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

Should you visit Zagreb or Sao Paulo?

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

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

Zagreb

Zagreb is a beautiful, authentic, and under-rated city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Zagreb 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.

Zagreb and Sao Paulo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zagreb or Sao Paulo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sao Paulo than Zagreb, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Sao Paulo is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Zagreb is known for its historical sights. Sao Paulo is more touristy than Zagreb and is popular for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene. It is also home to Ibirapuera Park. Zagreb is popular for its museums, parks, and convenient transportation options.

How is Zagreb different from Sao Paulo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sao Paulo is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Zagreb 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

Zagreb offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many historical sights around town, particularly in the historic Upper Town. Make sure you visit the Zagreb Cathedral, the Museum of Broken Relationships, Lotrscak Tower, and the historic Stone Gate.

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

Both Zagreb and Sao Paulo offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Zagreb. The food is heartier than you might expect with many recipes that involve stew or dumplings. Cheese and meat are common ingredients as well, with far less seafood than you'll find in the coastal cities. Popular dishes include Zagrebački odrezak (a rolled up ham, cheese, and veal sandwich), Štrukli (dough filled with cheese), and Ajngemahtec (vegetarian stew).

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).

Is Zagreb or Sao Paulo Better for Nightlife?

Sao Paulo is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Sao Paulo is a world class party destination. 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.

The nightlife in Zagreb has something for everybody. There are a huge number of live music venues, clubs, and bars around town where locals hang out late into the evening. The city's nightlife has a more local vibe than other Croatian cities, so you can party with the students and residents and get a true feel for the Croatian culture.

Is Zagreb or Sao Paulo Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Zagreb to see the historical old town. The upper town is filled with charm, cafes, and historical landmarks such as St. Mark Church, Kamenita Vrata (the Stone Gate), and the cathedral.

Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zagreb or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Zagreb 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 Zagreb. The city has a huge number of shopping centers where you'll find retail shops selling international brands, clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Is Zagreb or Sao Paulo Better for Families?

Both Zagreb and Sao Paulo are good family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Zagreb. The city is filled with parks where kids can run around. There are also kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Illusions and markets that are fun for the whole family. While it doesn't have the coastal activities that many Croatian towns offer, this is a unique city in its own way.

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.

Is Zagreb or Sao Paulo Better for Couples?

Zagreb and Sao Paulo both good destinations for a couple.

Zagreb makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with history and beautiful parks, this often overlooked Croatian city actually has a lot that couples can enjoy. The historical monuments offer a glimpse into the country's past and the markets let you experience a more authentic side to what has become a very touristy country.

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.

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

Zagreb 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 Zagreb. Because it's not the most touristy city, prices are reasonable. There are also a wide range of hostels in town where you can meet other backpackers and enjoy the fun environment.

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 Zagreb or Sao Paulo Better for Students?

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

Zagreb is a great city to visit as a student. There's an endless supply of bars and cafes where students hang out. This is a great student city that offers access to many beautiful parts of Croatia and Europe in general.

Sao Paulo is a good city to visit for students. The city is large with a diverse population and plenty to offer students. There are good educational institutions and a great international vibe as well.

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

Sao Paulo is a must-visit destination for its public transit. Also, Zagreb is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Sao Paulo has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Zagreb. The system includes trams, buses, and a funicular.

Is Zagreb or Sao Paulo a more walkable city?

Zagreb and Sao Paulo both are great when exploring on foot.

Zagreb is a very walkable city. It's a city that lives outdoors. It's very walkable with many outdoor cafes and parks where you can take a stroll.

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

Should I spend more time in Sao Paulo or Zagreb?

How long in Zagreb or Sao Paulo?

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

Couples should spend more time in Sao Paulo than Zagreb. 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 Zagreb 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 Zagreb.

One day in Zagreb or Sao Paulo?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Zagreb. 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 bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Zagreb or Sao Paulo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the local destination of Zagreb. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zagreb or Sao Paulo?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sao Paulo. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zagreb or Sao Paulo?

Zagreb 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the dynamic big city of Sao Paulo. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, The Best 2-Week Tours from Split, 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 Zagreb and Sao Paulo, we can see that Zagreb is more expensive. And not only is Sao Paulo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Zagreb 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 Zagreb would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zagreb 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 Zagreb Expensive? and Is Sao Paulo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zagreb or Sao Paulo?

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

Should I visit Zagreb or Sao Paulo in the Summer?

Both Sao Paulo and Zagreb during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Zagreb in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Sao Paulo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Zagreb is cooler than Sao Paulo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zagreb in July average around 22°C (72°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. Zagreb usually gets less rain in July than Sao Pauloin January. Zagreb gets 87 mm (3.4 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 Zagreb or Sao Paulo in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Zagreb and Sao Paulo. Most visitors come to Zagreb for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Sao Paulo because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Zagreb is generally much colder than Sao Pauloin April. Daily temperatures in Zagreb average around 13°C (55°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In October, Zagreb usually receives more rain than Sao Pauloin April. Zagreb gets 70 mm (2.8 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 Zagreb or Sao Paulo in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Zagreb as well as Sao Paulo. The winter months attract visitors to Zagreb because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sao Paulo this time of year.

The weather in Zagreb can be very cold. Zagreb is much colder than Sao Paulo in the winter. The daily temperature in Zagreb averages around 1°C (35°F) in January, and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 19°C (66°F)in July.

Zagreb usually gets more rain in January than Sao Pauloin July. Zagreb gets 53 mm (2.1 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 Zagreb or Sao Paulo in the Spring?

Both Sao Paulo and Zagreb are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Zagreb this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sao Paulo for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Zagreb is much colder than Sao Paulo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zagreb in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 21°C (70°F)in October.

In April, Zagreb usually receives less rain than Sao Pauloin October. Zagreb gets 65 mm (2.6 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 Zagreb