A Travel Price Comparison for Brazil Ilha Grande vs. Curitiba for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Ilha Grande or Curitiba?

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

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

Ilha Grande

Ilha Grande offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Ilha Grande travel costs.

Curitiba

Curitiba is a active, vibrant, and cultural city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Curitiba travel costs.

Ilha Grande and Curitiba: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Ilha Grande or Curitiba?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Curitiba. Although Ilha Grande and Curitiba are both popular with visitors, Curitiba has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Curitiba is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Ilha Grande is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling and impressive beauty. Curitiba is more touristy than Ilha Grande and is known for its performing arts, walkability, and culture. It is also home to the Botanical Gardens. Ilha Grande is popular for

How is Ilha Grande different from Curitiba?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ilha Grande or Curitiba?

Ilha Grande
Curitiba

Curitiba is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Ilha Grande does not have museums and landmarks.

Curitiba offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a variety of museums around town that include a number of history museums, a few art museums, and other cultural museums that are worth checking out.

Ilha Grande does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Ilha Grande or Curitiba? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ilha Grande
Curitiba

Curitiba is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Ilha Grande is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Curitiba has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The official dish of the town is carne de onça, which first originated here and is a beef tartare that's served on flat bread. There are also many other traditional and authentic Brazilian restaurants around town, so this is a great place for a foodie to explore.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Ilha Grande area. The island still has a quiet, local vibe and that can be seen in the restaurants around town as well. Many places are locally owned and serve up traditional dishes. In particular, the seafood is excellent.

Is Ilha Grande or Curitiba Better for Nightlife?

Ilha Grande
Curitiba

Curitiba is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Ilha Grande is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Curitiba has a large number of nightlife venues. Like most cities in Brazil, you'll find a great nightlife scene with plenty of bars and restaurants. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Batel, which is one of the most international parts of the city, Itupava Street, which is lined with Brazilian restaurants and bars, and São Francisco, which is popular with the student population because of its affordability.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Ilha Grande. It's a quiet island with a national park and most people visit specifically to get away from the busy and active city scene.

Is Ilha Grande or Curitiba Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ilha Grande
Curitiba

Ilha Grande is a great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Curitiba is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Ilha Grande is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are several places where you can rent snorkeling or dive equipment. The area has coral and tropical fish, with the occasional sea turtle sighting. The visibility is generally good and the experience is worth enjoying, but make sure you check on water conditions.

Curitiba is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Ilha Grande or Curitiba?

Ilha Grande
Curitiba

Curitiba is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Ilha Grande is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Curitiba. The city has large shopping malls and many great fashion boutiques. It's a great place to spend some time shopping.

Ilha Grande is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ilha Grande or Curitiba More Beautiful?

Ilha Grande
Curitiba

Ilha Grande is a with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Curitiba is not a destination known for its beauty.

Ilha Grande offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The secluded beaches and surrounding nature make this a beautiful island to explore. It's made up of a national park and there are hiking trails and many scenic spots.

Curitiba is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ilha Grande or Curitiba Better for Families?

Ilha Grande
Curitiba

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Ilha Grande or Curitiba.

Ilha Grande is a family-friendly . Most families who visit the island come for the beaches. There are also many nice hikes, waterfalls, and even wildlife that the kids will enjoy. In the village there are a few restaurants. Many aren't geared specifically to kids, but they do have a selection that kids might enjoy.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Curitiba. The city has parks and museums that are great for kids. In particular, the botanical gardens and Bosque Alemao appeal to young visitors.


Is Ilha Grande or Curitiba Better for Couples?

Ilha Grande
Curitiba

Ilha Grande is a great for couples. Also, Curitiba is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Ilha Grande is a great if you're traveling as a couple. Scenic beaches and beautiful nature make this a wonderful couples retreat that's not far from Rio de Janeiro. The beaches have a more relaxed and quiet vibe than many places in Brazil and the island still holds on to its undiscovered atmosphere.

Curitiba is a nice destination for couples. The city has some great parks and restaurants that make it a pleasant place to explore with your significant other.

Is Ilha Grande or Curitiba Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ilha Grande
Curitiba

Ilha Grande is a great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Curitiba is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Ilha Grande. It is possible to reach the island with a backpacker's budget, but it will take you more time than if you hire a private tour. Once you're on the island there are some hostels and budget hotels to choose from as well.

Plenty of backpackers visit Curitiba. The nightlife and music scene, combined with a great public transit system, make this a good, but often overlooked destination for backpackers in Brazil.

Is Ilha Grande or Curitiba Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ilha Grande
Curitiba

Curitiba is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Ilha Grande is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Curitiba has some very good public transit options. There's a great public transit system here that includes a metro system, trolleybuses, and buses.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Ilha Grande. You'll need to take a boat to reach the island, and once you're there, there are not vehicles around.


Is Ilha Grande or Curitiba a more walkable city?

Ilha Grande
Curitiba

Ilha Grande and Curitiba are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Ilha Grande is a very walkable . There are no cars on the island and very few roads. You'll spend a lot of time hiking around, which is the best way to enjoy the island. They don't call it "big island" for no reason though, so make sure you understand the distance between destinations.

Curitiba is a very walkable destination. It is a walkable city that is fun to explore on foot, but as always, take precautions in certain areas, particularly at night.

Should I spend more time in Curitiba or Ilha Grande?

How long in Ilha Grande or Curitiba?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ilha Grande and Curitiba. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Ilha Grande than in Curitiba. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Ilha Grande, and 2-3 days is enough time in Curitiba.

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


  • How many days in Ilha Grande or Curitiba? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ilha Grande 2-4 
    Curitiba 2-3

One day in Ilha Grande or Curitiba?


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The of Ilha Grande offers scuba diving and snorkeling and food. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Curitiba. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Ilha Grande or Curitiba?


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Ilha Grande is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ilha Grande, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Curitiba. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Ilha Grande or Curitiba?


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Ilha Grande 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.

The active city of Curitiba offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Ilha Grande or Curitiba?


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Ilha Grande 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 offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Curitiba. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Brazil, The Best Eco Tours in Brazil, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Brazil, and The Best Luxury Tours to Brazil.


Which place is cheaper, Curitiba or Ilha Grande?

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

  • Ilha Grande Prices
    Brazil Prices
    Curitiba Prices
    Brazil Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Ilha Grande $80
    Curitiba $90

The average daily cost (per person) in Ilha Grande is $80, while the average daily cost in Curitiba is $90. 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 Ilha Grande and Curitiba in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ilha Grande $35
    Curitiba $29
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ilha Grande $70
    Curitiba $58
Compare Hotels in Ilha Grande and Curitiba

Looking for a hotel in Ilha Grande or Curitiba? 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 Ilha Grande


Hotels in Curitiba


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: Curitiba Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ilha Grande $17
    Curitiba $15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ilha Grande

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

  • Private Transfer from GIG to anywhere in the City Angra dos Reis: $182
  • Private Transfer from Angra dos Reis to Airport GIG in Rio : $182
  • Private Transfer Angra dos Reis to Rio de Janeiro: $91
  • From Angra dos Reis: Shared Transfer to Rio de Janeiro: $46
  • Regular Transfer Angra dos Reis x Rio de Janeiro and Airports: $36

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Curitiba

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Curitiba:


  • Taxi Ride
    $1.88

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Curitiba

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

  • Shared Transfer: Curitiba International Airport: $40
  • Private Transfer from Porto Belo Port to Curitiba City Hotels: $265
  • Private Transfer from Porto Belo Port to Curitiba Airport (CWB): $265
  • Private Transfer from Curitiba City to Curitiba Airport (CWB): $38
  • Private Transfer from Curitiba City Hotels to Porto Belo Port: $265
  • Private Transfer from Curitiba Airport (CWB) to Porto Belo Port : $265
  • Private Transfer from Curitiba Airport: $109
  • Curitiba to Curitiba Airport (CWB) - Departure Private Transfer: $37
  • Curitiba to Curitiba Airport (CWB) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Curitiba Airport CWB to Curitiba hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $37
  • Curitiba Airport (CWB) to Curitiba - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $74
  • Curitiba Airport (CWB) to Curitiba - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $95

Is it cheaper to fly into Ilha Grande or Curitiba?

Prices for flights to both Curitiba and Ilha Grande 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
    Ilha Grande $35
    Curitiba $47

Typical Food Prices in Curitiba

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Curitiba:


  • Chips
    $0.84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Curitiba

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

  • Bar-hopping and Food Tour in Curitiba: $36
  • Curitiba's History Food Tour: $70
  • Curitiba Tour by Night with Dinner: $95

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ilha Grande $6.36
    Curitiba $19

Tours and Activities in Ilha Grande

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

  • Angra dos Reis Lagoons Shared Speedboat Tour: $78
  • Angra Dos Reis Daily Tour To Paradise. Boat Trip Lunch And Fruits Included: $67
  • Angra Super Blue Lagoon Speedboat Tour: $76
  • Angra dos Reis Island Hopping Speedboat Tour from Ilha Grande: $69
  • Boat Adventure through the Super Blue Lagoon in Angra dos Reis: $77
  • Boat Tour To The Beaches Of Angra Dos Reis: $18
  • Discover Angra’s Hidden Paradise Islands by Speedboat Tour: $78
  • Diving Adventures in Angra dos Reis: $177
  • From Ilha Grande - Paradise Island 7 h - Speedboat tour: $65
  • Full-Day Ilha Grande Northern Coast Speedboat Tour: $63
  • Half-Day Ilha Grande Schooner Tour: $42
  • Ilha Grande - From Abrãao: Lopes Mendes beach tour & trekking: $25

Tours and Activities in Curitiba

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

  • Full Day Tour to Vila Velha and Buraco do Padre: $160
  • 4 Hour City Tour in Curitiba: $73
  • 8-hour guided tour of the Dutch Colonies of Paraná: $203
  • 8h full city tour in Curitiba: $94
  • CRAFT BREWERS TOUR By Jens Tours: $72
  • Complete Tour to Ilha do Mel: $157
  • Discover Vila Velha State Park Tour and Witmarsum Colony: $163
  • Experience the Best of City Tour Highlights: $59
  • Full-day tour in Curitiba: $78
  • Gastronomic Tour in Curitiba with Jens Tours: $81
  • Guided tour to the Canyon of Guartelá: $189
  • Half Day Curitiba Sightseeing Tour: $43

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ilha Grande $10
    Curitiba $13

Typical Alcohol Prices in Curitiba

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Curitiba:


  • Beer
    $0.42


When comparing the travel costs between Ilha Grande and Curitiba, we can see that Curitiba is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in South America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ilha Grande Expensive? and Is Curitiba Expensive?.