A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Salvador vs. Playa del Carmen for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Salvador or Playa del Carmen?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salvador or Playa del Carmen, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Salvador

Salvador is a historical, authentic, and cultural city. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Salvador 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.

Salvador and Playa del Carmen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salvador or Playa del Carmen?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Playa del Carmen than Salvador. While Salvador is larger than Playa del Carmen, Playa del Carmen has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Playa del Carmen is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Salvador attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, and historical sights. Playa del Carmen is more touristy than Salvador and is known for its coral reefs, luxury resorts, and white sand beaches. It is also well known for La Quinta Avenida. Salvador is famous for its West African influence, rich culinary scene, and colonial architecture.

How is Salvador 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 Salvador. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Salvador or Playa del Carmen?

Salvador is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Playa del Carmen is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Salvador offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Many of the main sights are found in the historic part of town. In this area you'll find the Museu da Cidade, the Abelardo Rodrigues Museum, and the Casa do Benin. There are many ornate churches as well such as the São Francisco and the Carmelite Church.

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 Salvador or Playa del Carmen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Salvador is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Salvador is an experience not to be missed. The city has rich African roots that are noticeable in the cuisine around town. Buffets have become popular in restaurants and many places offer a lunch buffet. They range in price and quality and you often pay by the weight. Common dishes include moqueca (seafood stew), vatapá (a type of curry), and acarajé (fried balls of beans and shrimp).

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 Salvador or Playa del Carmen Better for Nightlife?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Salvador is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

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.

Many people head to Salvador for the nightlife scene. Head to the old city for a mix of local music and authentic Brazilian activities. Further out, along the stretches of beach, you'll find larger music venues and dance clubs. The atmosphere is laid back and relaxed throughout the city and you'll find a very local vibe in many neighborhoods.

Is Salvador or Playa del Carmen Better for Resorts?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Salvador is not a resort destination.

Playa del Carmen offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Salvador is not a resort destination.

Is Salvador or Playa del Carmen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Salvador is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Playa del Carmen specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Salvador is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Salvador or Playa del Carmen Better for Beaches?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Salvador is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

The beaches in Playa del Carmen are among the best in 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.

The beaches at Salvador attract visitors from all over. Many of the beaches are sandy with warm water and tidal pools to explore. The most popular beach is Praia Farol da Barra, which can get crowded. North of the city is the more relaxed Praia Farol de Itapuã and if you want to learn to surf, head to Praia da Jaguaribe, which is home to several surfing schools.

Is Salvador or Playa del Carmen Better for its Old Town?

Salvador is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.

Salvador offers a nice historic old town area. The city served as the first Portuguese capital and today it still has colonial architecture and a historic atmosphere. At the historic heart of the city is the Pelourinho neighborhood, which has nice squares and cobblestone streets.

Playa del Carmen does not have a historic old town.

Is Salvador or Playa del Carmen Better for Hiking?

Playa del Carmen is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Salvador is not a hiking destination.

Playa del Carmen has hiking trails worth exploring. There are well marked trails in the area that get you out in nature or take you along the coastline.

Salvador is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Salvador or Playa del Carmen?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Playa del Carmen and Salvador.

Many visitors go to Salvador to go shopping. There are many local markets and shops around town where you can pick up traditional Brazilian items and artisan crafts.

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 Salvador or Playa del Carmen More Beautiful?

Playa del Carmen is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Salvador is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Playa del Carmen attracts visitors from all around. From beautiful beaches to inland jungles, this is a truly stunning destination.

Salvador is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Salvador or Playa del Carmen Better for Families?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Salvador is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Playa del Carmen is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. 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.

For families, Salvador is not always the best place to visit. It has a reputation for being dangerous, so many families don't plan to spend much time here, but the city has parks, recreational activities like climbing, and a number of kid-friendly museums to explore. There are also many ice cream shops and family-friendly restaurants.

Is Salvador or Playa del Carmen Better for Couples?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Salvador is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Playa del Carmen has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Salvador is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The historical center is charming and the perfect place to explore as a couple. There are also parks around town and many cultural experiences that visitors truly enjoy.

Is Salvador or Playa del Carmen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salvador is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Playa del Carmen is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Salvador is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers love the historical architecture and the authenticity that this city offers. There are also a number of hostels around town.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Salvador and Playa del Carmen.

You'll find some public transit in Salvador, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town that are divided into two different classes - the common bus and the executive bus.

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 Salvador or Playa del Carmen a more walkable city?

Playa del Carmen is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. However, Salvador is not particularly known 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.

Salvador is generally not a very walkable city. While it's possible to walk around town, you should really understand which areas are safe and which parts of town are dangerous. Sometimes the dangerous areas are just a couple of blocks that are surrounded by an otherwise safe neighborhood, so you should really understand where you are before heading out on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Playa del Carmen or Salvador?

How long in Salvador or Playa del Carmen?

Both Salvador 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 Salvador. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Salvador, and 3-7 days is enough time in Playa del Carmen.

Families should spend more time in Playa del Carmen than Salvador. 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 Salvador. 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 Salvador 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 Salvador.

One day in Salvador or Playa del Carmen?

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Salvador. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

The beautiful town of Playa del Carmen offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

A weekend in Salvador or Playa del Carmen?

You'll find shopping and museums around the historical city of Salvador. 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 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.

Five days in Salvador or Playa del Carmen?

Salvador is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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

A week in Salvador or Playa del Carmen?

Salvador is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Playa del Carmen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Playa del Carmen has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in Brazil, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Brazil, 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 Salvador and Playa del Carmen, we can see that Playa del Carmen is more expensive. And not only is Salvador much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Salvador 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 Salvador would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Salvador 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 Playa del Carmen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Playa del Carmen than you might in Salvador.

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

Which is Bigger, Salvador or Playa del Carmen?

Salvador has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Playa del Carmen. When comparing the sizes of Salvador 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 Salvador 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. Salvador 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 Salvador or Playa del Carmen in the Summer?

Both Playa del Carmen and Salvador are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Salvador in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Salvador is around the same temperature as Playa del Carmen in the summer. The daily temperature in Salvador averages around 27°C (81°F) in January, and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 28°C (82°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Playa del Carmen. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salvador. Salvador usually receives more sunshine than Playa del Carmen during summer. Salvador gets 246 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 223 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. It's quite rainy in Salvador. In January, Salvador usually receives less rain than Playa del Carmenin July. Salvador gets 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Salvador is September to February. The rainy season in Salvador is March to August.

Should I visit Salvador or Playa del Carmen in the Autumn?

Both Playa del Carmen and Salvador during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Salvador for the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Playa del Carmen because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Salvador is around the same temperature as Playa del Carmen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Salvador in April average around 26°C (80°F), and Playa del Carmen averages at about 26°C (79°F)in October.

In Playa del Carmen, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Salvador often gets less sunshine than Playa del Carmenin October. Salvador gets 190 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 233 hours of full sun.

Playa del Carmen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Salvador. Salvador usually gets more rain in April than Playa del Carmenin October. Salvador gets 310 mm (12.2 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen is June to October.

Should I visit Salvador or Playa del Carmen in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Salvador and Playa del Carmen. The winter months attract visitors to Salvador because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Playa del Carmen this time of year.

In July, Salvador is generally around the same temperature as Playa del Carmenin January. Daily temperatures in Salvador average around 24°C (75°F), and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Playa del Carmen this time of the year. Salvador usually receives less sunshine than Playa del Carmen during winter. Salvador gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Playa del Carmen receives 224 hours of full sun in the winter.

Salvador gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Salvador usually receives more rain than Playa del Carmenin January. Salvador gets 175 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. September to February in Salvador is the dry season. Also, March to August is the rainy season in Salvador.

Should I visit Salvador or Playa del Carmen in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Salvador as well as Playa del Carmen. The beaches are the main draw to Salvador this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Playa del Carmen for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Salvador is around the same temperature as Playa del Carmen in the spring. The daily temperature in Salvador averages around 26°C (78°F) in October, and Playa del Carmen fluctuates around 27°C (81°F)in April.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Playa del Carmen. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Salvador this time of the year. In the spring, Salvador often gets less sunshine than Playa del Carmenin April. Salvador gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Playa del Carmen receives 259 hours of full sun.

Salvador receives a lot of rain in the spring. Salvador usually gets more rain in October than Playa del Carmenin April. Salvador gets 115 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Playa del Carmen receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Playa del Carmen.

Typical Weather for Playa del Carmen and Salvador