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

Should you visit Valencia or Sao Paulo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Valencia or Sao Paulo, 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.

Valencia

Valencia is a friendly, coastal, and cultural coastal city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Many visitors also come to Valencia because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Valencia travel costs.

Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a vibrant, colorful, and cultural 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Sao Paulo travel costs.

Valencia and Sao Paulo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valencia or Sao Paulo?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Valencia than Sao Paulo. While Sao Paulo is larger than Valencia, Valencia has more sights and attractions for tourists. Valencia is more popular for its food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Sao Paulo is known for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities. Valencia is more touristy than Sao Paulo and is popular for its rich cultural, world class museums, beautiful old town, and local cuisine (which includes paella). It is also home to La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Sao Paulo is popular for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene.

How is Valencia different from Sao Paulo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sao Paulo is an amazing city to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Valencia. The city is famous for its architecture and culture. Most of the main attractions are concentrated in Ciutat Vella and can be easily accessed on foot. Notable landmarks include La Lonja de Seda, Catedral de València, and Plaza de la Virgen. There are also several world class museums including Oceanogràfic de València and La Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències de València.

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

Valencia 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, Valencia is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city is famous as the birthplace of paella, which is one of Spain's most famous dishes. Beyond the paella, there are a number of other amazing traditional dishes. Fideuà is similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice. All i pebre is an eel and potato dish and clóchinas are tiny local mussels. For dessert make sure you try the flan de calabaza, which is pumpkin flavored. Many restaurants also have tapas that can be shared. Restaurants in the old town are charming and delicious, but out by the beaches the quality isn't as good.

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 Valencia or Sao Paulo Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Valencia and Sao Paulo.

Valencia has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Dinner starts late, so you can expect the nightlife to pick up even later. During the summer there are all night terrace parties and year round you'll find nightclubs filled from evening to dawn. If all night raves aren't really your thing, you'll also find plenty of local bars where you can hang out with friends in a more relaxed setting. The nightlife scene really is varied enough that there's something for everyone.

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.

Is Valencia or Sao Paulo Better for Resorts?

Valencia is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Sao Paulo is not a resort destination.

Valencia has a few great resort options. You can choose between staying near the old town (Ciutat Vella) or out by the beach. One of the best beach areas is El Cabanyal. It's still close enough in to be well connected by public transit but offers a great coastal vibe as well.

Sao Paulo is not a resort destination.

Is Valencia or Sao Paulo Better for Beaches?

Valencia is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Sao Paulo is not a beach destination.

Valencia has a beach worth visiting. There are several urban beaches in town that are accessible by public transit. Many offer surprisingly long stretches of sand with wide beaches and plenty of activity. The beaches can get crowded during the summer months, but they are generally large enough to accommodate the crowds. La Malvarrosa Beach is one of the most popular because of its proximity to the city. El Saler Beach is further out and popular with the locals and Port Saplaya is a colorful area with shopping and beaches.

Sao Paulo is not a beach destination.

Is Valencia or Sao Paulo Better for its Old Town?

Valencia 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 Valencia is revered around the world. For culture, history, and the majority of the city's attractions, you'll want to spend your time in Ciutat Vella (old town).

Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.

Is Valencia or Sao Paulo Better for Hiking?

Valencia is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

Valencia has hiking trails worth exploring. Most people miss out on the beautiful hikes through the nearby countryside, but if you venture out of town you can enjoy some beautiful walking trails. Many run along the coastline or pass through rolling hills. There is varied landscape in the area with pine forests, orange groves, and vineyards all common.

Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valencia or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Valencia is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Valencia. As the third largest city in Spain, you'll find most designer brands around town. The main shopping street is Calle Colon where you'll find the well-known European brands mixed in with the lesser-known Spanish brands. For a more local experience head to Mercado Central where you'll find local produce, colorful seafood, and a unique foodie vibe.

Is Valencia or Sao Paulo More Beautiful?

Valencia is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Valencia because of it's amazing beauty. With its impressive architecture and coastal setting, it's really hard not to fall in love with this city's beauty.

Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Valencia or Sao Paulo Better for Families?

Valencia is a great coastal 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 Valencia. The city has some kid-friendly museums, an impressive zoo, and the largest aquarium in Europe (with its own dolphin show). Head to the Science Museum or simply wander around the museum complex. There are water activities and a beautiful futuristic style that attracts families and influencers with its photogenic atmosphere. There are also countless playgrounds of all sizes around town and a number of parks and outdoor spaces where kids can run around. There's a city park that runs through town and has playgrounds and bike trails. You can also spend a fun-filled day at the beach.

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 Valencia or Sao Paulo Better for Couples?

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

Valencia is a great coastal city if you're traveling as a couple. The city is filled with interesting culture, beautiful weather, and delightful cuisine. There are sandy beaches and luxury hotels that will make for an amazing romantic getaway. There are also many beautiful gardens and charming neighborhoods that you can explore. Couples can split a paella and sip sangrias in one of the many charming restaurants around town.

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 Valencia or Sao Paulo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valencia is a great coastal 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 Valencia. It's often overlooked for more popular destinations, but this city has plenty to offer in the form of affordable accommodation and food as well as interesting sights.

Sao Paulo is a good coastal 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 Valencia or Sao Paulo Better for Students?

Valencia 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.

Valencia is a great destination for students. The city is young and vibrant with a lot of culture and beautiful neighborhoods. It's also well connected to the rest of Spain with a convenient central train station.

Sao Paulo is a good coastal 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 Valencia or Sao Paulo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

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.

While Valencia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit is available in the form of buses and a tram/metro system but the system isn't as comprehensive as it could be and much of the city is surprisingly dependent on cars.

Is Valencia or Sao Paulo a more walkable city?

Valencia and Sao Paulo both are superb when exploring on foot.

Valencia is a very walkable coastal city. Walking is the best way to explore many parts of the city and you can walk from one side of the Ciutat Vella to the other in about 20 minutes. This area is where you'll find most of the city's main attractions. There are other neighborhoods that are a bit less pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Sao Paulo or Valencia?

How long in Valencia or Sao Paulo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Valencia and Sao Paulo. In our opinion, Valencia has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Valencia than Sao Paulo. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

One day in Valencia or Sao Paulo?

People visit Valencia because there is so much to do. 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.

The city of Sao Paulo offers food and shopping. 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.

A weekend in Valencia or Sao Paulo?

People visit Valencia because there is so much to do. 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 coastal city has to offer. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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.

Five days in Valencia or Sao Paulo?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic coastal city of Valencia. 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 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.

A week in Valencia or Sao Paulo?

Valencia 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Madrid, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, 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 Valencia and Sao Paulo, we can see that Valencia is more expensive. And not only is Sao Paulo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Valencia 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 Valencia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Valencia 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 Valencia Expensive? and Is Sao Paulo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Valencia or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Valencia. When comparing the sizes of Valencia 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 Valencia 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 Valencia has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Valencia or Sao Paulo in the Summer?

Both Sao Paulo and Valencia during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Valencia because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sao Paulo this time of year.

In the summer, Valencia is around the same temperature as Sao Paulo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Valencia in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 25°C (77°F)in January.

Sao Paulo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Valencia usually gets less rain in July than Sao Pauloin January. Valencia gets 9 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March is the rainy season in Sao Paulo.

Should I visit Valencia or Sao Paulo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Valencia and Sao Paulo. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Valencia this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Sao Paulo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Valencia is generally cooler than Sao Pauloin April. Daily temperatures in Valencia average around 19°C (66°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In October, Valencia usually receives more rain than Sao Pauloin April. Valencia gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn. June to August in Sao Paulo is the dry season.

Should I visit Valencia or Sao Paulo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Valencia as well as Sao Paulo. Many travelers come to Valencia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Sao Paulo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Valencia is much colder than Sao Paulo in the winter. The daily temperature in Valencia averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 19°C (66°F)in July.

Valencia usually gets more rain in January than Sao Pauloin July. Valencia gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Sao Paulo is the dry season.

Should I visit Valencia or Sao Paulo in the Spring?

Both Sao Paulo and Valencia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Valencia in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Sao Paulo for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Valencia is cooler than Sao Paulo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Valencia in April average around 15°C (60°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 21°C (70°F)in October.

In April, Valencia usually receives less rain than Sao Pauloin October. Valencia gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the spring. The rainy season in Sao Paulo is October to March.

Typical Weather for Sao Paulo and Valencia