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

Should you visit Brasilia or New York City?

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 New York City 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. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Brasilia travel costs.

New York City

New York City is a vibrant, energetic, and cosmopolitan city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. New York City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums. See New York City travel costs.

Brasilia and New York City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Known for Christmas markets
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Home to the Statue of Liberty


Is there more to do in Brasilia or New York City?

You'll generally find more things to do in New York City than Brasilia. New York City is bigger than Brasilia, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. New York City is more touristy than Brasilia and is popular for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. Also, New York City is famous for The Statue of Liberty. Brasilia is well known for its modernist architecture, abundant green space, and planned layout.

How is Brasilia different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between New York City 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 New York City?

Brasilia
New York City

New York City 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 New York City on the map. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

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 Brasilia or New York City Better for Theater?

Brasilia
New York City

New York City is renowned for its shows and theatre. However, Brasilia is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in New York City is world-class. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Brasilia is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Brasilia or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brasilia
New York City

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

New York City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

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 New York City Better for Nightlife?

Brasilia
New York City

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

New York City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

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 New York City Better for Music?

Brasilia
New York City

New York City is renowned for its music scene. However, Brasilia is not a live music destination.

In New York City you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Brasilia is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brasilia or New York City?

Brasilia
New York City

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

New York City is a world class destination for shoppers. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

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 Brasilia or New York City More Beautiful?

Brasilia
New York City

New York City is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Brasilia is not a destination known for its beauty.

New York City offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The beauty of the skyline at night or the views from the top of the Empire State Building will take your breath away.

Brasilia is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Brasilia or New York City Better for Families?

Brasilia
New York City

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

New York City is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

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 Brasilia or New York City Better for Couples?

Brasilia
New York City

New York City is renowned for couples. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, New York City has plenty to offer. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

Brasilia is a nice destination for couples. 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 Brasilia or New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brasilia
New York City

New York City is well known for backpackers. However, Brasilia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

New York City is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

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 New York City Better for Students?

Brasilia
New York City

New York City is renowned for students. However, Brasilia is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit New York City. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Brasilia is not popular with students.

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

Brasilia
New York City

New York City 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.

New York City has a great public transit system. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

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 Brasilia or New York City a more walkable city?

Brasilia
New York City

New York City is renowned for its ease of walking around. However, Brasilia is not particularly known for its walkability.

Getting around New York City on foot is easy. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

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 Brasilia Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New York City or Brasilia?

How long in Brasilia or New York City?

Both Brasilia and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Brasilia. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Brasilia, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City 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 New York City.


  • How many days in Brasilia or New York City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Brasilia 1-3 
    New York City 3-7

One day in Brasilia or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the vibrant destination of Brasilia. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

New York City 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.

A weekend in Brasilia or New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brasilia. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

New York City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brasilia or New York City?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lively destination of Brasilia. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

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


A week in Brasilia or New York City?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Brasilia. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

New York City 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 New York City has to offer. 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 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, New York City 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
    New York City Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Brasilia $93
    New York City $363

The average daily cost (per person) in Brasilia is $93, while the average daily cost in New York City is $363. 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 New York City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Brasilia $31
    New York City $175
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Brasilia $62
    New York City $350
Compare Hotels in Brasilia and New York City

Looking for a hotel in Brasilia or New York City? 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 New York City


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 New York City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Brasilia $19
    New York City $49

Typical Local Transportation Prices in New York City

Some typical examples of transportation costs in New York City are as follows:


  • Subway
    $4.50
  • Taxi Ride
    $8.00
  • Subway
    $2.50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in New York City

Also for New York City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • 1-Day Private Tour of New York City with Transfer and Guide: $1,045
  • Airport Limousine Transfer one-way - LaGuardia Airport - Lincoln MKT: $275
  • Arrival Transfer: Newark Airport EWR to New York by Luxury Car: $197
  • Arrival Transfer: Newark Airport EWR to New York by Luxury SUV: $146
  • Central Park Private Walking Tour with Transfers : $171
  • Central Park Zoo Skip-the-line Tickets & Private Transfers: $291
  • Departure Private Transfer: New York to J.F. Kennedy Airport JFK in Luxury Car: $199
  • Departure Transfer: New York to New York Airport JFK in SUV: $147
  • EWR to Manhattan: Private Airport Arrival Transfer: $147
  • EWR/Manhattan Airport Transfer in Luxury Van-One Way Transfer.: $176
  • Empire State Building NYC Tour, Pre-booked Tickets, Transfer: $300
  • From NYC -Private Transfer From NYC Airports to Hotels: $265

Is it cheaper to fly into Brasilia or New York City?

Prices for flights to both New York City 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
    New York City $87

Typical Food Prices in New York City

For New York City, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Gelato
    $7.50
  • Snacks for Two at Yankees Game
    $34
  • Coffee
    $6.53
  • Smoothie
    $6.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in New York City

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

  • Half-Day Private Pizza Crawl in Manhattan: $40
  • Central Park Cafe: Scenic Lunch & Dinner Experience in NYC: $40
  • New York Greenwich Village Speakeasy and Ghost Tour (with pizza!): $45
  • Bensonhurst Food Tour: $45
  • NYC: Greenwich Village Speakeasy & Ghost Tour (with pizza): $45
  • Downtown Brooklyn Pizza Walking Tour: $65
  • Greenwich Village Pizza Walk: $65
  • Made in Brooklyn Food Tour: $65
  • Greenwich Village NYC Pizza Walking Tour: $65
  • Union Square Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Brooklyn Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour (Small Group): $70
  • Food Tour in East Village in French: $73

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Brasilia $17
    New York City $180

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: $57

Typical Entertainment Prices in New York City

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for New York City's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Comedy Show Tickets
    $56
  • City Map
    $8.00
  • Broadway Musical
    $111
  • Broadway Show Program
    $10
  • Magazine
    $6.99

Tours and Activities in New York City

For New York City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • New York's Hidden Gems: Self-Guided City Tour: $1.03
  • Central Park Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $4.20
  • 6 Iconic Audio Tours & City Guide App plus AI Question + Answer: $5.00
  • New York City Personalized Sightseeing Tour 10Hours: $5.00
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in New York: $5.25
  • New York City's Financial District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Broadway: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of the World's Iconic Theatre District: $5.39
  • New York World's Fair Site: Explore its utopian future on an audio tour: $5.39
  • Central Park Famous Movies Quest Experience in New York: $5.78
  • Self Guided "Central Park Movie Tour" Solo Walking Tour in New York City: $6.75
  • Alexander Hamilton Outdoor Quest Experience in New York: $6.83
  • Luxury Horse and Carriage Tours in Central Park: $6.99

For more ideas for your next trip, check out The Best Things to do in New York City with Kids, Things to Do in Central Park in NYC, and The Best Museums in New York City.


Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Brasilia $13
    New York City $29

Sample the Local Flavors in New York City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in New York City:

  • NYC West Village Pub Crawl: $23
  • Distillery Tour and Tasting: $25
  • History Tour Pub Crawl of Historic Stone Street: $25
  • NYC Pub Crawl and Rooftop Clubbing Experience: $28
  • New York Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $34
  • NYC: Boos & Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $42
  • NYC: Manhattan's Only Whiskey Distillery Tour and Tasting: $42
  • Greenwich Village Literary Pub Crawl: $49
  • Greenwich Village Piano Bar Crawl: $50
  • Broadway Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
  • Little Italy Prohibition Pub Crawl: $64
  • Lower East Side Prohibition Pub Crawl: $74


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brasilia and New York City, we can see that New York City 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 New York City 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 New York City would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New York City 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 New York City Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Brasilia or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Brasilia. When comparing the sizes of Brasilia and New York City, 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.