A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Rio de Janeiro vs. Playa del Carmen for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Rio de Janeiro and Playa del Carmen 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.

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is a festive, diverse, and high energy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of Rio de Janeiro is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Rio de Janeiro travel costs.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a vibrant, picture-perfect, and scenic town. With stunning beauty, Playa del Carmen attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Playa del Carmen travel costs.

Rio de Janeiro and Playa del Carmen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rio de Janeiro than Playa del Carmen. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Rio de Janeiro is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Playa del Carmen attracts visitors for its resorts and scuba diving & snorkeling. Rio de Janeiro is famous for its samba dancing, sandy beaches, and Carnival. It is also well known for Christ the Redeemer. Playa del Carmen is famous for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches.

How is Rio de Janeiro different from Playa del Carmen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Playa del Carmen and Rio de Janeiro. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Rio de Janeiro on the map. Looking out over the city is the world famous landmark of Christ the Redeemer. It sits on top of Corcovado Mountain and it is a must-see destination for visitors to the city. Other sights around town include the church and monastery of São Bento, the stunning church of São Francisco da Penitência, the imperial palaces of São Cristóvão, and the baroque church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo.

While most people don't head to Playa del Carmen specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. If you're willing to head out of town, there are world class Mayan ruins not far away, but if you want to hang out near town, then you'll likely spend most of your time enjoying outdoor water activities.

Is the Food Better in Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Rio de Janeiro is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The cuisine around town mixes African and European cooking styles to give it a unique taste. The city is a mix of cultures and flavors and you'll find restaurants that integrate traditional Brazilian dishes with international influences. You'll find a wonderful street food scene, but also fine dining, and everything in between. Some of the most popular dishes include feijoada (beef and bean stew), churrasco (Brazilian barbecue), and pão de queijo (baked dough and cheese).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Playa del Carmen. You'll find a good number of overpriced tourist restaurants in the area, but if you do some research you'll also find amazing and authentic Mexican food as well. There is everything from food trucks to fine dining that offer ceviche, tacos, or burritos. There are also plenty of places to grab pizza or burgers.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen has a better nightlife scene.

People head to Rio de Janeiro just to party. It has a world famous nightlife scene, and the most popular party neighborhood is Lapa. While the biggest crowds are on the weekends, weeknights stay busy as well. Every weekend in Lapa there's a huge street party, but there are also bars and dance clubs nearby. A more local neighborhood is Botafogo, which is a great area to grab a beer and enjoy a relaxed night out. If you want a beachside bar, check out the touristy neighborhoods of Ipanema and Copacabana.

The nightlife in Playa del Carmen is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It rivals some of the country's best nightlife and you'll find plenty of venues to choose from, ranging from dive bars to swanky cocktail lounges. Head to the main walking street for some of the most active venues.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Rio de Janeiro is not a resort destination.

Playa del Carmen is a world class resort vacation destination. You'll find a huge number of luxury resorts in the area, particularly along the beach. There are fancy pools and beachfront properties that offer the perfect vacation retreat.

Rio de Janeiro is not a resort destination.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rio de Janeiro is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Playa del Carmen is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. There's not a lot to see right off of the beach, but there are plenty of snorkeling excursions in the area that take you to beautiful reefs. The diving is world class as well and you'll find wonderful reefs, bull sharks, and hidden gems.

Rio de Janeiro is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen Better for Beaches?

Both Rio de Janeiro and Playa del Carmen are considered to be terrific beach destinations.

Rio de Janeiro is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The beaches have long been written about and made iconic by songs and literary works. Copacabana and Ipanema are world renowned, and the sandy stretches and vibrant waterfront promenades will not disappoint. There are plenty of recreational activities as well as a striking blue water backdrop. You'll find beach parties, waterside bars, and pickup games of football or volleyball. In addition to these iconic beaches, there are several lesser known places to visit like Joatinga and Barra da Tijuca.

Playa del Carmen offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The area is filled with world class beaches, long stretches of white sand, and beautiful blue water. You might even stumble across a sea turtle or two while you're swimming.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen Better for Hiking?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

People visit Rio de Janeiro specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Although it is a bustling megacity, it also offers access to world class hikes. The city is filled with mountains and dramatic peaks, so many hikes take you to spectacular views of the city. There are also jungle hikes and even opportunities to see local wildlife. There's a combination of iconic trails and lesser known strolls that will let you truly absorb what this city has to offer. Some of the best hikes include Pedra Bonita, Dois Irmaos, and Pedra da Gávea.

Many people include a hike when visiting Playa del Carmen. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Is the Shopping Better in Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Rio de Janeiro is a world class destination for shoppers. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Whatever your budget, there are options for you. There are wonderful street markets for those on a budget and grand shopping malls if you're looking for something a bit higher end. Some of the best places for shopping include Rio Sul, Barra Shopping, and SAARA Market.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Playa del Carmen. Much of the shopping is geared towards the tourists, but you'll find some local items, interesting galleries, and colorful markets to explore.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen More Beautiful?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Rio de Janeiro is one of the main draws. The city's mountainous landscapes and striking beaches make it, arguably, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many mountaintop views of the city as well as city hikes and iconic neighborhoods.

Playa del Carmen is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rio de Janeiro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Playa del Carmen is an extremely popular town to visit for families. From eco parks to kid-friendly snorkeling opportunities, there are many activities for kids of all ages. There are also adventure parks and playgrounds that are perfect for a fun afternoon.

Rio de Janeiro is a very family-friendly destination. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the beaches. It's easy to spend days by the water soaking up the sun. Another must-do is a trip up Sugarloaf Mountain. The cable cars are fun and there are jungle walks and spectacular views. If you need to escape the rain or heat, spend the day at the Museum of Tomorrow.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Rio de Janeiro is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Playa del Carmen is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Beautiful beaches and tropical jungles make this a paradise honeymoon destination. You'll find luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and countless opportunities to enjoy the stunning setting. Take a sunset cruise of explore one of the many natural wonders in the area.

Rio de Janeiro is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many parks and gardens around town that are perfect for a stroll. Nature lovers will enjoy the many hikes in the area, many which go through the jungle, visit waterfalls, or offer spectacular views. And, of course, Sugarloaf Mountain is a must-see destination, as are the many beaches in the area.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rio de Janeiro is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers flock to the city for its wild nightlife scene and beautiful beaches. There's a huge backpacker culture here and many hostels around town that offer a social setting and plenty of activities for guests.

Playa del Carmen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's filled with tourists staying at luxury resorts, but you'll also find a couple of hostels tucked away in town. If you're interesting in scuba diving, then it's well worth the trip.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Rio de Janeiro is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Rio de Janeiro offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city has a subway system, MetroRio, that is relatively reliable and convenient. There are also city buses, trams, and commuter trains.

While Playa del Carmen offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses, collectivos and the ADO bus.

Is Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Rio de Janeiro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Playa del Carmen on foot is easy. It's a compact and very walkable town. La Quinta is the main strip and it's pedestrian-only.

Rio de Janeiro is very walkable. Most of the areas where tourists spend their time are relatively walkable. Centro is compact and many tourists choose to explore areas on foot. As always, remember to take the appropriate safety precautions and always be aware of your surroundings.

For even more information, also check out Is Rio de Janeiro Worth Visiting? and Is Playa del Carmen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Playa del Carmen or Rio de Janeiro?

How long in Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen?

Both Rio de Janeiro and Playa del Carmen have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Playa del Carmen than in Rio de Janeiro. Usually, 4-6 days is a good amount of time for Rio de Janeiro, and 3-7 days is enough time in Playa del Carmen.

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

Couples should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Rio de Janeiro. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Playa del Carmen that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rio de Janeiro than Playa del Carmen 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 Rio de Janeiro.

One day in Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen?

People visit Rio de Janeiro because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Playa del Carmen, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen?

People visit Rio de Janeiro because there is so much to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Playa del Carmen is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen?

Rio de Janeiro is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Playa del Carmen. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen?

Rio de Janeiro is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

In Playa del Carmen, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Brazil, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rio de Janeiro, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Rio de Janeiro Expensive? and Is Playa del Carmen Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen?

Rio de Janeiro has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Rio de Janeiro and Playa del Carmen, 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 Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Rio de Janeiro is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Playa del Carmen has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen in the Summer?

Both Playa del Carmen and Rio de Janeiro are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Rio de Janeiro for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Playa del Carmen in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Rio de Janeiro is around the same temperature as Playa del Carmen in the summer. The daily temperature in Rio de Janeiro averages around 26°C (79°F) in January, and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 28°C (82°F)in July.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. It's quite rainy in Rio de Janeiro. In January, Rio de Janeiro usually receives less rain than Playa del Carmenin July. Rio de Janeiro gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen in the Autumn?

Both Playa del Carmen and Rio de Janeiro during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Rio de Janeiro in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Rio de Janeiro is around the same temperature as Playa del Carmen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Rio de Janeiro in April average around 25°C (77°F), and Playa del Carmen averages at about 26°C (79°F)in October.

Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Rio de Janeiro. Rio de Janeiro usually gets more rain in April than Playa del Carmenin October. Rio de Janeiro gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year. May to November is the dry season in Rio de Janeiro. December to April is the rainy season in Rio de Janeiro. Also, the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen is June to October.

Should I visit Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Rio de Janeiro and Playa del Carmen. Most visitors come to Rio de Janeiro for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In July, Rio de Janeiro is generally around the same temperature as Playa del Carmenin January. Daily temperatures in Rio de Janeiro average around 21°C (70°F), and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In July, Rio de Janeiro usually receives more rain than Playa del Carmenin January. Rio de Janeiro gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Rio de Janeiro or Playa del Carmen in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Rio de Janeiro as well as Playa del Carmen. The spring months attract visitors to Rio de Janeiro because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year.

Rio de Janeiro is cooler than Playa del Carmen in the spring. The daily temperature in Rio de Janeiro averages around 23°C (73°F) in October, and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 27°C (81°F)in April.

Rio de Janeiro usually gets more rain in October than Playa del Carmenin April. Rio de Janeiro gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, May to November in Rio de Janeiro is the dry season. December to April in Rio de Janeiro is the rainy season. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen.

Typical Weather for Playa del Carmen and Rio de Janeiro