A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. Sao Paulo for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cesis or Sao Paulo?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and Sao Paulo can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cesis

Cesis is a traditional, quaint, and small town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Cesis offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Cesis travel costs.

Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a vibrant, colorful, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Sao Paulo travel costs.

Cesis and Sao Paulo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Cesis or Sao Paulo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sao Paulo. Although Cesis and Sao Paulo are both popular with visitors, Sao Paulo has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sao Paulo is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Cesis is known for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Sao Paulo is more touristy than Cesis and is popular for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene. It is also home to Ibirapuera Park. Cesis is popular for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

How is Cesis different from Sao Paulo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cesis
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is renowned for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Sao Paulo are among the most recognizable in the world. 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

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cesis
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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).

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or Sao Paulo Better for Nightlife?

Cesis
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is renowned for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Sao Paulo is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Sao Paulo Better for its Old Town?

Cesis
Sao Paulo

Cesis is adequate for its historic old town charm. However, Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.

The old town area in Cesis is worth visiting. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.

Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.


Is Cesis or Sao Paulo Better for Hiking?

Cesis
Sao Paulo

Cesis is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

Cesis has hiking trails worth exploring. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Sao Paulo?

Cesis
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Sao Paulo make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cesis or Sao Paulo More Beautiful?

Cesis
Sao Paulo

Cesis is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Cesis offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Head outside of town to experience the hiking trails and natural beauty. The park is best explored during the summer months.

Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Cesis or Sao Paulo Better for Families?

Cesis
Sao Paulo

Both Cesis and Sao Paulo are good to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cesis. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

Sao Paulo offers lots of family activities. 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 Cesis or Sao Paulo Better for Couples?

Cesis
Sao Paulo

Both Cesis and Sao Paulo are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Cesis makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.

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

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

Cesis
Sao Paulo

Cesis and Sao Paulo are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Cesis is a good town to visit for backpackers. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.

Plenty of backpackers visit Sao Paulo. 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 Cesis or Sao Paulo Better for Students?

Cesis
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a city with good options for students. However, Cesis is not popular with students.

Sao Paulo is popular with 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.

Cesis is not popular with students.

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

Cesis
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is renowned for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Sao Paulo has a great public transit system. 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.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.

Is Cesis or Sao Paulo a more walkable city?

Cesis
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Cesis is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.


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

Should I spend more time in Sao Paulo or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Sao Paulo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cesis and Sao Paulo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sao Paulo than in Cesis. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cesis, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sao Paulo.

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

Couples should spend more time in Sao Paulo than Cesis. 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 Cesis 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 Cesis or Sao Paulo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cesis 1-2 
    Sao Paulo 2-3

One day in Cesis or Sao Paulo?

Even though Cesis is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cesis has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Sao Paulo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Cesis or Sao Paulo?

Cesis is a small town where visitors enjoy the . This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sao Paulo. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Cesis or Sao Paulo?

Cesis is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Sao Paulo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Sao Paulo. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Cesis or Sao Paulo?

Cesis is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the dynamic big city of Sao Paulo. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Brazil, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rio de Janeiro.


Which place is cheaper, Sao Paulo or Cesis?

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 Cesis is €138, while the average daily cost in Sao Paulo is €55. 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 Cesis and Sao Paulo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cesis 47
    Sao Paulo 26
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cesis 94
    Sao Paulo 52
Compare Hotels in Cesis and Sao Paulo

Looking for a hotel in Cesis 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 Cesis


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: Sao Paulo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cesis 30
    Sao Paulo 5.23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sao Paulo

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

  • Airport Transfer: Sao Paulo to Airport GRU by Business Car: $147
  • Airport Transfer: Sao Paulo to Airport GRU by Luxury Van: $172
  • Campinas Airport (VCP) to Sao Paulo hotels - Arrival Transfer: $119
  • Campinas Airport (VCP) to Sao Paulo hotels - Round-Trip Transfer: $239
  • Campinas Viracopos Airport (VCP) Sao Paulo - Round-Trip Transfer: $255
  • Campinas Viracopos Airport (VCP) to Sao Paulo - Private Transfer: $128
  • Departure Transfer: Sao Paulo to Airport GRU by Business Car: $147
  • Departure Transfer: Sao Paulo to Airport GRU by Luxury Van: $171
  • Guarulhos Airport GRU to Águas de Lindoia Round Trip Transfer: $205
  • Private Arrival Transfer | Congonhas Airport (CGH) x São Paulo City: $95
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Congonhas Airport to São Paulo Hotels: $45
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Guarulhos International Airport: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Cesis or Sao Paulo?

Prices for flights to both Sao Paulo and Cesis 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
    Cesis 71
    Sao Paulo 22
Typical Food Prices in Cesis

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Cesis:


  • Lunch in town for two
    6.67

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:

  • Street Food Tour in São Paulo with a Local Guide: $73
  • 4h Cooking Class in São Paulo with 9 Recipes & Bottomless Drinks: $89
  • Dinner at Terraço Italia Restaurant in São Paulo: $223

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cesis 16
    Sao Paulo 3.53

Tours and Activities in Sao Paulo

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

  • São Paulo Paulista Avenue City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $4.43
  • São Paulo (Ibirapuera) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $4.46
  • Downtown São Paulo's Epic History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Walking Tour Historic Center in São Paulo: $13
  • Walking Tour of the Historic Center of Sao Paulo: $20
  • São Paulo Must-see Attractions Walking Tour with a Guide: $29
  • Brazil Tropical Fruit Experience in São Paulo: $30
  • São Paulo Private Walking Tour with a Local: $35
  • Night Walking Tour through the Bars of São Paulo: $37
  • Historical and Cultural Tour of the Center DE São Paulo: $39
  • Personal aromatic experience in São Paulo: $40
  • São Paulo Highlights Walking Tour with a Guide: $41

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cesis 17
    Sao Paulo 3.07

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


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


Which is Bigger, Cesis or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 550 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Cesis 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 Cesis 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 Cesis has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Cesis or Sao Paulo in the Summer?

Both Sao Paulo and Cesis during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cesis for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Sao Paulo because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cesis is cooler than Sao Paulo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cesis in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 25°C (77°F)in January.

Sao Paulo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cesis usually gets less rain in July than Sao Pauloin January. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Sao Paulo.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Cesis 17°C (63°F) 
    Sao Paulo 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Sao Paulo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and Sao Paulo. The autumn months attract visitors to Cesis because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Sao Paulo this time of year.

In October, Cesis is generally much colder than Sao Pauloin April. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around 7°C (45°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In October, Cesis usually receives more rain than Sao Pauloin April. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn. June to August in Sao Paulo is the dry season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Cesis 7°C (45°F) 
    Sao Paulo 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Sao Paulo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cesis as well as Sao Paulo. The cuisine are the main draw to Cesis this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Sao Paulo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Cesis in the winter. Cesis is much colder than Sao Paulo in the winter. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around -5°C (23°F) in January, and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 19°C (66°F)in July.

Cesis usually gets more rain in January than Sao Pauloin July. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Sao Paulo is the dry season.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Cesis -5°C (23°F) 
    Sao Paulo 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Sao Paulo in the Spring?

Both Sao Paulo and Cesis are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cesis for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Sao Paulo in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Cesis is much colder than Sao Paulo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cesis in April average around 5°C (42°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 21°C (70°F)in October.

In April, Cesis usually receives less rain than Sao Pauloin October. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Sao Paulo is October to March.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Cesis 5°C (42°F) 
    Sao Paulo 21°C (70°F)

Typical Weather for Sao Paulo and Cesis

Cesis Sao Paulo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 25°C (77°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) 25°C (77°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 21°C (70°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 21°C (70°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 24°C (75°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)