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

Should you visit Buzios or Liberia?

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

Should I visit Buzios or Liberia? 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

It's also known for food. See Buzios travel costs.

Liberia

Liberia is a colonial, fascinating, and accessible city. Visitors also love the hiking. See Liberia travel costs.

Buzios and Liberia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Buzios or Liberia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Liberia. Although Buzios and Liberia are popular destinations, Liberia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Liberia is very popular for its nightlife and hiking, while Buzios attracts visitors for its food. Liberia is more touristy than Buzios and is popular for its "cowboy" culture as well as its proximity to some of Costa Rica's best national parks, beaches, and rainforests. It is also well known for Rincón de la Vieja Volcano (about an hour outside of town). Buzios is famous for

How is Buzios different from Liberia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Buzios
Liberia

Buzios is a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Liberia is a mediocre city for its restaurants.

Buzios offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Liberia. The city has a number of traditional restaurants where you can find the ubiquitous Costa Rican dishes like gallo pinto and casado.


Is Buzios or Liberia Better for Nightlife?

Buzios
Liberia

Liberia is adequate for nightlife and partying. However, Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Liberia doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. If you're in town for the night, you should have no problem finding a bar to hang out at.

Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Buzios or Liberia Better for Hiking?

Buzios
Liberia

Liberia is renowned for hiking. However, Buzios is not a hiking destination.

People visit Liberia specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Head to the nearby Rincon de la Vieja National Park for some of the country's best hiking. You'll see stunning waterfalls and hopefully catch a glimpse of local wildlife.

Buzios is not a hiking destination.

Is Buzios or Liberia Better for Families?

Buzios
Liberia

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

Buzios is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Liberia is a family-friendly . This city is often used as a base for exploring the nearby Rincon De La Vieja National Park. Kids love the hikes, waterfalls, and wildlife that you see in the area.


Is Buzios or Liberia Better for Couples?

Buzios
Liberia

With fun activities for couples, both Buzios and Liberia make for a nice place to visit.

Buzios makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Liberia is a good for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy hiking through rainforests, seeing splendid waterfalls, and checking out the local wildlife will enjoy a visit to Rincon De La Vieja National Park near town.

Is Buzios or Liberia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Buzios
Liberia

For backpackers, both Buzios and Liberia 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.

Liberia is a very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Like much of Costa Rica, this city is an easy backpacker destination with affordable accommodation and unique places to explore.

Is Buzios or Liberia Better for Students?

Buzios
Liberia

Liberia is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Buzios is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Liberia. As the capital of the Guanacaste province, many students use this city as a base to explore the nearby parks. You'll find study abroad groups as well as researchers and Phd students in the area.

Buzios is not popular with students.


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

Buzios
Liberia

Liberia is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Buzios does not have public transit.

Liberia has some very good public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system that travels throughout the city and is used by many people.

Buzios does not have public transit.

Is Buzios or Liberia a more walkable city?

Buzios
Liberia

Liberia is a great city for its high level of walkability. However, Buzios is not a walkable destination.

Liberia is a very walkable city.

Buzios is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Liberia or Buzios?

How long in Buzios or Liberia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Buzios and Liberia. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Buzios than in Liberia. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Buzios, and 1-3 days is enough time in Liberia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Liberia 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 Liberia.


  • How many days in Buzios or Liberia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Buzios 2-5 
    Liberia 1-3

One day in Buzios or Liberia?


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In Buzios, you'll find food. This offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Liberia. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Buzios or Liberia?


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In Buzios, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Buzios has to offer.

Liberia is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Liberia?


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Buzios is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Buzios has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Liberia. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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 Liberia?


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It's hard to know how much time to spend in Buzios. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Buzios. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the colonial destination of Liberia. This city 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, Liberia 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 Liberia is $128. 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 Liberia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Buzios $36
    Liberia $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Buzios $72
    Liberia $120
Compare Hotels in Buzios and Liberia

Looking for a hotel in Buzios or Liberia? 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 Liberia


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: Liberia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Buzios $18
    Liberia $43

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

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Liberia

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Liberia are as follows:


  • Bike Rental
    $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Liberia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Liberia:

  • Round Trip Transfer Liberia Airport (LIR) to Dreams Las Mareas Hotel: $295
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Dreams Las Mareas: $285
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Airport (LIR) to Monteverde / Jaco: $268
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Playas del Coco and Playa Hermosa: $265
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Int Airport (LIR) to Quepos Port: $258
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Airport (LIR) to Arenal / La Fortuna : $253
  • Private Transfer Int. Airport Liberia To La Fortuna From 1 to 6 passengers: $249
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Airport (LIR) to Samara: $232
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Int Airport LIR to La Fortuna area: $220
  • Liberia Airport to Hotels Round Trip Private Transfers: $220
  • Liberia Airport (LIR) to Playa Grande Round-Trip Private Transfer: $214
  • Transfer from Liberia Airport (LIR) to Rio Perdido Resort: $210

Is it cheaper to fly into Buzios or Liberia?

Prices for flights to both Liberia 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
    Liberia $36

Typical Food Prices in Liberia

Some typical examples of dining costs in Liberia are as follows:


  • Snacks
    $1.97
  • Lunch at The Shack (for 1)
    $4.94
  • Lunch
    $11
  • Coffee & Tres Leches (for 2)
    $14
  • Ginger Ale
    $1.28

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Buzios $25
    Liberia $25

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 Liberia

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

  • Birdwatching Experience private tour : $300
  • 2 Hour ATV Experience From Guanacaste: $189
  • 2 Hour ATV Private Tour in Costa Rica: $81
  • 2 Hour Coffee & Chocolate Tour in Playas del Coco: $40
  • 3 Hour ATV Adventure Tour in El Jobo: $140
  • 3 In 1 Volcano Hot Springs & Mud Baths And River Floating Tour: $235
  • 4-Hour Private Guided ATV Tour in Costa Rica: $122
  • 5 Tours in 1 – The Ultimate Volcano Adventure!: $159
  • 7 Hour Private Tour in Palo Verde National Park with Pickup: $120
  • 8 Essential Guanacaste Experiences: culture, nature & wellness : $78
  • ATV Beach Tour: $125
  • ATV Tour 2hrs - Dreams Las Mareas: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Buzios $17
    Liberia $13


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


Which is Bigger, Buzios or Liberia?

Liberia has a larger population, and is about 93% larger than the population of Buzios. When comparing the sizes of Buzios and Liberia, 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.