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

Should you visit Bonn or Sao Paulo?

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

Should I visit Bonn or Sao Paulo? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Bonn

Bonn is a outdoorsy, lively, and cultural city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Bonn travel costs.

Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a colorful, cultural, and dynamic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Sao Paulo travel costs.

Bonn and Sao Paulo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Bonn or Sao Paulo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sao Paulo than Bonn. Sao Paulo is bigger than Bonn, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Sao Paulo is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Bonn is more popular for its historical sights and quaint atmosphere. Bonn is well known for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven. Sao Paulo is well known for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene. Also, Sao Paulo is famous for Ibirapuera Park.

How is Bonn different from Sao Paulo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bonn or Sao Paulo?

Bonn
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Sao Paulo from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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

Many visitors head to Bonn specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Some of the most popular museums include Haus der Geschichte (history), Beethoven's House, and Kunstmuseum Bonn (art). For architecture check out the Old Town Hall and Bonn Minster. Other landmarks include Poppelsdorf Palace and Schloss Drachenburg.


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

Bonn
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Sao Paulo. 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).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bonn. Like much of the food in Germany, you'll find local dishes are hearty and filling. Potatoes and meats are popular ingredients, as are milk, butter, and vegetables. For local flavors try the Rhenish Sauerbraten (veal stew), Reibekuchen (German pancakes), or Christmas Sausages.

Is Bonn or Sao Paulo Better for Nightlife?

Bonn
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is very popular for nightlife. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Sao Paulo is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bonn. There are bars and nightclubs around town but even more popular are the cultural events that the city hosts. If nightlife is important to you, try to visit during one of the festivals around town.

Is Bonn or Sao Paulo Better for its Old Town?

Bonn
Sao Paulo

Bonn is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Bonn to see the historical old town. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming shops. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bonn or Sao Paulo?

Bonn
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is very popular for shopping. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Sao Paulo. 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.

Bonn is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. A mix of local shops and major chains make shopping fun and easy. Whether you're interested in souvenir gifts or a new outfit, there are countless stores around town.

Is Bonn or Sao Paulo Better for Families?

Bonn
Sao Paulo

Bonn is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Bonn is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Just outside of the town is the Haribo factory outlet store where you can pick up a number of sweet treats and spend some time exploring with the kids. Another favorite activity for the whole family is a trip to nearby Phantasialand. This is one of the best amusement parks in Germany and it has many rides for teens and younger kids alike. In town, you'll find playgrounds and kid-friendly museums. Kids will also love a visit to Schloss Drachenburg Castle.

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 Bonn or Sao Paulo Better for Couples?

Bonn
Sao Paulo

With fun activities for couples, both Bonn and Sao Paulo make for a notable place to visit.

Bonn is a nice destination for couples. Churches, architecture, and botanical gardens all make this a great couples destination. You can take a cruise down the Rhein or enjoy a meal at one of the best restaurants.

Sao Paulo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Bonn or Sao Paulo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn
Sao Paulo

For backpackers, both Bonn and Sao Paulo are notable places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bonn. Many backpackers skip this town, so its a good option for travelers who want to get off the beaten backpacker trail. There are affordable hotels and hostels around town as well as restaurants where you can pick up something cheap to eat.

Sao Paulo is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Bonn or Sao Paulo Better for Students?

Bonn
Sao Paulo

Bonn is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Bonn is a great city to visit as a student. The city has a very international vibe and you'll likely run into people speaking English around town. Job opportunities in the area are good and there are schools that attract students from around the globe.

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

Bonn
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Sao Paulo has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere 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.

The public transit in Bonn can get you around easily. There is a light rail system that includes 9 lines and 64 stations. There are also buses around town. Bonn is connected to the region by convenient commuter trains so it's possible to visit as a day trip.


Is Bonn or Sao Paulo a more walkable city?

Bonn
Sao Paulo

Bonn and Sao Paulo are very good when it comes to walkability.

Bonn is very walkable. The compact old town is easy to explore on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Sao Paulo or Bonn?

How long in Bonn or Sao Paulo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bonn and Sao Paulo. In our opinion, Sao Paulo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sao Paulo than Bonn. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bonn, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sao Paulo.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Bonn or Sao Paulo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bonn 1-3 
    Sao Paulo 2-3

One day in Bonn or Sao Paulo?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Bonn. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bonn has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sao Paulo is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Bonn or Sao Paulo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Bonn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Five days in Bonn or Sao Paulo?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lively city of Bonn. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful big city of Sao Paulo. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bonn or Sao Paulo?

Bonn is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The vibrant city of Sao Paulo offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Germany, The Best Music Tours in Germany, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Brazil, and The Best Adventure Tours to Brazil.


Which place is cheaper, Sao Paulo or Bonn?

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 Bonn is €190, while the average daily cost in Sao Paulo is €54. 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 Bonn and Sao Paulo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bonn 85
    Sao Paulo 26
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bonn 170
    Sao Paulo 52
Compare Hotels in Bonn and Sao Paulo

Looking for a hotel in Bonn or Sao Paulo? 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 Bonn


Hotels in Sao Paulo


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: Bonn Hotel Prices and Sao Paulo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bonn 23
    Sao Paulo 5.05

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bonn

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

  • Bonn hotels Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) - Departure Private Transfer: $77

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sao Paulo

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

  • Private Arrival Transfer | Viracopos Airport (VCP) x São Paulo City : $300
  • Private Transfer from Campinas International Airport (VCP) to Santos Port: $290
  • Private Transfer from Sao Paulo Int Airport (GRU) to Ubatuba Port: $284
  • Private Transfer from Sao Paulo hotels to Santos Cruise Port: $284
  • Sao Paulo hotels to Campinas Airport (VCP) - Departure Transfer: $273
  • Campinas Airport (VCP) to Sao Paulo hotels - Arrival Transfer: $273
  • Sao Paulo Airport GRU to Beach Resorts - Arrival Private Transfer: $266
  • (Sedan Executive Class) Transfer VCP Airport • São Paulo: $264
  • Private Transfer from Sao Paulo Int Airport (GRU) to Santos Port: $262
  • Private Transfer from Sao Paulo City Hotels to Ilhabela Port: $258
  • Private Transfer from Sao Paulo Airport (GRU) to Ilhabela Port: $258
  • Sao Paulo to Campinas Viracopos Airport (VCP) - Private Transfer: $212

Is it cheaper to fly into Bonn or Sao Paulo?

Prices for flights to both Sao Paulo and Bonn 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
    Bonn 84
    Sao Paulo 22

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sao Paulo

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

  • Authentic Brazilian Cooking Experience in SP: Feijoada & Moqueca: $189
  • Street Food Tour in São Paulo with a Local Guide: $232

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bonn 34
    Sao Paulo 3.46

Tours and Activities in Bonn

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

  • Beethoven’s Birthplace Self Guided Tour through Bonn’s Old Town: $6.99
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $115
  • Bonn : Private Walking Tour With A Guide ( Private Tour ): $118
  • Bonn Exploration Game and City Tour on your Phone: $8.44
  • Bonn Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $218
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $8.44
  • Bonn Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bonn Self Guided Interactive City Tour: $7.38
  • Bonn in 1 Day: Walking Tour with Digital Guide: $7.87
  • 1.5-Hour River Cruise on the Rhine: $21
  • 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Ticket: $21
  • 3,5 hours Guided Bike Tour: $334

Tours and Activities in Sao Paulo

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

  • 10-hour beach tour Santos: Shared Full-Day with Tickets & Lunch: $189
  • 2 Hours Private São Paulo Museum of Modern Art Tour: $240
  • 3 Beaches Hiking Santo Amaro Island - Paradise Route Tour from São Paulo: $123
  • 3H CITY TOUR (pick up / delivery within Sao Paulo city limits): $150
  • 4-Hour Private Tour in Sao Paulo: $300
  • 4-hour Sum-up Private Tour Of São Paulo Including Its Major Attractions : $134
  • 5 Hour City Tour in São Paulo: $79
  • 5 Hour Private Tour of São Paulo With Fruit Tasting: $130
  • 5 Hours Private Full Day City Tour in Sao Paulo: $230
  • 5-hour Pelé Private Tour: The King of Football : $162
  • 5-hour Private Tour Of São Paulo With Its Main Sights – Optional Airport Pickup: $162
  • 5h City Tour (pick up & delivery within SaoPaulo city): $221

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bonn 23
    Sao Paulo 3.01

Sample the Local Flavors in Sao Paulo

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Sao Paulo:

  • 4 Hours Pub Crawl in Vila Madalena: $150
  • Wine Tour in São Roque by car - tour with local guides: $150


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bonn and Sao Paulo, we can see that Bonn is more expensive. And not only is Sao Paulo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bonn 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 Bonn would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bonn 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 Bonn Expensive? and Is Sao Paulo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bonn or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Bonn 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 Bonn 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 Bonn has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Bonn or Sao Paulo in the Summer?

Both Sao Paulo and Bonn are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bonn for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Sao Paulo in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bonn is generally cooler than Sao Pauloin January. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 19°C (66°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sao Paulo. In July, Bonn usually receives less rain than Sao Pauloin January. Bonn gets 78 mm (3.1 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.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Bonn 19°C (66°F) 
    Sao Paulo 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Sao Paulo in the Autumn?

Both Sao Paulo and Bonn during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bonn in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Sao Paulo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Bonn is much colder than Sao Paulo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bonn averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in April.

Bonn usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Sao Pauloin April. Bonn gets 47 mm (1.9 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.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Bonn 12°C (53°F) 
    Sao Paulo 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Sao Paulo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bonn and Sao Paulo. Most visitors come to Bonn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Sao Paulo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bonn can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Bonn is much colder than Sao Paulo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bonn in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 19°C (66°F)in July.

In January, Bonn usually receives more rain than Sao Pauloin July. Bonn gets 49 mm (1.9 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.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Bonn 3°C (37°F) 
    Sao Paulo 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Bonn or Sao Paulo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bonn as well as Sao Paulo. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Sao Paulo this time of year.

In April, Bonn is generally much colder than Sao Pauloin October. Daily temperatures in Bonn average around 10°C (50°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

Bonn usually gets less rain in April than Sao Pauloin October. Bonn gets 48 mm (1.9 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.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Bonn 10°C (50°F) 
    Sao Paulo 21°C (70°F)

Typical Weather for Sao Paulo and Bonn

Bonn Sao Paulo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 25°C (77°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 25°C (77°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) 24°C (75°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 21°C (70°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 21°C (70°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 21°C (70°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)