A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Vienna vs. Jaco for Nightlife, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Vienna or Jaco?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Vienna or Jaco, 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.

Vienna

Vienna is a musical, ritzy, and classical city. Vienna is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Vienna travel costs.

Jaco

Jaco is a popular, touristy, and laid back town. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Jaco travel costs.

Vienna and Jaco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vienna or Jaco?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Vienna. Although Vienna and Jaco are both popular with visitors, Vienna has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Vienna is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Jaco is known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Vienna is popular for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. It is also home to The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace. Jaco is popular for its surfing, nightlife, and beaches.

The Imperial Schönbrunn Palace

How is Vienna different from Jaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Vienna or Jaco?

Vienna is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Jaco is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Vienna can be an interesting and educational experience. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Jaco offers a few options for museum-goers. Most people spend their time outside or partying while they're in town.

Is the Food Better in Vienna or Jaco? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Vienna is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Vienna has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

Jaco offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a range of restaurants around town that include hamburger joints, pizza shops, and other casual favorites. You'll find a variety of options along the main strip as well.

Is Vienna or Jaco Better for Nightlife?

Jaco is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Jaco is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. What was once a quiet surfing town is now one of the most famous party destinations in Costa Rica. There are a constantly growing number of bars and clubs around town and you'll find tons of young tourists and backpackers looking for a party.

Vienna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Is Vienna or Jaco Better for Music?

Vienna is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Jaco is not a live music destination.

Vienna has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

Jaco is not a live music destination.

Is Vienna or Jaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Jaco is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Vienna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Jaco has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. You can't really snorkel at Jaco Beach because of the waves and water conditions, but there are a number of snorkeling tours that leave from town and take you to better spots.

Vienna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Vienna or Jaco Better for Beaches?

Jaco is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Vienna is not a beach destination.

Jaco has a beach worth visiting. Jaco Beach is a great spot for swimming and surfing. It's lost some of its original charm, but there's still golden sand and nearby horseback riding.

Vienna is not a beach destination.

Is Vienna or Jaco Better for its Old Town?

Vienna is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Jaco does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Vienna is revered around the world. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

Jaco does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Vienna or Jaco?

Vienna is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Vienna specifically to go shopping. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

Jaco is a great destination for shopping. Many of the shops are found along the main street. There are a number of souvenir stores and a few art galleries that are worth checking out.

Is Vienna or Jaco More Beautiful?

Vienna is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

Vienna is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The city has beautiful Baroque architecture and a livable atmosphere.

Jaco is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Vienna or Jaco Better for Families?

Vienna and Jaco are both good destinations for the whole family.

Vienna is a family-friendly city. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jaco. Nearby you'll find horseback riding, monkey tours, and other fun kid-friendly activities. Kids will enjoy the beaches in the area as well.

Is Vienna or Jaco Better for Couples?

Vienna is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Vienna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

Jaco is a nice destination for couples. It's one of the more touristy parts of Costa Rica, but if you enjoy surfing and beach life, then you'll find a lot to do in the area.

Is Vienna or Jaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jaco is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Jaco. It's a touristy town with a bit of a party reputation. There are plenty of hostels and other backpackers around so you shouldn't have trouble meeting people.

Vienna is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

Is Vienna or Jaco Better for Students?

Vienna is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Jaco is not popular with students.

Vienna is a great destination for students. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

Jaco is not popular with students.

Is Vienna or Jaco Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Vienna is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Jaco is lacking in good options for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Vienna can get you around easily. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

Public transit is generally limited in Jaco. Most people walk or get around by bicycle.

Is Vienna or Jaco a more walkable city?

Vienna is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vienna. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

Jaco is very walkable. The town is compact and walkable. You'll find many of the restaurants and shops along the main street, and it's easy to reach the beach on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Vienna Worth Visiting? and Is Jaco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jaco or Vienna?

How long in Vienna or Jaco?

It's fun to spend time in either Vienna or Jaco. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Vienna due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Vienna, and 3-4 days is enough time in Jaco.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vienna than Jaco 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 Vienna.

One day in Vienna or Jaco?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Vienna. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Jaco. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Vienna or Jaco?

Vienna is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Jaco is a great place to explore. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Vienna or Jaco?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the musical destination of Vienna. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jaco. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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 Vienna or Jaco?

The classical city of Vienna offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the laid back destination of Jaco. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Austria, The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Vienna or Jaco?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 410 times larger than the population of Jaco. When comparing the sizes of Vienna and Jaco, 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 Vienna or Jaco?

Vienna has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Jaco experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Vienna or Jaco in the Summer?

Both Jaco and Vienna are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Vienna because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Jaco because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the summer, Vienna is cooler than Jaco. Typically, the summer temperatures in Vienna in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Jaco averages at about 28°C (82°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Vienna. Vienna usually receives more sunshine than Jaco during summer. Vienna gets 255 hours of sunny skies, while Jaco receives 164 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Jaco. In July, Vienna usually receives less rain than Jaco. Vienna gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Vienna or Jaco in the Autumn?

Both Jaco and Vienna during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Vienna this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Jaco year-round.

In October, Vienna is generally much colder than Jaco. Daily temperatures in Vienna average around 12°C (54°F), and Jaco fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In the autumn, Vienna often gets less sunshine than Jaco. Vienna gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jaco receives 169 hours of full sun.

Jaco gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Vienna usually gets less rain in October than Jaco. Vienna gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain this time of the year. November to May is the dry season in Jaco. Also, June to October in Jaco is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Vienna or Jaco in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Vienna and Jaco. Many travelers come to Vienna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Jaco attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vienna. Vienna is much colder than Jaco in the winter. The daily temperature in Vienna averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Jaco fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jaco this time of the year. Vienna usually receives less sunshine than Jaco during winter. Vienna gets 65 hours of sunny skies, while Jaco receives 264 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vienna usually receives more rain than Jaco. Vienna gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vienna or Jaco in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Vienna as well as Jaco. Many visitors come to Vienna in the spring for the natural beauty. The warm climate attracts visitors to Jaco throughout the year.

In the spring, Vienna is much colder than Jaco. Typically, the spring temperatures in Vienna in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Jaco averages at about 29°C (85°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jaco. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vienna this time of the year. In the spring, Vienna often gets less sunshine than Jaco. Vienna gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jaco receives 255 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets more rain in April than Jaco. Vienna gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to May in Jaco is the dry season. Also, the hurricane season in Jaco is June to October.

Typical Weather for Jaco and Vienna