A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bern vs. Rio de Janeiro for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bern or Rio de Janeiro?

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

Should I visit Bern or Rio de Janeiro? 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.

Bern

Bern is a beautiful, cultural, and historic city. With stunning beauty, Bern attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Bern travel costs.

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is a festive, diverse, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty in Rio de Janeiro as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Rio de Janeiro travel costs.

Bern and Rio de Janeiro: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bern or Rio de Janeiro?

You'll generally find more things to do in Rio de Janeiro than Bern. Rio de Janeiro is bigger than Bern, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Rio de Janeiro is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bern is more popular for its historical sights. Rio de Janeiro is more touristy than Bern and is known for its samba dancing, sandy beaches, and Carnival. Also, Rio de Janeiro is famous for Christ the Redeemer. Bern is well known for its well-preserved old town and its reputation as the home of the Lindt chocolate factory.

How is Bern different from Rio de Janeiro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rio de Janeiro and Bern. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bern or Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Bern 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 Rio de Janeiro that are not to be missed. Looking out over the city is the world famous landmark of Christ the Redeemer. It sits on top of Corcovado Mountain and it is a must-see destination for visitors to the city. Other sights around town include the church and monastery of São Bento, the stunning church of São Francisco da Penitência, the imperial palaces of São Cristóvão, and the baroque church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo.

Many visitors head to Bern specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with architecture and charming character. While you're in town make sure you visit the Einstein Museum, the Clock Tower, and the Bern Cathedral.

Is the Food Better in Bern or Rio de Janeiro? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Rio de Janeiro is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Rio de Janeiro is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The cuisine around town mixes African and European cooking styles to give it a unique taste. The city is a mix of cultures and flavors and you'll find restaurants that integrate traditional Brazilian dishes with international influences. You'll find a wonderful street food scene, but also fine dining, and everything in between. Some of the most popular dishes include feijoada (beef and bean stew), churrasco (Brazilian barbecue), and pão de queijo (baked dough and cheese).

Bern has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has cozy cafes, high end fine dining, traditional eateries, and modern venues.

Is Bern or Rio de Janeiro Better for Nightlife?

Rio de Janeiro is renowned for nightlife. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Rio de Janeiro is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It has a world famous nightlife scene, and the most popular party neighborhood is Lapa. While the biggest crowds are on the weekends, weeknights stay busy as well. Every weekend in Lapa there's a huge street party, but there are also bars and dance clubs nearby. A more local neighborhood is Botafogo, which is a great area to grab a beer and enjoy a relaxed night out. If you want a beachside bar, check out the touristy neighborhoods of Ipanema and Copacabana.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bern. There are bars, Irish pubs, and clubs around town.

Is Bern or Rio de Janeiro Better for Beaches?

Rio de Janeiro is renowned for its beaches. However, Bern is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Rio de Janeiro. The beaches have long been written about and made iconic by songs and literary works. Copacabana and Ipanema are world renowned, and the sandy stretches and vibrant waterfront promenades will not disappoint. There are plenty of recreational activities as well as a striking blue water backdrop. You'll find beach parties, waterside bars, and pickup games of football or volleyball. In addition to these iconic beaches, there are several lesser known places to visit like Joatinga and Barra da Tijuca.

Bern is not a beach destination.

Is Bern or Rio de Janeiro Better for its Old Town?

Bern is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Rio de Janeiro does not have a historic old town.

Bern is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is filled with quaint alleys and sandstone buildings. It's a compact area that flows down a hill to the River Aare.

Rio de Janeiro does not have a historic old town.

Is Bern or Rio de Janeiro Better for Hiking?

Rio de Janeiro is renowned for the nearby hiking options. However, Bern is not a hiking destination.

People visit Rio de Janeiro specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Although it is a bustling megacity, it also offers access to world class hikes. The city is filled with mountains and dramatic peaks, so many hikes take you to spectacular views of the city. There are also jungle hikes and even opportunities to see local wildlife. There's a combination of iconic trails and lesser known strolls that will let you truly absorb what this city has to offer. Some of the best hikes include Pedra Bonita, Dois Irmaos, and Pedra da Gávea.

Bern is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bern or Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro is renowned for shopping. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Rio de Janeiro is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Whatever your budget, there are options for you. There are wonderful street markets for those on a budget and grand shopping malls if you're looking for something a bit higher end. Some of the best places for shopping include Rio Sul, Barra Shopping, and SAARA Market.

Bern is well-known for its shopping. The old town is filled with boutique shops and unique markets. The main shopping streets are Spitalgasse and Marktgasse and popular items to buy include jewelry, art, and watches.

Is Bern or Rio de Janeiro More Beautiful?

Rio de Janeiro is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Rio de Janeiro as well. The city's mountainous landscapes and striking beaches make it, arguably, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many mountaintop views of the city as well as city hikes and iconic neighborhoods.

The beauty of Bern is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This beautifully preserved historic city has charm, personality, and a lot to do.

Is Bern or Rio de Janeiro Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Bern or Rio de Janeiro.

Bern is a very family-friendly place to visit. This charming town has riverside parks and pools, a zoo, a waterpark, and kid-friendly museums that the whole family can enjoy. You can also visit nearby Gurten, a mountain with tobogganing, concerts, and a mini ski resort.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Rio de Janeiro is very family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the beaches. It's easy to spend days by the water soaking up the sun. Another must-do is a trip up Sugarloaf Mountain. The cable cars are fun and there are jungle walks and spectacular views. If you need to escape the rain or heat, spend the day at the Museum of Tomorrow.

Is Bern or Rio de Janeiro Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Bern and Rio de Janeiro make for a excellent place to visit.

Bern is a very popular place to visit for couples. With charming restaurants, a beautiful rose garden, and nice hotels and spas, this town makes a beautiful romantic getaway.

Rio de Janeiro makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many parks and gardens around town that are perfect for a stroll. Nature lovers will enjoy the many hikes in the area, many which go through the jungle, visit waterfalls, or offer spectacular views. And, of course, Sugarloaf Mountain is a must-see destination, as are the many beaches in the area.

Is Bern or Rio de Janeiro Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rio de Janeiro is renowned for backpackers. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rio de Janeiro is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers flock to the city for its wild nightlife scene and beautiful beaches. There's a huge backpacker culture here and many hostels around town that offer a social setting and plenty of activities for guests.

Many backpackers visit Bern. Like most of Switzerland, prices are a bit high, but there are some hostels and free activities that backpackers and budget travelers can enjoy.

Is Bern or Rio de Janeiro Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Bern and Rio de Janeiro offer excellent public transit options.

Visitors to Bern can move around easily with public transportation. There are trams and buses that run around town.

The public transit in Rio de Janeiro can get you around easily. The city has a subway system, MetroRio, that is relatively reliable and convenient. There are also city buses, trams, and commuter trains.

Is Bern or Rio de Janeiro a more walkable city?

Bern and Rio de Janeiro both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Bern is very walkable. It's fun to explore the old town on foot. It is compact enough to that you can see all of the highlights in a few hours.

Rio de Janeiro is a very walkable city. Most of the areas where tourists spend their time are relatively walkable. Centro is compact and many tourists choose to explore areas on foot. As always, remember to take the appropriate safety precautions and always be aware of your surroundings.

For even more information, also check out Is Bern Worth Visiting? and Is Rio de Janeiro Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rio de Janeiro or Bern?

How long in Bern or Rio de Janeiro?

Bern and Rio de Janeiro both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Rio de Janeiro than Bern because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bern, and 4-6 days is enough time in Rio de Janeiro.

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

Couples should spend more time in Rio de Janeiro than Bern. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Rio de Janeiro that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Rio de Janeiro than Bern 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 Rio de Janeiro.

One day in Bern or Rio de Janeiro?

In Bern, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Rio de Janeiro is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Bern or Rio de Janeiro?

Bern is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Rio de Janeiro is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bern or Rio de Janeiro?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bern. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Rio de Janeiro is a multicultural big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Bern or Rio de Janeiro?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Bern. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

The multicultural city of Rio de Janeiro offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Switzerland, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Switzerland, The Best G Adventures Tours to Brazil, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rio de Janeiro.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bern and Rio de Janeiro, we can see that Bern is more expensive. And not only is Rio de Janeiro much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bern is in Europe and Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rio de Janeiro 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 Bern would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bern than you might in Rio de Janeiro.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bern Expensive? and Is Rio de Janeiro Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bern or Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Bern. When comparing the sizes of Bern and Rio de Janeiro, 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 Bern or Rio de Janeiro?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Rio de Janeiro is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Bern has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Bern or Rio de Janeiro in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bern and Rio de Janeiro. Many visitors come to Bern in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rio de Janeiro for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bern is generally cooler than Rio de Janeiroin January. Daily temperatures in Bern average around 21°C (70°F), and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Rio de Janeiro receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Bern usually receives less rain than Rio de Janeiroin January. Bern gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bern or Rio de Janeiro in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bern as well as Rio de Janeiro. Most visitors come to Bern for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Rio de Janeiro because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bern is much colder than Rio de Janeiro in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bern averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in April.

It's quite rainy in Rio de Janeiro. Bern usually gets less rain in October than Rio de Janeiroin April. Bern gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, May to November in Rio de Janeiro is the dry season. December to April in Rio de Janeiro is the rainy season.

Should I visit Bern or Rio de Janeiro in the Winter?

Both Rio de Janeiro and Bern are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Bern because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rio de Janeiro this time of year.

The weather in Bern can be very cold. In the winter, Bern is much colder than Rio de Janeiro. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bern in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Rio de Janeiro averages at about 21°C (70°F)in July.

In January, Bern usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rio de Janeiroin July. Bern gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bern or Rio de Janeiro in the Spring?

Both Rio de Janeiro and Bern during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Bern this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rio de Janeiro for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Bern is generally much colder than Rio de Janeiroin October. Daily temperatures in Bern average around 11°C (52°F), and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Bern usually gets less rain in April than Rio de Janeiroin October. Bern gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year. May to November is the dry season in Rio de Janeiro. December to April is the rainy season in Rio de Janeiro.

Typical Weather for Rio de Janeiro and Bern