A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Fortuna vs. La Paz for Resorts, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit La Fortuna or La Paz?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for La Fortuna and La Paz. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

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. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and nightlife. See La Fortuna travel costs.

La Paz

La Paz is a beautiful, authentic, and cultural city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See La Paz travel costs.

La Fortuna and La Paz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in La Fortuna or La Paz?

Visitors will usually find more to do in La Fortuna than La Paz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. La Fortuna is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while La Paz is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. La Fortuna is more touristy than La Paz and is known for its hot springs, luxury resorts, and volcanic views. Also, La Fortuna is famous for Arenal Volcano. La Paz is well known for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere.

How is La Fortuna different from La Paz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

La Paz 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 La Paz. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

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 La Fortuna or La Paz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Paz is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, La Fortuna is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit La Paz. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

La Fortuna is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 La Fortuna or La Paz Better for Nightlife?

Evening events are notable in both La Fortuna and La Paz.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in La Paz. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

Is La Fortuna or La Paz Better for Resorts?

La Fortuna is a world-class destination for its resorts. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its luxury resorts.

La Fortuna is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

La Paz has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

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

La Paz 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 La Paz. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

La Fortuna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Fortuna or La Paz Better for Beaches?

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

La Paz offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

La Fortuna is not a beach destination.

Is La Fortuna or La Paz Better for Hiking?

La Fortuna is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, La Paz is not a hiking destination.

La Fortuna is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

La Paz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Fortuna or La Paz?

La Paz is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, La Fortuna is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

La Paz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

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 La Fortuna or La Paz More Beautiful?

La Fortuna is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, La Paz is not a destination known for its 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.

La Paz is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is La Fortuna or La Paz Better for Families?

Both La Fortuna and La Paz are very good family-friendly destinations.

La Fortuna is a very kid-friendly town. 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 family-friendly things to do in La Paz. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

Is La Fortuna or La Paz Better for Couples?

La Fortuna is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

La Fortuna is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

La Paz is a good town for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

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

Both La Fortuna and La Paz are very good destinations for backpackers.

La Fortuna is a great town to visit for backpackers. As one of the top places to visit in Costa Rica, this town has a number of hostels that cater to the backpacker crowds.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Is La Fortuna or La Paz Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both La Fortuna and La Paz offer notable public transit options.

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

La Paz has some public transit options. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

Is La Fortuna or La Paz a more walkable city?

La Paz 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.

La Paz is a very walkable city. The city is very walkable.

La Fortuna is a somewhat walkable town. 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 La Fortuna Worth Visiting? and Is La Paz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in La Paz or La Fortuna?

How long in La Fortuna or La Paz?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz 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 La Paz.

One day in La Fortuna or La Paz?

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.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the cultural city of La Paz, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.

A weekend in La Fortuna or La Paz?

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.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of La Paz, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in La Fortuna or La Paz?

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.

La Paz, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in La Fortuna or La Paz?

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.

La Paz is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the beaches. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Costa Rica, The Best Eco Tours in Costa Rica, The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico.

When comparing the travel costs between La Fortuna and La Paz, we can see that La Paz 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 La Fortuna is in Central America and La Paz 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 La Fortuna Expensive? and Is La Paz Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, La Fortuna or La Paz?

La Paz has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of La Fortuna. When comparing the sizes of La Fortuna and La Paz, 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 La Fortuna or La Paz?

La Paz has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but La Fortuna experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit La Fortuna or La Paz in the Summer?

Both La Paz and La Fortuna are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to La Fortuna throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to La Paz because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

La Fortuna is around the same temperature as La Paz in the summer. The daily temperature in La Fortuna averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and La Paz fluctuates around 30°C (86°F).

It's quite sunny in La Paz. La Fortuna usually receives less sunshine than La Paz during summer. La Fortuna gets 164 hours of sunny skies, while La Paz receives 287 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in La Fortuna. In July, La Fortuna usually receives more rain than La Paz. La Fortuna gets 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while La Paz receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit La Fortuna or La Paz in the Autumn?

Both La Paz and La Fortuna during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to La Fortuna because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to La Paz this time of year.

In the autumn, La Fortuna is around the same temperature as La Paz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in La Fortuna in October average around 27°C (81°F), and La Paz averages at about 27°C (80°F).

In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, La Fortuna often gets less sunshine than La Paz. La Fortuna gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Paz receives 272 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in La Fortuna. La Fortuna usually gets more rain in October than La Paz. La Fortuna gets 254 mm (10 in) of rain, while La Paz receives 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year. December to April is the dry season in La Fortuna. Also, the hurricane season in La Fortuna is May to November.

Should I visit La Fortuna or La Paz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both La Fortuna and La Paz. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to La Fortuna year-round. Also, many travelers come to La Paz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, La Fortuna is generally much warmer than La Paz. Daily temperatures in La Fortuna average around 27°C (81°F), and La Paz fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In La Fortuna, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Fortuna usually receives more sunshine than La Paz during winter. La Fortuna gets 264 hours of sunny skies, while La Paz receives 200 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, La Fortuna usually receives less rain than La Paz. La Fortuna gets 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while La Paz receives 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit La Fortuna or La Paz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to La Fortuna as well as La Paz. La Fortuna attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to La Paz in the spring for the beaches.

La Fortuna is a little warmer than La Paz in the spring. The daily temperature in La Fortuna averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and La Paz fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Fortuna this time of the year. In the spring, La Fortuna often gets less sunshine than La Paz. La Fortuna gets 255 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Paz receives 292 hours of full sun.

La Fortuna usually gets more rain in April than La Paz. La Fortuna gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while La Paz receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to April in La Fortuna is the dry season. Keep in mind that May to November is the hurricane season in La Fortuna.

Typical Weather for La Paz and La Fortuna