A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ilha Grande vs. La Fortuna for Couples, Families, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Ilha Grande or La Fortuna?

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

Should I visit Ilha Grande or La Fortuna? 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.

Ilha Grande

Ilha Grande is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Ilha Grande 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.

Ilha Grande and La Fortuna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ilha Grande or La Fortuna?

Visitors will usually find more to do in La Fortuna than Ilha Grande, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. La Fortuna is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Ilha Grande is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling. La Fortuna is more touristy than Ilha Grande and is popular for its hot springs, luxury resorts, and volcanic views. Also, La Fortuna is famous for Arenal Volcano. Ilha Grande is well known for

How is Ilha Grande different from La Fortuna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

La Fortuna is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Ilha Grande does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Ilha Grande does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Ilha Grande and La Fortuna offer a number of notable restaurants to choose from.

Ilha Grande has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The island still has a quiet, local vibe and that can be seen in the restaurants around town as well. Many places are locally owned and serve up traditional dishes. In particular, the seafood is excellent.

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 Ilha Grande or La Fortuna Better for Nightlife?

La Fortuna is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Ilha Grande is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Ilha Grande. It's a quiet island with a national park and most people visit specifically to get away from the busy and active city scene.

Is Ilha Grande or La Fortuna Better for Resorts?

La Fortuna is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Ilha Grande is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, La Fortuna is a great choice. 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.

Ilha Grande is not a resort destination.

Is Ilha Grande or La Fortuna Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ilha Grande is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, La Fortuna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Ilha Grande. There are several places where you can rent snorkeling or dive equipment. The area has coral and tropical fish, with the occasional sea turtle sighting. The visibility is generally good and the experience is worth enjoying, but make sure you check on water conditions.

La Fortuna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ilha Grande or La Fortuna Better for Hiking?

La Fortuna is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Ilha Grande is not a hiking destination.

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.

Ilha Grande is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ilha Grande or La Fortuna?

La Fortuna is a decent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Ilha Grande is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

If you're looking to go shopping, La Fortuna has some nice offerings. You'll find a couple of good souvenir shops around town where you can pick up some locally made items.

Ilha Grande is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ilha Grande or La Fortuna More Beautiful?

La Fortuna is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Ilha Grande is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of La Fortuna is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. 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.

Ilha Grande offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The secluded beaches and surrounding nature make this a beautiful island to explore. It's made up of a national park and there are hiking trails and many scenic spots.

Is Ilha Grande or La Fortuna Better for Families?

La Fortuna is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ilha Grande is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, La Fortuna is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ilha Grande. Most families who visit the island come for the beaches. There are also many nice hikes, waterfalls, and even wildlife that the kids will enjoy. In the village there are a few restaurants. Many aren't geared specifically to kids, but they do have a selection that kids might enjoy.

Is Ilha Grande or La Fortuna Better for Couples?

La Fortuna is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Ilha Grande is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

La Fortuna makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Couples visit Ilha Grande frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Scenic beaches and beautiful nature make this a wonderful couples retreat that's not far from Rio de Janeiro. The beaches have a more relaxed and quiet vibe than many places in Brazil and the island still holds on to its undiscovered atmosphere.

Is Ilha Grande or La Fortuna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ilha Grande and La Fortuna are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Ilha Grande. It is possible to reach the island with a backpacker's budget, but it will take you more time than if you hire a private tour. Once you're on the island there are some hostels and budget hotels to choose from as well.

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

La Fortuna is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Ilha Grande is lacking in good options for its public transit.

La Fortuna has some public transit options. There are public buses throughout the area as well as private transportation services, taxis, and car sharing.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Ilha Grande. You'll need to take a boat to reach the island, and once you're there, there are not vehicles around.

Is Ilha Grande or La Fortuna a more walkable city?

Ilha Grande 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.

Ilha Grande is a very walkable . There are no cars on the island and very few roads. You'll spend a lot of time hiking around, which is the best way to enjoy the island. They don't call it "big island" for no reason though, so make sure you understand the distance between destinations.

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

Should I spend more time in La Fortuna or Ilha Grande?

How long in Ilha Grande or La Fortuna?

It's fun to spend time in either Ilha Grande or La Fortuna. In our opinion, La Fortuna has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in La Fortuna than Ilha Grande. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Ilha Grande or La Fortuna?

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With scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the of Ilha Grande, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic town of La Fortuna. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Ilha Grande or La Fortuna?

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With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the destination of Ilha Grande, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this .

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the popular destination of La Fortuna. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Ilha Grande or La Fortuna?

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Ilha Grande, a popular , is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The stunning town of La Fortuna offers nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Ilha Grande or La Fortuna?

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Ilha Grande is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting La Fortuna. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

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

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