A Travel Price Comparison for Brazil Salvador vs. Buzios for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Salvador or Buzios?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salvador or Buzios, 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.

Salvador

Salvador is a cultural, historical, and authentic city. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and museums. See Salvador travel costs.

Buzios

Other popular activities here include food. See Buzios travel costs.

Salvador and Buzios: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Salvador or Buzios?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Salvador. Although Salvador and Buzios are both popular with visitors, Salvador has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Salvador is more touristy than Buzios and is popular for its West African influence, rich culinary scene, and colonial architecture. It is also home to São Francisco. Buzios is popular for

How is Salvador different from Buzios?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Salvador or Buzios?

Salvador
Buzios

Salvador is a great city for its historical sights. However, Buzios does not have museums and landmarks.

Salvador offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the main sights are found in the historic part of town. In this area you'll find the Museu da Cidade, the Abelardo Rodrigues Museum, and the Casa do Benin. There are many ornate churches as well such as the São Francisco and the Carmelite Church.

Buzios does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Salvador or Buzios? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Salvador
Buzios

Salvador is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Buzios is not as popular, but is still a nice for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Salvador has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has rich African roots that are noticeable in the cuisine around town. Buffets have become popular in restaurants and many places offer a lunch buffet. They range in price and quality and you often pay by the weight. Common dishes include moqueca (seafood stew), vatapá (a type of curry), and acarajé (fried balls of beans and shrimp).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Buzios area. You'll find fresh seafood, Brazilian flavors, and international cuisine. Many beachfront restaurants serve dishes like grilled fish, moqueca (Brazilian seafood stew), and shrimp pastéis. Rua das Pedras, the town's main street, is packed with places to eat. There's everything from fine dining to casual eateries that offer pizza, sushi, and Argentine barbecue. The city also has many street vendors where you can grab a meal for very little money.

Is Salvador or Buzios Better for Nightlife?

Salvador
Buzios

Salvador is a great city for nightlife and partying. However, Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife in Salvador has something for everybody. Head to the old city for a mix of local music and authentic Brazilian activities. Further out, along the stretches of beach, you'll find larger music venues and dance clubs. The atmosphere is laid back and relaxed throughout the city and you'll find a very local vibe in many neighborhoods.

Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Salvador or Buzios Better for Beaches?

Salvador
Buzios

Salvador is a great city for the beach. However, Buzios is not a beach destination.

Salvador is considered a top beach destination. Many of the beaches are sandy with warm water and tidal pools to explore. The most popular beach is Praia Farol da Barra, which can get crowded. North of the city is the more relaxed Praia Farol de Itapuã and if you want to learn to surf, head to Praia da Jaguaribe, which is home to several surfing schools.

Buzios is not a beach destination.


Is Salvador or Buzios Better for its Old Town?

Salvador
Buzios

Salvador is a popular place for its old town. However, Buzios does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Salvador. The city served as the first Portuguese capital and today it still has colonial architecture and a historic atmosphere. At the historic heart of the city is the Pelourinho neighborhood, which has nice squares and cobblestone streets.

Buzios does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Salvador or Buzios?

Salvador
Buzios

Salvador is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Buzios is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Salvador. There are many local markets and shops around town where you can pick up traditional Brazilian items and artisan crafts.

Buzios is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Salvador or Buzios Better for Families?

Salvador
Buzios

Buzios is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Salvador is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Buzios is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Families enjoy hanging out at Ferradura Beach, which usually has calm waters where you can swim and play. A boat tour around the peninsula lets families explore hidden beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and even spot marine life. Strolling down Rua das Pedras in the evening offers a mix of delicious restaurants, ice cream shops, and lively street performances. For a bit of adventure, families can take a buggy ride to explore the scenic coastline and visit panoramic viewpoints like Mirante do Forno.

For families, Salvador is not always the best place to visit. It has a reputation for being dangerous, so many families don't plan to spend much time here, but the city has parks, recreational activities like climbing, and a number of kid-friendly museums to explore. There are also many ice cream shops and family-friendly restaurants.


Is Salvador or Buzios Better for Couples?

Salvador
Buzios

Salvador is a great city for its romantic activities. Also, Buzios is not as popular, but is still a nice for couples.

Salvador is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The historical center is charming and the perfect place to explore as a couple. There are also parks around town and many cultural experiences that visitors truly enjoy.

Buzios is a good city for couples to visit. There are sunset cruises along the coast that offer champagne and beautiful views. You can also take a stroll down the charming Rua das Pedras and enjoy a meal at a cozy restaurant. A day at the beach is a fun activity and adventure-loving couples can explore hidden coves on a boat tour, go snorkeling together, or take a scenic hike to Mirante do Forno for stunning panoramic views.

Is Salvador or Buzios Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salvador
Buzios

Salvador and Buzios are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Salvador is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers love the historical architecture and the authenticity that this city offers. There are also a number of hostels around town.

Buzios is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are hostels, beaches, and a variety of activities that backpackers can enjoy. With over 20 beaches and plenty of affordable street food, this is a great spot for budget travelers. You'll also find many other backpackers in the area.

Is Salvador or Buzios Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Salvador
Buzios

Salvador is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Buzios does not have public transit.

While Salvador offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town that are divided into two different classes - the common bus and the executive bus.

Buzios does not have public transit.


Is Salvador or Buzios a more walkable city?

Salvador
Buzios

Salvador is adequate for its high level of walkability. However, Buzios is not a walkable destination.

Salvador is generally not a very walkable city. While it's possible to walk around town, you should really understand which areas are safe and which parts of town are dangerous. Sometimes the dangerous areas are just a couple of blocks that are surrounded by an otherwise safe neighborhood, so you should really understand where you are before heading out on foot.

Buzios is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Buzios or Salvador?

How long in Salvador or Buzios?

In either Salvador or Buzios, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Buzios than Salvador because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Salvador, and 2-5 days is enough time in Buzios.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salvador than Buzios 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 Salvador.


  • How many days in Salvador or Buzios? Ideal Length of Stay
    Salvador 3-4 
    Buzios 2-5

One day in Salvador or Buzios?


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Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Salvador. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The of Buzios offers food. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Salvador or Buzios?


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Salvador is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Buzios is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Buzios, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Salvador or Buzios?


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It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salvador. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

Buzios is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Buzios, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Salvador or Buzios?


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Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Salvador. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Buzios is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in Brazil, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Brazil, The Best Luxury Tours to Brazil, and The Best Budget Tours to Brazil.


Which place is cheaper, Buzios or Salvador?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Salvador is $51, while the average daily cost in Buzios is $91. 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 Salvador and Buzios in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Salvador $23
    Buzios $36
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Salvador $46
    Buzios $72
Compare Hotels in Salvador and Buzios

Looking for a hotel in Salvador or Buzios? 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 Salvador


Hotels in Buzios


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: Salvador Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Salvador $5.78
    Buzios $18
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Salvador

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Salvador:


  • Bus from Airport
    $1.13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Salvador

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Salvador:

  • Transfers between Salvador and Barra Grande Maraú: $272
  • Private Transfer from/to Salvador Airport From/to Grand Palladium Imbassai: $180
  • Private Transfer to/from Sauipe Resort By Minivan one way: $180
  • Transfer in Salvador: $172
  • Transfer: Salvador to/from Boipeba Island: $146
  • Costa de Sauipe Transfer - Private Executive Van: $135
  • Private Transfer from Salvador Airport: $132
  • Private Transfer from Salvador Airport to Hotel by Minivan: $130
  • Transfer Grand Palladium - Private Executive Van: $126
  • Transfer Iberostar Bahia / Praia do Forte Private Executive Van: $115
  • Salvador Airport SSA to Praia do Forte-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $110
  • Salvador de Bahia: Private Round-Trip Airport–Hotel Transfer: $110

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Buzios

Also for Buzios, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Beach Resorts to Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) - Departure Transfer : $46
  • Beach Resorts to Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) - Private Transfer: $46
  • Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) to Beach Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $91
  • Executive private transfer from GIG Rio Galeao airport up to 3 pax to Buzios: $115
  • Executive private transfer from GIG Rio Galeao airport up to 4 pax to Buzios: $115
  • Private Transfer Buzios to Rio de Janeiro: $91
  • Private Transfer from Buzios Port to Cabo Frio Airport (CFB): $118
  • Private Transfer from Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) to Buzios Port: $118
  • Private Transfer from Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro: $91
  • Private Transfer from GIG Airport to City Buzios in Rio : $170
  • Private transfer Buzios in Rio to the SDU Airport : $182
  • Private transfer Minivan from GIG Rio Galeao airport up to 6 pax to Buzios: $134

Is it cheaper to fly into Salvador or Buzios?

Prices for flights to both Buzios and Salvador 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
    Salvador $21
    Buzios $40
Typical Food Prices in Salvador

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Salvador:


  • Dinner for 2
    $1.31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Salvador

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

  • Bahia Noite - Folkloric Show and Dinner, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil: $68
  • Cooking class in Salvador, an authentic dinning experience: $85
  • Folklore Tour with Buffet Dinner: $91
  • Hands-On Bahian Cooking Class with Caipirinhas in Salvador: $95
  • Bahia Noite - Folklore and Dinner Show, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil: $95
  • Folk Show - Bahia Night (Dinner Included) by Salvador Receptivo: $110
  • Private Bahian Cooking Class - An Amazing Experience!: $140
  • Salvador by Night: Cultural Dinner and Show: $146
  • Cultural Folkloric Show and Dinner in Salvador: $170
  • Authentic Cooking Class with Market Visit & Lunch: $175
  • Culinary Afro-Brazilian Delights & Churrascaria dinner.: $179
  • Bahia By Night: Dinner and Folkloric show: $195

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Salvador $5.45
    Buzios $25

Tours and Activities in Salvador

Here are a few actual costs in Salvador for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Afro-Brazilian Roots city Tour in Salvador with lunch at Favela: $140
  • "Memories of Salvador" a 6 hour city tour thru times : $143
  • 3-Hour Private Tour of Salvador Capital Afro-Brazilian: $110
  • Afro Tour Walking - Walking : $39
  • Afro-Brazilian Roots Private City Tour in Salvador: $146
  • Bahia 500 Years Historic Tour, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil: $25
  • Basílica do Senhor do Bonfim Salvador Private Walking Tour: $90
  • Brazil Tropical Fruit Tour in Salvador local farmer's market: $49
  • Brazilian Tasting experience Amazing Foods of Salvador da Bahia: $75
  • Cachoeira Countryside Flavor Private Tour from Salvador: $190
  • City Tour in Salvador - Half Day: $19
  • City Tour in Salvador to meet Brazil’s first capital: $174

Tours and Activities in Buzios

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Buzios.

  • Tour of the most beautiful beaches and islands of Buzios by Buziana Tour: $11
  • Boat Tour Open Bar A Floor Arraial do Cabo : $13
  • Buggy Ride in Buzios by Buziana Tour: $19
  • Tour of Bugre in Arraial (Buggy): $21
  • Boat Tour in Arraial do Cabo: $23
  • Catamaran Boat Tour in Búzios: $26
  • Half-Day Schooner Sightseeing Trip in Buzios Peninsula Beaches: $27
  • 3-hour Small Group Buzios Peninsula Open Air Trolley Tour: $31
  • Buzios Trolley City Tour: $31
  • Tour in Boat Tour in Buzios: $38
  • Underwater Adventure in Diving and Snorkeling: $46
  • Schooner Tour in Buzios - Departure from Buzios: $51

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Salvador $5.17
    Buzios $17
Typical Alcohol Prices in Salvador

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Salvador:


  • Beers for 2
    $1.31
  • Drinks
    $2.63


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

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


Which is Bigger, Salvador or Buzios?

Salvador has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Buzios. When comparing the sizes of Salvador and Buzios, 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.