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

Should you visit York or Sao Paulo?

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

Should I visit York or Sao Paulo? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

York

York is a fanciful, historic, and medieval city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See York travel costs.

Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a cultural, dynamic, and vibrant city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Sao Paulo travel costs.

York and Sao Paulo: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in York or Sao Paulo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sao Paulo than York. Sao Paulo is bigger than York, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Sao Paulo is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while York is more popular for its food and historical sights. York is more touristy than Sao Paulo and is popular for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours. 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 York different from Sao Paulo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

York
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Sao Paulo that are not to be missed. 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

Many visitors head to York specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.


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

York
Sao Paulo

York 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, York is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

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 York or Sao Paulo Better for Nightlife?

York
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

People head to Sao Paulo just to party. 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.

York has a large number of nightlife venues. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

Is York or Sao Paulo Better for its Old Town?

York
Sao Paulo

York 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 York is revered around the world. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in York or Sao Paulo?

York
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Sao Paulo is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Is York or Sao Paulo Better for Families?

York
Sao Paulo

York is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

York is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

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 York or Sao Paulo Better for Couples?

York
Sao Paulo

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

York is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

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 York or Sao Paulo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

York
Sao Paulo

York is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit York. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

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 York or Sao Paulo Better for Students?

York
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a popular place for students. However, York is not popular with students.

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.

York is not popular with students.

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

York
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Sao Paulo can get you around easily. 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.

York has some public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.


Is York or Sao Paulo a more walkable city?

York
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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.

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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

Should I spend more time in Sao Paulo or York?

How long in York or Sao Paulo?

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

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

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


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

One day in York or Sao Paulo?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of York. 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.

Sao Paulo is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in York or Sao Paulo?

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

Sao Paulo is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Five days in York or Sao Paulo?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic city of York. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant big city of Sao Paulo. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in York or Sao Paulo?

York 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.

The vibrant city of Sao Paulo offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Manaus, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Brazil.


Which place is cheaper, Sao Paulo or York?

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

  • York Prices
    UK Prices
    Sao Paulo Prices
    Brazil Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    York £130
    Sao Paulo £44

The average daily cost (per person) in York is £130, while the average daily cost in Sao Paulo is £44. 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 York and Sao Paulo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    York £59
    Sao Paulo £21
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    York £118
    Sao Paulo £42
Compare Hotels in York and Sao Paulo

Looking for a hotel in York 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 York


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: York Hotel Prices and Sao Paulo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    York £12
    Sao Paulo £4.22

Hired Cars and Shuttles in York

Some specific examples of transportation prices in York:

  • Private Transfer from Hull to Manchester Airport (MAN): $296

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sao Paulo

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

  • Private Transfer from Rio de Janeiro Airport (GIG) (SDU): $16
  • Sao Paulo Airport (GRU) Private Transfer to Sao Paulo City/Hotels: $27
  • Transfer CGH Airport Congonhas <> Sao Paulo city / Hotel: $38
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Congonhas Airport to São Paulo Hotels: $39
  • Private Departure Transfer: São Paulo Hotels to Congonhas Airport: $39
  • Receptive and Transfer Airports, Cities and Coast: $42
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Guarulhos International Airport to São Paulo Hotels: $47
  • Transfer GRU airport Guarulhos <> Sao Paulo / Hotel / CGH airport: $65
  • Try find your better than us! Airport transfer service in Sao Paulo APT-HTL(GRU): $67
  • Transfer (Taxi) airport to Sao Paulo: $77
  • Sao Paulo Guarulhos Airport (GRU) to Sao Paulo Private Transfer: $79
  • Private Transfer from Guarulhos to Santos: $80

Is it cheaper to fly into York or Sao Paulo?

Prices for flights to both Sao Paulo and York 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
    York £56
    Sao Paulo £18
Typical Food Prices in York

Some typical examples of dining costs in York are as follows:


  • Dinner
    £22

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in York

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

  • Breakfast Food Tour in York: $55
  • Party Cruise with Drink, Dinner, and DJ: $64
  • York on a Fork Food Tour: $102

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.
    York £11
    Sao Paulo £2.85

Tours and Activities in York

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for York are as follows:

  • Time Traveller's Walking Tour of York - Morning Tour : $22
  • All Creatures Great and Small Tour from York : $76
  • Battlements of History: A Self-Guided Tour of York's City Walls : $12
  • Boat Party Experience with DJ & Drinks in York: $65
  • Christmas Guided Walking Tour in York: $17
  • City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $23
  • Comedy Horror Show: York Ghost Bus Tour: $27
  • Dark Tales of York. Private ghost tours.: $65
  • Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise in York: $20
  • Evening 'Happy Hour' Boat Cruise For All Ages In York: $20
  • Exclusive York - Private Personally-Designed Walking Tour: $205
  • Fish & Chips Boat Cruise in York: $38

Tours and Activities in Sao Paulo

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

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    York £13
    Sao Paulo £2.48
Typical Alcohol Prices in York

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in York are as follows:


  • A Couple Beers
    £9.00

Sample the Local Flavors in York

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in York:

  • Hooting Owl Distillery York - Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting: $41

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


Which is Bigger, York or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of York 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 York 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 York has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit York or Sao Paulo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to York as well as Sao Paulo. Many travelers come to York for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Sao Paulo in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, York is generally much colder than Sao Pauloin January. Daily temperatures in York average around 16°C (62°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite rainy in Sao Paulo. York usually gets less rain in July than Sao Pauloin January. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Sao Paulo is the rainy season.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    York 16°C (62°F) 
    Sao Paulo 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit York or Sao Paulo in the Autumn?

Both Sao Paulo and York are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to York in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Sao Paulo for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

York is much colder than Sao Paulo in the autumn. The daily temperature in York averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in April.

In October, York usually receives around the same amount of rain as Sao Pauloin April. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Sao Paulo is June to August.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    York 11°C (52°F) 
    Sao Paulo 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit York or Sao Paulo in the Winter?

Both Sao Paulo and York during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to York for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Sao Paulo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

York can be very cold during winter. In the winter, York is much colder than Sao Paulo. Typically, the winter temperatures in York in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 19°C (66°F)in July.

York usually gets more rain in January than Sao Pauloin July. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Sao Paulo.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    York 4°C (39°F) 
    Sao Paulo 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit York or Sao Paulo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both York and Sao Paulo. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Sao Paulo this time of year.

In April, York is generally much colder than Sao Pauloin October. Daily temperatures in York average around 8°C (46°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In April, York usually receives less rain than Sao Pauloin October. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, October to March is the rainy season in Sao Paulo.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    York 8°C (46°F) 
    Sao Paulo 21°C (70°F)

Typical Weather for Sao Paulo and York

York Sao Paulo
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 25°C (77°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 25°C (77°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 24°C (75°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 21°C (70°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 21°C (70°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 21°C (70°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 24°C (75°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)