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

Should you visit Ghent 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 Ghent 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.

Ghent

Ghent is a cultural, historic, and under-rated city. Many visitors also come to Ghent because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Ghent 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.

Ghent and Sao Paulo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ghent or Sao Paulo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sao Paulo than Ghent. Sao Paulo is bigger than Ghent, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Sao Paulo is better known for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities, while Ghent is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Ghent is well known for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets 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 Ghent different from Sao Paulo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sao Paulo is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Ghent 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

Ghent offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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

Foodies will find both Ghent and Sao Paulo both to be great destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Ghent makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

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 Ghent or Sao Paulo Better for Nightlife?

Both Ghent and Sao Paulo are world-class when it comes to partying.

People head to Ghent just to party. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

The nightlife in Sao Paulo is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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 Ghent or Sao Paulo Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Ghent to see the historical old town. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ghent or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Ghent 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.

Ghent is well-known for its shopping. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Is Ghent or Sao Paulo More Beautiful?

Ghent is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Ghent because of it's amazing beauty. With its medieval architecture and beautiful waterfront areas, the city has a lot to offer.

Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ghent or Sao Paulo Better for Families?

Both Ghent and Sao Paulo are notable family-friendly destinations.

Ghent is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

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 Ghent or Sao Paulo Better for Couples?

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

Ghent is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

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 Ghent or Sao Paulo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Ghent and Sao Paulo are notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Sao Paulo. 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 Ghent or Sao Paulo Better for Students?

Ghent 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.

Ghent is a great destination for students. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

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

Both Ghent and Sao Paulo offer world-class public transit options.

With a huge network, the transit system in Ghent can get you around easily. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

Visitors in Sao Paulo can get around quickly with the extensive 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.

Is Ghent or Sao Paulo a more walkable city?

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

Ghent is very walkable. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

Sao Paulo is a very walkable city. 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 Ghent Worth Visiting? and Is Sao Paulo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sao Paulo or Ghent?

How long in Ghent or Sao Paulo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ghent and Sao Paulo. In our opinion, Ghent has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Ghent than Sao Paulo. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ghent, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sao Paulo.

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

One day in Ghent or Sao Paulo?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Ghent. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ghent has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Sao Paulo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Ghent or Sao Paulo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the youthful destination of Ghent. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sao Paulo. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Ghent or Sao Paulo?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the youthful city of Ghent. 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 nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Sao Paulo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Sao Paulo. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Ghent or Sao Paulo?

Ghent 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant big city of Sao Paulo. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

Which is Bigger, Ghent or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Ghent. When comparing the sizes of Ghent 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 Ghent 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 Ghent has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Ghent or Sao Paulo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Sao Paulo. Many visitors come to Ghent in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Sao Paulo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Ghent is generally cooler than Sao Pauloin January. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 17°C (63°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite rainy in Sao Paulo. Ghent usually gets less rain in July than Sao Pauloin January. Ghent gets 66 mm (2.6 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 Ghent or Sao Paulo in the Autumn?

Both Sao Paulo and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Ghent for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Sao Paulo because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Ghent is much colder than Sao Paulo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in April.

In October, Ghent usually receives more rain than Sao Pauloin April. Ghent gets 78 mm (3.1 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 Ghent or Sao Paulo in the Winter?

Both Sao Paulo and Ghent during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Ghent 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 Ghent can be very cold. In the winter, Ghent is much colder than Sao Paulo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ghent in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 19°C (66°F)in July.

Ghent usually gets more rain in January than Sao Pauloin July. Ghent gets 59 mm (2.3 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 Ghent or Sao Paulo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Sao Paulo. The natural beauty are the main draw to Ghent this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sao Paulo for the activities around the city.

In April, Ghent is generally much colder than Sao Pauloin October. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 8°C (47°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In April, Ghent usually receives less rain than Sao Pauloin October. Ghent gets 45 mm (1.8 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 Ghent