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

Should you visit Buzios or Merida?

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

Should I visit Buzios or Merida? 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 popular because of the food. See Buzios travel costs.

Merida

Merida is a historical, traditional, and colonial city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Merida travel costs.

Buzios and Merida: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Buzios or Merida?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Merida. Although Buzios and Merida are both popular with visitors, Merida has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Merida is more touristy than Buzios and is known for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. It is also home to Grand Plaza. Buzios is popular for

How is Buzios different from Merida?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Buzios
Merida

Merida is a great city for its historical sights. However, Buzios does not have museums and landmarks.

Merida offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with culture and traditional heritage, and there are many museums and architectural landmarks that will educate and inform visitors on the area. Gran Museo del Mundo Maya is a highlight for many visitors. It's also worth visiting Museo Casa Montejo and Museo Palacio Canton. If you want to visit ruins, then the Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins are about 45 minutes outside of town.

Buzios does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Buzios
Merida

Merida is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Buzios is not as popular, but is still a nice for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Merida has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's a top foodie destination in the Yucatan region and visitors will enjoy the many local restaurants and diverse local dishes that are influenced by the Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean cultures. The most well known local dish is cochinita pibil, which is marinated pork shoulder. Other popular dishes include sopa de lima (lime soup), papadzules (enchiladas with pumpkin seed sauce), and relleno negro (a local stew).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Buzios area. 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.

Is Buzios or Merida Better for Nightlife?

Buzios
Merida

Merida is a great city for nightlife and partying. However, Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife in Merida has something for everybody. Most tourists take advantage of the nightlife scene in the city's downtown area, while locals congregate in the northern part of town. The city has bars, theaters, night clubs, and live music that keeps the energy high late into the night.

Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Buzios or Merida Better for its Old Town?

Buzios
Merida

Merida is a great city for its old town. However, Buzios does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Merida. Centered around the city's Grand Plaza, the old town is filled with colonial architecture and colorful buildings. The Catedral de San Ildefonso was the first cathedral built in the Americas. There are also monuments and examples of Mayan art and culture.

Buzios does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Buzios or Merida?

Buzios
Merida

Merida is a great city for its shopping opportunities. However, Buzios is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Merida is well-known for its shopping. There are colorful markets that are filled with artisan crafts and traditional clothing. Visitors enjoy discovering the unique vendors and picking up souvenirs that are unique to the area.

Buzios is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Buzios or Merida Better for Families?

Buzios
Merida

Buzios is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Buzios. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Merida. The weekend is the best time to visit the city, as this is when there are the most activities. There are live performances that educate visitors on Mayan traditions. There are also historic museums, bike-friendly streets, and a vibrant central market.

Is Buzios or Merida Better for Couples?

Buzios
Merida

With fun activities for couples, both Buzios and Merida make for a good 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.

Merida is a good for couples to visit. If you're interested in Mayan culture and history, then this is a wonderful destination. There are also romantic hotels, excellent restaurants, and plenty of fascinating activities that couples will enjoy.


Is Buzios or Merida Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Buzios
Merida

For backpackers, both Buzios and Merida are very good 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.

Merida is a very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a relatively large city with a number of hostels and budget hotels, so backpackers will have no problem finding a place to stay.

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

Buzios
Merida

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

While Merida offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. While there are local bus routes, they can be a bit challenging to figure out when you first arrive.

Buzios does not have public transit.

Is Buzios or Merida a more walkable city?

Buzios
Merida

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

Merida is a very walkable city. It's a very walkable city and most visitors don't have a car.

Buzios is not a walkable destination.


Should I spend more time in Merida or Buzios?

How long in Buzios or Merida?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Buzios or Merida to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Buzios than Merida because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Buzios, and 1-2 days is enough time in Merida.

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

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


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

One day in Buzios or Merida?


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Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Buzios. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Merida. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Buzios or Merida?


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Buzios 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.

Merida 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 Merida?


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It's hard to know how much time to spend in Buzios. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Merida. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Merida?


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Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Buzios. This offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Merida. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 2-Week Tours from Cancun, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico.


Which place is cheaper, Merida 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 Merida is $99. 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 Merida in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Buzios $36
    Merida $40
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Buzios $72
    Merida $80
Compare Hotels in Buzios and Merida

Looking for a hotel in Buzios or Merida? 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 Merida


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: Merida Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Buzios $18
    Merida $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Buzios

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

  • Tour in Buzios City Tour, Lunch and Transfer: $60
  • Rio de Janeiro Transfer from Buzios to Airport (GIG)(SDU): $73
  • Private transfer from Buzios to the GIG Airport : $182
  • Private transfer Minivan from GIG Rio Galeao airport up to 6 pax to Buzios: $134
  • Private transfer Buzios in Rio to the SDU Airport : $182
  • Private Transfer from GIG Airport to City Buzios in Rio : $170
  • Private Transfer from Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro: $91
  • Private Transfer from Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) to Buzios Port: $118
  • Private Transfer from Buzios Port to Cabo Frio Airport (CFB): $118
  • Private Transfer Buzios to Rio de Janeiro: $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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Merida

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

  • Private Airport Transfer from Mérida to Campeche: $292
  • Private Transfer From Merida to Uxmal, English Speaking Driver: $156
  • One-way Airport Transfers to Merida Hotels: $120
  • Mérida International Airport (MID) to Merida hotels - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $50
  • Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel in Merida One Way: $44
  • Merida Airport (MID) Private Transfer to Merida Centre: $40
  • Mérida International Airport (MID) to Merida hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $25
  • Merida hotels to Mérida International Airport (MID) - Private Departure Transfer: $25

Is it cheaper to fly into Buzios or Merida?

Prices for flights to both Merida 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
    Merida $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Merida

For Merida, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Street Food Tour + Historic Tour Merida - Best Rated : $44
  • Merida Food Tour with local Yucatecan Chef : $56
  • Merida Walking Food Tour. Authentic & Local Cuisine: $64
  • Taste of the Yucatan: Merida Cooking Class and Market Visit: $86
  • Merida Shore Excursion- Mexican Cooking Class with Port Transfers: $102
  • Market Tour and Authentic Cooking Class in Merida with Transfers: $154

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Buzios $25
    Merida $15

Tours and Activities in Buzios

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

  • Buzios Trolley City Tour: $31
  • 3-hour Small Group Buzios Peninsula Open Air Trolley Tour: $31
  • Búzios Full day: Boat and Trolley Tour with Lunch from Arraial do Cabo: $120
  • Búzios Full day: Boat and Trolley Tour with Lunch from Búzios: $93
  • Búzios Full day: Boat and Trolley Tour with Lunch from Cabo Frio: $112
  • Boat Tour Open Bar A Floor Arraial do Cabo : $13
  • Boat Tour in Arraial do Cabo: $23
  • Boat Tour in Arraial do Cabo from Buzios with Lunch: $60
  • Buggy Ride in Buzios by Buziana Tour: $19
  • Buggy Tour in Arraial do Cabo by Arraial Viagens: $58
  • Cabo Frio Full-Day Tour From Buzios with Lunch: $64
  • Catamaran Boat Tour in Búzios: $26

Typical Entertainment Prices in Merida

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Merida's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Train at the Zoo
    $0.11
  • Uxmal Entrance (for 2)
    $18
  • Mayan Village Entrance (for 2)
    $5.43

Tours and Activities in Merida

For Merida, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-hour Temazcal experience in the Mayan world: $167
  • 3 Hour Tour in The Sotuta de Peón Live Museum: $56
  • 4 Cenotes Full Day Tour from Merida: $104
  • 4 Cenotes Tour in Homún all inclusive from Merida: $68
  • 4x1 Tour Chichen Itza Magic Towns Valladolid & Izamal from Merida: $108
  • 6-hour Guided Tour to Uxmal and Kabah Express: $89
  • Adventure 4 cenotes with Izamal: $119
  • Ake Ruins & Homun Cenotes Day Tour from Merida: $90
  • Ancestral Mayan Private Culinary Experience in Merida: $128
  • Boat tour through the mangroves of Celestún and Playa from Merida: $75
  • Celestun Biosphere Reserve Tour from Merida: $165
  • Celestun Nature Reserve Flamingo Tour-Boat to Flamingo Paradise from Merida: $230

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Buzios $17
    Merida $14


When comparing the travel costs between Buzios and Merida, we can see that Merida 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 Buzios is in South America and Merida is in North 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 Buzios Expensive? and Is Merida Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Buzios or Merida?

Merida has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Buzios. When comparing the sizes of Buzios and Merida, 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.