A Travel Price Comparison for Brazil Sao Paulo vs. Foz do Iguacu for Attractions, Nightlife, Food, and Families

Should you visit Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu, 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.

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.

Foz do Iguacu

Foz do Iguacu is a spectacular, scenic, and breathtaking park. With stunning beauty, Foz do Iguacu attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Foz do Iguacu travel costs.

Sao Paulo and Foz do Iguacu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sao Paulo than Foz do Iguacu, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Sao Paulo is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Foz do Iguacu is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Foz do Iguacu is more touristy than Sao Paulo and is popular for its spectacular beauty and incredible volume of water. Sao Paulo is popular for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene. It is also home to Ibirapuera Park.

How is Sao Paulo different from Foz do Iguacu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu?

Sao Paulo is terrific for its museums and landmarks. However, Foz do Iguacu is a park with minimal options for its historical sights.

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

While most people don't head to Foz do Iguacu specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a handful of museums and nature parks in and near town.

Is the Food Better in Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sao Paulo is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Foz do Iguacu is still popular, but not quite as popular 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).

Foz do Iguacu is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find a variety of restaurants around town where you can sample the regional cuisine. A popular item on the menus is Surubí (a local river fish). Also make sure you try the Mbeyú (fried bread), and paraguayan soup (more like bread than an actual soup).

Is Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu Better for Nightlife?

Sao Paulo is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Foz do Iguacu is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Sao Paulo is a must-see party destination. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Foz do Iguacu has a few options to choose from. Head to the intersection of Avenida JK and Avenida Jorge Schimmelpfeng for the most lively nightlife scene in town. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants and bars, many with outdoor areas or live music.

Is Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu Better for Hiking?

Foz do Iguacu is a great park for hiking. However, Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Foz do Iguacu for the hiking trails. There's a network of trails and walkways at the foot of the falls as well as above the falls. You can also venture into the surrounding rainforest or hike to Devil's Throat for a great view.

Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu?

Sao Paulo is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Foz do Iguacu is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Foz do Iguacu has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's shopping in the center of town, particularly around Avenida Brasil, Rua Barbosa, Rua Almirante Barroso, and Quintino Bocaiuva.

Is Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu More Beautiful?

Foz do Iguacu is a great park for its scenery and beauty. However, Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Foz do Iguacu attracts visitors from all around. The falls is absolutely breathtaking. The volume of water and enormity in size is something that you can only experience in person.

Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu Better for Families?

Foz do Iguacu is a great park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Foz do Iguacu. Of course, the highlight for everyone is a visit to Iguacu National Park, which also offers boat rides, hiking, and spectacular views. In addition to this impressive park, the whole family will also enjoy a visit to Parque das Aves, which is a bird park that includes information on wildlife species and conservation.

Sao Paulo is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu Better for Couples?

Foz do Iguacu is a great park for couples. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Foz do Iguacu is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. While the town itself has limited entertainment, the waterfalls is a spectacular sight that has inspired more than a few marriage proposals.

Sao Paulo is a nice destination for couples. 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 Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Foz do Iguacu is a great park for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Foz do Iguacu. This is one of the country's most popular backpacker destinations so you'll find plenty of hostels and young travelers to hang out with. The falls itself is truly incredible and well worth the trip.

Sao Paulo is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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 Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu Better for Students?

Sao Paulo is a city with good options for students. However, Foz do Iguacu 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.

Foz do Iguacu is not popular with students.

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

Sao Paulo is terrific for its public transit. Also, Foz do Iguacu is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Sao Paulo can take you anywhere. 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.

While Foz do Iguacu offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. It's 12 miles between the park and the town so you'll need to take either a taxi or a public bus. On your way to the park, you should arrange for a ride back because finding a taxi as you leave can be challenging.

Is Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu a more walkable city?

Sao Paulo is a great destination for its high level of walkability. However, Foz do Iguacu is a park with minimal options 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.

Foz do Iguacu is generally not a very walkable city. There are walkways near the waterfalls, but the city isn't particularly walkable and you'll need transportation to travel between the park and the town.

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

Should I spend more time in Foz do Iguacu or Sao Paulo?

How long in Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu?

It's fun to spend time in either Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Foz do Iguacu due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sao Paulo, and 3-4 days is enough time in Foz do Iguacu.

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

Couples should spend more time in Sao Paulo than Foz do Iguacu. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Sao Paulo that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sao Paulo than Foz do Iguacu 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.

One day in Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu?

Sao Paulo is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the park of Foz do Iguacu. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sao Paulo. 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.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the scenic destination of Foz do Iguacu. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural big city of Sao Paulo. This city 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the spectacular park of Foz do Iguacu. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Sao Paulo. 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.

Foz do Iguacu is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Manaus, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Brazil, The Best Wildlife Tours to Brazil, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Brazil.

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

Which is Bigger, Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Foz do Iguacu. When comparing the sizes of Sao Paulo and Foz do Iguacu, 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 Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the southern hemisphere, summer is in January and winter is in July.

Should I visit Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Sao Paulo as well as Foz do Iguacu. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sao Paulo this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Foz do Iguacu for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In January, Sao Paulo is generally around the same temperature as Foz do Iguacu. Daily temperatures in Sao Paulo average around 25°C (77°F), and Foz do Iguacu fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

It's quite rainy in Foz do Iguacu. Sao Paulo receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sao Paulo usually gets more rain in January than Foz do Iguacu. Sao Paulo gets 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Foz do Iguacu receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Sao Paulo is the rainy season.

Should I visit Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu in the Autumn?

Both Foz do Iguacu and Sao Paulo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Sao Paulo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Foz do Iguacu in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Sao Paulo is around the same temperature as Foz do Iguacu in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sao Paulo averages around 22°C (72°F) in April, and Foz do Iguacu fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In April, Sao Paulo usually receives less rain than Foz do Iguacu. Sao Paulo gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Foz do Iguacu receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Sao Paulo is June to August.

Should I visit Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu in the Winter?

Both Foz do Iguacu and Sao Paulo during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Sao Paulo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Foz do Iguacu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Sao Paulo is around the same temperature as Foz do Iguacu. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sao Paulo in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Foz do Iguacu averages at about 18°C (64°F).

Sao Paulo usually gets less rain in July than Foz do Iguacu. Sao Paulo gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Foz do Iguacu receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Sao Paulo.

Should I visit Sao Paulo or Foz do Iguacu in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Sao Paulo and Foz do Iguacu. Most visitors come to Sao Paulo for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Foz do Iguacu because of the natural beauty.

In October, Sao Paulo is generally cooler than Foz do Iguacu. Daily temperatures in Sao Paulo average around 21°C (70°F), and Foz do Iguacu fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Foz do Iguacu receives a lot of rain in the spring. In October, Sao Paulo usually receives less rain than Foz do Iguacu. Sao Paulo gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Foz do Iguacu receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, October to March is the rainy season in Sao Paulo.

Typical Weather for Foz do Iguacu and Sao Paulo