A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cancun vs. La Fortuna for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cancun or La Fortuna?

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 Cancun and La Fortuna can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cancun

Cancun is a wild, party-hard, and tropical city. The beauty of Cancun is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Cancun 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.

Cancun and La Fortuna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cancun or La Fortuna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cancun than La Fortuna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cancun is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while La Fortuna is more popular for its hiking. Cancun is well known for its water sports, white sand beaches, popularity at spring break, and access to Mayan ruins. Also, Cancun is famous for . La Fortuna is well known for its hot springs, luxury resorts, and volcanic views.

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How is Cancun different from La Fortuna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cancun is notable for its sights and museums. However, La Fortuna is a mediocre town for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cancun. It's possible to do a day trip to visit the impressive Chichén Itzá, but closer by you'll find El Rey Maya Ruins and El Meco Archaeological Site. You can also visit the Maya Museum in town. For something truly unique, you can take a diving or snorkeling trip to the Cancun Underwater Museum.

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.

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

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

Cancun has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. If you step away from the tourist scene, you'll find some amazing local restaurants that serve authentic and fresh Mexican cuisine. Favorite dishes in the area include tamales, sopa de lima, and tacos al pastor.

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 Cancun or La Fortuna Better for Nightlife?

Cancun is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, La Fortuna is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Cancun is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It's long been known as a party destination and there are large world famous clubs as well as smaller bars where you can hang out. The party never stops here, so be prepared for all night dancing and drinking, and it will definitely live up to its reputation.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in La Fortuna. 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.

Is Cancun or La Fortuna Better for Resorts?

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Cancun and La Fortuna.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Cancun is a perfect choice. You'll find most of the accommodation options in the Hotel Zone, which runs along Boulevard Kukulkan. The stretch can be divided into three areas, which each have a slightly different personality.

La Fortuna offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Is Cancun or La Fortuna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cancun is renowned for its diving and snorkeling. However, La Fortuna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Cancun. Beautiful reefs and world class dives make this a popular destination for those who want to explore the undersea world. You'll find plenty of snorkeling and dive excursions in the area with diverse coral and marine life.

La Fortuna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cancun or La Fortuna Better for Beaches?

Cancun is renowned for the beach. However, La Fortuna is not a beach destination.

Cancun offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. There are stunning white sand beaches and turquoise blue water that make this a beautiful beach destination. There are miles of sandy coastline with many of the beaches found in the Hotel Zone.

La Fortuna is not a beach destination.

Is Cancun or La Fortuna Better for Hiking?

La Fortuna is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cancun is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting La Fortuna. 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.

Cancun has hiking trails worth exploring. There are some beautiful walking paths and hiking trails that are within the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Cancun or La Fortuna?

Cancun is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, La Fortuna is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Cancun offers some nice shopping areas. While most people visit for the beaches and nightlife, there are shopping malls and markets where you can enjoy some retail therapy.

La Fortuna has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find a couple of good souvenir shops around town where you can pick up some locally made items.

Is Cancun or La Fortuna More Beautiful?

Cancun and La Fortuna are somewhat similar when it comes to the high quality scenery.

The beauty of Cancun is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. White sand beaches and clear blue waters make this a beautiful vacation destination. Nearby jungle offers adventure, and the undersea world is magical.

With stunning beauty, La Fortuna attracts visitors from all around. 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.

Is Cancun or La Fortuna Better for Families?

Cancun is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, La Fortuna is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Cancun is very family-friendly. Although this part of Mexico has long had a reputation for its party scene, the area also attracts many families, who come for the family-friendly resorts, world class snorkeling, and fascinating jungle tours. You can snorkel at the Garrafon Natural Reef Park or have fun on the water slides at Ventura Park. Xel-Ha Park is also worth a visit.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in La Fortuna. 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 Cancun or La Fortuna Better for Couples?

Both Cancun and La Fortuna are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Cancun has plenty to offer. As a world class honeymoon destination, you'll find stunning white sand beaches, amazing snorkeling and diving, and a huge range of entertainment options. You can enjoy the nightlife scene or check out Cirque du Soleil. Sunset boat cruises and romantic horseback rides all make this an amazing honeymoon destination.

La Fortuna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

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

Cancun and La Fortuna are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Cancun. Mixed in between the luxury resorts are a few hostels that cater to the backpacker crowd. There are so many activities in the area, from diving to partying, that appeal to the backpacker crowd, that it won't be long before you find your people.

La Fortuna is a very popular city 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 Cancun or La Fortuna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Cancun and La Fortuna.

Cancun has some public transit options. The buses are an efficient way to get around. They stop along Boulevard Kukulcán and throughout the downtown.

You'll find some public transit in La Fortuna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses throughout the area as well as private transportation services, taxis, and car sharing.

Is Cancun or La Fortuna a more walkable city?

Cancun is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, La Fortuna is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its ease of walking around.

Cancun is a very walkable city. The Hotel Zone is where most tourists spend their time, and this area is very walkable.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Cancun Worth Visiting? and Is La Fortuna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in La Fortuna or Cancun?

How long in Cancun or La Fortuna?

It's fun to spend time in either Cancun or La Fortuna. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cancun due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Cancun, and 2-4 days is enough time in La Fortuna.

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

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

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

One day in Cancun or La Fortuna?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the wild city of Cancun, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Cancun or La Fortuna?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Cancun, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Cancun or La Fortuna?

Cancun, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. 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 Cancun or La Fortuna?

Cancun is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the stunning 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Adventure Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Eco Tours in Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cancun and La Fortuna, we can see that Cancun is more expensive. And not only is La Fortuna much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Cancun is in North 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 La Fortuna would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in La Fortuna 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 Cancun would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cancun than you might in La Fortuna.

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

Which is Bigger, Cancun or La Fortuna?

Cancun has a larger population, and is about 180 times larger than the population of La Fortuna. When comparing the sizes of Cancun 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.