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

Should you visit Merida or La Fortuna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Merida or La Fortuna, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Merida

Merida is a historical, traditional, and colonial city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Merida travel costs.

La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a popular, stunning, and scenic town. With stunning beauty, La Fortuna attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, nightlife, and food. See La Fortuna travel costs.

Merida and La Fortuna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Merida or La Fortuna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Merida. Although Merida and La Fortuna are both popular with visitors, Merida has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Merida is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while La Fortuna is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. La Fortuna is more touristy than Merida and is popular for its hot springs, luxury resorts, and volcanic views. Merida is popular for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. It is also home to Grand Plaza.

How is Merida different from La Fortuna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Merida 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 Merida. The city is filled with culture and traditional heritage, and there are many museums and architectural landmarks that will educate and inform visitors on the area. Gran Museo del Mundo Maya is a highlight for many visitors. It's also worth visiting Museo Casa Montejo and Museo Palacio Canton. If you want to visit ruins, then the Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins are about 45 minutes outside of town.

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

Merida 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 Merida. It's a top foodie destination in the Yucatan region and visitors will enjoy the many local restaurants and diverse local dishes that are influenced by the Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean cultures. The most well known local dish is cochinita pibil, which is marinated pork shoulder. Other popular dishes include sopa de lima (lime soup), papadzules (enchiladas with pumpkin seed sauce), and relleno negro (a local stew).

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 Merida or La Fortuna Better for Nightlife?

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

Merida has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Most tourists take advantage of the nightlife scene in the city's downtown area, while locals congregate in the northern part of town. The city has bars, theaters, night clubs, and live music that keeps the energy high late into the night.

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 Merida or La Fortuna Better for Resorts?

La Fortuna is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Merida is not a resort destination.

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.

Merida is not a resort destination.

Is Merida or La Fortuna Better for its Old Town?

Merida is notable for its old town. However, La Fortuna does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Merida. Centered around the city's Grand Plaza, the old town is filled with colonial architecture and colorful buildings. The Catedral de San Ildefonso was the first cathedral built in the Americas. There are also monuments and examples of Mayan art and culture.

La Fortuna does not have a historic old town.

Is Merida or La Fortuna Better for Hiking?

La Fortuna is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Merida 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.

Merida is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Merida or La Fortuna?

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

Merida is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are colorful markets that are filled with artisan crafts and traditional clothing. Visitors enjoy discovering the unique vendors and picking up souvenirs that are unique to the area.

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 Merida or La Fortuna More Beautiful?

La Fortuna is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Merida is not a destination known for its beauty.

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.

Merida is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Merida or La Fortuna Better for Families?

La Fortuna is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Merida. The weekend is the best time to visit the city, as this is when there are the most activities. There are live performances that educate visitors on Mayan traditions. There are also historic museums, bike-friendly streets, and a vibrant central market.

Is Merida or La Fortuna Better for Couples?

La Fortuna is terrific for couples. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Merida is a nice destination for couples. If you're interested in Mayan culture and history, then this is a wonderful destination. There are also romantic hotels, excellent restaurants, and plenty of fascinating activities that couples will enjoy.

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

Merida and La Fortuna are both great destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Merida. It's a relatively large city with a number of hostels and budget hotels, so backpackers will have no problem finding a place to stay.

Backpackers come from all over to visit La Fortuna. 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 Merida or La Fortuna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find good public transit in both Merida and La Fortuna.

Merida has some public transit options. While there are local bus routes, they can be a bit challenging to figure out when you first arrive.

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 Merida or La Fortuna a more walkable city?

Merida 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.

Merida is a very walkable city. It's a very walkable city and most visitors don't have a car.

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 Merida Worth Visiting? and Is La Fortuna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in La Fortuna or Merida?

How long in Merida or La Fortuna?

It's fun to spend time in either Merida or La Fortuna. Generally, people tend to spend more time in La Fortuna due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Merida, and 2-4 days is enough time in La Fortuna.

Families should spend more time in La Fortuna than Merida. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Merida 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 Merida.

One day in Merida or La Fortuna?

With museums and nightlife around the historical city of Merida, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Merida, one day is sufficent for most.

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 Merida or La Fortuna?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Merida, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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 Merida or La Fortuna?

Merida, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. 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 Merida or La Fortuna?

Merida 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic 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 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, 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 Merida and La Fortuna, we can see that La Fortuna is more expensive. And not only is Merida much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Merida 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 Merida would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Merida 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 Merida.

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

Which is Bigger, Merida or La Fortuna?

Merida has a larger population, and is about 240 times larger than the population of La Fortuna. When comparing the sizes of Merida 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.

When is the best time to visit Merida or La Fortuna?

Merida 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 Merida or La Fortuna in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Merida as well as La Fortuna. Many travelers come to Merida for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to La Fortuna throughout the year.

In July, Merida is generally cooler than La Fortuna. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 21°C (70°F), and La Fortuna fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Merida this time of the year. In the summer, Merida often gets more sunshine than La Fortuna. Merida gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Fortuna receives 164 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in La Fortuna. Merida usually gets less rain in July than La Fortuna. Merida gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while La Fortuna receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Merida or La Fortuna in the Autumn?

Both La Fortuna and Merida are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Merida in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Plenty of visitors come to La Fortuna because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Merida is cooler than La Fortuna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and La Fortuna fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually receives more sunshine than La Fortuna during autumn. Merida gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while La Fortuna receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in La Fortuna. It's quite rainy in Merida. In October, Merida usually receives less rain than La Fortuna. Merida gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while La Fortuna receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in La Fortuna is December to April. The hurricane season in La Fortuna is May to November.

Should I visit Merida or La Fortuna in the Winter?

Both La Fortuna and Merida during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Merida for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to La Fortuna year-round.

In the winter, Merida is cooler than La Fortuna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Merida in January average around 20°C (68°F), and La Fortuna averages at about 27°C (81°F).

In La Fortuna, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Merida. In the winter, Merida often gets less sunshine than La Fortuna. Merida gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while La Fortuna receives 264 hours of full sun.

Merida usually gets more rain in January than La Fortuna. Merida gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while La Fortuna receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Merida or La Fortuna in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Merida and La Fortuna. The spring months attract visitors to Merida because of the activities around the city. La Fortuna attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In April, Merida is generally cooler than La Fortuna. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 21°C (70°F), and La Fortuna fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Fortuna this time of the year. In Merida, it's very sunny this time of the year. Merida usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as La Fortuna during spring. Merida gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while La Fortuna receives 255 hours of full sun in the spring.

Merida gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Merida usually receives more rain than La Fortuna. Merida gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while La Fortuna receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. December to April in La Fortuna is the dry season. May to November is the hurricane season in La Fortuna.

Typical Weather for La Fortuna and Merida