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

Should you visit Barcelona 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 Barcelona 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.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a laid-back, historic, and cultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Barcelona attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Barcelona 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.

Barcelona and Sao Paulo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Barcelona or Sao Paulo?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Barcelona than Sao Paulo. While Sao Paulo is larger than Barcelona, Barcelona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Barcelona is better known for its music, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Sao Paulo is more popular for its museums and attractions. Barcelona is more touristy than Sao Paulo and is popular for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. Also, Barcelona is famous for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Sao Paulo is well known for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene.

How is Barcelona different from Sao Paulo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sao Paulo is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Barcelona 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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Barcelona and Sao Paulo.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Barcelona makes for a great culinary experience. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Sao Paulo has a huge number of terrific 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 Barcelona or Sao Paulo Better for Nightlife?

Both Barcelona and Sao Paulo are first-rate when it comes to partying.

Barcelona is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

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.

Is Barcelona or Sao Paulo Better for Music?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Sao Paulo is not a live music destination.

Barcelona has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Sao Paulo is not a live music destination.

Is Barcelona or Sao Paulo Better for Beaches?

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

Barcelona has a beach worth visiting. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Sao Paulo is not a beach destination.

Is Barcelona or Sao Paulo Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Barcelona to see the historical old town. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Barcelona or Sao Paulo?

Both Barcelona and Sao Paulo are first-rate shopping destinations.

Barcelona is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Known for shopping, Sao Paulo draws large crowds to its 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.

Is Barcelona or Sao Paulo More Beautiful?

Barcelona is a great city for its scenery and beauty. However, Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Barcelona attracts visitors from all around. The city offers many nice viewpoints that look down on the skyline from the surrounding hills. There are also nice parks and interesting architecture.

Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Barcelona or Sao Paulo Better for Families?

Both Barcelona and Sao Paulo are notable to visit with kids.

Barcelona is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Sao Paulo is a family-friendly city. 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 Barcelona or Sao Paulo Better for Couples?

Both Barcelona and Sao Paulo are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Barcelona is a nice destination for couples. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Sao Paulo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Barcelona or Sao Paulo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Barcelona, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

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 Barcelona or Sao Paulo Better for Students?

Barcelona 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.

Barcelona is a great destination for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

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

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

Sao Paulo has a great public transit system. 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.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you around easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

Is Barcelona or Sao Paulo a more walkable city?

Sao Paulo is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city 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.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

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

Should I spend more time in Sao Paulo or Barcelona?

How long in Barcelona or Sao Paulo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Barcelona and Sao Paulo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Sao Paulo. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Barcelona, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sao Paulo.

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

One day in Barcelona or Sao Paulo?

People visit Barcelona 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.

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

A weekend in Barcelona or Sao Paulo?

People visit Barcelona because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful big city of Sao Paulo. 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.

Five days in Barcelona or Sao Paulo?

People visit Barcelona because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the colorful city of Sao Paulo. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Barcelona or Sao Paulo?

Barcelona is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Barcelona, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Sao Paulo 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, 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 Barcelona and Sao Paulo, we can see that Barcelona is more expensive. And not only is Sao Paulo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Barcelona 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 Barcelona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Barcelona 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 Barcelona Expensive? and Is Sao Paulo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Barcelona or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Barcelona. When comparing the sizes of Barcelona 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 Barcelona 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 Barcelona has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Barcelona or Sao Paulo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Barcelona as well as Sao Paulo. Most visitors come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Sao Paulo because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Barcelona is generally around the same temperature as Sao Pauloin January. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 23°C (73°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite rainy in Sao Paulo. Barcelona usually gets less rain in July than Sao Pauloin January. Barcelona gets 22 mm (0.9 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.

Should I visit Barcelona or Sao Paulo in the Autumn?

Both Sao Paulo and Barcelona are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music 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.

Barcelona is cooler than Sao Paulo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Barcelona averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in April.

In October, Barcelona usually receives more rain than Sao Pauloin April. Barcelona gets 94 mm (3.7 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.

Should I visit Barcelona or Sao Paulo in the Winter?

Both Sao Paulo and Barcelona during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sao Paulo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Barcelona is much colder than Sao Paulo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Barcelona in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 19°C (66°F)in July.

Barcelona usually gets more rain in January than Sao Pauloin July. Barcelona gets 44 mm (1.7 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.

Should I visit Barcelona or Sao Paulo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Barcelona and Sao Paulo. Many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Sao Paulo in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Barcelona is generally much colder than Sao Pauloin October. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 13°C (55°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In April, Barcelona usually receives less rain than Sao Pauloin October. Barcelona gets 51 mm (2 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.

Typical Weather for Sao Paulo and Barcelona