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

Should you visit Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Puerto Vallarta and Lewisburg can help you decide which place is right for you.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a colorful, laid-back, and cultural town. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Puerto Vallarta travel costs.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a historical, quaint, and charming town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include shopping and museums. See Lewisburg travel costs.

Puerto Vallarta and Lewisburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Puerto Vallarta than Lewisburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Puerto Vallarta is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Lewisburg is more popular for its historical sights and small town charm. Puerto Vallarta is more touristy than Lewisburg and is known for its natural beauty and vibrant nightlife. Also, Puerto Vallarta is famous for the Malecon. Lewisburg is well known for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Puerto Vallarta different from Lewisburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Puerto Vallarta
Lewisburg

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Puerto Vallarta. There are a number of historical sights around town like Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.

Lewisburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.


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

Puerto Vallarta
Lewisburg

Puerto Vallarta is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Puerto Vallarta makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg Better for Nightlife?

Puerto Vallarta
Lewisburg

Puerto Vallarta is well known for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg Better for Resorts?

Puerto Vallarta
Lewisburg

Puerto Vallarta is an amazing town to visit for its resorts. However, Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg is not a resort destination.


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

Puerto Vallarta
Lewisburg

Puerto Vallarta is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg Better for Beaches?

Puerto Vallarta
Lewisburg

Puerto Vallarta is well known for its beaches. However, Lewisburg 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.

Lewisburg is not a beach destination.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg Better for its Old Town?

Puerto Vallarta
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Puerto Vallarta does not have a historic old town.

Lewisburg offers a nice historic old town area. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.

Puerto Vallarta does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg?

Puerto Vallarta
Lewisburg

Puerto Vallarta is well known for shopping. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Puerto Vallarta is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There's a mix of shopping malls, open-air markets, boutiques, and international brands.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lewisburg. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg Better for Families?

Puerto Vallarta
Lewisburg

Puerto Vallarta is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Puerto Vallarta is 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.

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg Better for Couples?

Puerto Vallarta
Lewisburg

Puerto Vallarta is well known for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Puerto Vallarta frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.


Is Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Puerto Vallarta
Lewisburg

Puerto Vallarta is well known for backpackers. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Puerto Vallarta. There are hostels around, as well as many adventure sports or thrilling activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Lewisburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the radar for most backpackers.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg Better for Students?

Puerto Vallarta
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is very good for students. However, Puerto Vallarta is not popular with students.

Lewisburg is a good town to visit for students. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Puerto Vallarta is not popular with students.

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

Puerto Vallarta
Lewisburg

Puerto Vallarta is a popular place for its public transit. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Puerto Vallarta, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are blue, green or orange buses that travel around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.


Is Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg a more walkable city?

Puerto Vallarta
Lewisburg

Puerto Vallarta is well known for its walkability. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

For even more information, also check out Is Puerto Vallarta Worth Visiting? and Is Lewisburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lewisburg or Puerto Vallarta?

How long in Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Puerto Vallarta than Lewisburg because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Puerto Vallarta, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lewisburg.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Vallarta than Lewisburg 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 Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Puerto Vallarta 3-5 
    Lewisburg 1-2

One day in Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg?

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of Puerto Vallarta. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The quaint destination of Lewisburg offers shopping and museums. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the cultural destination of Puerto Vallarta. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The town of Lewisburg offers museums and shopping. 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.


Five days in Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the laid-back town of Puerto Vallarta. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Lewisburg is a great place to explore. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg?

Puerto Vallarta is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Lewisburg. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Luxury Tours to Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Lewisburg or Puerto Vallarta?

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

  • Puerto Vallarta Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Lewisburg Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Puerto Vallarta $128
    Lewisburg $161

The average daily cost (per person) in Puerto Vallarta is $128, while the average daily cost in Lewisburg is $161. 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 Puerto Vallarta and Lewisburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Puerto Vallarta $57
    Lewisburg $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Puerto Vallarta $114
    Lewisburg $140
Compare Hotels in Puerto Vallarta and Lewisburg

Looking for a hotel in Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg? 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 Puerto Vallarta


Hotels in Lewisburg


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.
    Puerto Vallarta $17
    Lewisburg $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Puerto Vallarta

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Puerto Vallarta:

  • Airport-Hotel Transfers: $89
  • PVR VIP Round trip transfer Airport Conrad Punta Mita Airport: $299
  • PVR VIP Round trip transfers - Airport - Marina hotels - Airport: $49
  • PVR VIP Round trip transfers - Airport - Zona Hotelera - Airport: $54
  • PVR VIP Round trip transfers Airport Conchas Chinas Airport: $74
  • PVR VIP Roundtrip Transfer from Airport - Nuevo Nayarit - Airport: $64
  • Privat Transfer from Puerto Vallarta Airport PVR to Punta de Mita: $184
  • Private AC Airport Transfer to Sayulita: $200
  • Private Transfer from Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR) for 4-7 people to Nayarit: $102
  • Private Transfer from Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR) to Puerto Vallarta hotels: $141
  • Private Transfer from Puerto Vallarta Airport(PVR) to Cruise Port: $72
  • Private Transfer from Puerto Vallarta to Puerto Vallarta Port: $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg?

Prices for flights to both Lewisburg and Puerto Vallarta 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
    Puerto Vallarta $58
    Lewisburg $59

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Puerto Vallarta

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

  • Taco Adventure Evening Food Tour with Vallarta Food Tours: $55
  • Seafood Lover's Tour with Vallarta Food Tours : $59
  • Winner 2025 Downtown Vallarta Food Tour with Vallarta Food Tours: $59
  • Mexican Cooking Class, Tequila Tasting & Unlimited Margaritas: $89
  • Mexican Cooking Class and Tequila Tasting: $95
  • Sayulita Tacos and Tequila Food Tour : $99
  • Market Visit and Mexican Cooking Class: $106
  • Private Mexican Cooking Class & Tequila Cocktail at Tanya’s Home: $108
  • Authentic Cooking Class in Puerto Vallarta with Local Chef, Manu: $119
  • Puerto Vallarta- Market tour and Cooking Experience : $134
  • Rhythms of the night, sunset cruise, open bar & oceanfront dinner: $159
  • Night Rhythms - Alma - Show and Dinner in Puerto Vallarta: $209

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Puerto Vallarta $17
    Lewisburg $18

Tours and Activities in Puerto Vallarta

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

  • Tequila Tasting Tour in Nuevo Vallarta: $5.00
  • Puerto Vallarta City Tour: $20
  • Butterfly Experience Nature Park Admission : $22
  • City tour express; butterfly, tequila, and beach an ecological day: $22
  • Private Bike City Tour with Photo Session in Puerto Vallarta: $22
  • Hop On Hop Off Tour with Free Stops in Puerto Vallarta: $25
  • Butterfly Sanctuary Guided Tour in Puerto Vallarta: $27
  • Historic Downtown Ghost Walking Tour: $28
  • Full-Day Puerto Vallarta City Highlights Tour: $29
  • Puerto Vallarta City Tour: $29
  • EcoHike experience through the jungle, mountains and hidden beach: $30
  • Puerto Vallarta VIP Promotional Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Puerto Vallarta $22
    Lewisburg $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Puerto Vallarta

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Puerto Vallarta:

  • Premium Tequila Tasting Puerto Vallarta Distillery: $18
  • Puerto Vallarta Pub Crawl: $22
  • Mexican Wine Tasting Experience: $38
  • Secret Agave Bar Crawl in Vallarta: $98


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

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


Which is Bigger, Puerto Vallarta or Lewisburg?

Puerto Vallarta has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Puerto Vallarta and Lewisburg, 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.