A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Puerto Vallarta vs. Roswell, New Mexico for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico?

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 Puerto Vallarta and Roswell, New Mexico can help you decide which place is right for you.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a coastal, colorful, and laid-back town. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a infamous, quirky, and mysterious town. Other popular activities here include food and museums.

Puerto Vallarta and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Puerto Vallarta. Although Puerto Vallarta and Roswell, New Mexico are both popular with visitors, Puerto Vallarta has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Puerto Vallarta is more touristy than Roswell, New Mexico and is popular for its natural beauty and vibrant nightlife. It is also home to the Malecon. Roswell, New Mexico is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

How is Puerto Vallarta different from Roswell, New Mexico?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Roswell, New Mexico and Puerto Vallarta. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico?

Puerto Vallarta
Roswell, New Mexico

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Puerto Vallarta. There are a number of historical sights around town like Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.

Roswell, New Mexico is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most people stop in town specifically for the International UFO Museum and Research Center. It has a lot of information on the 1947 Roswell Crash and other supposed UFO incidents. Other museums in town include the Roswell UFO Spacewalk, the Roswell Museum, and the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art.


Is the Food Better in Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Puerto Vallarta
Roswell, New Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Puerto Vallarta has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The charming character combined with the authentic local cuisine makes for a wonderful culinary experience. There's everything from taco stands to romantic restaurants that you can try.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Roswell, New Mexico area. It's a good place to grab lunch as there are many casual restaurants that serve everything from burgers to tacos or other Mexican dishes.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Puerto Vallarta
Roswell, New Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Puerto Vallarta has a large number of nightlife venues. You'll find a mix of active clubs, cozy bars, and cosmopolitan cafes. Head to the Romantic Zone or Los Muertos Beach for some of the best places.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Roswell, New Mexico. There's no real nightlife scene and many visitors stop over in route somewhere else.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Resorts?

Puerto Vallarta
Roswell, New Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Puerto Vallarta for its luxury resorts. There are many different places to stay from all-inclusive resorts to high end hotels or beachfront properties.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a resort destination.


Is Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Puerto Vallarta
Roswell, New Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Puerto Vallarta. Divers in the area may get to experience once in a lifetime opportunities like diving with manta rays, dolphins, whale sharks, hammerheads, or schools of jacks.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Beaches?

Puerto Vallarta
Roswell, New Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place for the beache. However, Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Puerto Vallarta for it's beautiful beaches. There are many beaches spread out around town that have soft sand and blue water. Most have all of the amenities you could need. Popular beaches include Playa de los Muertos, Playa Mismaloya, and Playa Conchas Chinas.

Roswell, New Mexico is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico?

Puerto Vallarta
Roswell, New Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Puerto Vallarta is well-known for its shopping. There's a mix of shopping malls, open-air markets, boutiques, and international brands.

Roswell, New Mexico has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find the typical suburban chains where you can pick up essentials or food while you're in town.


Is Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Puerto Vallarta
Roswell, New Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Puerto Vallarta is very family-friendly. Kids will love the water parks and thrilling activities, such as Aquaventuras Water Park or Los Veranos Canopy Tour. There's rock climbing and ropes courses at Las Animas Aventura Park. You'll also find horseback riding and even pirate boat tours in the area.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Roswell, New Mexico. Kids who enjoy a mystery will appreciate a visit to the International UFO Museum and Research Center. There's also the Spring River Park and Zoo which has native animals and a carousel.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Puerto Vallarta
Roswell, New Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

Puerto Vallarta makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy sunset boat trips, horseback riding, and adventure sports. There are also many restaurants where you can enjoy a romantic dinner or a refreshing drink.

Roswell, New Mexico is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's a bit outside the box as far as destinations go, so couples who enjoy the weird and quirky will enjoy a stop here.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Puerto Vallarta
Roswell, New Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Puerto Vallarta. There are hostels around, as well as many adventure sports or thrilling activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Roswell, New Mexico is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people pass through in route to other destinations, and backpackers are no different.


Is Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Puerto Vallarta
Roswell, New Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Puerto Vallarta has some public transit options. There are blue, green or orange buses that travel around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Roswell, New Mexico. There are buses, but it's easier to have your own car.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Puerto Vallarta
Roswell, New Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Puerto Vallarta is a very walkable town. There are several walkable neighborhoods in town such as 5 de Diciembre, el Centro, and Zona Romantica.

Roswell, New Mexico is a somewhat walkable town. The historic district is compact and walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Puerto Vallarta Worth Visiting? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Roswell, New Mexico or Puerto Vallarta?

How long in Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Puerto Vallarta than Roswell, New Mexico because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Puerto Vallarta, and 1-2 days is enough time in Roswell, New Mexico.

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

Couples should spend more time in Puerto Vallarta than Roswell, New Mexico. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Puerto Vallarta that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Vallarta than Roswell, New Mexico 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 Puerto Vallarta.


  • How many days in Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico? Ideal Length of Stay
    Puerto Vallarta 3-5 
    Roswell, New Mexico 1-2

One day in Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Puerto Vallarta, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The quirky destination of Roswell, New Mexico offers food and museums. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Puerto Vallarta for a weekend. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

The town of Roswell, New Mexico offers museums and food. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Puerto Vallarta, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Puerto Vallarta, five days is sufficent for most.

Roswell, New Mexico is a great place to explore. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Puerto Vallarta. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Roswell, New Mexico. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Luxury Tours to Mexico, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico or Puerto Vallarta?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Puerto Vallarta is $115, while the average daily cost in Roswell, New Mexico is $117. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Puerto Vallarta and Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Puerto Vallarta $63
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Puerto Vallarta $126
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Puerto Vallarta and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Puerto Vallarta


Hotels in Roswell, New Mexico


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Puerto Vallarta Hotel Prices and Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Puerto Vallarta $19
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Puerto Vallarta

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Puerto Vallarta:

  • Sayulita hotels to Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR) – Private Departure Transfer : $96
  • Puerto Vallarta:Private Airport Transfer to Bucerias: $73
  • Puerto Vallarta:Private Airport Transfer to Boca de Tomatlan: $86
  • Private Airport Transfer to Romantic Zone: $48
  • Private Airport Transfer to Mismaloya: $51
  • Private Airport Transfer to Marina Vallarta: $37
  • Private Airport Transfer to Hotel Zone: $40
  • Puerto Vallarta from Cruise Port to Hotels Arrival Transfer: $44
  • Puerto Vallarta Roundtrip Shuttle Airport Transfer: $32
  • Puerto Vallarta Port to Puerto Vallarta Airport(PVR)-Departure Private Transfer : $44
  • Puerto Vallarta Cruise Port: Transfer to Puerto Vallarta: $118
  • Puerto Vallarta Airport to Hotel Private Transfer by Minivan: $74

Is it cheaper to fly into Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico?

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico and Puerto Vallarta change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Puerto Vallarta $37
    Roswell, New Mexico $44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Puerto Vallarta

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Puerto Vallarta.

  • 3-Hour Guided Food Tour in Puerto Vallarta: $45
  • Off The Beaten Path Food Tour. Dinner in Pitillal : $55
  • Dinner Tacos Food Tour: $55
  • Puerto Vallarta 3-Hour Food Tour of Authentic Local Cuisine: $59
  • Puerta Vallarta: Seafood Lover's Food Tour: $59
  • Downtown Puerto Vallarta Food Tour with Vallarta Food Tours: $59
  • Seafood Lover's Tour with Vallarta Food Tours : $59
  • Signature Taco and Street Food Tour in Puerto Vallarta: $65
  • Mexican Cooking Class, Tequila Tasting & Unlimited Margaritas: $84
  • Bucerias Bike and Food Tour: $90
  • Mexican Cooking Class and Tequila Tasting: $96
  • Sayulita Tacos and Tequila Food Tour : $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Puerto Vallarta $19
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Tours and Activities in Puerto Vallarta

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Puerto Vallarta are as follows:

  • 3-hr ATV Mountian Exclusive Tour to Sierra Madre: $65
  • Snorkel Adventure at Majahuitas Beach: $53
  • Zip Line Adventure in the heights in Puerto Vallarta 10 zip lines: $66
  • 2 Hour and 30 Minutes Walking Tour in 5 De Diciembre: $45
  • 3-Hour Exclusive Guided RZR Adventure Sierra Madre Mountains Tour: $125
  • 360 Puerto Vallarta City Tour with Lunch: $65
  • 4 Hour Surf Experience in Corral Del Risco: $75
  • 8 hour All Inclusive Tour in Catamaran Arcos Animas Quimixto: $77
  • 8 hour All Inclusive Tour in Catamaran Arcos Animas Quimixto: $82
  • ATV Adventure from Puerto Vallarta: $110
  • ATV Adventure in Vallarta (Shared) : $125
  • ATV Adventure in the Jungle Single in Puerto Vallarta: $106

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Puerto Vallarta $24
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

Sample the Local Flavors in Puerto Vallarta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Puerto Vallarta:

  • Fun Mexican Wine Tasting in Beautiful Garden of Puerto Vallarta: $40
  • Brewery Bus Tour from Mexico: $85
  • All you can drink Bar Crawl: $99
  • Mountains Route, visiting a traditional distillery: $270


When comparing the travel costs between Puerto Vallarta and Roswell, New Mexico, we can see that Roswell, New Mexico 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. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Puerto Vallarta Expensive? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Puerto Vallarta or Roswell, New Mexico?

Puerto Vallarta has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of Puerto Vallarta and Roswell, New Mexico, 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.

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