavors in La Fortuna

Also in La Fortuna, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting Experience : $135


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Buzios and La Fortuna, we can see that La Fortuna is more expensive. And not only is Buzios much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Buzios is in South America and La Fortuna is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Buzios would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Buzios 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 La Fortuna would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in La Fortuna than you might in Buzios.

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


Which is Bigger, Buzios or La Fortuna?

Buzios has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of La Fortuna. When comparing the sizes of Buzios and La Fortuna, 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.