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

Should you visit Chiang Mai 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 Chiang Mai 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.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a temple-filled, laid-back, and friendly city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Chiang Mai attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Chiang Mai 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.

Chiang Mai and Sao Paulo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Chiang Mai than Sao Paulo. While Sao Paulo is larger than Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Chiang Mai is better known for its food, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Sao Paulo is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities. Chiang Mai is more touristy than Sao Paulo and is known for its lively night market, historical temples, local cuisine, and cultural rainforest treks. Also, Chiang Mai is famous for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Sao Paulo is well known for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene.

How is Chiang Mai different from Sao Paulo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the world-class sights and museums in either Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo.

Travelers visit Chiang Mai from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is filled with culture and you'll find many beautiful temples in the area. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a mountain-top temple that is an iconic landmark in the city. Other famous sights include Doi Inthanon and Wat Chedi Luang.

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 Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chiang Mai 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, Chiang Mai is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. For many, this city offers some of the best food in all of Thailand. The cuisine is influenced by nearby Burma and China, with ginger and turmeric often used. Curries tend to be a bit milder and dishes are often served with sticky rice. Famous dishes around town include Khao Soi, Larb Kua, and Sai Oua. Cooking classes are also very popular around town and the courses often include a trip to a market.

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 Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo Better for Nightlife?

Sao Paulo is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Chiang Mai offers plenty to do in the evening. It is the largest city in Northern Thailand, so it has the most active nightlife scene in the area. Whatever your style, you can find something to do at night here. Many people head to the riverside to drink and listen to music. You'll also find clubs concentrated around Nimmanhaemin Road and Loy Kroh Road. There's also the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, which is packed with stalls and people sampling food and drinks.

Is Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Chiang Mai to see the historical old town. The old city is about 1.5 square kilometers in size and it has four gates, one on each side. The most famous area is Sunday Walking Street, which comes to life at 4pm every day when it is lined with stalls and filled with people.

Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.

Is Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo Better for Hiking?

Chiang Mai is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Chiang Mai draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Many people use this city as a base for a trekking excursion into the surrounding countryside. The land is lush and beautiful and many treks also expose you to the welcoming Hilltribe people of Northern Thailand. Treks can be organized at almost any hotel or hostel as well the many tour agencies around town.

Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo?

If you're looking to go shopping, Chiang Mai and Sao Paulo both offer plenty of world-class spots.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Chiang Mai. The city is famous for its night markets, which run every night of the year until around midnight. You'll find the streets packed with people and vendors, rain or shine. This is a great place to search for local handicrafts and try some of the city's famous street food. Popular items to buy include rice boxes, silk, and Thai sky lanterns.

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.

Is Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Chiang Mai attracts visitors from all around. It is famous for it's beautiful surrounding countryside where visitors often enjoy trekking and getting out in nature. The city is also filled with historic temples, night markets, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo Better for Families?

Chiang Mai is a great city for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Chiang Mai. This city is very friendly and welcoming to kids. There are many cultural and adventurous activities that the whole family can enjoy. One of the most popular kid-friendly places to visit is the Elephant Sanctuary, where kids can get up close and personal with these beautiful animals. Kids will also enjoy heading into the countryside to trek or visit one of Thailand’s Hilltribes. The cultural experience and opportunity to meet a diversity of kids will be an experience your children will never forget. In town, a cooking class is a popular option for budding foodies.

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 Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo Better for Couples?

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

Chiang Mai is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Trekking, rafting, temples, and some of the best food in Thailand all make this city a popular destination for a couple's getaway. The region is perfect for adventurous couples who want to experience more of the authentic side of Thailand.

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 Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chiang Mai 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 Chiang Mai, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. This is one of the biggest backpacker mecca's in Southeast Asia, and you'll find the city flooded with budget travelers out to experience it all. There are countless hostels and budget hotels available and most will organize treks and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and many visitors end up staying longer than they planned. Prices in Northern Thailand are also much more affordable than many other areas.

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 Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo Better for Students?

Sao Paulo is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Chiang Mai 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.

Chiang Mai is not popular with students.

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

Sao Paulo is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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.

Chiang Mai has a few public transit options. Transportation options include red songthaew (converted pick-up trucks), buses, and tuk-tuks.

Is Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo a more walkable city?

Sao Paulo is a great city for its walkability. Also, Chiang Mai is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Chiang Mai is a somewhat walkable place. Although there are a few walking streets, the city can get very crowded and many places are easier to access with a tuk tuk or taxi.

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

Should I spend more time in Sao Paulo or Chiang Mai?

How long in Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chiang Mai 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 Chiang Mai.

One day in Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo?

People visit Chiang Mai 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.

With museums and nightlife around the colorful city of Sao Paulo, there's plenty to do. 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 Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo?

People visit Chiang Mai because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

With nightlife and food around the big city destination of Sao Paulo, there's plenty to do. 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 Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo?

People visit Chiang Mai 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.

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 Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo?

Chiang Mai 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 Chiang Mai, one week is sufficent for most. 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 G Adventures Tours to Thailand, The Best 3-Day Tours from Phuket, The Best 3-Day Tours from Manaus, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Brazil.

When comparing the travel costs between Chiang Mai and Sao Paulo, we can see that Chiang Mai is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Chiang Mai is in Asia and Sao Paulo is in South America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chiang Mai Expensive? and Is Sao Paulo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Chiang Mai. When comparing the sizes of Chiang Mai 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 Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Chiang Mai experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo in the Summer?

Both Sao Paulo and Chiang Mai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Chiang Mai throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Sao Paulo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Sao Pauloin January. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 30°C (86°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sao Paulo. It's quite rainy in Chiang Mai. In July, Chiang Mai usually receives around the same amount of rain as Sao Pauloin January. Chiang Mai gets 161 mm (6.3 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Chiang Mai is June to September. The rainy season in Sao Paulo is October to March.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo in the Autumn?

Both Sao Paulo and Chiang Mai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Chiang Mai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Sao Paulo because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Sao Paulo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chiang Mai averages around 29°C (83°F) in October, and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in April.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai usually gets more rain in October than Sao Pauloin April. Chiang Mai gets 122 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Chiang Mai. June to August is the dry season in Sao Paulo.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chiang Mai and Sao Paulo. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Chiang Mai year-round. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sao Paulo this time of year.

In the winter, Chiang Mai is a little warmer than Sao Paulo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chiang Mai in January average around 23°C (74°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 19°C (66°F)in July.

In January, Chiang Mai usually receives less rain than Sao Pauloin July. Chiang Mai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. November to February in Chiang Mai is the dry season. June to August in Sao Paulo is the dry season.

Should I visit Chiang Mai or Sao Paulo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chiang Mai as well as Sao Paulo. Chiang Mai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Sao Paulo for the activities around the city.

Chiang Mai can become quite hot in the spring. In April, Chiang Mai is generally a little warmer than Sao Pauloin October. Daily temperatures in Chiang Mai average around 31°C (88°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

Chiang Mai usually gets less rain in April than Sao Pauloin October. Chiang Mai gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year. June to September in Chiang Mai is the rainy season. October to March in Sao Paulo is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Sao Paulo and Chiang Mai