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

Should you visit Sao Paulo or Quebec City?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sao Paulo or Quebec City, 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Sao Paulo travel costs.

Quebec City

Quebec City is a charming, historical, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, Quebec City attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Quebec City travel costs.

Sao Paulo and Quebec City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Sao Paulo or Quebec City?

Both Quebec City and Sao Paulo have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Sao Paulo is better known for its nightlife and big city activities, while Quebec City is more popular for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Quebec City is more touristy than Sao Paulo and is popular for its charming streets and classic Old Town. Sao Paulo is well known for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene.

How is Sao Paulo different from Quebec City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sao Paulo
Quebec City

You'll find a number of amazing museums and attractions in both Quebec City 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 Quebec City that are not to be missed. Historic sites include La Citadelle de Québec and Quebec National Historic Site. There are many iconic buildings in town as well like the Parliament Building and Château Frontenac. Also make sure you visit the Musée de la Civilisation and the stunning Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré.


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

Sao Paulo
Quebec City

Quebec City is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Quebec City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city offers a mix of Canadian favorites and French dishes with a local twist. Favorite dishes that you must try include tourtières, pâté chinois, pea soup, and fèves au lard. There are also many local desserts to sample. You'll find some of the best French Canadian cuisine in the Old Town.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sao Paulo makes for a great culinary experience. 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).

Is Sao Paulo or Quebec City Better for Nightlife?

Sao Paulo
Quebec City

Sao Paulo is very popular for nightlife. Also, Quebec City is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Sao Paulo is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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 Quebec City has something for everybody. The nightlife scene consists mainly of bars and pubs that you'll find along Rue Saint-Jean and in the Saint-Jean-Baptiste neighborhood. You'll also find clubs in Saint-Roch along Rue du Parvis and Avenue Saint-Joseph.

Is Sao Paulo or Quebec City Better for its Old Town?

Sao Paulo
Quebec City

Quebec City is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Quebec City is revered around the world. The walled Old Town has fortifications that date back to the 17th century. It has a European charm with cobblestone streets, charming restaurants, beautiful squares, and historic architecture. Many visitors feel like they've stepped into old world Europe.

Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Sao Paulo or Quebec City?

Sao Paulo
Quebec City

If you're looking to go shopping, Sao Paulo and Quebec City both offer plenty of amazing 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.

Quebec City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The Old Town has many local boutiques and artisan shops that are fun for browsing. There are many shopping streets in town like Petit-Champlain Street, Rue Saint-Joseph, and Avenue Cartier.

Is Sao Paulo or Quebec City More Beautiful?

Sao Paulo
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Quebec City attracts visitors from all around. The European atmosphere gives the city a unique beauty with architecture and cobblestone streets that create a fairytale setting.

Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sao Paulo or Quebec City Better for Families?

Sao Paulo
Quebec City

Quebec City 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 Quebec City. There are tons of kid-friendly activities like visiting the Aquarium du Québec, having an adventure at Terrasse Dufferin, or exploring Chute de Montmorency.

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 Quebec City Better for Couples?

Sao Paulo
Quebec City

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

Quebec City has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's one of the most European city's in North America, and it's filled with romance. Couples can enjoy exploring the Old Town by carriage or taking a boat ride on the Saint Lawrence River. For a truly romantic evening, enjoy a French meal at the famous Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, but for many couples, simply exploring and soaking up the city's charm offers the simple romance that they're looking for.

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 Quebec City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sao Paulo
Quebec City

Quebec City is a great city 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 Quebec City. There are a decent number of hostels around town and backpackers consider this a favorite destination in the area.

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 Quebec City Better for Students?

Sao Paulo
Quebec City

For students, both Sao Paulo and Quebec City are notable places to visit.

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

Quebec City is a good city to visit for students. It's a beautiful and charming city that is fun for international students.


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

Sao Paulo
Quebec City

Sao Paulo is very popular for its public transit. Also, Quebec City is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Sao Paulo has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. 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 Quebec City offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and ferries around town.

Is Sao Paulo or Quebec City a more walkable city?

Sao Paulo
Quebec City

Quebec City is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Quebec City is a very easy city to get around on foot. The Old Town is compact and easy to explore on foot.

Sao Paulo is very walkable. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Quebec City or Sao Paulo?

How long in Sao Paulo or Quebec City?

It's fun to spend time in either Sao Paulo or Quebec City. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Quebec City 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 Quebec City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Quebec City 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 Quebec City.


  • How many days in Sao Paulo or Quebec City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sao Paulo 2-3 
    Quebec City 2-4

One day in Sao Paulo or Quebec City?

Sao Paulo is a colorful city where you can fill many days. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Quebec City. 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 Quebec City?

Sao Paulo is a colorful big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Quebec City. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sao Paulo or Quebec City?

The cultural city of Sao Paulo offers shopping and museums. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Quebec City. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Sao Paulo or Quebec City?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sao Paulo. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Quebec City 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Quebec City or Sao Paulo?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Sao Paulo Prices
    Brazil Prices
    Quebec City Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sao Paulo $60
    Quebec City $152

The average daily cost (per person) in Sao Paulo is $60, while the average daily cost in Quebec City is $152. 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 Sao Paulo and Quebec City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sao Paulo $28
    Quebec City $73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sao Paulo $56
    Quebec City $146
Compare Hotels in Sao Paulo and Quebec City

Looking for a hotel in Sao Paulo or Quebec City? 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 Sao Paulo


Hotels in Quebec City


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: Sao Paulo Hotel Prices and Quebec City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sao Paulo $5.76
    Quebec City $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sao Paulo

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

  • Sao Paulo Guarulhos Airport (GRU) to Sao Paulo Private Transfer: $79
  • Airport Transfer: Sao Paulo to Airport GRU by Business Car: $143
  • Airport Transfer: Sao Paulo to Airport GRU by Luxury Van: $176
  • Arrived in Guarulhos or Congonhas? Your Transfer is Ready: $90
  • Private Arrival Transfer | Congonhas Airport (CGH) x São Paulo City: $95
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Congonhas Airport to São Paulo Hotels: $39
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Guarulhos International Airport to São Paulo Hotels: $47
  • Private Departure Transfer: São Paulo Hotels to Congonhas Airport: $39
  • Private Transfer from Alphaville to Sao Paulo (GRU) Airport: $125
  • Private Transfer from Gru Airport to Port or City of Santos (1 to 15 people): $229
  • Private Transfer from Guarulhos to Santos: $80
  • Private Transfer from Morumbi to Sao Paulo (GRU) Airport: $178

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Quebec City

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Quebec City are as follows:


  • Parking in Quebec City
    $3.63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Quebec City

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Quebec City:

  • Private Transfer from Quebec City Hotels to Saguenay Cruise Port: $262
  • Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Quebec: $249
  • Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) to Québec city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $212
  • Québec Airport (YQB) to Le Terminal Quebec Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $209
  • Le Terminal Quebec Cruise Port to Quebec - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $149
  • Private transfer from YQB (QUEBEC) Airport to downtown: $122
  • Quebec Airport (YQB) to Downtown private transfer: $115
  • Private Transfer from Quebec City to YQB airport: $111
  • YQB Airport Transfer: $111
  • YQB Quebec City Airport Cruise Terminal Train Station Transfer: $108
  • From Quebec City : Cruise & Visit to Grosse-Ile with bus transfer: $107
  • Québec city to Québec Jean Lesage Airport (YQB) - Departure Private Transfer: $106

Is it cheaper to fly into Sao Paulo or Quebec City?

Prices for flights to both Quebec City and Sao Paulo 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
    Sao Paulo $24
    Quebec City $63

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sao Paulo

For Sao Paulo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Make 9 Brazilian Faves in a 4-Hour Cooking Workshop in Sao Paulo: $85
  • Authentic Brazilian Cooking Experience in SP: Feijoada & Moqueca: $189

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Quebec City

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Quebec City.

  • Quebecois Aperitif Food Tour in Quebec City: $61
  • Québec City: 3 or 5-Course Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing: $129
  • Progressive Dinner on Grande-Allée and History Tour: $202
  • Old Quebec 5-Course Gourmet Food Tour: $202
  • Combo Historical and Food Tour of the Old Quebec City: $208
  • 5-course Progressive Dinner on Grande-Allée and History Tour: $208
  • Evening Gourmet Tour 5 Course Dinner - History and Food in Old Quebec City: $208
  • Private Food Tour in Quebec With A Local Guide : $265

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sao Paulo $3.89
    Quebec City $24

Tours and Activities in Sao Paulo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sao Paulo.

  • Sao Paulo Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Downtown-Center History Walking Tour - in English: $31
  • São Paulo: 2 Hour Immersion Waling Tour in Paulista Avenue: $34
  • São Paulo Must-see Attractions Walking Tour with a Guide: $48
  • Boat Trip Billings Dam and Experience Bororé Island: $50
  • São Paulo: 2 Hours - Liberdade "Street Food" Tour - In English: $55
  • Sao Paulo, Pinheiros - Food & Graffiti Tour - In English: $65
  • São Paulo Highlights Walking Tour with a Guide: $66
  • City Tour Meet São Paulo Half-Day: $68
  • Sao Paulo Culture Walking Tour: $69
  • Shared tour of the tourist attractions of São Paulo: $77
  • São Paulo’s Full Day City Tour: Main City Sights in 7 Hours – (Shared Group): $79

Tours and Activities in Quebec City

Here are a few actual costs in Quebec City for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Magnificent Montmorency Falls E-Bike Tour: $166
  • Private Québec City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour: $219
  • 4 Hour Scooter Rental in Quebec City Self Guided Urban Adventure: $95
  • A Joyful Christmas: Private Walking Tour in Quebec: $983
  • A Taste of History Walking Tour: $70
  • APP Self-Guided Tours Quebec with Audioguide: $9.62
  • Animated Crime Walking Tour in Old Quebec: $20
  • Best of Panoramic Bus Tour with Local Guide: $41
  • Best of Panoramic Bus Tour with Local Guide: $38
  • Beyond the Walls E-Bike Tour: $200
  • Certified tours in Quebec City in Mandarin Japanese and French: $177
  • Electric Fatbike Tour in Québec City: $111

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sao Paulo $3.38
    Quebec City $18

Sample the Local Flavors in Sao Paulo

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Sao Paulo:

  • Fine wine tastings in São Roque - Tour with local guides: $192

Sample the Local Flavors in Quebec City

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Quebec City:

  • Honey and Distillery Tour with Tasting: $21
  • Craft Brewery and Beer Tasting Tour: $50
  • Island of Orleans Wine Tour: $94
  • Wine Tasting on Ile d'Orleans: $96
  • Montmorency Falls and Microbrewery eBike Tour: $107


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


Which is Bigger, Sao Paulo or Quebec City?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Quebec City. When comparing the sizes of Sao Paulo and Quebec City, 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.