A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zurich vs. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Zurich and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Zurich

Zurich is a liberal, beautiful, and historic city. Zurich is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Zurich travel costs.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a authentic, remote, and local town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) travel costs.

Zurich and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park): Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zurich. Although Zurich and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are popular destinations, Zurich has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zurich is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Zurich is more touristy than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is famous for its fishing and wildlife.

How is Zurich different from Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Zurich. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Zurich is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Zurich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). People visit the town for the nearby national park, so you won't find much in the form of museums.


Is the Food Better in Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Zurich is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Zurich makes for a great culinary experience. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many places have local Costa Rican dishes, but you'll also find pizza joints and the occasional cafe as well.

Is Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Nightlife?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Zurich is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Zurich offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). There are a few bars on the town's main street, but most visitors don't come to town for the nightlife.

Is Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Music?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Zurich is a well-known place for live music. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Zurich is very popular with diverse venues. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a live music destination.


Is Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). You'll find nice snorkeling with calm waters and you might even see dolphins.

Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Beaches?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a well-known place for the beach. However, Zurich is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) for it's beautiful beaches. Near town you'll find wonderful beaches and long stretches of sand bordered by lush rainforests.

Zurich is not a beach destination.

Is Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for its Old Town?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Zurich is very popular for its historic old town. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) does not have a historic old town.

Zurich has a world-famous historical area. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) does not have a historic old town.


Is Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Hiking?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a popular spot for hiking. Corcovado National Park can be challenging to reach, which is part of what makes it such a wonderful place to explore. The rainforest and wildlife still feels untouched by the tourist crowds and you can lose yourself hiking through the forest.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Zurich is very popular for shopping. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its shopping opportunities.

Zurich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

If you're looking to go shopping, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has some nice offerings. It's a small local town so you won't find many shopping options that cater to tourists.

Is Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) More Beautiful?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Zurich and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are somewhat similar when it comes to the high quality scenery.

The beauty of Zurich is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With Lake Zurich and the mountains as a backdrop, this is a truly beautiful city.

With stunning beauty, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) attracts visitors from all around. The beaches, wildlife, and rainforests make this a unique and beautiful place to visit.


Is Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Families?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Both Zurich and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Kids will love the beaches, kayaking, surfing, wildlife, hiking, and swimming. There really is something for the whole family to enjoy.

Is Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Couples?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Zurich and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) both high quality destinations for a couple.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will love the stunning nature and wildlife that nearby Corcovado National Park offers. There are also many great beaches where you can take a stroll or go kayaking.

Is Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a great town to visit for backpackers. It's become a popular backpacker destination because there are a number of hostels nearby.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.


Is Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Students?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Zurich is very popular for students. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Zurich. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not popular with students.

Is Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Zurich is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Zurich can move around easily with public transportation. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has some public transit options. Many visitors take the colectivo taxi, which is a flatbed truck that is more affordable than private taxis.

Is Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) a more walkable city?

Zurich
Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Zurich and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very walkable destination. The town is relatively easy to walk around.


For even more information, also check out Is Zurich Worth Visiting? and Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

It's fun to spend time in either Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Generally, people tend to spend more time in Zurich due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 3-4 days is enough time in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park).

Families should spend more time in Zurich than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Zurich, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Zurich than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Zurich that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zurich than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Zurich.


  • How many days in Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zurich 2-5 
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 3-4

One day in Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

In Zurich, many people enjoy the live music and food that this liberal destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the destination of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). 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 Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

In Zurich, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Lots of people come for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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.

Five days in Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Zurich is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Zurich is a great place to explore. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the local destination of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Zurich?

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

  • Zurich Prices
    Switzerland Prices
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Prices
    Costa Rica Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Zurich $364
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $140

The average daily cost (per person) in Zurich is $364, while the average daily cost in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is $140. 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 Zurich and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zurich $197
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zurich $394
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $98
Compare Hotels in Zurich and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Looking for a hotel in Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)? 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 Zurich


Hotels in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)


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: Zurich Hotel Prices and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zurich $41
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Zurich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Zurich:


  • City Pass (2)
    $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zurich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zurich:

  • Zurich Airport Stress-Free Private Transfer: $36
  • ZRH Airport to City Centre|Hotels Private Transfer: $42
  • Zurich Airport ZRH Private Transfer to Zurich/Lucerne/Interlaken: $48
  • Private One-way Airport Transfer from Zurich to Zurich Airport: $72
  • Private One-way Airport Transfer from Zurich Airport to Zurich: $72
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich - Arrival Private Transfer: $81
  • Zurich to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Private Transfer : $81
  • Transfer from Zurich City Center to Zurich Airport (ZRH): $81
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Titisee-Neustadt Thermal Arrival Transfer: $84
  • Transfer from Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich City Center: $84
  • Private Transfer from Zurich Hotels to Zurich Airport: $87
  • Airport Transfer: Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich by Business Car: $100

Is it cheaper to fly into Zurich or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

Prices for flights to both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Zurich 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
    Zurich $124
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $60
Typical Food Prices in Zurich

Some typical examples of dining costs in Zurich are as follows:


  • Breakfast for 2
    $16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zurich

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

  • Food Tour of 8+ Tastings with Cheeses & Chocolates: $154
  • Zurich Food Tour of 10+ Swiss Specialties w/ Cheeses & Chocolates: $156

Typical Food Prices in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Some typical examples of dining costs in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are as follows:


  • Dinner at Finca Exotica
    $54

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zurich $41
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $119

Tours and Activities in Zurich

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

  • Zurich in the Mirror of the Past: Self-Guided Reading Tour: $6.29
  • Zurich Self Guided Audio Experience: $9.00
  • Winterthur Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $9.04
  • Schaffhausen Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $9.04
  • Zurich Highlights Self guided scavenger hunt and city tour: $12
  • Swiss Finance Museum Admission Ticket: $13
  • The Dark Side of Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $13
  • Zurich in the Mirror of the Past: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $13
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour to the Dark Side of Zurich: $13
  • Zurich Old Town Walking Tour: 2-Hours: $16
  • Swiss National Museum Entry Ticket: $16
  • City Walking Tour Made in Zurich: $19

Tours and Activities in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are as follows:

  • Gold Panning Private Adventure in Puerto Jimenez: $35
  • Puerto Jimenez Birdwatching Tour Osa Peninsula Golfo Dulce: $60
  • Kayak experience on Playa Blanca in Puerto Jiménez: $65
  • Bio-Luminescence and Sunset Kayak Tour: $67
  • Corcovado La Leona Day Tour from Puerto Jimenez - All Inclusive: $120
  • Isla del Caño snorkel tour from Drake Bay (Cano island) : $125
  • Sirena Day Tour - Corcovado NP All Inclusive from Puerto Jimenez: $145
  • One Day Tour To Caño Island From Drake Bay: $145
  • Corcovado National Park - Day Tour from Drake Bay: $145
  • 4 Hour Private Guided Tour in Osa Jungle : $163
  • Corcovado National Park - Private Siren Day Tour: $190
  • Scuba Diving Tour at Cano Island (Isla del Caño) from Drake Bay: $195

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zurich $34
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -

Sample the Local Flavors in Zurich

Also in Zurich, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour with Shots and Snacks: $38
  • Pub Crawl Zurich: $39


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Zurich Expensive? and Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Expensive?.