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

Should you visit Puerto Vallarta or Whistler?

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 Whistler can help you decide which place is right for you.

Puerto Vallarta

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

Whistler

Whistler is a charming, adventurous, and outdoorsy village. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Whistler travel costs.

Puerto Vallarta and Whistler: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Puerto Vallarta or Whistler?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Whistler than Puerto Vallarta, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Whistler is better known for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Puerto Vallarta is more popular for its museums and attractions, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Whistler is more touristy than Puerto Vallarta and is known for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. Also, Whistler is famous for Cloudraker Skybridge. Puerto Vallarta is well known for its natural beauty and vibrant nightlife.

How is Puerto Vallarta different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Puerto Vallarta or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is renowned for snow skiing. However, Puerto Vallarta is not a skiing destination.

Whistler is among the world's best ski destinations. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Puerto Vallarta is not a skiing destination.

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

Puerto Vallarta is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Whistler is not a good village for its museums and history.

Puerto Vallarta is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historical sights around town like Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.

While most people don't head to Whistler specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Puerto Vallarta and Whistler.

Dining out in Puerto Vallarta is an experience not to be missed. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Whistler. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Both Puerto Vallarta and Whistler are excellent when it comes to partying.

Puerto Vallarta offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Whistler has a large number of nightlife venues. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Puerto Vallarta is renowned for its resorts. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for its luxury resorts.

Puerto Vallarta offers an unforgettable resort vacation. There are many different places to stay from all-inclusive resorts to high end hotels or beachfront properties.

In Whistler, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

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

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Whistler is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Puerto Vallarta to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Whistler is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Whistler Better for Beaches?

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Whistler is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Puerto Vallarta. 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.

Whistler is not a beach destination.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Whistler is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Puerto Vallarta is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Whistler specifically for its hiking. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

Puerto Vallarta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Puerto Vallarta or Whistler?

Puerto Vallarta is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit 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 Whistler. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Whistler More Beautiful?

Whistler is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Puerto Vallarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Puerto Vallarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Whistler is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

Puerto Vallarta is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Puerto Vallarta or Whistler Better for Couples?

Both Puerto Vallarta and Whistler are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Whistler makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

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

Both Puerto Vallarta and Whistler are excellent destinations for backpackers.

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

Whistler is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Puerto Vallarta is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Whistler is not a good village for times when you don't have a car.

Puerto Vallarta has a few public transit options. There are blue, green or orange buses that travel around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Whistler a more walkable city?

Puerto Vallarta and Whistler both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Whistler is very walkable. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Whistler or Puerto Vallarta?

How long in Puerto Vallarta or Whistler?

In either Puerto Vallarta or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Puerto Vallarta has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Puerto Vallarta than Whistler. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Puerto Vallarta than Whistler. 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 Whistler 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.

One day in Puerto Vallarta or Whistler?

The town of Puerto Vallarta offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The outdoorsy destination of Whistler offers skiing and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

A weekend in Puerto Vallarta or Whistler?

Puerto Vallarta is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

The village of Whistler offers nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Puerto Vallarta or Whistler?

Puerto Vallarta is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Puerto Vallarta, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Whistler is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This village offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Puerto Vallarta or Whistler?

Puerto Vallarta is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Whistler. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

When comparing the travel costs between Puerto Vallarta and Whistler, we can see that Whistler 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 North 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 Puerto Vallarta Expensive? and Is Whistler Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Puerto Vallarta or Whistler?

Puerto Vallarta has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Whistler. When comparing the sizes of Puerto Vallarta and Whistler, 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.