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

Should you visit Tartu or Sao Paulo?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tartu and Sao Paulo can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tartu

Tartu is a student-oriented, cultural, and historical university town. Tartu offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife. See Tartu travel costs.

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.

Tartu and Sao Paulo: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Tartu or Sao Paulo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sao Paulo than Tartu. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Sao Paulo is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Tartu attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Sao Paulo is more touristy than Tartu and is known for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene. It is also well known for Ibirapuera Park. Tartu is famous for its vibrant student population and long running university.

How is Tartu different from Sao Paulo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tartu
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tartu
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

Tartu offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.

Is Tartu or Sao Paulo Better for Nightlife?

Tartu
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for nightlife.

Sao Paulo has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Tartu offers plenty to do in the evening. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

Is Tartu or Sao Paulo Better for its Old Town?

Tartu
Sao Paulo

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

Many visitors go to Tartu to see the historical old town. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.

Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Tartu or Sao Paulo?

Tartu
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tartu is not known for shopping.

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.

Tartu is a good destination for shopping. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

Is Tartu or Sao Paulo More Beautiful?

Tartu
Sao Paulo

Tartu is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Tartu offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's a beautiful city with a long history and a number of unique historical buildings.

Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tartu or Sao Paulo Better for Families?

Tartu
Sao Paulo

Both Tartu and Sao Paulo are nice to visit with kids.

Tartu offers lots of family activities. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.

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 Tartu or Sao Paulo Better for Couples?

Tartu
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a city with good options for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

Sao Paulo is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Tartu is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.

Is Tartu or Sao Paulo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tartu
Sao Paulo

Tartu is a great university 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 Tartu. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

Sao Paulo is a good university town 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 Tartu or Sao Paulo Better for Students?

Tartu
Sao Paulo

Tartu 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.

Tartu is a great destination for students. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

Sao Paulo is a good university town 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 Tartu or Sao Paulo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Tartu
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its public transit.

Public transit in Sao Paulo is top-notch. 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.

Tartu has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.

Is Tartu or Sao Paulo a more walkable city?

Tartu
Sao Paulo

Tartu and Sao Paulo are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Tartu is a very walkable destination. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

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 Tartu Worth Visiting? and Is Sao Paulo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sao Paulo or Tartu?

How long in Tartu or Sao Paulo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Tartu and Sao Paulo. In our opinion, Sao Paulo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sao Paulo than Tartu. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Tartu, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sao Paulo.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Tartu or Sao Paulo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tartu 1-3 
    Sao Paulo 2-3

One day in Tartu or Sao Paulo?

You'll find nightlife around the university town of Tartu. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tartu has to offer. 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 Tartu or Sao Paulo?

You'll find nightlife around the lively destination of Tartu. 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 university town has to offer. This university town 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 Tartu or Sao Paulo?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife when visiting the lively university town of Tartu. 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.

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 Tartu or Sao Paulo?

Tartu 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Estonia, The Best 3-Day Tours from Manaus, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Brazil.


Which place is cheaper, Sao Paulo or Tartu?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Tartu is €132, while the average daily cost in Sao Paulo is €51. 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 Tartu and Sao Paulo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tartu 47
    Sao Paulo 24
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tartu 94
    Sao Paulo 48
Compare Hotels in Tartu and Sao Paulo

Looking for a hotel in Tartu or Sao Paulo? 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 Tartu


Hotels in Sao Paulo


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: Tartu Hotel Prices and Sao Paulo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tartu 27
    Sao Paulo 4.90

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sao Paulo

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

  • Private Transfer from Sao Paulo Airport (GRU) to Ilhabela Port: $295
  • Transfer from São Paulo to Port of Santos: $230
  • Private Transfer from Gru Airport to Port or City of Santos (1 to 15 people): $229
  • Private Transfer from Morumbi to Sao Paulo (GRU) Airport: $178
  • Airport Transfer: Sao Paulo to Airport GRU by Luxury Van: $176
  • Private Transfer from Sao Paulo hotels to Santos Cruise Port: $170
  • Sao Paulo Guarulhos Airport GRU to Sao Paulo RoundTrip Transfer : $158
  • Airport Transfer: Sao Paulo to Airport GRU by Business Car: $143
  • Private Transfer from Sao Paulo city hotels to Santos Cruise Port: $138
  • Transfer to Guarulhos Airport - up to 4 passengers sedan: $130
  • Private Transfer from Alphaville to Sao Paulo (GRU) Airport: $125
  • Private Transfer from Sao Paulo City to Congonhas (CGH) Airport: $123

Is it cheaper to fly into Tartu or Sao Paulo?

Prices for flights to both Sao Paulo and Tartu 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
    Tartu 65
    Sao Paulo 21
Typical Food Prices in Tartu

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Tartu:


  • Danishes
    0.76
  • Lunch for Two
    4.93
  • Ice Cream
    1.27
  • Cookies
    0.51
  • Coffee & Cake
    3.47

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tartu 16
    Sao Paulo 3.31
Typical Entertainment Prices in Tartu

For Tartu, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Art Museum ticket
    0.95
  • Movie Ticket
    3.47

Tours and Activities in Tartu

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

  • Around Viljandi bike tour: $30
  • Charming Viljandi Private Walking Tour for Couples: $260
  • Dazzling Tartu City Cultural Private Walking Tour: $751
  • Magical Tartu Romantic Private Walking Tour: $751
  • TARTU COUNTRY: SLED DOG TOUR AND KENNEL VISIT: $141

Tours and Activities in Sao Paulo

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

  • São Paulo: 2 Hour Immersion Waling Tour in Paulista Avenue: $34
  • 4 Hour Private Tour - São Paulo: $142
  • 4-Hour Private Tour in Sao Paulo: $300
  • 4-hour Sum-up Private Tour Of São Paulo Including Its Major Attractions : $134
  • 5-hour Pelé Private Tour: The King of Football : $162
  • 5-hour Private Street Art Tour Of São Paulo – The Coolest Urban Art Scenes: $176
  • 5-hour Private Tour Of São Paulo With Its Main Sights – Optional Airport Pickup: $162
  • 5h City Tour (pick up & delivery within SaoPaulo city): $240
  • 6 Hour Ayrton Senna Tour – The Greatest Formula 1 Drivers of all Time: $193
  • 6-Hour Classic Half-Day Private Tour of São Paulo – Optional Airport Pickup : $178
  • 6-Hour Private Layover Tour in São Paulo from GRU & CGH Airports: $178
  • 7-hour Private Tour Overview Of São Paulo – Optional For GRU Airport Pickup: $192

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Tartu 16
    Sao Paulo 2.88

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


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


Which is Bigger, Tartu or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Tartu. When comparing the sizes of Tartu 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 Tartu 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 Tartu has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Tartu or Sao Paulo in the Summer?

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

Tartu is cooler than Sao Paulo in the summer. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in January.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sao Paulo. In July, Tartu usually receives less rain than Sao Pauloin January. Tartu gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Sao Paulo is October to March.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Tartu 17°C (62°F) 
    Sao Paulo 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Sao Paulo in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Tartu is much colder than Sao Paulo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Tartu in October average around 6°C (43°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 22°C (72°F)in April.

Tartu usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Sao Pauloin April. Tartu gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Sao Paulo.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Tartu 6°C (43°F) 
    Sao Paulo 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Sao Paulo in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Tartu in the winter. In January, Tartu is generally much colder than Sao Pauloin July. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around -7°C (19°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In January, Tartu usually receives more rain than Sao Pauloin July. Tartu gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. June to August in Sao Paulo is the dry season.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Tartu -7°C (19°F) 
    Sao Paulo 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Tartu or Sao Paulo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tartu as well as Sao Paulo. Many travelers come to Tartu for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Sao Paulo in the spring for the activities around the city.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tartu. Tartu is much colder than Sao Paulo in the spring. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around 5°C (41°F) in April, and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 21°C (70°F)in October.

Tartu usually gets less rain in April than Sao Pauloin October. Tartu gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Sao Paulo is the rainy season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Tartu 5°C (41°F) 
    Sao Paulo 21°C (70°F)

Typical Weather for Sao Paulo and Tartu

Tartu Sao Paulo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -7°C (19°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 25°C (77°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Feb -6°C (20°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 25°C (77°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Mar -2°C (29°F) 26 mm (1 in) 24°C (75°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Apr 5°C (41°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 19°C (66°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 21°C (70°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 6°C (43°F) 52 mm (2 in) 21°C (70°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 1°C (33°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 23°C (73°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Dec -4°C (25°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 24°C (75°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)