A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Rio de Janeiro vs. Acapulco de Juarez for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Rio de Janeiro and Acapulco de Juarez 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.

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is a festive, diverse, and high energy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of Rio de Janeiro is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Rio de Janeiro travel costs.

Acapulco de Juarez

Acapulco de Juarez is a vibrant, built-up, and well-known city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Acapulco de Juarez travel costs.

Rio de Janeiro and Acapulco de Juarez: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rio de Janeiro than Acapulco de Juarez. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Rio de Janeiro is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Acapulco de Juarez attracts visitors for its resorts and scuba diving & snorkeling. Rio de Janeiro is more touristy than Acapulco de Juarez and is known for its samba dancing, sandy beaches, and Carnival. It is also well known for Christ the Redeemer. Acapulco de Juarez is famous for its large hotels, golf courses, and lively bars and clubs.

How is Rio de Janeiro different from Acapulco de Juarez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Acapulco de Juarez and Rio de Janeiro. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez?

Rio de Janeiro is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Rio de Janeiro on the map. Looking out over the city is the world famous landmark of Christ the Redeemer. It sits on top of Corcovado Mountain and it is a must-see destination for visitors to the city. Other sights around town include the church and monastery of São Bento, the stunning church of São Francisco da Penitência, the imperial palaces of São Cristóvão, and the baroque church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo.

While most people don't head to Acapulco de Juarez specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of history and cultural museums in the city that can be a nice way to spend a rainy day.

Is the Food Better in Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rio de Janeiro is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Rio de Janeiro is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The cuisine around town mixes African and European cooking styles to give it a unique taste. The city is a mix of cultures and flavors and you'll find restaurants that integrate traditional Brazilian dishes with international influences. You'll find a wonderful street food scene, but also fine dining, and everything in between. Some of the most popular dishes include feijoada (beef and bean stew), churrasco (Brazilian barbecue), and pão de queijo (baked dough and cheese).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Acapulco de Juarez. The local cuisine is influenced by the area's indigenous cultures combined with Hispanic influences. Seafood is common as well.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez has a better nightlife scene.

People head to Rio de Janeiro just to party. It has a world famous nightlife scene, and the most popular party neighborhood is Lapa. While the biggest crowds are on the weekends, weeknights stay busy as well. Every weekend in Lapa there's a huge street party, but there are also bars and dance clubs nearby. A more local neighborhood is Botafogo, which is a great area to grab a beer and enjoy a relaxed night out. If you want a beachside bar, check out the touristy neighborhoods of Ipanema and Copacabana.

The nightlife in Acapulco de Juarez is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The nightlife scene is part of what originally put this city on the map. Spring break is a prime time for partying and you'll find many bars along Costera Street, with the liveliest around Condesa Beach.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Resorts?

Acapulco de Juarez is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Rio de Janeiro is not a resort destination.

Acapulco de Juarez is a world class resort vacation destination. You'll find no shortage of resorts in the city, most with large pools and beachfront views.

Rio de Janeiro is not a resort destination.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Acapulco de Juarez is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rio de Janeiro is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Acapulco de Juarez is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and scuba diving trips to premier spots.

Rio de Janeiro is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Beaches?

Rio de Janeiro is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Rio de Janeiro. The beaches have long been written about and made iconic by songs and literary works. Copacabana and Ipanema are world renowned, and the sandy stretches and vibrant waterfront promenades will not disappoint. There are plenty of recreational activities as well as a striking blue water backdrop. You'll find beach parties, waterside bars, and pickup games of football or volleyball. In addition to these iconic beaches, there are several lesser known places to visit like Joatinga and Barra da Tijuca.

Acapulco de Juarez is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are well developed with restaurants, hotels and bars lining the long stretches of sand. You'll find all kinds of water sports and activities nearby and several of the most popular beaches include Condesa Beach, Caleta Beach, and Icacos Beach.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Hiking?

Rio de Janeiro is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

People visit Rio de Janeiro specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Although it is a bustling megacity, it also offers access to world class hikes. The city is filled with mountains and dramatic peaks, so many hikes take you to spectacular views of the city. There are also jungle hikes and even opportunities to see local wildlife. There's a combination of iconic trails and lesser known strolls that will let you truly absorb what this city has to offer. Some of the best hikes include Pedra Bonita, Dois Irmaos, and Pedra da Gávea.

Acapulco de Juarez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez?

Rio de Janeiro is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Rio de Janeiro is a world class destination for shoppers. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Whatever your budget, there are options for you. There are wonderful street markets for those on a budget and grand shopping malls if you're looking for something a bit higher end. Some of the best places for shopping include Rio Sul, Barra Shopping, and SAARA Market.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Acapulco de Juarez. You'll find tons of beachside shops where you can pick up any beach supplies you may need as well as souvenirs from your trip. The city also has retail outlets and shopping centers.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez More Beautiful?

Rio de Janeiro is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Rio de Janeiro is one of the main draws. The city's mountainous landscapes and striking beaches make it, arguably, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many mountaintop views of the city as well as city hikes and iconic neighborhoods.

Acapulco de Juarez is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Families?

Both Rio de Janeiro and Acapulco de Juarez are excellent to visit with kids.

Rio de Janeiro is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the beaches. It's easy to spend days by the water soaking up the sun. Another must-do is a trip up Sugarloaf Mountain. The cable cars are fun and there are jungle walks and spectacular views. If you need to escape the rain or heat, spend the day at the Museum of Tomorrow.

Acapulco de Juarez is a very family-friendly destination. It may have been made famous by spring breakers, but families with kids will find plenty to do as well. There are water parks, playgrounds, museums and, of course, the beach.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Couples?

Acapulco de Juarez is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Rio de Janeiro is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Acapulco de Juarez is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Whether you're looking for an active nightlife scene, or romantic sunset walks, then this city has it all. The beach is active and beautiful, there are also botanical gardens and wonderful restaurants to experience.

Rio de Janeiro is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many parks and gardens around town that are perfect for a stroll. Nature lovers will enjoy the many hikes in the area, many which go through the jungle, visit waterfalls, or offer spectacular views. And, of course, Sugarloaf Mountain is a must-see destination, as are the many beaches in the area.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rio de Janeiro is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rio de Janeiro is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers flock to the city for its wild nightlife scene and beautiful beaches. There's a huge backpacker culture here and many hostels around town that offer a social setting and plenty of activities for guests.

Acapulco de Juarez is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are more hotels and resorts than hostels, so most backpackers head elsewhere. There is a young crowd during the spring break season.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Rio de Janeiro is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Rio de Janeiro can get you to most places easily. The city has a subway system, MetroRio, that is relatively reliable and convenient. There are also city buses, trams, and commuter trains.

While Acapulco de Juarez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elaborate and fun bus system that travels around the city.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez a more walkable city?

Rio de Janeiro is a great destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Rio de Janeiro is a very walkable destination. Most of the areas where tourists spend their time are relatively walkable. Centro is compact and many tourists choose to explore areas on foot. As always, remember to take the appropriate safety precautions and always be aware of your surroundings.

Acapulco de Juarez is somewhat walkable. The downtown and beachfront areas are the most walkable and many sights are within a short distance of each other.

For even more information, also check out Is Rio de Janeiro Worth Visiting? and Is Acapulco de Juarez Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez or Rio de Janeiro?

How long in Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez?

In either Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Rio de Janeiro than Acapulco de Juarez because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 4-6 days is a good amount of time for Rio de Janeiro, and 3-5 days is enough time in Acapulco de Juarez.

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

Couples should spend more time in Rio de Janeiro than Acapulco de Juarez. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Rio de Janeiro that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rio de Janeiro than Acapulco de Juarez 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 Rio de Janeiro.

One day in Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez?

Rio de Janeiro is a multicultural big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Acapulco de Juarez, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez?

Rio de Janeiro is a popular place to visit. Rio de Janeiro is a festive city where you can fill many days. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Acapulco de Juarez is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez?

Rio de Janeiro is a big city destination where you can fill many days. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rio de Janeiro has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Acapulco de Juarez. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez?

Rio de Janeiro is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the city of Acapulco de Juarez. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Brazil, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rio de Janeiro, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Rio de Janeiro Expensive? and Is Acapulco de Juarez Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez?

Rio de Janeiro has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Acapulco de Juarez. When comparing the sizes of Rio de Janeiro and Acapulco de Juarez, 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 Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez?

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

Should I visit Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez in the Summer?

Both Acapulco de Juarez and Rio de Janeiro are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Rio de Janeiro for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Rio de Janeiro is around the same temperature as Acapulco de Juarez in the summer. The daily temperature in Rio de Janeiro averages around 26°C (79°F) in January, and Acapulco de Juarez fluctuates around 29°C (83°F)in July.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Acapulco de Juarez. It's quite rainy in Rio de Janeiro. In January, Rio de Janeiro usually receives less rain than Acapulco de Juarezin July. Rio de Janeiro gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 209 mm (8.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez in the Autumn?

Both Acapulco de Juarez and Rio de Janeiro during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Rio de Janeiro in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Acapulco de Juarez for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Rio de Janeiro is cooler than Acapulco de Juarez. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Rio de Janeiro in April average around 25°C (77°F), and Acapulco de Juarez averages at about 28°C (83°F)in October.

Acapulco de Juarez gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Rio de Janeiro. Rio de Janeiro usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Acapulco de Juarezin October. Rio de Janeiro gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain this time of the year. May to November is the dry season in Rio de Janeiro. December to April is the rainy season in Rio de Janeiro.

Should I visit Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Rio de Janeiro and Acapulco de Juarez. Most visitors come to Rio de Janeiro for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Acapulco de Juarez because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In July, Rio de Janeiro is generally cooler than Acapulco de Juarezin January. Daily temperatures in Rio de Janeiro average around 21°C (70°F), and Acapulco de Juarez fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

In July, Rio de Janeiro usually receives more rain than Acapulco de Juarezin January. Rio de Janeiro gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Rio de Janeiro or Acapulco de Juarez in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Rio de Janeiro as well as Acapulco de Juarez. The spring months attract visitors to Rio de Janeiro because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches are the main draw to Acapulco de Juarez this time of year.

Rio de Janeiro is cooler than Acapulco de Juarez in the spring. The daily temperature in Rio de Janeiro averages around 23°C (73°F) in October, and Acapulco de Juarez fluctuates around 27°C (81°F)in April.

Rio de Janeiro usually gets more rain in October than Acapulco de Juarezin April. Rio de Janeiro gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Acapulco de Juarez receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, May to November in Rio de Janeiro is the dry season. December to April in Rio de Janeiro is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Acapulco de Juarez and Rio de Janeiro