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

Should you visit Brasilia or Austin?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Brasilia and Austin can help you decide which place is right for you.

Brasilia

Brasilia is a cultural, lively, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Brasilia travel costs.

Austin

Austin is a lively, entrepreneurial, and eccentric city. With a variety of activities, it's a big city. Austin is a very beautiful destination, too. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Austin travel costs.

Brasilia and Austin: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Brasilia or Austin?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Austin than Brasilia. While Brasilia is larger than Austin, Austin has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Austin is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Brasilia is more popular for its shopping and big city activities. Austin is more touristy than Brasilia and is known for its live music scene, excellent Texas barbecue, authentic Mexican food, and vibrant student population. Also, Austin is famous for The Texas Capital. Brasilia is well known for its modernist architecture, abundant green space, and planned layout.

How is Brasilia different from Austin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Brasilia
Austin

Austin is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Austin specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Austin has a number of great museums and sights including the Blanton Museum of Art, the Mexic-Arte Museum, and the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. There's also a huge supply of local art galleries. Perhaps the most notable landmark in town is the beautiful Texas Capital Building

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 Brasilia or Austin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brasilia
Austin

Austin is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Austin has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It is credited with being the original food truck city and you'll find many diverse food truck options around town. There is also amazing Mexican food, world renowned Texas barbecue, and many modern restaurants that reflect the city's culinary influence.

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 Brasilia or Austin Better for Nightlife?

Brasilia
Austin

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

Austin is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It's nightlife is centered around its thriving live music scene. Head for Sixth Street for some of the most popular bars and clubs. There are also many music festivals and outdoor concerts, particularly during the summer months. Popular bars and clubs around town include the White Horse, the Rose Room, and Antone's Nightclub.

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 Brasilia or Austin Better for Music?

Brasilia
Austin

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

In Austin you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Music is what gives this city its character. There are many live music venues, concerts, and music festivals to experience. Austin has influenced many music genres such as rock, blues, jazz, hip hop, punk, and country.

Brasilia is not a live music destination.


Is Brasilia or Austin Better for Hiking?

Brasilia
Austin

Austin is a city with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Brasilia is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Austin. Head just outside of town to explore a few great hiking spots right near town.

Brasilia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brasilia or Austin?

Brasilia
Austin

Brasilia is a great destination for shopping. Also, Austin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Brasilia is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Austin. There are a number of local boutiques around town where you can enjoy shopping.

Is Brasilia or Austin More Beautiful?

Brasilia
Austin

Austin is a city with a few options for its scenery and beauty. However, Brasilia is not a destination known for its beauty.

Austin is a very beautiful destination, too. The city has some nearby natural beauty as well as an eclectic style.

Brasilia is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Brasilia or Austin Better for Families?

Brasilia
Austin

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Brasilia or Austin.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Brasilia. 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.

Austin offers lots of family activities. The city is a popular destination for young travelers, but there are also some family-friendly activities like Barton Springs, Zilker Park, and several natural swimming holes. There's a number of nice parks around town that are great for kids of all ages.

Is Brasilia or Austin Better for Couples?

Brasilia
Austin

Both Brasilia and Austin are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

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.

Austin is a nice destination for couples. Young couples will enjoy the city for its lively nightlife, fun music scene, and youthful vibe. There are also many outdoor areas where you can hike or explore. The restaurant scene is among the best as well.

Is Brasilia or Austin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brasilia
Austin

Austin is well known for backpackers. However, Brasilia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Austin is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is relatively small, it does see a disproportionate number of backpackers. There are a couple of hostels in town as well.

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 Brasilia or Austin Better for Students?

Brasilia
Austin

Austin is well known for students. However, Brasilia is not popular with students.

Austin is very popular with students. The city has a huge university, the University of Texas at Austin, and it is a young city with tons for international students. There is a great nightlife scene and plenty for students to see and do.

Brasilia is not popular with students.

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

Brasilia
Austin

Brasilia is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Austin is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Brasilia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Austin. There are city buses and a very limited lightrail system, but you really need a car to explore the city.

Is Brasilia or Austin a more walkable city?

Brasilia
Austin

Brasilia and Austin both are respectable when exploring on foot.

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

Austin is generally not a very walkable city. The city, like most southern cities, isn't very walkable and it's important to have a car to get around. There are some downtown areas that are pedestrian-friendly.


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

Should I spend more time in Austin or Brasilia?

How long in Brasilia or Austin?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Austin 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 Austin.


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

One day in Brasilia or Austin?

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

The city of Austin offers museums and nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Brasilia or Austin?

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.

Austin 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 Austin, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brasilia or Austin?

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.

Austin is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Brasilia or Austin?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant 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.

Austin is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Brazil, The Best 2-Week Tours in Brazil, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Austin or Brasilia?

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

  • Brasilia Prices
    Brazil Prices
    Austin Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Brasilia $93
    Austin $167

The average daily cost (per person) in Brasilia is $93, while the average daily cost in Austin is $167. 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 Brasilia and Austin in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Brasilia $31
    Austin $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Brasilia $62
    Austin $112
Compare Hotels in Brasilia and Austin

Looking for a hotel in Brasilia or Austin? 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 Brasilia


Hotels in Austin


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: Brasilia Hotel Prices and Austin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Brasilia $19
    Austin $47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Austin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Austin:

  • AUS Airport Private Transfer to Austin(downtown): $70
  • Austin City to Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS) - Departure Private Transfer: $112
  • Austin-Bergstrom Airport (AUS) to Austin City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $225
  • Private Transfer Between Airport and Hotels: $80
  • Private Airport and Hotel Transfer Services in Austin: $115

Is it cheaper to fly into Brasilia or Austin?

Prices for flights to both Austin and Brasilia 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
    Brasilia $48
    Austin $60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Austin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Austin.

  • Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour in Austin: $89
  • Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour in Austin: $89
  • Austin South Congress Walking Food Tour for Small Groups: $95
  • Secret Food Tour: $98
  • Austin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
  • Secret Food Tour of South Congress: $108
  • Taste & Sounds of the Chitlin Circuit: Music & Food Tour: $135

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Brasilia $17
    Austin $28

Tours and Activities in Brasilia

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

  • Brasilia : Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide: $58

Typical Entertainment Prices in Austin

Here are a few typical costs in Austin for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Austin Duck Tour
    $31

Tours and Activities in Austin

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

  • Austin Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self Guided Tour: $6.95
  • Austin's Famous Ghosts Smartphone Guided Audio App Walking Tour : $7.50
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Austin TX: $15
  • Austin Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Guide: $15
  • Austin Trails Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Downtown Austin Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21
  • Ghosts of Old Georgetown Walking Tour: $22
  • Downtown Austin Haunted History Tour: $24
  • Austin Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Ghost Maker Tour in Georgetown: Adults Only: $25
  • The Ghosts of Austin Walking Tour: $25
  • Family-Friendly Ghosts of Austin Tour: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Brasilia $13
    Austin $28

Sample the Local Flavors in Austin

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Austin:

  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Sixth Street Spree Austin Bar Crawl: $12
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Austin Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Whiskey Distillery Tour & Tasting | Austin, Texas: $30
  • Lost Legends of Texas Pub Crawl in Austin: $35
  • Downtown Live Music Pub Crawl: $35
  • McKinnie-Gene's Paranormal Pub Crawl: $35
  • Austin's Bachelorette Live Music Pub Crawl: $35
  • Downtown Austin Live Music Pub Crawl: $35
  • Austin Rainey Street Bar Crawl | The Epic Group: $38
  • Austin’s Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $39
  • Public Pedal Pub Tour in Austin: $39


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


Which is Bigger, Brasilia or Austin?

Brasilia has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Austin. When comparing the sizes of Brasilia and Austin, 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.