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

Should you visit Buzios or Quepos?

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

Should I visit Buzios or Quepos? 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

It's also popular because of the food. See Buzios travel costs.

Quepos

Quepos is a laid-back, relaxed, and local town. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Quepos travel costs.

Buzios and Quepos: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • 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 Quepos?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Quepos. Although Buzios and Quepos are both popular with visitors, Quepos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Quepos is more touristy than Buzios and is known for its big game sport fishing. It is also home to Manuel Antonio National Park. Buzios is popular for

How is Buzios different from Quepos?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Quepos 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 Quepos?

Buzios
Quepos

Quepos is mediocre for its historical sights. However, Buzios does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Quepos. You won't find much as far as museums go around town.

Buzios does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Buzios
Quepos

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Buzios and Quepos.

Buzios has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Quepos area. You'll find a mix of cafes, fine dining, and seafood restaurants in the area. You can get traditional Costa Rican dishes as well as a more international flavor depending on your preference.

Is Buzios or Quepos Better for Nightlife?

Buzios
Quepos

Quepos is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Quepos has a few options to choose from. You'll find a few bars and clubs around town, but it is a small town and the selection can be limited.

Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Buzios or Quepos Better for Resorts?

Buzios
Quepos

Quepos is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Buzios is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Quepos offers a few options. It's a fishing town with a local vibe, so you'll likely want to stay outside of town if you're looking for an upscale resort.

Buzios is not a resort destination.


Is Buzios or Quepos Better for Beaches?

Buzios
Quepos

Quepos is a popular place for the beach. However, Buzios is not a beach destination.

Quepos is a good option for a beach vacation. If you want to be close to the beach, you'll do better to stay at nearby Manuel Antonio. Quepos does have a waterfront and access to deep sea fishing.

Buzios is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Buzios or Quepos?

Buzios
Quepos

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Quepos. You'll find boutique shops around town that sell everything from clothing to art.

Buzios is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Buzios or Quepos Better for Families?

Buzios
Quepos

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Buzios or Quepos.

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.

Quepos is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Most of the beaches are kid-friendly and the children will love the wildlife. You'll also find zipline tours in the area as well as canopy walks.


Is Buzios or Quepos Better for Couples?

Buzios
Quepos

Quepos is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Buzios is not as popular, but is still a nice for couples.

Quepos makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The beaches and resorts make this a favorite honeymoon destination for couples. There are many great restaurants and plenty of activities like horseback riding or surfing nearby.

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 Quepos Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Buzios
Quepos

Quepos is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Buzios is not as popular, but is still a nice for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Quepos is extremely popular for backpackers. It's one of the more popular destinations in Costa Rica, so you'll find plenty of hostels and other backpackers to hang out with.

Buzios is a very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Buzios or Quepos Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Buzios
Quepos

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

While Quepos offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a number of buses that pass through town. There are also buses that travel between Quepos and Manuel Antonio.

Buzios does not have public transit.


Is Buzios or Quepos a more walkable city?

Buzios
Quepos

Quepos is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Buzios is not a walkable destination.

Quepos is a somewhat walkable place. It is a relatively walkable town.

Buzios is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Quepos or Buzios?

How long in Buzios or Quepos?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Quepos 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 Quepos.


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

One day in Buzios or Quepos?


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

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

A weekend in Buzios or Quepos?


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Buzios is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Quepos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Buzios or Quepos?


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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Quepos. 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 Buzios or Quepos?


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Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Buzios. This offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the local destination of Quepos. 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 Adventure Tours to Brazil, The Best Eco Tours in Brazil, The Best Wildlife Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, Quepos or Buzios?

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 Buzios is $91, while the average daily cost in Quepos is $139. 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 Quepos in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Buzios $36
    Quepos $76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Buzios $72
    Quepos $152
Compare Hotels in Buzios and Quepos

Looking for a hotel in Buzios or Quepos? 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 Quepos


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: Quepos Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Buzios $18
    Quepos $9.55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Buzios

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

  • Tour in Buzios City Tour, Lunch and Transfer: $60
  • Rio de Janeiro Transfer from Buzios to Airport (GIG)(SDU): $73
  • Private transfer from Buzios to the GIG Airport : $182
  • Private transfer Minivan from GIG Rio Galeao airport up to 6 pax to Buzios: $134
  • Private transfer Buzios in Rio to the SDU Airport : $182
  • Private Transfer from GIG Airport to City Buzios in Rio : $170
  • Private Transfer from Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro: $91
  • Private Transfer from Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) to Buzios Port: $118
  • Private Transfer from Buzios Port to Cabo Frio Airport (CFB): $118
  • Private Transfer Buzios to Rio de Janeiro: $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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Quepos

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

  • Transfer from Manuel Antonio to SJO Airport and surroundings : $229
  • Private One Way Transfer from Manuel Antonio to San José (Airport SJO): $220
  • Private Transfer: SJO Airport to Manuel Antonio with Scenic Stop.: $203
  • Private Transfer: SJO Airport to/from Manuel Antonio (One Way): $99

Is it cheaper to fly into Buzios or Quepos?

Prices for flights to both Quepos 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
    Quepos $51

Typical Food Prices in Quepos

For Quepos, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch
    $15
  • Seafood Dinner (for 1)
    $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Quepos

For Quepos, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Class in Manuel Antonio with Medicinal Plants Garden Visit: $77
  • Cooking Class & Medicinal Plants Garden Manuel Antonio: $77
  • Night Mangrove Safari Boat Tour with Dinner | Manuel Antonio: $79
  • Local Flavor Cooking Experience: $81

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

Tours and Activities in Buzios

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

  • Buzios Trolley City Tour: $31
  • 3-hour Small Group Buzios Peninsula Open Air Trolley Tour: $31
  • Búzios Full day: Boat and Trolley Tour with Lunch from Arraial do Cabo: $120
  • Búzios Full day: Boat and Trolley Tour with Lunch from Búzios: $93
  • Búzios Full day: Boat and Trolley Tour with Lunch from Cabo Frio: $112
  • Boat Tour Open Bar A Floor Arraial do Cabo : $13
  • Boat Tour in Arraial do Cabo: $23
  • Boat Tour in Arraial do Cabo from Buzios with Lunch: $60
  • Buggy Ride in Buzios by Buziana Tour: $19
  • Buggy Tour in Arraial do Cabo by Arraial Viagens: $58
  • Cabo Frio Full-Day Tour From Buzios with Lunch: $64
  • Catamaran Boat Tour in Búzios: $26

Tours and Activities in Quepos

For Quepos, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 10 in 1 Tour! Zip Lines, Rappels, Tarzan Swing, Waterfalls & More: $158
  • 2-3-Hour Manuel Antonio Park Nature Guided Tour: $28
  • 2-Hour Kayak Tour in Quepos Mangroves – See Monkeys & Sloths: $65
  • ATV Tour Half Day Trip From Manuel Antonio: $93
  • All Inclusive Catamaran Eco Adventure from Manuel Antonio: $88
  • All-Inclusive Catamaran Eco Adventure with Lunch: $93
  • All-Inclusive Full day Waterfall Adventure: $117
  • All-Inclusive Jungle Night Tour: $59
  • Canopy Tour From Manuel Antonio: $121
  • Catamaran Adventure From Manuel Antonio: $121
  • Catamaran Cruise from Manuel Antonio with Snorkeling: $98
  • Chocolate Experience, Waterfall and Cultural Lunch in local home.: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Buzios $17
    Quepos $15


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Buzios and Quepos, we can see that Quepos 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 Quepos 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 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 Quepos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Quepos 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 Quepos Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Buzios or Quepos?

Buzios has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Quepos. When comparing the sizes of Buzios and Quepos, 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.