A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers San Cristobal de Las Casas vs. La Fortuna for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna?

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

Should I visit San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

San Cristobal de Las Casas

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a cultural, charming, and colorful town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. San Cristobal de Las Casas is a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See San Cristobal de Las Casas travel costs.

La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a stunning, scenic, and popular town. La Fortuna is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking. See La Fortuna travel costs.

San Cristobal de Las Casas and La Fortuna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna?

Travelers will usually find more to do in La Fortuna. Although San Cristobal de Las Casas and La Fortuna are popular destinations, La Fortuna has more sights and attractions for tourists. La Fortuna is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while San Cristobal de Las Casas attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. La Fortuna is more touristy than San Cristobal de Las Casas and is popular for its hot springs, luxury resorts, and volcanic views. It is also well known for Arenal Volcano. San Cristobal de Las Casas is famous for its historical buildings, local markets, and traditional churches.

How is San Cristobal de Las Casas different from La Fortuna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna?

San Cristobal de Las Casas 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas. The town is filled with historical churches such as the main Cathedral of San Cristobal. While this is the most notable church, there are also smaller churches worth visiting like the Templo Santo Domingo, Iglesia de Guadalupe, and Iglesia de San Cristobal. For museums, make sure you check out the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya, Na Bolom, and Museo de Ambar.

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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Cristobal de Las Casas 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas. The cuisine is a mix of Spanish-influenced cured meats such as ham and sausage, as well as indigenous flavors like tamales and burritos. There's also a lot of great pizza around town as well as several Asian restaurants.

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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna Better for Nightlife?

San Cristobal de Las Casas 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas has plenty to do after the sun goes down. There's an active nightlife scene that includes everything from late night clubs to salsa lessons. Most tourists who want to party head to the pedestrian streets around the plaza. There are countless bars where you'll likely find a crowd late into the night. Some clubs have a cover charge on weekends but, in general, drinks are cheap and getting around is easy.

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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna Better for Resorts?

La Fortuna is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, La Fortuna is a great choice. 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a resort destination.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna Better for its Old Town?

San Cristobal de Las Casas 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas. The town is filled with narrow pedestrian streets, colorful markets, and historic churches.

La Fortuna does not have a historic old town.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna Better for Hiking?

La Fortuna is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, San Cristobal de Las Casas 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, La Fortuna is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in San Cristobal de Las Casas make it a world-class shopping destination. The nearby villages are famous for their weaving, leather, pottery, and embroidery, so many visitors pick up souvenirs at the colorful markets around town. This is one of the best towns in Mexico to purchase local items, and you should definitely set aside time to explore and shop.

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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna More Beautiful?

La Fortuna is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

La Fortuna is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. 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.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a beautiful place to visit, too. Set against the backdrop of mountains, this town is colorful and charming.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna Better for Families?

La Fortuna is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

La Fortuna is a very family-friendly destination. 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas. While kids may not appreciate the town's beauty and culture, they will have fun exploring the night market or taking a chocolate-making class. There are pedestrian streets where everyone can explore without fear of traffic and pizza restaurants that appeal to the kids as well.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna Better for Couples?

La Fortuna is very popular for romance. Also, San Cristobal de Las Casas is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

La Fortuna makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Couples visit San Cristobal de Las Casas frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy culture, markets, traditional cuisines, and new experiences will love their time here. It's a fun place to simply wander. You can explore the markets and then eat at a local restaurant before making your way back to your boutique hotel.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Cristobal de Las Casas and La Fortuna are both superb destinations for backpackers.

San Cristobal de Las Casas is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of hostels in town as well as budget-friendly hotels. Backpackers love the laid back nature of this town as well as the many markets and nature-oriented activities.

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.

Is San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both San Cristobal de Las Casas and La Fortuna.

San Cristobal de Las Casas has some public transit options. Urbano buses are minibuses that connect the town to the outlying residential areas. There are also colectivos that travel to nearby villages.

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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna a more walkable city?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is renowned 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.

It is easy to get around San Cristobal de Las Casas on foot. Walking is the best way to experience the town. Most of the sights can be reached on foot and there are pedestrian-only streets that let you avoid the traffic.

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 San Cristobal de Las Casas Worth Visiting? and Is La Fortuna Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in La Fortuna or San Cristobal de Las Casas?

How long in San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna?

It's fun to spend time in either San Cristobal de Las Casas 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, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for San Cristobal de Las Casas, and 2-4 days is enough time in La Fortuna.

Families should spend more time in La Fortuna than San Cristobal de Las Casas. 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas.

One day in San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna?

San Cristobal de Las Casas might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In La Fortuna, many people enjoy the food and nightlife that this stunning destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna?

Even though San Cristobal de Las Casas is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

In La Fortuna, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna?

San Cristobal de Las Casas, a popular town, 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.

Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting 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. This town offers something for everyone.

A week in San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna?

San Cristobal de Las Casas is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. 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 beautiful town of La Fortuna. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Mexico City, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Playa del Carmen, The Best Adventure Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Eco Tours in Costa Rica.

When comparing the travel costs between San Cristobal de Las Casas and La Fortuna, we can see that La Fortuna 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas is in North America and La Fortuna is in Central 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 San Cristobal de Las Casas Expensive? and Is La Fortuna Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, San Cristobal de Las Casas or La Fortuna?

San Cristobal de Las Casas has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of La Fortuna. When comparing the sizes of San Cristobal de Las Casas 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.