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

Should you visit Sao Paulo or Montreal?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sao Paulo or Montreal, 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 colorful, cultural, and dynamic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Sao Paulo travel costs.

Montreal

Montreal is a colorful, cultural, and vibrant city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Montreal travel costs.

Sao Paulo and Montreal: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sao Paulo or Montreal?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Montreal than Sao Paulo. While Sao Paulo is larger than Montreal, Montreal has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Montreal is more touristy than Sao Paulo and is known for its music, fashion, and cultural activities. It is also well known for Notre-Dame Basilica. Sao Paulo is famous for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene.

How is Sao Paulo different from Montreal?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of terrific museums and attractions in both Montreal and Sao Paulo.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Sao Paulo has many famous sights for visitors. 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

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Montreal that are not to be missed. The city is filled with world-class museums and historic sites such as Notre-Dame Basilica, St. Joseph's Oratory, the Biosphere, and the Fine Arts Museum.

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

Foodies will find both Sao Paulo and Montreal both to be excellent destinations.

Sao Paulo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Montreal makes for a great culinary experience. There are both local and international restaurants that serve up excellent dishes. Some of the local recipes that you should try include tourtiere (a meat pie), a smoked meat sandwich, and, of course, poutine.

Is Sao Paulo or Montreal Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find terrific options in both Sao Paulo and Montreal.

People head to Sao Paulo just to party. 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.

The nightlife in Montreal is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city's nightlife scene is centered around its live music scene, which is excellent. There are also many bars and clubs, as well as a young population that keep evenings lively.

Is Sao Paulo or Montreal Better for Music?

Montreal is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Sao Paulo is not a live music destination.

Montreal has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The music scene is thriving and world class. One of the most unique aspects of the city's music scene is its impromptu nature. You'll find many talented street performers and you'll likely stumble into many high quality performers. There's also a great indie scene as well as hip hop, classical, jazz, and heavy metal at the many live music venues.

Sao Paulo is not a live music destination.

Is Sao Paulo or Montreal Better for its Old Town?

Montreal is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Montreal to see the historical old town. Vieux-Montreal is the historic part of the city, and it's filled with cobblestone streets and historic buildings. This is also where you'll find the Old Port, which has a waterfront promenade.

Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Sao Paulo or Montreal?

If you're looking to go shopping, Sao Paulo and Montreal both offer plenty of terrific spots.

Many people travel to Sao Paulo specifically to go shopping. 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.

Montreal is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's known for its fashion scene and there are many independent and local vendors around town. Bonsecours Market is both historic and fascinating, but also make sure you check out Mont-Royal Avenue, which is the main shopping and dining street in town.

Is Sao Paulo or Montreal Better for Families?

Montreal is a great city 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 Montreal. Kids and teens will love the many science museums, parks and gardens, and the nearby La Ronde Amusement Park. If your kids are music lovers, there are many talented street performers in the city that will entertain the young and old alike.

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 Montreal Better for Couples?

Montreal is a great city for couples. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Montreal is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city is filled with romance, from the world class music scene to the romantic restaurants and sunset river cruises. If you're in town during the fall months, check out the Botanical Gardens, which come to life with the annual Gardens of Light.

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 Montreal Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Sao Paulo and Montreal are nice places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sao Paulo. 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.

Montreal is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's a decent number of hostels as well as a great nightlife scene and plenty of younger visitors looking to meet other travelers.

Is Sao Paulo or Montreal Better for Students?

Montreal is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Montreal is a great destination for students. It's regularly ranked as one of the top cities in North America for students. There are many students around town, a great nightlife scene, and plenty of opportunities to receive a world-class education.

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.

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

Sao Paulo is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Montreal is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Montreal. There's an efficient and reliable metro and bus system.

Is Sao Paulo or Montreal a more walkable city?

Sao Paulo and Montreal are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Sao Paulo is a very walkable destination. 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.

Montreal is very walkable. The city is very walkable, particularly in the areas that are popular with tourists.

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

Should I spend more time in Montreal or Sao Paulo?

How long in Sao Paulo or Montreal?

In either Sao Paulo or Montreal, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Montreal than Sao Paulo because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sao Paulo, and 3-5 days is enough time in Montreal.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Montreal than Sao Paulo 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 Montreal.

One day in Sao Paulo or Montreal?

Sao Paulo is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Montreal. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Montreal?

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

You'll find live music and food around the colorful big city of Montreal. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sao Paulo or Montreal?

Sao Paulo 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful city of Montreal. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Sao Paulo or Montreal?

Sao Paulo 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 city offers something for everyone.

Montreal is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sao Paulo and Montreal, we can see that Montreal 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 Montreal is in North 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 Montreal would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Montreal 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 Montreal Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sao Paulo or Montreal?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Montreal. When comparing the sizes of Sao Paulo and Montreal, 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 Montreal?

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

Should I visit Sao Paulo or Montreal in the Summer?

Both Montreal and Sao Paulo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Sao Paulo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Montreal because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Sao Paulo is a little warmer than Montreal in the summer. The daily temperature in Sao Paulo averages around 25°C (77°F) in January, and Montreal fluctuates around 21°C (69°F)in July.

It's quite rainy in Sao Paulo. In January, Sao Paulo usually receives more rain than Montrealin July. Sao Paulo gets 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Sao Paulo is October to March.

Should I visit Sao Paulo or Montreal in the Autumn?

Both Montreal and Sao Paulo during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Sao Paulo because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Montreal this time of year.

In the autumn, Sao Paulo is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Sao Paulo in April average around 22°C (72°F), and Montreal averages at about 8°C (47°F)in October.

Sao Paulo usually gets less rain in April than Montrealin October. Sao Paulo gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Sao Paulo.

Should I visit Sao Paulo or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Sao Paulo and Montreal. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sao Paulo this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Montreal for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Montreal. In July, Sao Paulo is generally much warmer than Montrealin January. Daily temperatures in Sao Paulo average around 19°C (66°F), and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

In July, Sao Paulo usually receives less rain than Montrealin January. Sao Paulo gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter. June to August in Sao Paulo is the dry season.

Should I visit Sao Paulo or Montreal in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Sao Paulo as well as Montreal. Many travelers come to Sao Paulo for the activities around the city. Additionally, many visitors come to Montreal in the spring for the activities around the city.

Sao Paulo is much warmer than Montreal in the spring. The daily temperature in Sao Paulo averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F)in April.

Sao Paulo usually gets more rain in October than Montrealin April. Sao Paulo gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Sao Paulo is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Montreal and Sao Paulo