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

Should you visit Berlin or Sao Paulo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berlin or Sao Paulo, 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 historic, cultural, and artsy city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Berlin travel costs.

Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a colorful, cultural, and dynamic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Sao Paulo travel costs.

Berlin and Sao Paulo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Berlin or Sao Paulo?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Berlin than Sao Paulo. While Sao Paulo is larger than Berlin, Berlin has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Berlin is more touristy than Sao Paulo and is known for its art scene, cultural activities, and war torn history. It is also home to the Brandenburg Gate. Sao Paulo is popular for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene.

How is Berlin different from Sao Paulo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sao Paulo 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 Sao Paulo?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Berlin and Sao Paulo.

The museums and tourist attractions in Berlin are world-renowned. 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.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Sao Paulo on the map. While many visitors overlook Sao Paulo for other destinations in Brazil, those that do visit will be rewarded with a large number of museums and sights. It's the largest city in South America, and there's plenty to do. Highlights include Museu de Arte, Museu de Arte, Museu de Arte Contemporânea, and the cathedral

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Berlin and Sao Paulo can be an enjoyable experience.

Berlin has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Dining out in Sao Paulo is an experience not to be missed. The city offers a huge mix of fine dining restaurants, street food vendors, family-friendly restaurants, and large local markets. The cuisine has many influences such as the Portuguese, West Africa, and even the Middle East. Popular dishes include the street food coxinha, feijoada (black bean and beef stew), and cachooro-quente (local hot dogs).

Is Berlin or Sao Paulo Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find amazing options in both Berlin and Sao Paulo.

The nightlife in Berlin is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Sao Paulo is a world class party destination. As the economic hub for Brazil, you'll find tons of bars, clubs, and venues throughout the city. The best neighborhood for a party is Vila Madalena, which is filled with restaurants and bars. For live music and food trucks, check out Rua Augusta. There are also many different neighborhoods in this megacity, and many have a lively energy and plenty to do at night. Every night you should be able to find something different to do.

Is Berlin or Sao Paulo Better for Music?

Berlin is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Sao Paulo is not a live music destination.

Berlin has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. 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.

Sao Paulo is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Berlin or Sao Paulo?

If you're looking to go shopping, Berlin and Sao Paulo both offer plenty of amazing spots.

Known for shopping, Berlin draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Sao Paulo is a world class destination for shoppers. The shopping opportunities are diverse, from megamalls to local markets, and international boutiques. There are many great neighborhoods for shopping, like Jardins, where you'll find high end stores. The main shopping street is Rua Oscar Freire. Downtown Sao Paulo has a mix of retail stores and market stalls that sell everything from cheap fashion to inexpensive odds and ins.

Is Berlin or Sao Paulo Better for Families?

Berlin is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Berlin. 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.

Sao Paulo is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy a visit to the zoo or one of the kid-friendly museums around town. There are also a number of parks, some kid-friendly restaurants, and even an amusement park.

Is Berlin or Sao Paulo Better for Couples?

Berlin and Sao Paulo 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.

Sao Paulo is a good city for couples to visit. The city is filled with culture and you'll find many great activities that will make for an exciting couples trip. There are parks and museums, bars and restaurants, and theaters where you can see a show. Many couples enjoy a visit to the Botanical Garden of Sao Paulo or a stroll through Ibirapuera Park. You can watch the sunset with a view of the city from one of the many rooftop bars and then enjoy some samba dancing on the town.

Is Berlin or Sao Paulo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berlin is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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

Sao Paulo is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's overlooked by many travelers, backpackers who linger for awhile will enjoy the city's authenticity and cultural scene. There are also a number of hostels around town.

Is Berlin or Sao Paulo Better for Students?

Berlin is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Berlin is a great destination for students. 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.

Sao Paulo is a good city to visit for students. The city is large with a diverse population and plenty to offer students. There are good educational institutions and a great international vibe as well.

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

Berlin and Sao Paulo both offer amazing public transit to get you around.

Visitors in Berlin can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The transportation system is diverse and includes the S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams.

Sao Paulo has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. It's a huge city, so you'll likely make use of the metro during your trip. There are six lines to the metro system and they provide convenient access to many of the city's top attractions. The city also has many bus routes as well.

Is Berlin or Sao Paulo a more walkable city?

Sao Paulo is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Berlin is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Sao Paulo is a very walkable city. It's a megacity that has a wide range of neighborhoods. The city center is generally very walkable, but because of its size, you'll want to have an itinerary planned out for each day.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Sao Paulo or Berlin?

How long in Berlin or Sao Paulo?

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

Families should spend more time in Berlin than Sao Paulo. 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.

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

One day in Berlin or Sao Paulo?

People visit Berlin because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Sao Paulo. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Berlin or Sao Paulo?

People visit Berlin because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Sao Paulo 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 Sao Paulo?

People visit Berlin because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sao Paulo. 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 Sao Paulo?

Berlin is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Berlin, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful big city of Sao Paulo. 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 Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Cultural Tours in Germany, The Best 3-Day Tours from Manaus, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Brazil.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Berlin or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Berlin. When comparing the sizes of Berlin and Sao Paulo, 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 Sao Paulo?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Sao Paulo 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 Sao Paulo in the Summer?

Both Sao Paulo and Berlin are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Berlin because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sao Paulo this time of year.

In the summer, Berlin is cooler than Sao Paulo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Berlin in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 25°C (77°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sao Paulo. In July, Berlin usually receives less rain than Sao Pauloin January. Berlin gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Sao Paulo is October to March.

Should I visit Berlin or Sao Paulo in the Autumn?

Both Sao Paulo and Berlin during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Berlin this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sao Paulo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Berlin is generally much colder than Sao Pauloin April. Daily temperatures in Berlin average around 10°C (50°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Berlin usually gets less rain in October than Sao Pauloin April. Berlin gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Sao Paulo.

Should I visit Berlin or Sao Paulo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Berlin and Sao Paulo. Many travelers come to Berlin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Sao Paulo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Berlin. Berlin is much colder than Sao Paulo in the winter. The daily temperature in Berlin averages around -0°C (31°F) in January, and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 19°C (66°F)in July.

In January, Berlin usually receives more rain than Sao Pauloin July. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. June to August in Sao Paulo is the dry season.

Should I visit Berlin or Sao Paulo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Berlin as well as Sao Paulo. Many visitors come to Berlin in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Sao Paulo for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Berlin is much colder than Sao Paulo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Berlin in April average around 9°C (47°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 21°C (70°F)in October.

Berlin usually gets less rain in April than Sao Pauloin October. Berlin gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Sao Paulo is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Sao Paulo and Berlin