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

Should you visit Split or Sao Paulo?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Split and Sao Paulo. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Split

Split is a budget-friendly, historic, and active city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Split travel costs.

Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a dynamic, vibrant, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Sao Paulo travel costs.

Split and Sao Paulo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Split or Sao Paulo?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Split than Sao Paulo. While Sao Paulo is larger than Split, Split has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Split is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Sao Paulo is known for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities. Split is more touristy than Sao Paulo and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Sao Paulo is popular for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene.

How is Split different from Sao Paulo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Split or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Sao Paulo are world-renowned. 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

Split offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with historical sights, some of which were used in the shooting of the famed television series, Game of Thrones. Highlights include Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Split and Sao Paulo.

Split has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's the second largest city in Croatia and the food scene reflects this. You'll find a mix of Dalmatian restaurants and international options. There's also everything from fine dining to local taverns, so whatever your budget or food preference, you won't be disappointed.

Dining out in Sao Paulo is an experience not to be missed. 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 Split or Sao Paulo Better for Nightlife?

Both Split and Sao Paulo have world-class vibes after the sun sets.

Split is a must-see party destination. It has some of the best nightlife on mainland Croatia. Backpackers and students flock to this city for its parties and nightclubs. There's a great live music scene as well as DJs who keep the party going well into the early morning.

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.

Is Split or Sao Paulo Better for Resorts?

Split is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Sao Paulo is not a resort destination.

Split is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find a mix of popular resort chains, local boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. Whatever your budget or travel style there are options available.

Sao Paulo is not a resort destination.

Is Split or Sao Paulo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a great city for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Sao Paulo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Split to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. Some of the best snorkeling is found around the Kornati Islands. There are many boat trips that take visitors to some of the best snorkeling spots near Split.

Sao Paulo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Split or Sao Paulo Better for Beaches?

Split is a great city for the beach. However, Sao Paulo is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Split. There are many beaches in the area that are a mix of pebbly or sandy. Many have restaurants or bars nearby and the vibe is social and laid back. Some of the best beaches near town are Bacvice Beach, Žnjan Beach, and Kasjuni Beach.

Sao Paulo is not a beach destination.

Is Split or Sao Paulo Better for its Old Town?

Split is a nice place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.

Split has an old town worth visiting. The old town spreads out from Diocletian's Palace and People's Square. It's filled with cobblestone streets and restaurants that spill into the outdoors.

Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Split or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Sao Paulo draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Split. Shopping and sightseeing are intermixed in town. Make sure you don't miss the Old Market, which is the city's main outdoor market. There are many shops all through the old town as well.

Is Split or Sao Paulo Better for Families?

Split 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 Split. With its parks, beaches, and outdoor activities, kids will love this spot. Zvonac Park is one of the best in town for kids. Young kids will appreciate the Dinasour Playground. Also make sure you allow time to explore Diocletian's Palace and Klis Fortress. There are also beaches and other water activities that are fun for the whole family.

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 Split or Sao Paulo Better for Couples?

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

Split has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's not uncommon for couples to choose Split as their honeymoon destination. The old town is filled with character and charm. There are also parks where you can enjoy a picnic and beaches where you can soak up the fun of the Adriatic Sea. Cafes serving local cuisine spill into the streets and the old world charm offers a romantic ambiance that can only be found in Croatia.

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 Split or Sao Paulo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Split, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. There's no shortage of hostels in town. This is a not-to-be-missed backpacker destination in Croatia and the social scene, beaches, water activities, and history all make Split a highlight for many backpackers.

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 Split or Sao Paulo Better for Students?

Split is a great city for its student-friendly activities. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Split is a great city to visit as a student. It's easy to visit on a student's budget. There are plenty of hostels and a huge party scene that bring backpackers and students together.

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 Split or Sao Paulo 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, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find some public transit in Split, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

Is Split or Sao Paulo a more walkable city?

Split and Sao Paulo are great when it comes to walkability.

Split is a very walkable city. The city is laid out in a pedestrian-friendly way so it's easy to explore on foot, particularly in the old town. It's also easy to get lost, but that's all part of the fun.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Sao Paulo or Split?

How long in Split or Sao Paulo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Split and Sao Paulo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Split than in Sao Paulo. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Split, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sao Paulo.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Split 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 Split.

One day in Split or Sao Paulo?

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Split. 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.

Each neighborhood in Sao Paulo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Split or Sao Paulo?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the budget-friendly destination of Split. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sao Paulo. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Split or Sao Paulo?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the active city of Split. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Sao Paulo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Sao Paulo. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Split or Sao Paulo?

Split 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the dynamic big city of Sao Paulo. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia, The Best 3-Day Tours from Manaus, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Brazil.

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

Which is Bigger, Split or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Split and Sao Paulo, 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 Split or Sao Paulo?

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 Split has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Split or Sao Paulo in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Split and Sao Paulo. Many visitors come to Split in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Sao Paulo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Split is around the same temperature as Sao Paulo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Split in July average around 26°C (80°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 25°C (77°F)in January.

Sao Paulo receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Split usually receives less rain than Sao Pauloin January. Split gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, October to March is the rainy season in Sao Paulo.

Should I visit Split or Sao Paulo in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Split as well as Sao Paulo. Most visitors come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Sao Paulo because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Split is generally cooler than Sao Pauloin April. Daily temperatures in Split average around 18°C (64°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

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

Should I visit Split or Sao Paulo in the Winter?

Both Sao Paulo and Split are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Split because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sao Paulo this time of year.

Split is much colder than Sao Paulo in the winter. The daily temperature in Split averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 19°C (66°F)in July.

In January, Split usually receives more rain than Sao Pauloin July. Split gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Sao Paulo is June to August.

Should I visit Split or Sao Paulo in the Spring?

Both Sao Paulo and Split during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Split this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sao Paulo for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Split is cooler than Sao Paulo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Split in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 21°C (70°F)in October.

Split usually gets less rain in April than Sao Pauloin October. Split gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Sao Paulo.

Typical Weather for Sao Paulo and Split