A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Fortaleza vs. Liberia for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Fortaleza or Liberia?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Fortaleza and Liberia can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Fortaleza

Fortaleza is a vibrant, cultural, and lively city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food, beaches, and shopping. See Fortaleza travel costs.

Liberia

Liberia is a colonial, fascinating, and accessible city. Visitors also love the hiking. See Liberia travel costs.

Fortaleza and Liberia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Fortaleza or Liberia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fortaleza. Although Fortaleza and Liberia are popular destinations, Fortaleza has more sights and attractions for tourists. Fortaleza is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Liberia attracts visitors for its hiking. Fortaleza is famous for its beaches, nightlife, and local culture. It is also well known for Dragão do Mar Center of Art and Culture. Liberia is famous for its "cowboy" culture as well as its proximity to some of Costa Rica's best national parks, beaches, and rainforests.

How is Fortaleza different from Liberia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fortaleza or Liberia?

Fortaleza
Liberia

Fortaleza is a good destination for its sights and museums. However, Liberia does not have museums and landmarks.

Fortaleza is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Dragão do Mar is the cultural center in town. There are shows and concerts that highlight the local culture. Also part of the complex are a planetarium and two museums - the Museu de Arte Contemporânea and the Memorial da Cultura Cearense. Also worth seeing the Metropolitan Cathedral of Fortaleza, which is the third largest cathedral in the country.

Liberia does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Fortaleza or Liberia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Fortaleza
Liberia

Fortaleza is a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Liberia is a mediocre city for its restaurants.

Fortaleza offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city has a number of great restaurants that range from Brazilian barbecue restaurants to international cuisine. Many dishes are heavy and use a lot of meat. Local favorites include paçoca and escondidinho de carne seca.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Liberia. The city has a number of traditional restaurants where you can find the ubiquitous Costa Rican dishes like gallo pinto and casado.

Is Fortaleza or Liberia Better for Nightlife?

Fortaleza
Liberia

Fortaleza is notable for nightlife. However, Liberia is a mediocre city for nightlife and partying.

Fortaleza has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Like much of Brazil, the city has a vibrant nightlife scene. There are beachfront bars, live music venues, and many places where you can enjoy a good party. You'll find a high concentration of places around Praia de Iracema and the Casario.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Liberia. If you're in town for the night, you should have no problem finding a bar to hang out at.

Is Fortaleza or Liberia Better for Beaches?

Fortaleza
Liberia

Fortaleza is notable for its beaches. However, Liberia is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Fortaleza for it's beautiful beaches. There are 5 kilometers of sandy beach in town and many visitors enjoy taking long walks. While there are technically four beaches in the area, they all kind of merge together and it can be difficult to tell one from the other. The most popular beach is Meireles, which has a boardwalk and is lined by high rise buildings.

Liberia is not a beach destination.


Is Fortaleza or Liberia Better for Hiking?

Fortaleza
Liberia

Liberia is renowned for hiking. However, Fortaleza is not a hiking destination.

Around Liberia visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Head to the nearby Rincon de la Vieja National Park for some of the country's best hiking. You'll see stunning waterfalls and hopefully catch a glimpse of local wildlife.

Fortaleza is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Fortaleza or Liberia?

Fortaleza
Liberia

Fortaleza is notable for shopping. However, Liberia is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Fortaleza is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's a large city with plenty of shopping malls and other local boutiques which are fun to explore.

Liberia is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Fortaleza or Liberia Better for Families?

Fortaleza
Liberia

Liberia is a city with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Fortaleza is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Liberia offers lots of family activities. This city is often used as a base for exploring the nearby Rincon De La Vieja National Park. Kids love the hikes, waterfalls, and wildlife that you see in the area.

Fortaleza is not the most family-friendly destination. There are several beaches and parks where kids will enjoy running around and stretching their legs.


Is Fortaleza or Liberia Better for Couples?

Fortaleza
Liberia

Liberia is a city with good options for its romantic activities. However, Fortaleza is not known for couples.

Liberia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking through rainforests, seeing splendid waterfalls, and checking out the local wildlife will enjoy a visit to Rincon De La Vieja National Park near town.

Fortaleza is not always the best place to visit for a couple. While it's often overlooked by couples, those who have a few days in town can enjoy the beaches or take a stroll down the beachfront promenade.

Is Fortaleza or Liberia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fortaleza
Liberia

Liberia is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Fortaleza is not known for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Liberia. Like much of Costa Rica, this city is an easy backpacker destination with affordable accommodation and unique places to explore.

Fortaleza is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town, but most backpackers skip this city for the more popular destinations.

Is Fortaleza or Liberia Better for Students?

Fortaleza
Liberia

Liberia is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Fortaleza is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Liberia. As the capital of the Guanacaste province, many students use this city as a base to explore the nearby parks. You'll find study abroad groups as well as researchers and Phd students in the area.

Fortaleza is not popular with students.


Is Fortaleza or Liberia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Fortaleza
Liberia

Liberia is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Fortaleza is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Liberia has some very good public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system that travels throughout the city and is used by many people.

Fortaleza has a few public transit options. The Metro system includes a rail and light rail system.

Is Fortaleza or Liberia a more walkable city?

Fortaleza
Liberia

Liberia is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Fortaleza is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Liberia is a very walkable city.

Fortaleza is a somewhat walkable city. It's a relatively walkable city with some neighborhoods easier to explore on foot than others. It's important to understand the area you're in because safety could be a concern.

For even more information, also check out Is Fortaleza Worth Visiting? and Is Liberia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Liberia or Fortaleza?

How long in Fortaleza or Liberia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Fortaleza and Liberia. In our opinion, Liberia has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Liberia than Fortaleza. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Fortaleza, and 1-3 days is enough time in Liberia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Liberia than Fortaleza 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 Liberia.


  • How many days in Fortaleza or Liberia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Fortaleza 2-3 
    Liberia 1-3

One day in Fortaleza or Liberia?

In Fortaleza, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find around the city of Liberia. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Liberia has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Fortaleza or Liberia?

In Fortaleza, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fortaleza has to offer.

You'll find around the fascinating destination of Liberia. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Fortaleza or Liberia?

Fortaleza is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the fascinating city of Liberia. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Fortaleza or Liberia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fortaleza. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Fortaleza. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Liberia is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Brazil, The Best Eco Tours in Brazil, The Best Adventure Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Eco Tours in Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, Liberia or Fortaleza?

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 Fortaleza is $83, while the average daily cost in Liberia 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 Fortaleza and Liberia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fortaleza $29
    Liberia $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fortaleza $58
    Liberia $120
Compare Hotels in Fortaleza and Liberia

Looking for a hotel in Fortaleza or Liberia? 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 Fortaleza


Hotels in Liberia


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: Fortaleza Hotel Prices and Liberia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fortaleza $20
    Liberia $43

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fortaleza

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

  • Transfer from Fortaleza Airport to Hotels in Orla Marítima: $8.62
  • Transfer to Beach Park: $11
  • Roundtrip transfer from Pinto Martins Airport to Hotels in Fortaleza: $17
  • Beach Park Transfer from Fortaleza: $19
  • Transfer from Fortaleza to Jericoacoara: $28
  • Fortaleza Airport (FOR) to Fortaleza - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Fortaleza Roundtrip Airport Transfers: $38
  • Private Transfer from Fortaleza (FOR) Airport to Porto das Dunas: $39
  • Fortaleza Airport Private Transfer: $40
  • Private Transfer from Cumbuco to Fortaleza (FOR) Airport: $48
  • Fortaleza to Fortaleza Airport (FOR) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Private Transfer from Fortaleza (FOR) Airport to Cumbuco: $48

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Liberia

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Liberia are as follows:


  • Bike Rental
    $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Liberia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Liberia:

  • Round Trip Transfer Liberia Airport (LIR) to Dreams Las Mareas Hotel: $295
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Dreams Las Mareas: $285
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Airport (LIR) to Monteverde / Jaco: $268
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Playas del Coco and Playa Hermosa: $265
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Int Airport (LIR) to Quepos Port: $258
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Airport (LIR) to Arenal / La Fortuna : $253
  • Private Transfer Int. Airport Liberia To La Fortuna From 1 to 6 passengers: $249
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Airport (LIR) to Samara: $232
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Int Airport LIR to La Fortuna area: $220
  • Liberia Airport to Hotels Round Trip Private Transfers: $220
  • Liberia Airport (LIR) to Playa Grande Round-Trip Private Transfer: $214
  • Transfer from Liberia Airport (LIR) to Rio Perdido Resort: $210

Is it cheaper to fly into Fortaleza or Liberia?

Prices for flights to both Liberia and Fortaleza 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
    Fortaleza $39
    Liberia $36

Typical Food Prices in Liberia

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


  • Snacks
    $1.97
  • Lunch at The Shack (for 1)
    $4.94
  • Lunch
    $11
  • Coffee & Tres Leches (for 2)
    $14
  • Ginger Ale
    $1.28

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Fortaleza $15
    Liberia $25

Tours and Activities in Fortaleza

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

  • Full Day Tour to Cumbuco From Fortaleza: $12
  • 3 Beaches in 1 Day Tour Leaving Fortaleza: $12
  • Lagoinha Beach Tour: $14
  • Águas Belas Tour: $14
  • Lagoinha Beach Tour: $16
  • Tour 3 beaches in 1 day: $17
  • Fortaleza Panoramic City Tour with visit to Cumbuco Beach: $19
  • Tour 3 Beaches in 1 day (Morro Branco, Praia das Fontes and Canoa Quebrada): $23
  • Canoe Quebrada Full Day Tour - Departure from Fortaleza by Vitorino Turismo: $23
  • Jericoacoara Tour in a Full Day - Leaving Fortaleza by Girafatur: $25
  • City Tour Fortaleza - Full Day Cumbuco Beach Tour by Nettour: $25
  • Historical and Cultural City Tour of Fortaleza: $29

Tours and Activities in Liberia

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

  • Birdwatching Experience private tour : $300
  • 2 Hour ATV Experience From Guanacaste: $189
  • 2 Hour ATV Private Tour in Costa Rica: $81
  • 2 Hour Coffee & Chocolate Tour in Playas del Coco: $40
  • 3 Hour ATV Adventure Tour in El Jobo: $140
  • 3 In 1 Volcano Hot Springs & Mud Baths And River Floating Tour: $235
  • 4-Hour Private Guided ATV Tour in Costa Rica: $122
  • 5 Tours in 1 – The Ultimate Volcano Adventure!: $159
  • 7 Hour Private Tour in Palo Verde National Park with Pickup: $120
  • 8 Essential Guanacaste Experiences: culture, nature & wellness : $78
  • ATV Beach Tour: $125
  • ATV Tour 2hrs - Dreams Las Mareas: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fortaleza $9.58
    Liberia $13


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

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


Which is Bigger, Fortaleza or Liberia?

Fortaleza has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Liberia. When comparing the sizes of Fortaleza and Liberia, 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 Fortaleza or Liberia?

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

Should I visit Fortaleza or Liberia in the Summer?

Both Liberia and Fortaleza during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fortaleza this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Liberia year-round.

In January, Fortaleza is generally around the same temperature as Liberiain July. Daily temperatures in Fortaleza average around 28°C (82°F), and Liberia fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Fortaleza. In the summer, Fortaleza often gets more sunshine than Liberiain July. Fortaleza gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Liberia receives 164 hours of full sun.

Liberia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Fortaleza. Fortaleza usually gets less rain in January than Liberiain July. Fortaleza gets 119 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Liberia receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year. July to January is the dry season in Fortaleza. January to July is the rainy season in Fortaleza.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January and July
    Fortaleza 28°C (82°F) 
    Liberia 28°C (82°F)

Should I visit Fortaleza or Liberia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Fortaleza and Liberia. Many travelers come to Fortaleza for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Liberia attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Fortaleza is around the same temperature as Liberia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Fortaleza averages around 27°C (80°F) in April, and Liberia fluctuates around 27°C (81°F)in October.

Fortaleza usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Liberia during autumn. Fortaleza gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Liberia receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Liberia receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Fortaleza gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Fortaleza usually receives more rain than Liberiain October. Fortaleza gets 356 mm (14 in) of rain, while Liberia receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to April in Liberia is the dry season. Also, April to December is the rainy season in Liberia.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April and October
    Fortaleza 27°C (80°F) 
    Liberia 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Fortaleza or Liberia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Fortaleza as well as Liberia. Many visitors come to Fortaleza in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. The warm climate attracts visitors to Liberia throughout the year.

In the winter, Fortaleza is around the same temperature as Liberia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Fortaleza in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Liberia averages at about 27°C (81°F)in January.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Liberia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Fortaleza this time of the year. In the winter, Fortaleza often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Liberiain January. Fortaleza gets 256 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Liberia receives 264 hours of full sun.

Fortaleza usually gets more rain in July than Liberiain January. Fortaleza gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Liberia receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, July to January in Fortaleza is the dry season. January to July in Fortaleza is the rainy season.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July and January
    Fortaleza 26°C (79°F) 
    Liberia 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Fortaleza or Liberia in the Spring?

Both Liberia and Fortaleza are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Fortaleza for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Liberia because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In October, Fortaleza is generally around the same temperature as Liberiain April. Daily temperatures in Fortaleza average around 28°C (82°F), and Liberia fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

It's quite sunny in Liberia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Fortaleza. Fortaleza usually receives more sunshine than Liberia during spring. Fortaleza gets 287 hours of sunny skies, while Liberia receives 255 hours of full sun in the spring.

In October, Fortaleza usually receives less rain than Liberiain April. Fortaleza gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Liberia receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Liberia is December to April. The rainy season in Liberia is April to December.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October and April
    Fortaleza 28°C (82°F) 
    Liberia 29°C (85°F)

Typical Weather for Liberia and Fortaleza

Fortaleza Liberia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°C (82°F) 119 mm (4.7 in) 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Feb 27°C (81°F) 205 mm (8.1 in) 28°C (83°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Mar 27°C (80°F) 323 mm (12.7 in) 29°C (84°F) 4 mm (0.2 in)
Apr 27°C (80°F) 356 mm (14 in) 29°C (85°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
May 27°C (80°F) 256 mm (10.1 in) 29°C (83°F) 226 mm (8.9 in)
Jun 26°C (80°F) 142 mm (5.6 in) 28°C (82°F) 226 mm (8.9 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 28°C (82°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Aug 27°C (80°F) 22 mm (0.9 in) 26°C (79°F) 289 mm (11.4 in)
Sep 27°C (81°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 28°C (82°F) 328 mm (12.9 in)
Oct 28°C (82°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 27°C (81°F) 254 mm (10 in)
Nov 28°C (82°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 27°C (81°F) 121 mm (4.8 in)
Dec 28°C (82°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 27°C (81°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)