A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sao Paulo vs. La Fortuna for Attractions, Nightlife, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Sao Paulo or La Fortuna?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sao Paulo or La Fortuna, 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 cultural, dynamic, and vibrant 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 nightlife, food, and shopping. See Sao Paulo travel costs.

La Fortuna

La Fortuna is a popular, stunning, and scenic town. With stunning beauty, La Fortuna attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, nightlife, and food. See La Fortuna travel costs.

Sao Paulo and La Fortuna: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sao Paulo or La Fortuna?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sao Paulo. Although Sao Paulo and La Fortuna 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 La Fortuna is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. La Fortuna is more touristy than Sao Paulo and is popular for its hot springs, luxury resorts, and volcanic views. 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 La Fortuna?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sao Paulo is renowned for its sights and museums. However, La Fortuna is a mediocre town for its museums and history.

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 La Fortuna specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people spend their time outdoors exploring the area, but there are also some museums that highlight local art and culture.

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

Sao Paulo is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, La Fortuna is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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).

La Fortuna is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a touristy mecca, and there are a number of decent restaurants around town. The area has some of the freshest local ingredients and the food reflects that. You'll find restaurants both in the center of town and along the road between the town and the hot springs.

Is Sao Paulo or La Fortuna Better for Nightlife?

Sao Paulo is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, La Fortuna is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in La Fortuna. The larger resorts usually have a couple of bars onsite. There are also local bars and pubs throughout the town. While things often quiet down by 9:00, you will probably be able to find a laid back place to enjoy a drink with friends.

Is Sao Paulo or La Fortuna Better for Resorts?

La Fortuna is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Sao Paulo is not a resort destination.

La Fortuna offers an unforgettable resort vacation. There are many larger international resorts in the area. Many offer spectacular views, spas, and beautifully maintained pools that take advantage of the area's hot springs.

Sao Paulo is not a resort destination.

Is Sao Paulo or La Fortuna Better for Hiking?

La Fortuna is a great town for hiking. However, Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to La Fortuna for the hiking trails. The area is filled with stunning hikes that take you through different landscapes and ecosystems. You'll likely see some wildlife, visit spectacular waterfalls, and, of course, catch views of the impressive Arenal Volcano.

Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sao Paulo or La Fortuna?

Sao Paulo is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, La Fortuna is a mediocre town 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.

La Fortuna has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find a couple of good souvenir shops around town where you can pick up some locally made items.

Is Sao Paulo or La Fortuna More Beautiful?

La Fortuna is a great town for its scenery and beauty. However, Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, La Fortuna attracts visitors from all around. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, lush rainforests, and dramatic views of the volcano. There are countless hikes and a plenty of opportunities to soak up the natural setting.

Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sao Paulo or La Fortuna Better for Families?

La Fortuna is a great town 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 La Fortuna. Kids will love exploring the outdoors and seeing some of Costa Rica's best environments. There are plenty of hiking trails, but if you're looking for short and simple, head to Ecocentro Danaus, which has a half mile flat walking loop and a butterfly garden. Another good option is Bogarin Trail, where you might see a sloth. And of course you have to check out Arenal Volcano National Park.

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 La Fortuna Better for Couples?

La Fortuna is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

La Fortuna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. There are amazing resorts and spas in the area that make for a truly luxurious and romantic holiday. Many couples visit for their honeymoon, and whether you enjoy exploring nature or pampering yourself in a five star setting, there really is something for everyone.

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 La Fortuna Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Fortuna is a great town 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 La Fortuna. As one of the top places to visit in Costa Rica, this town has a number of hostels that cater to the backpacker crowds.

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 La Fortuna Better for Students?

Sao Paulo is a good destination for students. However, La Fortuna is not popular with students.

Sao Paulo is a good city to visit for 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.

La Fortuna is not popular with students.

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

Sao Paulo is renowned for its public transit. Also, La Fortuna is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

La Fortuna has some public transit options. There are public buses throughout the area as well as private transportation services, taxis, and car sharing.

Is Sao Paulo or La Fortuna a more walkable city?

Sao Paulo is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, La Fortuna is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

La Fortuna is a somewhat walkable city. While the town itself is very walkable, many of the area's attractions can only be reached by car.

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

Should I spend more time in La Fortuna or Sao Paulo?

How long in Sao Paulo or La Fortuna?

It's fun to spend time in either Sao Paulo or La Fortuna. Generally, people tend to spend more time in La Fortuna 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 2-4 days is enough time in La Fortuna.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sao Paulo than La Fortuna 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 La Fortuna?

When visiting Sao Paulo, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of La Fortuna. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 La Fortuna?

When visiting Sao Paulo, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

You'll find food and nightlife around the popular destination of La Fortuna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Five days in Sao Paulo or La Fortuna?

Sao Paulo, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the popular town of La Fortuna. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Sao Paulo or La Fortuna?

Sao Paulo is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

La Fortuna is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Adventure Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Eco Tours in Costa Rica.

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

Which is Bigger, Sao Paulo or La Fortuna?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 3330 times larger than the population of La Fortuna. When comparing the sizes of Sao Paulo and La Fortuna, 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 La Fortuna?

Sao Paulo has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but La Fortuna experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Sao Paulo or La Fortuna in the Summer?

Both La Fortuna and Sao Paulo during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Sao Paulo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to La Fortuna year-round.

In January, Sao Paulo is generally cooler than La Fortunain July. Daily temperatures in Sao Paulo average around 25°C (77°F), and La Fortuna fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

La Fortuna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Sao Paulo. Sao Paulo usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as La Fortunain July. Sao Paulo gets 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while La Fortuna receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Sao Paulo.

Should I visit Sao Paulo or La Fortuna in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Sao Paulo and La Fortuna. Many visitors come to Sao Paulo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. La Fortuna attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Sao Paulo is cooler than La Fortuna in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sao Paulo averages around 22°C (72°F) in April, and La Fortuna fluctuates around 27°C (81°F)in October.

La Fortuna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In April, Sao Paulo usually receives less rain than La Fortunain October. Sao Paulo gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while La Fortuna receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain each month for the autumn. June to August in Sao Paulo is the dry season. December to April in La Fortuna is the dry season. The hurricane season in La Fortuna is May to November.

Should I visit Sao Paulo or La Fortuna in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Sao Paulo as well as La Fortuna. Most visitors come to Sao Paulo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. The warm climate attracts visitors to La Fortuna throughout the year.

In the winter, Sao Paulo is cooler than La Fortuna. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sao Paulo in July average around 19°C (66°F), and La Fortuna averages at about 27°C (81°F)in January.

Sao Paulo usually gets more rain in July than La Fortunain January. Sao Paulo gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while La Fortuna receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Sao Paulo is the dry season.

Should I visit Sao Paulo or La Fortuna in the Spring?

Both La Fortuna and Sao Paulo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Sao Paulo because of the activities around the city. Plenty of visitors come to La Fortuna because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In October, Sao Paulo is generally cooler than La Fortunain April. Daily temperatures in Sao Paulo average around 21°C (70°F), and La Fortuna fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

In October, Sao Paulo usually receives more rain than La Fortunain April. Sao Paulo gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while La Fortuna receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Sao Paulo is October to March. The dry season in La Fortuna is December to April. May to November is the hurricane season in La Fortuna.

Typical Weather for La Fortuna and Sao Paulo