A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saaremaa vs. Rio de Janeiro for Food, Beaches, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is a peaceful, relaxed, and traditional island. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. With stunning beauty, Saaremaa attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food and beaches. See Saaremaa travel costs.

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is a high energy, colorful, and multicultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come to Rio de Janeiro because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Rio de Janeiro travel costs.

Saaremaa and Rio de Janeiro: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rio de Janeiro. Although Saaremaa and Rio de Janeiro are popular destinations, Rio de Janeiro has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rio de Janeiro is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Saaremaa attracts visitors for its small town charm. Rio de Janeiro is more touristy than Saaremaa and is popular for its samba dancing, sandy beaches, and Carnival. It is also well known for Christ the Redeemer. Saaremaa is famous for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Rio de Janeiro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rio de Janeiro and Saaremaa. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Rio de Janeiro has many famous sights for visitors. Looking out over the city is the world famous landmark of Christ the Redeemer. It sits on top of Corcovado Mountain and it is a must-see destination for visitors to the city. Other sights around town include the church and monastery of São Bento, the stunning church of São Francisco da Penitência, the imperial palaces of São Cristóvão, and the baroque church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo.

Saaremaa does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Rio de Janeiro is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The cuisine around town mixes African and European cooking styles to give it a unique taste. The city is a mix of cultures and flavors and you'll find restaurants that integrate traditional Brazilian dishes with international influences. You'll find a wonderful street food scene, but also fine dining, and everything in between. Some of the most popular dishes include feijoada (beef and bean stew), churrasco (Brazilian barbecue), and pão de queijo (baked dough and cheese).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saaremaa makes for a great culinary experience. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

Is Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro Better for Nightlife?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for nightlife.

Rio de Janeiro has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It has a world famous nightlife scene, and the most popular party neighborhood is Lapa. While the biggest crowds are on the weekends, weeknights stay busy as well. Every weekend in Lapa there's a huge street party, but there are also bars and dance clubs nearby. A more local neighborhood is Botafogo, which is a great area to grab a beer and enjoy a relaxed night out. If you want a beachside bar, check out the touristy neighborhoods of Ipanema and Copacabana.

People don't go to Saaremaa for the nightlife. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Is Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro Better for Beaches?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for the beach. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its beaches.

The beaches in Rio de Janeiro are among the best in the world. The beaches have long been written about and made iconic by songs and literary works. Copacabana and Ipanema are world renowned, and the sandy stretches and vibrant waterfront promenades will not disappoint. There are plenty of recreational activities as well as a striking blue water backdrop. You'll find beach parties, waterside bars, and pickup games of football or volleyball. In addition to these iconic beaches, there are several lesser known places to visit like Joatinga and Barra da Tijuca.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Saaremaa. The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Is Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro Better for Hiking?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for hiking. However, Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Rio de Janeiro draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Although it is a bustling megacity, it also offers access to world class hikes. The city is filled with mountains and dramatic peaks, so many hikes take you to spectacular views of the city. There are also jungle hikes and even opportunities to see local wildlife. There's a combination of iconic trails and lesser known strolls that will let you truly absorb what this city has to offer. Some of the best hikes include Pedra Bonita, Dois Irmaos, and Pedra da Gávea.

Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. However, Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Rio de Janeiro specifically to go shopping. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Whatever your budget, there are options for you. There are wonderful street markets for those on a budget and grand shopping malls if you're looking for something a bit higher end. Some of the best places for shopping include Rio Sul, Barra Shopping, and SAARA Market.

Saaremaa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro More Beautiful?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Rio de Janeiro because of it's amazing beauty. The city's mountainous landscapes and striking beaches make it, arguably, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many mountaintop views of the city as well as city hikes and iconic neighborhoods.

Saaremaa is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The island has a classic beauty that feels frozen in time.

Is Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro Better for Families?

Rio de Janeiro is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Rio de Janeiro. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the beaches. It's easy to spend days by the water soaking up the sun. Another must-do is a trip up Sugarloaf Mountain. The cable cars are fun and there are jungle walks and spectacular views. If you need to escape the rain or heat, spend the day at the Museum of Tomorrow.

Saaremaa is a family-friendly place to visit. While the island is known for its slow pace, there are still a number of fun activities where the kids can run and jump. There are several outdoor adventure parks and playgrounds that are great for young legs. Check out the playgrounds in Kuressaare or head out of town for more outdoor activities. When the weather's nice you can head to Kuressaare Beach or check out the ostrich farm in Muhu.

Is Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro Better for Couples?

Saaremaa and Rio de Janeiro are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Saaremaa is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The peace and quiet of the island make for a relaxing couple's getaway. You can enjoy the outdoors and feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the laid back island in the Baltics.

Rio de Janeiro is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many parks and gardens around town that are perfect for a stroll. Nature lovers will enjoy the many hikes in the area, many which go through the jungle, visit waterfalls, or offer spectacular views. And, of course, Sugarloaf Mountain is a must-see destination, as are the many beaches in the area.

Is Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rio de Janeiro is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Rio de Janeiro, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Backpackers flock to the city for its wild nightlife scene and beautiful beaches. There's a huge backpacker culture here and many hostels around town that offer a social setting and plenty of activities for guests.

Saaremaa is a good island to visit for backpackers. While prices are cheap, transportation isn't great so you'll likely want to rent a car if you want to really explore the island. There are a number of rooms available for rent at an affordable price, particularly in the shoulder season, but you'll you'll only find a handful of hostels on the island.

Is Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Rio de Janeiro is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

The public transit in Rio de Janeiro can get you to most places easily. The city has a subway system, MetroRio, that is relatively reliable and convenient. There are also city buses, trams, and commuter trains.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saaremaa. Most people arrive on the island by ferry. There are buses on the island but they cater mostly to locals. To really explore, you'll want to have access to a car.

Is Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro a more walkable city?

Rio de Janeiro is great for its ease of walking around. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its walkability.

Rio de Janeiro is a very walkable destination. Most of the areas where tourists spend their time are relatively walkable. Centro is compact and many tourists choose to explore areas on foot. As always, remember to take the appropriate safety precautions and always be aware of your surroundings.

Saaremaa is not a walkable island. While their are some walking trails, you really need a car to explore the island in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Saaremaa Worth Visiting? and Is Rio de Janeiro Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rio de Janeiro or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro?

Saaremaa and Rio de Janeiro both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Rio de Janeiro than Saaremaa because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saaremaa, and 4-6 days is enough time in Rio de Janeiro.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rio de Janeiro than Saaremaa 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 Rio de Janeiro.

One day in Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro?

Saaremaa might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Rio de Janeiro is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro?

Saaremaa is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Rio de Janeiro is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saaremaa. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

A week in Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro?

Saaremaa is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

Rio de Janeiro is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Brazil, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rio de Janeiro.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Saaremaa and Rio de Janeiro, we can see that Saaremaa is more expensive. And not only is Rio de Janeiro much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Saaremaa is in Europe and Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rio de Janeiro 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 Saaremaa would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Saaremaa than you might in Rio de Janeiro.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Saaremaa Expensive? and Is Rio de Janeiro Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro has a larger population, and is about 400 times larger than the population of Saaremaa. When comparing the sizes of Saaremaa and Rio de Janeiro, 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 Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Rio de Janeiro is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Saaremaa has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saaremaa as well as Rio de Janeiro. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saaremaa this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rio de Janeiro for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Saaremaa is much colder than Rio de Janeiro in the summer. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 26°C (79°F)in January.

It's quite rainy in Rio de Janeiro. Saaremaa usually gets less rain in July than Rio de Janeiroin January. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro in the Autumn?

Both Rio de Janeiro and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saaremaa for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Rio de Janeiro in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Saaremaa is much colder than Rio de Janeiro. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saaremaa in October average around 8°C (47°F), and Rio de Janeiro averages at about 25°C (77°F)in April.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Rio de Janeiro. In October, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Rio de Janeiroin April. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Rio de Janeiro is May to November. The rainy season in Rio de Janeiro is December to April.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro in the Winter?

Both Rio de Janeiro and Saaremaa during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saaremaa in the winter for the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rio de Janeiro for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Saaremaa can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Rio de Janeiroin July. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around -3°C (27°F), and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in January than Rio de Janeiroin July. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saaremaa or Rio de Janeiro in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Rio de Janeiro. Most visitors come to Saaremaa for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Rio de Janeiro because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Saaremaa can be very cold during spring. Saaremaa is much colder than Rio de Janeiro in the spring. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 4°C (38°F) in April, and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 23°C (73°F)in October.

In April, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Rio de Janeiroin October. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the spring. May to November in Rio de Janeiro is the dry season. Also, December to April is the rainy season in Rio de Janeiro.

Typical Weather for Rio de Janeiro and Saaremaa