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

Should you visit Versailles or Sao Paulo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Versailles 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.

Versailles

Versailles is a beautiful, grand, and ornate palace. Many visitors also come to Versailles because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums. See Versailles travel costs.

Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a colorful, cultural, and dynamic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Sao Paulo travel costs.

Versailles and Sao Paulo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
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 for students
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Versailles or Sao Paulo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sao Paulo than Versailles. Sao Paulo is bigger than Versailles, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Sao Paulo is better known for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Versailles is more popular for its impressive beauty. Versailles is more touristy than Sao Paulo and is known for its long running history and its grand architecture. Sao Paulo is well known for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene. Also, Sao Paulo is famous for Ibirapuera Park.

How is Versailles different from Sao Paulo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Versailles
Sao Paulo

Spend time exploring the amazing sights and museums in either Versailles or Sao Paulo.

Travelers visit Versailles from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The palace is filled with history and impressive items relating to the royal family. Within and near the palace you should make sure you see the Gardens of Versailles, Grand Trianon, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Royal Opera of Versailles.

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


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

Versailles
Sao Paulo

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Sao Paulo. 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).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Versailles. There are a couple of restaurants and cafes on the grounds.

Is Versailles or Sao Paulo Better for Nightlife?

Versailles
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Versailles is not known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Most people don't head to Versailles specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Most people visit as a day trip from Paris, but those who linger can grab a drink at a pub or bar.

Is the Shopping Better in Versailles or Sao Paulo?

Versailles
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is an amazing city to visit for shopping. However, Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Sao Paulo. 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.

Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Versailles or Sao Paulo More Beautiful?

Versailles
Sao Paulo

Versailles 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 Versailles because of it's amazing beauty. The Palace of Versailles is famous for its grand beauty and opulent setting.

Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Versailles or Sao Paulo Better for Families?

Versailles
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Sao Paulo offers lots of family activities. 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.

Versailles does not offer many kid-friendly activities. While there are those unicorn children who fall in love with the grand setting, for most kids, a visit to Versailles can make for make for a long and draining day.

Is Versailles or Sao Paulo Better for Couples?

Versailles
Sao Paulo

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

Versailles is a great palace if you're traveling as a couple. It's opulence, grandeur, and history make this a wonderful place to explore as a couple. There are gardens and other unique settings that make Versailles very romantic.

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 Versailles or Sao Paulo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Versailles
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sao Paulo. While it's overlooked by many travelers, backpackers who linger for awhile will enjoy the city's authenticity and cultural scene. There are also a number of hostels around town.

Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Versailles or Sao Paulo Better for Students?

Versailles
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not popular with students.

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.

Versailles is not popular with students.

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

Versailles
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Versailles is not as popular, but is still a nice palace 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.

Public transit in Versailles can get you to some places easily. There are SNCF trains that travel from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers train station and additional trains that travel between Gare Saint Lazare and Versailles Rive Droite.


Is Versailles or Sao Paulo a more walkable city?

Versailles
Sao Paulo

Versailles and Sao Paulo are superb when it comes to walkability.

Versailles is very walkable. It's approximately a 20 minute walk from the Versailles Chantiers train station to the entrance to the palace. Versailles Rive Droite is slightly closer.

Sao Paulo is a very walkable palace. 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 Versailles Worth Visiting? and Is Sao Paulo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sao Paulo or Versailles?

How long in Versailles or Sao Paulo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Versailles and Sao Paulo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sao Paulo than in Versailles. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Versailles, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sao Paulo.

Families should spend more time in Sao Paulo than Versailles. 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.

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


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

One day in Versailles or Sao Paulo?

You'll find museums around the palace of Versailles. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Versailles has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

When visiting Sao Paulo, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Versailles or Sao Paulo?

You'll find museums around the opulent destination of Versailles. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this palace has to offer. This palace offers a variety of activities to choose from.

When visiting Sao Paulo, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Versailles or Sao Paulo?

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the ornate palace of Versailles. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Sao Paulo, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Versailles or Sao Paulo?

Versailles is a popular choice for travelers. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in France, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best 3-Day Tours from Manaus, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Brazil.


Which place is cheaper, Sao Paulo or Versailles?

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

  • Versailles Prices
    France Prices
    Sao Paulo Prices
    Brazil Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Versailles 283
    Sao Paulo 51

The average daily cost (per person) in Versailles is €283, 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 Versailles and Sao Paulo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Versailles 128
    Sao Paulo 24
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Versailles 256
    Sao Paulo 48
Compare Hotels in Versailles and Sao Paulo

Looking for a hotel in Versailles 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 Versailles


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: Versailles Hotel Prices and Sao Paulo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Versailles 53
    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 Versailles or Sao Paulo?

Prices for flights to both Sao Paulo and Versailles 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
    Versailles 115
    Sao Paulo 21

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.
    Versailles 45
    Sao Paulo 3.31

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
    Versailles 18
    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 Versailles and Sao Paulo, we can see that Versailles is more expensive. And not only is Sao Paulo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Versailles 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 Versailles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Versailles 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 Versailles Expensive? and Is Sao Paulo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Versailles or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Versailles. When comparing the sizes of Versailles 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 Versailles 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 Versailles has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Versailles or Sao Paulo in the Summer?

Both Sao Paulo and Versailles are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sao Paulo this time of year.

In July, Versailles is generally cooler than Sao Pauloin January. Daily temperatures in Versailles average around 20°C (68°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sao Paulo. In July, Versailles usually receives less rain than Sao Pauloin January. Versailles gets 58 mm (2.3 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
    Versailles 20°C (68°F) 
    Sao Paulo 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Versailles or Sao Paulo in the Autumn?

Both Sao Paulo and Versailles during the autumn are popular places to visit. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Versailles this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sao Paulo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Versailles is much colder than Sao Paulo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Versailles averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in April.

Versailles usually gets more rain in October than Sao Pauloin April. Versailles gets 55 mm (2.2 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
    Versailles 13°C (56°F) 
    Sao Paulo 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Versailles or Sao Paulo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Versailles and Sao Paulo. Many travelers come to Versailles for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Sao Paulo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Versailles. In the winter, Versailles is much colder than Sao Paulo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Versailles in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 19°C (66°F)in July.

In January, Versailles usually receives more rain than Sao Pauloin July. Versailles gets 55 mm (2.2 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
    Versailles 5°C (40°F) 
    Sao Paulo 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Versailles or Sao Paulo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Versailles as well as Sao Paulo. Many visitors come to Versailles in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Sao Paulo for the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Versailles is generally much colder than Sao Pauloin October. Daily temperatures in Versailles average around 11°C (52°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

Versailles usually gets less rain in April than Sao Pauloin October. Versailles gets 50 mm (1.9 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
    Versailles 11°C (52°F) 
    Sao Paulo 21°C (70°F)

Typical Weather for Sao Paulo and Versailles

Versailles Sao Paulo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 25°C (77°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 21°C (70°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)