A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Berlin vs. Brasilia for Attractions, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Berlin or Brasilia?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berlin or Brasilia, 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.

Berlin

Berlin is a creative, eclectic, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Berlin travel costs.

Brasilia

Brasilia is a lively, vibrant, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Brasilia travel costs.

Berlin and Brasilia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Berlin or Brasilia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Berlin than Brasilia, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Berlin is more touristy than Brasilia and is popular for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. It is also home to the Brandenburg Gate. Brasilia is popular for its modernist architecture, abundant green space, and planned layout.

How is Berlin different from Brasilia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Berlin or Brasilia?

Berlin
Brasilia

Berlin is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Berlin on the map. Famous landmarks include the rebuilt Reichstag, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and Berliner Fernsehturm. Many of the city's oldest and most famous museums are found on Museum Island, where you'll find the Pergamon Museum, the James Simon Gallery, the Altes Museum, and the Neues Museum, among others.

Brasilia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a variety of museums that highlight the city's rich history, modernist architecture, and diverse culture. Notable museums include the Museu Nacional, showcasing contemporary art, and the Museu de Arte de Brasília (MAB), which focuses on Brazilian art. The Memorial dos Povos Indígenas offers insight into indigenous cultures, while the Museu do Catetinho takes visitors through the early days of the city’s creation.


Is the Food Better in Berlin or Brasilia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Berlin
Brasilia

Berlin is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Berlin is an experience not to be missed. There's a great international food scene, but also all of the traditional favorites like currywurst, spätzle, and schnitzel. You'll find many diverse food halls, street markets, and local restaurants, as well as a large selection of traditional German restaurants that cater to the tourists.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Brasilia. 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).

Is Berlin or Brasilia Better for Nightlife?

Berlin
Brasilia

Berlin is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Berlin is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene here is legendary. There are club nights that last for days, bars and parties that appeal to every personality, and a diversity of venues that you can choose from. You'll find the classic techno warehouses, but there are also modern dance clubs, bunker parties, and raves.

If you're looking for night time activities Brasilia has a few options to choose from. 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.

Is Berlin or Brasilia Better for Music?

Berlin
Brasilia

Berlin is renowned for its music scene. However, Brasilia is not a live music destination.

In Berlin you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. From the raves to the techno parties, there is a hugely diverse music scene in the city. It is so much more than the stereotypical punk and techno music that Berlin is known for. Rock, pop, and other genres are popular as well.

Brasilia is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Berlin or Brasilia?

Berlin
Brasilia

Berlin is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Berlin is a world class destination for shoppers. Bookshops, flea markets, luxury boutiques and artisan shops all make up the shopping scene in the city. Kurfürstendamm is one of the most famous shopping districts in the city.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Brasilia. 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.

Is Berlin or Brasilia Better for Families?

Berlin
Brasilia

Berlin is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Berlin is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of great kid-friendly museums such as the Museum of Natural History and the Computer Games Museum. There's also Legoland, an impressive aquarium, and lots of parks and playgrounds to explore.

Brasilia offers lots of family activities. While it doesn't have as many theme parks as some of the other large cities in Brazil, there are a number of activities that families can enjoy. There's the Parque da Cidade, where children can ride bikes and play on playgrounds. There's also Nicolândia, a small amusement park with exciting rides. At the Brasília Zoo, kids can see native animals like jaguars, toucans, and capybaras while learning about Brazil's wildlife. The Planetarium of Brasília is a great spot for young space enthusiasts, featuring interactive exhibits and fascinating star shows.

Is Berlin or Brasilia Better for Couples?

Berlin
Brasilia

Berlin and Brasilia are both good to visit as a couple.

Berlin makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic activities in the city include wandering through Schloss Charlottenburg gardens and learning to dance at Clärchen’s Ballhaus. For couples who enjoy a night out on the town, there are many great restaurants and nightclubs that you can check out.

Brasilia is a good city for couples to visit. There are sunset boat rides on Paranoá Lake. If you enjoy culture, you can visit the National Museum or admire the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of Brasília. A romantic dinner at a lakeside restaurant in Pontão do Lago Sul is perfect for a night out with delicious food and a relaxing atmosphere. For nature lovers, a peaceful walk or picnic at Jardim Botânico de Brasília provides a lovely escape from the city.


Is Berlin or Brasilia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berlin
Brasilia

Berlin is renowned for backpackers. However, Brasilia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Berlin is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has no shortage of hostels to choose from, many of which organize activities and tours that guests can enjoy.

Brasilia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's fascinating architecture and great green spaces, but the city has limited nightlife and it isn't the most popular destination for backpackers. There are some budget-friendly hostels and public buses that make it possible to explore without spending too much. Though it lacks a strong backpacker scene, Brasília's mix of culture, green spaces, and history makes it an interesting stop for adventurous travelers.

Is Berlin or Brasilia Better for Students?

Berlin
Brasilia

Berlin is renowned for students. However, Brasilia is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Berlin. With it's rich culture and eclectic creative side, this city appeals to many international students. There's also a great social scene that is perfect for university students.

Brasilia is not popular with students.

Is Berlin or Brasilia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Berlin
Brasilia

Berlin is renowned for its public transit. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Berlin has a great public transit system. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

While Brasilia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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.


Is Berlin or Brasilia a more walkable city?

Berlin
Brasilia

Berlin is very good for its ease of walking around. However, Brasilia is not particularly known for its walkability.

Berlin is a somewhat walkable city. While parts of the city are very walkable, the neighborhoods are spread out and the city covers a large amount of space, so walking isn't always practical.

Brasilia is generally not a very walkable city. The city isn't particularly walkable because it is very spread out.

For even more information, also check out Is Berlin Worth Visiting? and Is Brasilia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Brasilia or Berlin?

How long in Berlin or Brasilia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Berlin and Brasilia. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Berlin than in Brasilia. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Berlin, and 1-3 days is enough time in Brasilia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berlin than Brasilia 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 Berlin.


  • How many days in Berlin or Brasilia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Berlin 2-7 
    Brasilia 1-3

One day in Berlin or Brasilia?

Berlin is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Brasilia. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Berlin or Brasilia?

Berlin is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Berlin, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Brasilia is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Berlin or Brasilia?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brasilia. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Berlin or Brasilia?

Berlin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Berlin has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the lively destination of Brasilia. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Eco Tours in Brazil, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Brazil.


Which place is cheaper, Brasilia or Berlin?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Berlin is €175, while the average daily cost in Brasilia is €85. 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 Berlin and Brasilia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Berlin 64
    Brasilia 28
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Berlin 128
    Brasilia 56
Compare Hotels in Berlin and Brasilia

Looking for a hotel in Berlin or Brasilia? 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 Berlin


Hotels in Brasilia


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: Berlin Hotel Prices and Brasilia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Berlin 18
    Brasilia 18
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Berlin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Berlin:


  • Short Trip Metro Ticket
    1.40
  • Bahn Ticket
    3.00
  • Short Taxi Ride
    20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berlin

Also for Berlin, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Private Transfer from Berlin Airport BER to Berlin City by Luxury Van: $162
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Berlin Airport BER to Berlin City in Business Car: $156
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Brandenburg Airport BER to Berlin in Luxury Car: $162
  • Arrival Transfer from Berlin Train Station to Berlin by Sedan: $82
  • Arrival Transfer: Berlin Airport BER to Berlin in Business Car: $111
  • Arrival Transfer: Berlin Airport BER to Berlin in Luxury Van: $122
  • Berlin Airport (SXF) to Berlin - Arrival Private Transfer : $118
  • Berlin Airport (SXF) to Berlin - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $232
  • Berlin City Departure Private Transfer to Berlin Train Station in Business Car: $82
  • Berlin Departure Private Transfers from Berlin City to Berlin Airport SXF: $97
  • Berlin Private Airport Transfers | English Speaking Driver: $125
  • Berlin Private Airport/Hotels Transfer Service | English Speaking: $160

Is it cheaper to fly into Berlin or Brasilia?

Prices for flights to both Brasilia and Berlin 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
    Berlin 90
    Brasilia 44
Typical Food Prices in Berlin

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Berlin:


  • Sandwich and Coffee To Go
    5.00
  • Turkish Sandwich
    2.00
  • Currywurst
    2.00
  • 2 Pho Noodles
    9.00
  • Restaurant Dinner and Beers (for 2)
    60
  • Mauer Park (2)
    11
  • Coffees at Impala
    7.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berlin

For Berlin, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • English Comedy Ticket including Pizza in Berlin Mitte: $19
  • English Comedy Showcase Including Pizza in Berlin Mitte: $30
  • Hard Rock Cafe Berlin with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $31
  • Mitte Culinary Food Tour: $50
  • Kreuzberg kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $51
  • Berlin Mitte kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $51
  • Evening Yacht Cruise with Aperitif & Dinner Upgrade: $56
  • Berlin Food Tour with Full Meal and Beer: $71
  • Guided Street Food Tour with Tastings: $72
  • Candlelight dinner for two - Italian night in Berlin: $80
  • Dinner Cruise on the Spree with Prosecco: $89
  • Berlin 3-Course Dinner Cruise: $91

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Berlin 22
    Brasilia 16
Typical Entertainment Prices in Berlin

For Berlin, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Berlin Zoo (2)
    20

Tours and Activities in Berlin

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Berlin.

  • Historic Jewish walking tour through the city center: $1.71
  • Rude Bastards Tour of Berlin: $3.42
  • Rude Bastards tour of Medieval Berlin: $3.42
  • Self Guided Tours Berlin With 100 Captivating Audio Stories: $3.47
  • City's Highlights Walking Tour: $4.56
  • Berlin Third Reich Walking Tour: $4.65
  • Communist Berlin Walking Tour: $4.65
  • Berlin's Museum Island: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.00
  • Into the Heart of A Self-guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Berlin Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $6.21
  • Jewish Museum Highlights Tour: $6.84
  • Discover the Berlin Wall During Cold War Self-Guided Tour: $6.86

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Berlin 16
    Brasilia 12
Typical Alcohol Prices in Berlin

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Berlin from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Show
    14

Sample the Local Flavors in Berlin

Also in Berlin, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ludwig's Original Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry: $18
  • Brewery tour with craft beer tasting in Brauhaus Neulich: $19
  • Cirque du Burlesque Berlin Show Ticket: $20
  • Berliner Berg Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting: $21
  • Pub Crawl with Shots and VIP Club Entry: $23
  • Vagabund Brauerei Beer Tasting & Guided Brewery Tour: $25
  • Night Pub Crawl Tour in Berlin Shots and Party: $26
  • Ludwig's Queer Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry: $33
  • Berlin Pub Crawl: $35
  • Original Pub Crawl Berlin: $35
  • Wine on Canvas - Paint Workshop and Wine Tasting: $46
  • Beer hike in Berlin Experience brewery and craft beer: $64


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

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


Which is Bigger, Berlin or Brasilia?

Berlin has a larger population, and is about 55% larger than the population of Brasilia. When comparing the sizes of Berlin and Brasilia, 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.