A Travel Price Comparison for Brazil Ilha Grande vs. Buzios for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Ilha Grande or Buzios?

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

Should I visit Ilha Grande or Buzios? 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.

Ilha Grande

Ilha Grande is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Ilha Grande travel costs.

Buzios

Visitors also love the food. See Buzios travel costs.

Ilha Grande and Buzios: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Ilha Grande or Buzios?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ilha Grande than Buzios, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ilha Grande is well known for Also, Ilha Grande is famous for . Buzios is well known for

How is Ilha Grande different from Buzios?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ilha Grande
Buzios

Both Ilha Grande and Buzios offer a number of notable restaurants to choose from.

Ilha Grande has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The island still has a quiet, local vibe and that can be seen in the restaurants around town as well. Many places are locally owned and serve up traditional dishes. In particular, the seafood is excellent.

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 Ilha Grande or Buzios Better for Nightlife?

Ilha Grande
Buzios

Ilha Grande is mediocre for nightlife and partying. However, Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ilha Grande It's a quiet island with a national park and most people visit specifically to get away from the busy and active city scene.

Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Ilha Grande or Buzios Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ilha Grande
Buzios

Ilha Grande is a great for its diving and snorkeling. However, Buzios is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Ilha Grande. There are several places where you can rent snorkeling or dive equipment. The area has coral and tropical fish, with the occasional sea turtle sighting. The visibility is generally good and the experience is worth enjoying, but make sure you check on water conditions.

Buzios is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ilha Grande or Buzios More Beautiful?

Ilha Grande
Buzios

Ilha Grande is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Buzios is not a destination known for its beauty.

Ilha Grande is a beautiful place to visit, too. The secluded beaches and surrounding nature make this a beautiful island to explore. It's made up of a national park and there are hiking trails and many scenic spots.

Buzios is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Ilha Grande or Buzios Better for Families?

Ilha Grande
Buzios

Buzios is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ilha Grande is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ilha Grande. Most families who visit the island come for the beaches. There are also many nice hikes, waterfalls, and even wildlife that the kids will enjoy. In the village there are a few restaurants. Many aren't geared specifically to kids, but they do have a selection that kids might enjoy.

Is Ilha Grande or Buzios Better for Couples?

Ilha Grande
Buzios

Ilha Grande is a great for its romantic activities. Also, Buzios is not as popular, but is still a nice for couples.

Ilha Grande is a great if you're traveling as a couple. Scenic beaches and beautiful nature make this a wonderful couples retreat that's not far from Rio de Janeiro. The beaches have a more relaxed and quiet vibe than many places in Brazil and the island still holds on to its undiscovered atmosphere.

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 Ilha Grande or Buzios Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ilha Grande
Buzios

Ilha Grande and Buzios are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Ilha Grande. It is possible to reach the island with a backpacker's budget, but it will take you more time than if you hire a private tour. Once you're on the island there are some hostels and budget hotels to choose from as well.

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

Ilha Grande
Buzios

Ilha Grande is mediocre for times when you don't have a car. However, Buzios does not have public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Ilha Grande. You'll need to take a boat to reach the island, and once you're there, there are not vehicles around.

Buzios does not have public transit.

Is Ilha Grande or Buzios a more walkable city?

Ilha Grande
Buzios

Ilha Grande is a great for its high level of walkability. However, Buzios is not a walkable destination.

Ilha Grande is a very walkable . There are no cars on the island and very few roads. You'll spend a lot of time hiking around, which is the best way to enjoy the island. They don't call it "big island" for no reason though, so make sure you understand the distance between destinations.

Buzios is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Buzios or Ilha Grande?

How long in Ilha Grande or Buzios?

In either Ilha Grande or Buzios, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Buzios than Ilha Grande because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Ilha Grande, and 2-5 days is enough time in Buzios.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ilha Grande 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 Ilha Grande.


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

One day in Ilha Grande or Buzios?


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

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the of Buzios. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Ilha Grande or Buzios?


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Ilha Grande 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.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Buzios. This offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Ilha Grande or Buzios?


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It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ilha Grande. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the of Buzios. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Ilha Grande or Buzios?


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

Many people enjoy the food when visiting Buzios. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Brazil, and The Best Luxury Tours to Brazil.


Which place is cheaper, Buzios or Ilha Grande?

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 Ilha Grande is $80, while the average daily cost in Buzios is $91. 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 Ilha Grande and Buzios in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ilha Grande $35
    Buzios $36
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ilha Grande $70
    Buzios $72
Compare Hotels in Ilha Grande and Buzios

Looking for a hotel in Ilha Grande or Buzios? 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 Ilha Grande


Hotels in Buzios


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ilha Grande $17
    Buzios $18

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ilha Grande

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

  • Private Transfer from GIG to anywhere in the City Angra dos Reis: $182
  • Private Transfer from Angra dos Reis to Airport GIG in Rio : $182
  • Private Transfer Angra dos Reis to Rio de Janeiro: $91
  • From Angra dos Reis: Shared Transfer to Rio de Janeiro: $46
  • Regular Transfer Angra dos Reis x Rio de Janeiro and Airports: $36

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Ilha Grande or Buzios?

Prices for flights to both Buzios and Ilha Grande 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
    Ilha Grande $35
    Buzios $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ilha Grande $6.36
    Buzios $25

Tours and Activities in Ilha Grande

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

  • Angra dos Reis Lagoons Shared Speedboat Tour: $78
  • Angra Dos Reis Daily Tour To Paradise. Boat Trip Lunch And Fruits Included: $67
  • Angra Super Blue Lagoon Speedboat Tour: $76
  • Angra dos Reis Island Hopping Speedboat Tour from Ilha Grande: $69
  • Boat Adventure through the Super Blue Lagoon in Angra dos Reis: $77
  • Boat Tour To The Beaches Of Angra Dos Reis: $18
  • Discover Angra’s Hidden Paradise Islands by Speedboat Tour: $78
  • Diving Adventures in Angra dos Reis: $177
  • From Ilha Grande - Paradise Island 7 h - Speedboat tour: $65
  • Full-Day Ilha Grande Northern Coast Speedboat Tour: $63
  • Half-Day Ilha Grande Schooner Tour: $42
  • Ilha Grande - From Abrãao: Lopes Mendes beach tour & trekking: $25

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ilha Grande $10
    Buzios $17


When comparing the travel costs between Ilha Grande and Buzios, we can see that Buzios is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in South America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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