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

Should you visit Ilha Grande or Florianopolis?

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

Should I visit Ilha Grande or Florianopolis? 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 is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Ilha Grande travel costs.

Florianopolis

Florianopolis is a scenic, vibrant, and relaxing city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking. See Florianopolis travel costs.

Ilha Grande and Florianopolis: 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
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 Florianopolis?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Florianopolis than Ilha Grande, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Florianopolis is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Ilha Grande is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and impressive beauty. Florianopolis is more touristy than Ilha Grande and is known for its sandy beaches, world-class surfing, and beautiful nature. Also, Florianopolis is famous for Praia Mole. Ilha Grande is well known for

How is Ilha Grande different from Florianopolis?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ilha Grande
Florianopolis

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

Florianopolis offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of science and cultural museums in the area that will introduce you to the region's local wildlife and history.

Ilha Grande does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Ilha Grande
Florianopolis

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

Florianopolis has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Perhaps the most popular local dish is feijoada, which is a stew that's slow cooked in a clay pot. It's a great dish for sharing and it originated in the region's African slave population. Another common food is pão de queijo, which is a dough that is made from cassava root flour. Also make sure you try the seafood, which is available in many restaurants around town.

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 Florianopolis Better for Nightlife?

Ilha Grande
Florianopolis

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

Florianopolis has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene can vary between peak tourism times and the low season. There are plenty of bars around town that cater to the locals, and you can expect these to be open year round. Alternatively, there are also places that specifically open during the summer months and will close during the off season.

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 Florianopolis Better for Resorts?

Ilha Grande
Florianopolis

Florianopolis is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Ilha Grande is not a resort destination.

Florianopolis is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find a wide range of resorts that include everything from 5 star to more budget-friendly. There are also all-inclusive resorts and smaller, more personal places.

Ilha Grande is not a resort destination.


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

Ilha Grande
Florianopolis

Ilha Grande is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Florianopolis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Ilha Grande. 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.

Florianopolis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ilha Grande or Florianopolis Better for Beaches?

Ilha Grande
Florianopolis

Florianopolis is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Ilha Grande is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Florianopolis. There are miles of beautiful beaches that are popular for surfing. Joaquina Beach is one of the most popular beaches, particularly with surfers, but Mole Beach is quickly catching up in popularity. Campeche Beach is one of the widest and longest stretches of beach on the island.

Ilha Grande is not a beach destination.

Is Ilha Grande or Florianopolis Better for Hiking?

Ilha Grande
Florianopolis

Florianopolis is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Ilha Grande is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Florianopolis. The island is filled with beautiful jungles, striking beaches, and many dramatic settings that make it a great place to hike. The hikes also vary in length and skill level, so there really is something for everyone.

Ilha Grande is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Ilha Grande or Florianopolis?

Ilha Grande
Florianopolis

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Florianopolis. You'll find shopping malls and boutique retail shops that make for a great shopping experience.

Ilha Grande is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ilha Grande or Florianopolis More Beautiful?

Ilha Grande
Florianopolis

Ilha Grande is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Florianopolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Ilha Grande is a beautiful place to visit, too. 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.

Florianopolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ilha Grande or Florianopolis Better for Families?

Ilha Grande
Florianopolis

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

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 Florianopolis. There are many outdoor activities, sports, beaches, and parks in the city. If your kids like to run around and have fun, you'll find some diverse experiences here.


Is Ilha Grande or Florianopolis Better for Couples?

Ilha Grande
Florianopolis

Ilha Grande is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Ilha Grande makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Florianopolis is a good for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy the beautiful beaches and walking paths in the area. There's impressive natural beauty and a touch of undiscovered charm.

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

Ilha Grande
Florianopolis

Ilha Grande is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many 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.

Florianopolis is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While it's not the most popular destination in Brazil, it does have a huge appeal with surfers.

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

Ilha Grande
Florianopolis

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

Florianopolis has some public transit options. There are buses around town, including buses that travel between the downtown and the beaches.

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 Florianopolis a more walkable city?

Ilha Grande
Florianopolis

Ilha Grande is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Florianopolis is not a walkable destination.

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.

Florianopolis is not a walkable destination. Most people get around the city with a vehicle.

Should I spend more time in Florianopolis or Ilha Grande?

How long in Ilha Grande or Florianopolis?

It's fun to spend time in either Ilha Grande or Florianopolis. In our opinion, Florianopolis has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Florianopolis than Ilha Grande. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Ilha Grande, and 3-4 days is enough time in Florianopolis.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florianopolis than Ilha Grande 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 Florianopolis.


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

One day in Ilha Grande or Florianopolis?


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Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Ilha Grande. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the relaxing city of Florianopolis. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the beaches. 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 Florianopolis?


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It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ilha Grande. 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Florianopolis. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Ilha Grande or Florianopolis?


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Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Ilha Grande. This 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.

The scenic city of Florianopolis offers shopping and museums. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Florianopolis?


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You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the of Ilha Grande. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Florianopolis. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the beaches. 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, Florianopolis 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
    Florianopolis Prices
    Brazil Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Ilha Grande $73
    Florianopolis $68

The average daily cost (per person) in Ilha Grande is $73, while the average daily cost in Florianopolis is $68. 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 Florianopolis in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ilha Grande $32
    Florianopolis $23
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ilha Grande $64
    Florianopolis $46
Compare Hotels in Ilha Grande and Florianopolis

Looking for a hotel in Ilha Grande or Florianopolis? 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 Florianopolis


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: Florianopolis Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ilha Grande $16
    Florianopolis $12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ilha Grande

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

  • Regular Transfer Angra dos Reis x Rio de Janeiro and Airports: $33
  • Private Transfer from GIG to anywhere in the City Angra dos Reis: $166
  • Private Transfer from Angra dos Reis to Airport GIG in Rio : $166
  • Private Transfer Angra dos Reis to Rio de Janeiro: $91
  • From Rio de Janeiro:Shared Roundtrip Transfer to Araçatiba: $107
  • From Speedboat Transfer to Angra dos Reis: $18
  • From Angra dos Reis: Speedboat Transfer to Araçatiba: $24
  • From Angra dos Reis: Shared Transfer to Rio de Janeiro: $46
  • Departure private transfer from Costa do Sol to Rio GIG Airport: $132

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Florianopolis

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

  • Transfer Hotels in Florianópolis/Airport - private: $44
  • Transfer Florianópolis Airport / Costão do Santinho: $68
  • Shared transfer from Florianópolis airport to Balneário Camboriú: $56
  • Private Transfer from Florianópolis Airport to Bombinhas: $97
  • Private Transfer from FLN Airport to the City Balneario Camboriú : $74
  • Private Transfer Florianopolis Airport to Bal. Camboriu: $108
  • Private Transfer Florianópolis Airport to City Center: $28

Is it cheaper to fly into Ilha Grande or Florianopolis?

Prices for flights to both Florianopolis 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 $32
    Florianopolis $33

Typical Food Prices in Florianopolis

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


  • A Quick Snack
    $0.38

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ilha Grande $5.79
    Florianopolis $23

Tours and Activities in Ilha Grande

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

  • 360 Tour of Ilha Grande - Speed Boat Tour: $74
  • Angra Dos Reis Daily Tour To Paradise. Boat Trip Lunch And Fruits Included: $61
  • Angra dos Reis Island Hopping Speedboat Tour from Ilha Grande: $69
  • Boat Tour To The Beaches Of Angra Dos Reis: $16
  • Experience Paradise Ilha Grande in a Speedboat Private: $421
  • From Ilha Grande - Paradise Island 7 h - Speedboat tour: $65
  • From Rio: Full-Day Angra dos Reis Cruise & Island Tour: $81
  • 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
  • Ilha Grande - Private Historical Walking Tour with Natural Pool.: $60
  • 360° Circumnavigation Speed Boat Tour - 8h: $76

Typical Entertainment Prices in Florianopolis

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


  • Internet
    $0.51

Tours and Activities in Florianopolis

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

  • BEACH TOUR PRAIA DO ROSA, IMBITUBA AND GAROPABA - 10 Beaches: $49
  • Balneário Camboriú tour and cable car ride from Florianópolis: $39
  • Bike Tour in Florianopolis - Sunset, Photography and History: $70
  • Blumenau City Tour - departing from Florianópolis: $40
  • Blumenau City Tour from Florianópolis: $40
  • Bombinhas Beach and 4 Islands Tour: $19
  • Discover Florianópolis: Full Day City Tour and Local Highlights: $27
  • Florianópolis Gastronomic Tour with Local Guide: $95
  • Florianópolis city tour (full day): $19
  • Florianopolis Walking Tour - History, Art and Gastronomy: $14
  • Floripa City Tour by Bus - Whole Island - The Most Complete City Tour: $32
  • Half Day Guided Kayak Tour in Barra da Lagoa with Snacks: $66

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ilha Grande $9.29
    Florianopolis $7.60

Typical Alcohol Prices in Florianopolis

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Florianopolis from other travelers:


  • Beer
    $0.51

Sample the Local Flavors in Florianopolis

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

  • Tour Pub Crawl in the Center of Florianópolis: $50


When comparing the travel costs between Ilha Grande and Florianopolis, we can see that Ilha Grande 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 Florianopolis Expensive?.