A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Buzios vs. Puerto Vallarta for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Buzios or Puerto Vallarta?

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

Should I visit Buzios or Puerto Vallarta? 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.

Buzios

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

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a laid-back, cultural, and coastal town. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Puerto Vallarta travel costs.

Buzios and Puerto Vallarta: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Buzios or Puerto Vallarta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Puerto Vallarta. Although Buzios and Puerto Vallarta are both popular with visitors, Puerto Vallarta has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Puerto Vallarta is more touristy than Buzios and is popular for its natural beauty and vibrant nightlife. It is also home to the Malecon. Buzios is popular for

How is Buzios different from Puerto Vallarta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Buzios or Puerto Vallarta?

Buzios
Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Buzios does not have museums and landmarks.

Puerto Vallarta offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of historical sights around town like Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.

Buzios does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Buzios
Puerto Vallarta

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

Puerto Vallarta has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The charming character combined with the authentic local cuisine makes for a wonderful culinary experience. There's everything from taco stands to romantic restaurants that you can try.

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 Buzios or Puerto Vallarta Better for Nightlife?

Buzios
Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a great town for nightlife and partying. However, Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife in Puerto Vallarta has something for everybody. You'll find a mix of active clubs, cozy bars, and cosmopolitan cafes. Head to the Romantic Zone or Los Muertos Beach for some of the best places.

Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Buzios or Puerto Vallarta Better for Resorts?

Buzios
Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Buzios is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Puerto Vallarta is a great choice. There are many different places to stay from all-inclusive resorts to high end hotels or beachfront properties.

Buzios is not a resort destination.


Is Buzios or Puerto Vallarta Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Buzios
Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a great town for its diving and snorkeling. However, Buzios is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Puerto Vallarta. Divers in the area may get to experience once in a lifetime opportunities like diving with manta rays, dolphins, whale sharks, hammerheads, or schools of jacks.

Buzios is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Buzios or Puerto Vallarta Better for Beaches?

Buzios
Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a great town for the beach. However, Buzios is not a beach destination.

Puerto Vallarta is considered a top beach destination. There are many beaches spread out around town that have soft sand and blue water. Most have all of the amenities you could need. Popular beaches include Playa de los Muertos, Playa Mismaloya, and Playa Conchas Chinas.

Buzios is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Buzios or Puerto Vallarta?

Buzios
Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a great town for its shopping opportunities. However, Buzios is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Puerto Vallarta is well-known for its shopping. There's a mix of shopping malls, open-air markets, boutiques, and international brands.

Buzios is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Buzios or Puerto Vallarta Better for Families?

Buzios
Puerto Vallarta

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Buzios or Puerto Vallarta.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Buzios is very family-friendly. 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.

Puerto Vallarta is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the water parks and thrilling activities, such as Aquaventuras Water Park or Los Veranos Canopy Tour. There's rock climbing and ropes courses at Las Animas Aventura Park. You'll also find horseback riding and even pirate boat tours in the area.

Is Buzios or Puerto Vallarta Better for Couples?

Buzios
Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a great town for its romantic activities. Also, Buzios is not as popular, but is still a nice for couples.

Puerto Vallarta is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy sunset boat trips, horseback riding, and adventure sports. There are also many restaurants where you can enjoy a romantic dinner or a refreshing drink.

Buzios is a good 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 Buzios or Puerto Vallarta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Buzios
Puerto Vallarta

For backpackers, both Buzios and Puerto Vallarta are great places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Buzios. 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.

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels around, as well as many adventure sports or thrilling activities that backpackers will enjoy.


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

Buzios
Puerto Vallarta

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

While Puerto Vallarta offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are blue, green or orange buses that travel around town.

Buzios does not have public transit.

Is Buzios or Puerto Vallarta a more walkable city?

Buzios
Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a great town for its high level of walkability. However, Buzios is not a walkable destination.

Puerto Vallarta is a very walkable town. There are several walkable neighborhoods in town such as 5 de Diciembre, el Centro, and Zona Romantica.

Buzios is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Puerto Vallarta or Buzios?

How long in Buzios or Puerto Vallarta?

In either Buzios or Puerto Vallarta, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Puerto Vallarta has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Puerto Vallarta than Buzios. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Buzios, and 3-5 days is enough time in Puerto Vallarta.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Vallarta 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 Puerto Vallarta.


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

One day in Buzios or Puerto Vallarta?


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The destination of Buzios offers food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Puerto Vallarta. 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.


A weekend in Buzios or Puerto Vallarta?


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The of Buzios offers food. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Puerto Vallarta 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 Buzios or Puerto Vallarta?


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Buzios is a great place to explore. This offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Puerto Vallarta. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Buzios or Puerto Vallarta?


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Many people enjoy the food when visiting Buzios. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal destination of Puerto Vallarta. This town 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Puerto Vallarta or Buzios?

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

  • Buzios Prices
    Brazil Prices
    Puerto Vallarta Prices
    Mexico Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Buzios $91
    Puerto Vallarta $128

The average daily cost (per person) in Buzios is $91, while the average daily cost in Puerto Vallarta is $128. 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 Buzios and Puerto Vallarta in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Buzios $36
    Puerto Vallarta $57
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Buzios $72
    Puerto Vallarta $114
Compare Hotels in Buzios and Puerto Vallarta

Looking for a hotel in Buzios or Puerto Vallarta? 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 Buzios


Hotels in Puerto Vallarta


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: Puerto Vallarta Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Buzios $18
    Puerto Vallarta $17

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) - Private Transfer: $45
  • Beach Resorts to Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) - Departure Transfer : $45
  • Tour in Buzios City Tour, Lunch and Transfer: $60
  • Rio de Janeiro Transfer from Buzios to Airport (GIG)(SDU): $73
  • Private Transfer from Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro: $91
  • Private Transfer Buzios to Rio de Janeiro: $91
  • Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) to Beach Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $91
  • Executive private transfer from GIG Rio Galeao airport up to 4 pax to Buzios: $115
  • Executive private transfer from GIG Rio Galeao airport up to 3 pax to Buzios: $115
  • Private Transfer from Buzios Port to Cabo Frio Airport (CFB): $118
  • Private Transfer from Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) to Buzios Port: $118
  • Private transfer Minivan from GIG Rio Galeao airport up to 6 pax to Buzios: $134

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Puerto Vallarta

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Puerto Vallarta:

  • Private Transfer from Punta de Mita Area to PVR Airport: $180
  • Sayulita hotels to Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR) – Private Departure Transfer : $155
  • Puerto Vallarta Roundtrip Shuttle Airport Transfer: $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Buzios or Puerto Vallarta?

Prices for flights to both Puerto Vallarta and Buzios 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
    Buzios $40
    Puerto Vallarta $58

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Puerto Vallarta

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

  • Winner 2025 Downtown Vallarta Food Tour with Vallarta Food Tours: $59
  • Mexican Cooking Class, Tequila Tasting & Unlimited Margaritas: $89
  • Sayulita Tacos and Tequila Food Tour : $99
  • Puerto Vallarta- Market tour and Cooking Experience : $134
  • Rhythms of the night, sunset cruise, open bar & oceanfront dinner: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Buzios $25
    Puerto Vallarta $17

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

Tours and Activities in Puerto Vallarta

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

  • Sayulita Minivan Transportation Service Tour: $165
  • ATV Tour Rio Cuale Sierra Madre Mountains and tequila tasting: $73
  • ATV and RZR Jorullo Bridge Experience in Puerto Vallarta: $167
  • Beachfront Massage Experience in Mismaloya: $42
  • Bioluminescence & sunset local boat tour to Los Arcos Sanctuary: $67
  • Boat and Snorkel Tour to 5 Islands of Los Arcos: $46
  • Cachasol Raicilla and Tequila Tour: $83
  • Canopy Tour Experience in Sayulita, Nuevo Nayarit.: $68
  • City tour express; butterfly, tequila, and beach an ecological day: $22
  • EcoHike experience through the jungle, mountains and hidden beach: $30
  • Edenva Ecotourist Park in Puerto Vallarta: $69
  • Food & Mixology Tour:Tequila,Tacos, Mezcal and Agave Cocktails: $98

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Buzios $17
    Puerto Vallarta $22


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

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


Which is Bigger, Buzios or Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Buzios. When comparing the sizes of Buzios and Puerto Vallarta, 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.