A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Fortaleza vs. Playa del Carmen for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Fortaleza and Playa del Carmen can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Fortaleza

Fortaleza is a lively, vibrant, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Fortaleza travel costs.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a picture-perfect, scenic, and stunning town. The beauty of Playa del Carmen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Fortaleza and Playa del Carmen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Playa del Carmen than Fortaleza. While Fortaleza is larger than Playa del Carmen, Playa del Carmen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Playa del Carmen is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Fortaleza is known for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Fortaleza and is popular for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. It is also home to La Quinta Avenida. Fortaleza is popular for its beaches, nightlife, and local culture.

How is Fortaleza different from Playa del Carmen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen?

Fortaleza is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Fortaleza. Dragão do Mar is the cultural center in town. There are shows and concerts that highlight the local culture. Also part of the complex are a planetarium and two museums - the Museu de Arte Contemporânea and the Memorial da Cultura Cearense. Also worth seeing the Metropolitan Cathedral of Fortaleza, which is the third largest cathedral in the country.

While most people don't head to Playa del Carmen specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. If you're willing to head out of town, there are world class Mayan ruins not far away, but if you want to hang out near town, then you'll likely spend most of your time enjoying outdoor water activities.

Is the Food Better in Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Fortaleza and Playa del Carmen.

Fortaleza has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has a number of great restaurants that range from Brazilian barbecue restaurants to international cuisine. Many dishes are heavy and use a lot of meat. Local favorites include paçoca and escondidinho de carne seca.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Playa del Carmen area. You'll find a good number of overpriced tourist restaurants in the area, but if you do some research you'll also find amazing and authentic Mexican food as well. There is everything from food trucks to fine dining that offer ceviche, tacos, or burritos. There are also plenty of places to grab pizza or burgers.

Is Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Fortaleza is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Playa del Carmen is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.

Fortaleza offers plenty to do in the evening. Like much of Brazil, the city has a vibrant nightlife scene. There are beachfront bars, live music venues, and many places where you can enjoy a good party. You'll find a high concentration of places around Praia de Iracema and the Casario.

Is Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Fortaleza is not a resort destination.

Playa del Carmen is a world class resort vacation destination. You'll find a huge number of luxury resorts in the area, particularly along the beach. There are fancy pools and beachfront properties that offer the perfect vacation retreat.

Fortaleza is not a resort destination.

Is Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for its diving and snorkeling. However, Fortaleza is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Playa del Carmen is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. There's not a lot to see right off of the beach, but there are plenty of snorkeling excursions in the area that take you to beautiful reefs. The diving is world class as well and you'll find wonderful reefs, bull sharks, and hidden gems.

Fortaleza is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for the beach. Also, Fortaleza is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the beach.

Playa del Carmen is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The area is filled with world class beaches, long stretches of white sand, and beautiful blue water. You might even stumble across a sea turtle or two while you're swimming.

Many people visit Fortaleza for it's beautiful beaches. There are 5 kilometers of sandy beach in town and many visitors enjoy taking long walks. While there are technically four beaches in the area, they all kind of merge together and it can be difficult to tell one from the other. The most popular beach is Meireles, which has a boardwalk and is lined by high rise buildings.

Is Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is a town with good options for hiking. However, Fortaleza is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Playa del Carmen. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Fortaleza is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen?

Fortaleza is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Fortaleza. It's a large city with plenty of shopping malls and other local boutiques which are fun to explore.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Playa del Carmen. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

Is Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen More Beautiful?

Playa del Carmen is a great town for its scenery and beauty. However, Fortaleza is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Playa del Carmen is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Fortaleza is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. However, Fortaleza is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Playa del Carmen is an extremely popular town to visit for families. From eco parks to kid-friendly snorkeling opportunities, there are many activities for kids of all ages. There are also adventure parks and playgrounds that are perfect for a fun afternoon.

Fortaleza is not the most family-friendly destination. There are several beaches and parks where kids will enjoy running around and stretching their legs.

Is Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for its romantic activities. However, Fortaleza is not known for couples.

Playa del Carmen is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches and tropical jungles make this a paradise honeymoon destination. You'll find luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and countless opportunities to enjoy the stunning setting. Take a sunset cruise of explore one of the many natural wonders in the area.

Fortaleza is not always the best place to visit for a couple. While it's often overlooked by couples, those who have a few days in town can enjoy the beaches or take a stroll down the beachfront promenade.

Is Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Playa del Carmen is a town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Fortaleza is not known for backpackers.

Playa del Carmen is a good town to visit for backpackers. It's filled with tourists staying at luxury resorts, but you'll also find a couple of hostels tucked away in town. If you're interesting in scuba diving, then it's well worth the trip.

Fortaleza is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most backpackers skip this city for the more popular destinations.

Is Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Fortaleza and Playa del Carmen both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Fortaleza offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Metro system includes a rail and light rail system.

Playa del Carmen has a few public transit options. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Is Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Fortaleza is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Playa del Carmen is a very easy town to get around on foot. It's a compact and very walkable town. La Quinta is the main strip and it's pedestrian-only.

Fortaleza is a somewhat walkable city. It's a relatively walkable city with some neighborhoods easier to explore on foot than others. It's important to understand the area you're in because safety could be a concern.

For even more information, also check out Is Fortaleza Worth Visiting? and Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Playa del Carmen or Fortaleza?

How long in Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen?

Both Fortaleza and Playa del Carmen have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Playa del Carmen than in Fortaleza. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Fortaleza, and 3-7 days is enough time in Playa del Carmen.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Fortaleza 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 Playa del Carmen.

One day in Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Fortaleza. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the town of Playa del Carmen. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen?

You'll find shopping and museums around the cultural city of Fortaleza. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the picture-perfect destination of Playa del Carmen. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen?

Fortaleza is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find nightlife and food around the picture-perfect town of Playa del Carmen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

A week in Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen?

Fortaleza is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Playa del Carmen is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Playa del Carmen, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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 Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.

When comparing the travel costs between Fortaleza and Playa del Carmen, we can see that Playa del Carmen 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 Fortaleza is in South America and Playa del Carmen 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 Fortaleza Expensive? and Is Playa del Carmen Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen?

Fortaleza has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Fortaleza and Playa del Carmen, 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.

When is the best time to visit Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Fortaleza is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Playa del Carmen has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Fortaleza as well as Playa del Carmen. Many travelers come to Fortaleza for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Fortaleza is around the same temperature as Playa del Carmen. Typically, the summer temperatures in Fortaleza in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Playa del Carmen averages at about 28°C (82°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fortaleza this time of the year. In the summer, Fortaleza often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Playa del Carmenin July. Fortaleza gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 223 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Playa del Carmen. Fortaleza receives a lot of rain in the summer. Fortaleza usually gets less rain in January than Playa del Carmenin July. Fortaleza gets 119 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, July to January in Fortaleza is the dry season. January to July in Fortaleza is the rainy season.

Should I visit Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen in the Autumn?

Both Playa del Carmen and Fortaleza are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Fortaleza in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In April, Fortaleza is generally around the same temperature as Playa del Carmenin October. Daily temperatures in Fortaleza average around 27°C (80°F), and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. Fortaleza usually receives less sunshine than Playa del Carmen during autumn. Fortaleza gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 233 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. It's quite rainy in Fortaleza. In April, Fortaleza usually receives more rain than Playa del Carmenin October. Fortaleza gets 356 mm (14 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen.

Should I visit Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen in the Winter?

Both Playa del Carmen and Fortaleza during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Fortaleza for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Fortaleza is a little warmer than Playa del Carmen in the winter. The daily temperature in Fortaleza averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 23°C (73°F)in January.

In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Fortaleza. In the winter, Fortaleza often gets more sunshine than Playa del Carmenin January. Fortaleza gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 224 hours of full sun.

Fortaleza usually gets more rain in July than Playa del Carmenin January. Fortaleza gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year. July to January is the dry season in Fortaleza. January to July is the rainy season in Fortaleza.

Should I visit Fortaleza or Playa del Carmen in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Fortaleza and Playa del Carmen. The spring months attract visitors to Fortaleza because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year.

In the spring, Fortaleza is around the same temperature as Playa del Carmen. Typically, the spring temperatures in Fortaleza in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Playa del Carmen averages at about 27°C (81°F)in April.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen this time of the year. In Fortaleza, it's very sunny this time of the year. Fortaleza usually receives more sunshine than Playa del Carmen during spring. Fortaleza gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 259 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Fortaleza usually receives around the same amount of rain as Playa del Carmenin April. Fortaleza gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. June to October in Playa del Carmen is the hurricane season.

Typical Weather for Playa del Carmen and Fortaleza