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

Should you visit Buzios or Puerto Viejo?

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

Should I visit Buzios or Puerto Viejo? 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.

Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a authentic, laid back, and relaxed town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Puerto Viejo is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Puerto Viejo travel costs.

Buzios and Puerto Viejo: 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
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • 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


Is there more to do in Buzios or Puerto Viejo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Puerto Viejo. Although Buzios and Puerto Viejo are both popular with visitors, Puerto Viejo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Puerto Viejo is more touristy than Buzios and is known for its surfing, snorkeling, and seafood. It is also home to . Buzios is popular for

How is Buzios different from Puerto Viejo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Buzios
Puerto Viejo

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

While most people don't head to Puerto Viejo specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There aren't any real museums in the area, but there are a couple of art galleries.

Buzios does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Buzios
Puerto Viejo

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Buzios and Puerto Viejo.

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 Puerto Viejo area. Many restaurants have a local atmosphere and serve typical Costa Rican food or seafood. You'll find no shortage of rice and beans!

Is Buzios or Puerto Viejo Better for Nightlife?

Buzios
Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a great town for nightlife and partying. However, Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife in Puerto Viejo has something for everybody. 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.

Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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

Buzios
Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Buzios is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Puerto Viejo has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Buzios is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Buzios or Puerto Viejo Better for Beaches?

Buzios
Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a great town for the beach. However, Buzios is not a beach destination.

Puerto Viejo is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Buzios is not a beach destination.

Is Buzios or Puerto Viejo Better for Hiking?

Buzios
Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a popular place for hiking. However, Buzios is not a hiking destination.

Puerto Viejo is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Buzios is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Buzios or Puerto Viejo?

Buzios
Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Buzios is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Puerto Viejo. You can wander through the town center and enjoy shopping at the local boutiques that sell clothes and other touristy items.

Buzios is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Buzios or Puerto Viejo More Beautiful?

Buzios
Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Buzios 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.

Buzios is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Buzios or Puerto Viejo Better for Families?

Buzios
Puerto Viejo

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Buzios or Puerto Viejo.

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.

Puerto Viejo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Buzios or Puerto Viejo Better for Couples?

Buzios
Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a great town for its romantic activities. Also, Buzios is not as popular, but is still a nice for couples.

Puerto Viejo is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

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 Puerto Viejo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Buzios
Puerto Viejo

For backpackers, both Buzios and Puerto Viejo are great 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.

Puerto Viejo is a very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

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

Buzios
Puerto Viejo

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

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.

Buzios does not have public transit.

Is Buzios or Puerto Viejo a more walkable city?

Buzios
Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is a great town for its high level of walkability. However, Buzios is not a walkable destination.

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

Buzios is not a walkable destination.


Should I spend more time in Puerto Viejo or Buzios?

How long in Buzios or Puerto Viejo?

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

Families should spend more time in Puerto Viejo than Buzios. 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 Buzios. 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 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 Puerto Viejo.


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

One day in Buzios or Puerto Viejo?


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In Buzios, many people enjoy the food that this offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Puerto Viejo. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Buzios or Puerto Viejo?


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Buzios is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Puerto Viejo 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 Puerto Viejo?


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In Buzios, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Puerto Viejo. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Puerto Viejo?


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Buzios is a popular place to visit. 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.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the laid back destination of Puerto Viejo. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 in Costa Rica, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, Puerto Viejo 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 Puerto Viejo is $169. 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 Puerto Viejo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Buzios $36
    Puerto Viejo $71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Buzios $72
    Puerto Viejo $142
Compare Hotels in Buzios and Puerto Viejo

Looking for a hotel in Buzios or Puerto Viejo? 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 Puerto Viejo


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: Puerto Viejo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Buzios $18
    Puerto Viejo $38

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 Puerto Viejo

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

  • Private transfer from San Jose Airport to Puerto Viejo Limon: $320

Is it cheaper to fly into Buzios or Puerto Viejo?

Prices for flights to both Puerto Viejo 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
    Puerto Viejo $58

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Buzios $25
    Puerto Viejo $78

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

Tours and Activities in Puerto Viejo

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

  • Kayaking Tour in Gandoca Lagoon throug mangrove forest: $58
  • Dolphin Watching & Netflix Featured Organic Jungle Farm Tour: $88
  • Epic Manzanillo Combo Tour: Snorkel, Dolphins & Farm Tour: $119
  • Night Adventure in the Wild Talamanca: $85
  • Puerto Viejo Limón: Best Canopy Tour / Ziplines: $83
  • Puerto Viejo Limón: Birdwatching Tour at Nativo Park: $50
  • Puerto Viejo Talamanca: Quad Tour with 2 Waterfalls: $310
  • Puerto Viejo&Cahuita: Tour of 3 Waterfalls, Talamanca, Limón: $149
  • Canoe Adventure & Caribbean Family Experience: $47
  • Indigenous Experience & Chocolate Tour: $74
  • Wildlife Night Tour in the Jungle: $55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Buzios $17
    Puerto Viejo $13


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