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

Should you visit Brasilia or Philadelphia?

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 Philadelphia can help you decide which place is right for you.

Brasilia

Brasilia is a lively, vibrant, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Brasilia travel costs.

Philadelphia

Philadelphia is a cultural, diverse, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Philadelphia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and museums. See Philadelphia travel costs.

Brasilia and Philadelphia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • 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
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Brasilia or Philadelphia?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Philadelphia than Brasilia. While Brasilia is larger than Philadelphia, Philadelphia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Philadelphia is more touristy than Brasilia and is popular for its diverse population, large number of universities, great restaurant and market scene, and its role in American history. It is also home to The Liberty Bell. Brasilia is popular for its modernist architecture, abundant green space, and planned layout.

How is Brasilia different from Philadelphia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Brasilia
Philadelphia

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia on the map. The city has a rich history with a number of museums and monuments. Popular sites around the city include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the National Museum of Jewish American History.

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 Philadelphia Better for Theater?

Brasilia
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is well known for its shows and theatre. However, Brasilia is not a theatre destination.

Philadelphia has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. There are major Broadway shows as well as smaller venues. Head to The Avenue of the Arts along Broad Street for a popular stretch of theaters.

Brasilia is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Brasilia or Philadelphia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brasilia
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Philadelphia is an experience not to be missed. It has grown into a well-recognized food destination. It's diversity of cultures and residents have influenced the restaurant scene and you'll find many great places to dine covering a number of international flavors. The city is famous for its Philly cheesesteak and roast pork sandwich. You can also grab some local favorites at Reading Terminal Market.

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 Philadelphia Better for Nightlife?

Brasilia
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Philadelphia is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city's nightlife scene carries late into the evening with many rooftop and outdoor beer gardens. Most of the clubs and bars are found in the downtown area and you'll find places to dance, listen to live music, or sip a trendy cocktails.

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 Philadelphia Better for Music?

Brasilia
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is well known for its music scene. However, Brasilia is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Philadelphia. The city's diverse music scene includes jazz, rock, and hip hop.

Brasilia is not a live music destination.

Is Brasilia or Philadelphia Better for its Old Town?

Brasilia
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Brasilia does not have a historic old town.

Philadelphia offers a nice historic old town area. The Old City has a number of Colonial-era sites including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House.

Brasilia does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Brasilia or Philadelphia?

Brasilia
Philadelphia

Shopping is a popular activity in both Philadelphia and Brasilia.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Philadelphia. With all items tax-free, this city is a great place to shop. It has many boutique shops as well as name brand stores and shopping areas. For a local vibe, head to Reading Terminal Market.


Is Brasilia or Philadelphia More Beautiful?

Brasilia
Philadelphia

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

Philadelphia offers plenty of beauty for visitors. With its diverse neighborhoods and rich history, this city offers its own type of beauty.

Brasilia is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Brasilia or Philadelphia Better for Families?

Brasilia
Philadelphia

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

Philadelphia is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has many museums and a fascinating history that is interesting to kids and adults alike. Popular activities include a zoo and Sesame Place. Kids also love the hands-on Please Touch Museum.

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 Philadelphia Better for Couples?

Brasilia
Philadelphia

Both Brasilia and Philadelphia are good 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.

Philadelphia is a nice destination for couples. Like many large cities, it is a fun place to explore in the evening as a couple. This is also a great foodie destination with great markets, food trucks, and diverse restaurants that reflect the city's diverse population.


Is Brasilia or Philadelphia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brasilia
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is very good for backpackers. However, Brasilia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Philadelphia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few good hostels for backpackers and budget travelers to choose from.

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 Philadelphia Better for Students?

Brasilia
Philadelphia

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

Philadelphia is very popular with students. With its many universities and diverse population, this city is a great place for international students.

Brasilia is not popular with students.

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

Brasilia
Philadelphia

Philadelphia is well known for its public transit. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Philadelphia can get you to most places easily. The system includes a subway, trolleys, buses, and a commuter rail.

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 Philadelphia a more walkable city?

Brasilia
Philadelphia

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

Getting around Philadelphia on foot is easy. The Old City is particularly walkable, as is Avenue of the Arts, and Rittenhouse Square.

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 Philadelphia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Philadelphia or Brasilia?

How long in Brasilia or Philadelphia?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Brasilia or Philadelphia?

In Brasilia, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this lively city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia?

Brasilia is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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


Five days in Brasilia or Philadelphia?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the lively destination of Brasilia. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Philadelphia is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Philadelphia?

Brasilia is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Philadelphia is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Eco Tours in Brazil, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Brazil, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Philadelphia 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
    Philadelphia Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Brasilia $95
    Philadelphia $224

The average daily cost (per person) in Brasilia is $95, while the average daily cost in Philadelphia is $224. 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 Philadelphia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Brasilia $31
    Philadelphia $119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Brasilia $62
    Philadelphia $238
Compare Hotels in Brasilia and Philadelphia

Looking for a hotel in Brasilia or Philadelphia? 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 Philadelphia


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 Philadelphia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Brasilia $20
    Philadelphia $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Philadelphia

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

  • Philadelphia to New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA) - Departure Private Transfer : $289
  • Private Transfer Philadelphia to Philadephia Airport PHL by SUV: $146
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia Airport PHL to Philadelphia in Business Car: $100
  • Private Transfer: Philadelphia to Philadelphia Airport PHL in Luxury SUV: $110
  • Private transfer from PHL to Philadelphia Downtown: $130

Is it cheaper to fly into Brasilia or Philadelphia?

Prices for flights to both Philadelphia 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 $50
    Philadelphia $84

Typical Food Prices in Philadelphia

For Philadelphia, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Casual Lunch (for 3)
    $27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Philadelphia

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

  • Best of Philly Food Tour: $55
  • Philadelphia's Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $59
  • Center City Philadelphia Food Tour with Reading Market : $59
  • Philadelphia Italian Market Public Food Tour: $61
  • Italian Market Walking Food Tour: $61
  • Philadelphia Secret Food Tour of Reading Market and Center City : $65
  • Flavors of Philly Food Tour: $65
  • Vintage Shopping and Food Tour: $85
  • Secret Food Tour: $89
  • Italian Market & More: Non-Touristy Food Tour w/ Journalist: $95
  • Italian Market Non-Touristy Walking Food Tour: $95
  • Highlights of East Passyunk Food Tour: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Brasilia $18
    Philadelphia $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: $62

Typical Entertainment Prices in Philadelphia

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


  • Big Bus Tour (family of 3)
    $99

Tours and Activities in Philadelphia

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

  • Philadelphia's Lost Waterfront: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.40
  • Art and Controversy: An audio tour of Philadelphia's most infamous art scandals: $5.99
  • Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $7.37
  • Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $7.45
  • Philadelphia Haunted Ghost Smartphone Guided Audio Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Allentown by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Philadelphia by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Solve the Case in Philadelphia Exploration Game and Tour: $11
  • National Liberty Museum Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Discover Fantastic Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Philadelphia - Freedom: At your leisure & pace. An audiovisual walking tour.: $15
  • Penn Museum Admission Ticket: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Brasilia $13
    Philadelphia $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Philadelphia

Also in Philadelphia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Ghosts, Boos, and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Philly Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Liberty History Tour Pub Crawl: $45
  • Guided Tour with Pub Crawl: $45
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $50
  • Philly Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105
  • Half-Day Philadelphia's Brewery Bike Tour with Tastings: $119
  • Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $120


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


Which is Bigger, Brasilia or Philadelphia?

Brasilia has a larger population, and is about 45% larger than the population of Philadelphia. When comparing the sizes of Brasilia and Philadelphia, 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.