Brasilia is a vibrant city known for its modernist architecture, abundant green space, and planned layout. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Brasilia?
A typical traveler spends $99 (R$543) per day on a trip to Brasilia. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Brasilia based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $52 (R$283) on meals
- $20 (R$112) on local transportation
- $65 (R$358) on hotels
A one-week trip to Brasilia for two people costs, on average, $1,387 (R$7,602). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$694
R$3,801
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,387
R$7,602
-
One Month
Per person
$2,973
R$16,290
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,387
R$7,602
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,775
R$15,204
-
One Month
For a couple
$5,946
R$32,580
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Brasilia cost?
A one week trip to Brasilia usually costs around $694 (R$3,801) for one person and $1,387 (R$7,602) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Brasilia on average costs around $1,387 (R$7,602) for one person and $2,775 (R$15,204) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Brasilia will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Brasilia on average costs around $2,973 (R$16,290) for one person and $5,946 (R$32,580) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Brasilia expensive to visit?
In Brasilia, budget travelers spend $41 (R$227) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $99 (R$543) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $217 (R$1,186) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Brasilia.
Brasilia is a quaint locale that appeals to a variety of visitors, each with different travel styles, spending patterns, and budget needs. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
Brasilia can definitely get expensive if you let it, but you have options to reduce costs, including eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
Within South America, Brasilia is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Torres del Paine National Park or Easter Island.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Brasilia Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Brasilia?
The average Brasilia trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Brasilia travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Brasilia cost?
Brasilia on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$14
(R$74)
|
$33
(R$179)
|
$73
(R$399)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$9
(R$49)
|
$20
(R$112)
|
$40
(R$218)
|
|
Food2
|
$22
(R$118)
|
$52
(R$283)
|
$114
(R$623)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$8
(R$42)
|
$18
(R$100)
|
$40
(R$221)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$3-8
(R$14-43)
|
$7-20
(R$37-111)
|
$18-55
(R$100-300)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
To manage your travel budget, it's important to set realistic expectations. Many people think they can visit Brasilia on a cheap budget, but most don't enjoy the limitations of a tight shoestring budget. Consider how you like to travel. Do you enjoy hostels, resorts, hotels, or vacation rentals? Do you want to dine out and explore the major attractions? These decisions will determine your budget and itinerary.
Brasilia on a Shoestring Budget?
You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $41 daily average that backpackers get away with.
Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.
Fortunately, there's plenty of hostels in Brasilia, like Joy Hostel. Here, you can score affordable dorm accommodation along with a vibrant social scene, though amenities may be lacking.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
For couples or families traveling for enjoyment, opting for a mid-range hotel, dining at popular restaurants, and exploring major museums and attractions with entry fees is likely. When visiting Brasilia, most people will want to check out the major attractions, museums, and iconic landmarks. Remember, many activities do come with costs. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $99 per person, per day.
The range of hotels and vacation rentals in Brasilia is impressive. If you're traveling with others, sharing your hotel with a partner, friend, or kids allows you to split the costs and save money. Families will want to find hotels and restaurants that accommodate children. Windsor Brasilia Hotel is a solid choice for families, while Brasilia Palace Hotel also offers great options. For additional family and couple-friendly hotels, refer to our hotel guide for Brasilia here.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you want a vacation with premium amenities and superior service, brace yourself for a price near $217 daily. Choosing upscale hotels, dining at award-winning eateries, enjoying lavish excursions, and using taxis or private drivers around the city will require a luxury budget.
Accommodation Budget in Brasilia
The cost of hotels in Brasilia can be surprisingly wide-ranging. Some hotels charge a lot more because they offer extra luxury and amenities. Prices are also much higher during peak season. Off-season rooms average $38, but the demand in peak summer season pushes that average to around $71. Budget hotels range from $23 to $112, and hostels provide a cheaper option, especially in dorms. Booking early, traveling off-season, or finding special deals can help save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Brasilia for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $65 (R$358). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $33 (R$179) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Brasilia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Brasilia include:
- B Hotel Brasilia starting at $101
- Windsor Brasilia Hotel starting at $55
- Brasilia Palace Hotel starting at $49
- Brasil 21 Suites starting at $67
- Lets Idea Brasilia Hotel starting at $56
Brasilia has a good public transit system, so it's possible to stay further outside the city and commute in. This may keep your accommodation prices down, but your transportation costs will go up. It can also be inconvenient if you're short on time.
If you plan your trip for the shoulder or low season and avoid summer, you'll enjoy reduced accommodation costs and fewer tourists.
Transportation Budget in Brasilia
Brasilia offers a decent public transit system that reaches many must-see spots. The public transit system is relatively limited compared to larger Brazilian cities, but it still offers a few options for getting around. The Metro is an efficient choice for traveling through central areas, with two main lines that connect key neighborhoods like Asa Norte and Plano Piloto. There are also buses that are more comprehensive. For a cheaper and quicker way to explore, public transit is a solid option when it's nearby. Taxis and rideshares are also plentiful in the city.
Unfortunately, you'll find that the bulk of the city is not very walkable. The city isn't particularly walkable because it is very spread out.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (moderate)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $20 (R$112) per person, per day, on local transportation in Brasilia. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Brasilia is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$20
R$112
As a national air travel hub, Brasilia is host to flights to and from many destinations. The primary airport serving the city is Presidente Juscelino Kubitschek International Airport, located about 11 kilometers from the city center. Most flights are domestic, however several non-stop international flights operate to and from Orlando, Buenos Aires, Paris, Lisbon, Lima, Bogota, Miami, Panama City, Montevideo, Santa Cruz, Bolivia, Atlanta, Punta Cana, and seasonal to Santiago and Aruba.
The city can be reached from the airport by bus or taxi. Brasilia is also well-connected by bus to the rest of Brazil. Travel times are about 15 hours from São Paulo, 18 hours from Rio, 10 hours from Belo Horizonte, and 3 hours from Goiania.
How much does it cost to go to Brasilia? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Brasilia will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Brasilia
The food scene in Brasilia is solid, but it's not usually the main tourist attraction. However, there are some charming eateries in the city that you should check out. The city's food scene is diverse, offering a mix of traditional Brazilian dishes and international cuisine. Since it is home to people from all over Brazil, you can find food from many different regions in one place. Popular dishes include Picanha (Brazilian steak), Feijoada (black bean and pork stew), and Tucunaré na Brasa (grilled fish).
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Brasilia can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Brasilia is $52 (R$283) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$52
R$283
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Brasilia is around $52 (R$283) per person, with previous travelers spending from $22 to $114. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Brasilia are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $15
- Lunch: $8 to $21
- Dinner: $15 to $36
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $8
Cuisine of Brazil varies greatly by region, usually a mix of indigenous, European, and African influences. As the capital city of Brazil, Brasilia has a full range of flavors from traditional dishes to international fare. Brasilia itself does not have a typical, regional cuisine; however, restaurants do serve food from many Brazilian states. Rice and beans are central to traditional Brazilian cooking, as are root vegetables like cassava and yams, as well as fruits including acai, cupuaçu, mango, papaya, guava, orange, passion fruit, and pineapple.
Brazilian feijoada is considered to be the national dish, a kind of black bean and meat stew typically served with rice and oranges. It is occasionally topped with vegetables such as cabbage, kale, potatoes, carrots, okra, pumpkin, chayote, and sometimes banana. The national beverage is coffee. Another popular tradition in Brazil are salgadinhos, or small savory snacks similar to Spanish tapas. Some of the more popular small bites include a kind of cheese bread called pao de queijo, a chicken croquette called coxinha, and a Lebanese-inspired snack called kibe/quibe made from cracked wheat, minced onions, and finely ground meat that can be served baked, fried, or raw.
Some hotels include breakfast in the overall cost, while others add it as an extra charge. The quality and price of breakfast can vary greatly depending on the hotel. Being informed beforehand can help you determine if you need to set aside additional funds. The hotel's buffet may be worth it, or you might consider visiting a local bakery or cafe for a more budget-friendly option.
Pack a water bottle to save on drinks. It's also a way to help protect the environment.
If you're going to take a tour, make sure you understand which meals are included. You could end up paying for some food yourself, which might affect your budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Brasilia
Tourists are naturally attracted to Brasilia due to its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and family-friendly activities.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Brasilia typically cost an average of $18 (R$100) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$18
R$100
The Monumental Axis is the central avenue of the city and is the site of many important government buildings, monuments, and memorials, all with interesting buildings. For more information about this, check out this guide to architecture in Brasilia. At the eastern end of the Axis is what is known as the Three Powers Square (or Praça dos Tres Poderes), where the country's three highest authorities are located-the Congress, the Presidential Palace (called Palacio do Planalto), and the Supreme Court. Other attractions lining this central avenue are the Television Tower right in the middle of the Axis, the Juscelino Kubitschek Memorial and museum on the western part of the Axis, and the modern Cathedral of Brasilia designed by Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer in 1970. The President's official residence Palacio da Alvorada (Palace of Dawn) is located on Paranoa Lake, though it is not open to visitors.
Brasilia is also a hub for art and entertainment. Its main theatre, the National Theater Claudio Santoro, features three main halls for plays and concerts, art galleries, and temporary art exhibitions. There are also many public works of art around the city featured in architecture, landscape designs, and sculptures by many famous Brazilian artists. Another center for the arts is the Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil, which houses contemporary art galleries, a cinema, and a cafe.
Visitors can spend days in Brasilia admiring the treasure trove of modern architecture-each unique building designed by world-renowned architects, and each housing important government facilities, cultural venues, art, and more.
For something a little different, go lakeside at Paranoa Lake and watch the sunset over the city, or visit Brasilia National Park which offers an array of indigenous plant and bird species as well as a natural swimming hole.
Shopping:
You'll find shopping here to be an experience worth having. There is a mix of modern malls, local markets, and high-end boutiques. The city is home to several large shopping centers, such as Shopping Iguatemi, ParkShopping, and Conjunto Nacional, which feature a variety of international brands, local shops, and food courts. For more traditional items, the Feira da Torre is a popular open-air market where you can find local crafts, souvenirs, and handmade goods.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Brasilia. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Brasilia : Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide for $63 details
Nightlife Budget in Brasilia
For those seeking nightlife, Brasilia provides some options, but it's not quite as vibrant as in other well-known spots. The nightlife scene is more sophisticated and calm compared to other Brazilian capitals. It's not a party city by traditional standards, but it's ideal for those looking to enjoy good food, drinks, and live music in a more relaxed atmosphere. If you're looking for high-energy nightlife, the city might feel quieter, but it's still plenty of fun.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $14 (R$74) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Brasilia per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$14
R$74
Exploring the nightlife is often a fun part of any trip, but skipping a few drinks can make a big impact on your overall travel cost.
Drinking at night can be fun, but make sure you're aware of your surroundings. You could attract pickpockets, so it's best to stick with people you trust and stay in a group.
Travel cost data last updated: May 30, 2025
Traveling in Brasilia
Brasilia, Brazil
The capital city of Brazil, Brasilia is a uniquely-planned city that was constructed in four years from 1956-1960 in the shape of a large bird or airplane. Renowned for its modern architecture, the city listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and attracts architecture aficionados worldwide.
Neighborhoods & Around
The city is designed in the shape of a giant bird or airplane, with various separated zones assigned for specific functions such as housing, commerce, hospitals, and banking. The Eixo Monumental (or "Monumental Axis") runs down the center of the city between the two "wings," with government buildings stationed at the end. The Monumental Axis divides the city into north and south sectors. The zones are usually referred to by acronyms; those ending in N refer to sectors on the northern side of the axis, while those ending in S are on the south. The city is divided as follows:
SHS/SHN - Hotel sectors (Setor Hoteleiro)
SCS/SCN - Commercial sectors (Setor Comercial)
SQS/SQN - Residential sectors (Superquadras)
CLS/CLN (or SCLS/SCLN) - Local commerce sectors (Comercio Local) along the wings.
SES/SEN - Embassies sector (Setor de Embaixadas)
The arched "wings" of the city are mainly residential zones, with several rows of medium-rise apartment blocks and several small commercial districts. The intersection is the commercial and cultural hub, with stores, hotels, museums, and the Cathedral of Brasilia. The "nose" of the city faces Paranoa Lake.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.