A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Berlin vs. Rio de Janeiro for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Berlin or Rio de Janeiro?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berlin or Rio de Janeiro, 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.

Where Should I go: Berlin or Rio de Janeiro?

Berlin

Berlin is the capital and largest city in Germany. As such, travelers can expect typical European prices for everything from hotels to food to sights and attractions. While it's possible to experience this city on a cheaper budget, don't expect to get much without paying a decent amount.

With a population of about 4.5 million, Berlin is a very international city that is well known for its high level of tolerance, an eclectic nightlife, an artistic vibe and many historical sights. There are museums, palaces and landmarks spread throughout the city. Despite having a significant amount of damage during the last few years of World War II, Berlin has been rebuilt with an interesting diversity of architecture styles. This is particularly true after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. Architecture in the city represents many different historical periods ranging from medieval buildings through modern, glass structures.

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is the most popular travel destination in Brazil. It is the second largest city in Brazil and the sixth largest in the Americas. A portion of the city has been designated a World Heritage Site. It's also famous for Carnival, it's gorgeous beaches, and world-famous landmarks. Rio's appeal as a travel destination is apparent year round due to the great weather and plenty of fun activities. The city has a wonderful natural harbor that is surrounded by Sugar Loaf Mountain, Corcovado Peak, and the hills of Tijuca, creating an absolutely breathtaking and awe-inspiring setting.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Cultural Tours in Germany, The Best Luxury Tours to Brazil, and The Best Budget Tours to Brazil.


Which place is cheaper, Rio de Janeiro or Berlin?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Berlin is €137, while the average daily cost in Rio de Janeiro is €100. 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 Rio de Janeiro in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Berlin 64
    Rio de Janeiro 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Berlin 128
    Rio de Janeiro 126
Compare Hotels in Berlin and Rio de Janeiro

Looking for a hotel in Berlin or Rio de Janeiro? 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 Rio de Janeiro


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 Rio de Janeiro Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Berlin 18
    Rio de Janeiro 7.54
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: $143
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Berlin Airport BER to Berlin City in Business Car: $135
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Brandenburg Airport BER to Berlin in Luxury Car: $143
  • Arrival Transfer from Berlin Train Station to Berlin by Sedan: $73
  • Arrival Transfer: Berlin Airport BER to Berlin in Luxury Van: $120
  • Berlin Airport (BER) to Berlin - Arrival Private Transfer: $32
  • Berlin Airport (BER) to Berlin - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $64
  • Berlin Airport (SXF) to Berlin - Arrival Private Transfer : $32
  • Berlin Airport Arrival Transfer to Potsdam Hotels: $175
  • Berlin Airport Transfer - BER Airport: $98
  • Berlin Airport Transfers : Berlin Airport SXF to Berlin in Business Car: $83
  • Berlin Airporttransfer, Driver, Chauffeur, Limousinenservice: $109

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rio de Janeiro

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Rio de Janeiro:


  • Taxi Ride
    2.77

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rio de Janeiro

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rio de Janeiro:

  • From Private Transfer to São Paulo: $650
  • Rio Carnival 2025: Sambadrome Parade + Transfer (Sector 7): $476
  • Rio's 2025 Carnival Parade at Sapucaí + Transfer Sector 5: $476
  • Rio: Sambadrome Carnival Parade + transfer 2025 Sector 7: $476
  • 2025 Sambadrome Carnival Parade: Transfer Included Sector 5: $476
  • Rio Carnival 2025: Sambadrome Parade + Transfer Sector 5: $476
  • 2025: Rio Carnival Parade at Sapucaí with Transfer Sector 7: $476
  • Helicopter Ride for 25 to 30min with Transfer service: $300
  • All Private Transfer from Rio de Janeiro to Ilha Grande: $275
  • TRANSFER VAN Rio de Janeiro x Búzios/Arraial/Cabo Frio/Angra: $272
  • From Private Transfer to Vila do Abraão: $249
  • Private Transfer Rio de Janeiro and Airports x Angra dos Reis (4 max): $247

Is it cheaper to fly into Berlin or Rio de Janeiro?

Prices for flights to both Rio de Janeiro 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 52
    Rio de Janeiro 19
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 Stand-Up Comedy with Pizza and Shots: $19
  • Hard Rock Cafe Berlin with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Kreuzberg kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $49
  • Berlin : No Diet Club Food Tour - Street Food Paradise: $60
  • Evening Yacht Cruise with Aperitif & Optional Dinner: $64
  • Dinner Cruise on the Spree with Prosecco: $69
  • Sicilian Cooking Workshop with unlimited drinks: $71
  • Evening Food Tour by Bike: $71
  • Berlin 3-Course Dinner Cruise: $76
  • Sharing plate food tour in Berlin: $77
  • Siciliamo - True Sicilian Cooking Workshops: $83
  • Berlin Food Walking Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99

Typical Food Prices in Rio de Janeiro

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Rio de Janeiro:


  • Popcorn
    0.55
  • Corn on the Cob
    0.74
  • Hamburger
    0.92

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rio de Janeiro

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Rio de Janeiro.

  • Waterfront Dinner & Live Music Experience: $47
  • Barra da Tijuca Food Tour with Drinks: $74
  • 9-Recipes Boozy Brazilian Cooking Class with Market Tour: $85
  • Dinner & Rio Scenarium Nightclub Admission with Transfer: $85
  • 9-Recipe Boozy Brazilian Cooking Class: $85
  • Copacabana Local Street Bars Food Tour: $93
  • Rio Bar Food Tour with a Local - All Included: $99
  • Rio Scenarium Entrance, Dinner, and Open Bar: $107
  • Rio Bar Food Tour with a Local: $114
  • Brazilian Cooking Class: $129
  • Samba Show Admission & Transfer with Dinner Option: $130
  • Rio: Ginga Tropical Folkloric Show & Optional Dinner: $142

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Berlin 22
    Rio de Janeiro 20
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.

  • Small Group Walking Tour: $1.25
  • Berlin Alternative Street Art Tour: $2.65
  • Berlin Walking Tour: $2.65
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Old Berlin": $3.25
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Center of Power": $3.25
  • Third Reich and Holocaust Self Guided Audio Tour: $3.26
  • Rude Bastards Tour of Berlin: $3.26
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Museum Island Self Guided Audio Tour: $3.80
  • Tour di Berlino - Offerta libera - in italiano: $3.80
  • Escape Game and Tour: $3.80
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.34

Tours and Activities in Rio de Janeiro

Here are a few actual costs in Rio de Janeiro for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Favelas do Vidigal or Rocinha's experience: $51
  • Ilha Grande Tour Full day - Rio de Janeiro by Rio Eco Trip: $105
  • 03 - Guided Tour to the Grande Rio Academics Barracão: $120
  • 1 day tour Rio de Janeiro to Christ and Cable car and much more: $103
  • 14 - Guided Tour to Quadra Do Salgueiro with Samba Show: $75
  • 15 - Guided Tour to Santa Marta Favela: $150
  • 16 - Guided Tour to Favela da Rocinha: $75
  • 19 - Guided Tour to the Museum of Tomorrow and Olympic Boulevard: $90
  • 2 Days in Rio: Tijuca Forest & Two Brothers Hiking Tours: $288
  • 2 Hours Paradisiac Sailboat Tour in Rio de Janeiro: $288
  • 2 Hours Tour with Parasailing in Rio de Janeiro: $110
  • 20 - Guided Tour to AquaRio and Olympic Boulevard: $120

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Berlin 16
    Rio de Janeiro 11
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:

  • Original One80 Berlin Pub Crawl: $16
  • Guided Brewery Tour and Craft Beer Tasting: $20
  • brewery tour with beer tasting: $20
  • Pub Crawl and Nightclub Entry with a Guide: $22
  • Vagabund Brauerei Beer Tasting & Guided Brewery Tour: $24
  • Pub Crawl with Skip-the-Line Club Entry: $24
  • Berlin Pub Crawl and Nightlife Clubbing tour: $27
  • Showgirls of Burlesque Entry Ticket: $70
  • The Showgirls of Burlesque: $72
  • Wine Tasting, Antipasti and Cheese: $76
  • German Wine Tasting Tour at the Best Wine Bars in Berlin: $254
  • German Wine Tasting Tour at the Best Wine Bars in Berlin: $258

Sample the Local Flavors in Rio de Janeiro

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Rio de Janeiro:

  • Pub Crawl in Lapa: $30
  • Rio: Pub Crawl in Lapa with Cachaça Tasting and Live Samba: $33
  • Petropolis City Tour with Imperial Museum and Optional Lunch & Bohemia Brewery: $40
  • Walking tour + Pub crawl in Lapa: $42
  • Petropolis Bohemia: Historic tour and visit to the Bohemian Brewery: $58
  • Petropolis City Tour + Bohemia Brewery + Lunch: $77
  • Petrópolis City and Brewery Bohemia Tour - Best of Rio's Mountains: $110
  • Rio: Sitio Burle Marx and Cachaça Distillery Private Tour: $134


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Berlin and Rio de Janeiro, we can see that Berlin is more expensive. And not only is Rio de Janeiro much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Berlin is in Europe and Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro.

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


Which is Bigger, Berlin or Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro has a larger population, and is about 76% larger than the population of Berlin. When comparing the sizes of Berlin and Rio de Janeiro, 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 Berlin or Rio de Janeiro?

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 Berlin has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Berlin or Rio de Janeiro in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Berlin as well as Rio de Janeiro. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Berlin this time of year.

In the summer, Berlin is cooler than Rio de Janeiro. Typically, the summer temperatures in Berlin in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Rio de Janeiro averages at about 26°C (79°F)in January.

It's quite rainy in Rio de Janeiro. Berlin usually gets less rain in July than Rio de Janeiroin January. Berlin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Berlin 19°C (66°F) 
    Rio de Janeiro 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Berlin or Rio de Janeiro in the Autumn?

Both Rio de Janeiro and Berlin are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Berlin for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In October, Berlin is generally much colder than Rio de Janeiroin April. Daily temperatures in Berlin average around 10°C (50°F), and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Rio de Janeiro. In October, Berlin usually receives less rain than Rio de Janeiroin April. Berlin gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Berlin 10°C (50°F) 
    Rio de Janeiro 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Berlin or Rio de Janeiro in the Winter?

Both Rio de Janeiro and Berlin during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Berlin in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Berlin can get quite cold in the winter. Berlin is much colder than Rio de Janeiro in the winter. The daily temperature in Berlin averages around -0°C (31°F) in January, and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 21°C (70°F)in July.

Berlin usually gets less rain in January than Rio de Janeiroin July. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Berlin -0°C (31°F) 
    Rio de Janeiro 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Berlin or Rio de Janeiro in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Berlin and Rio de Janeiro. Most visitors come to Berlin for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Berlin is much colder than Rio de Janeiro. Typically, the spring temperatures in Berlin in April average around 9°C (47°F), and Rio de Janeiro averages at about 23°C (73°F)in October.

In April, Berlin usually receives less rain than Rio de Janeiroin October. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Berlin 9°C (47°F) 
    Rio de Janeiro 23°C (73°F)

Typical Weather for Rio de Janeiro and Berlin

Berlin Rio de Janeiro
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 26°C (79°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Feb 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 27°C (81°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Mar 4°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 103 mm (4.1 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 25°C (77°F) 137 mm (5.4 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 52 mm (2 in) 23°C (73°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in) 21°C (70°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 24°C (75°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 51 mm (2 in) 25°C (77°F) 169 mm (6.7 in)