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

Should you visit Porto or Sao Paulo?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Porto and Sao Paulo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Porto

Porto is a dynamic, historic, and cultural port city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Porto attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Porto 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.

Porto and Sao Paulo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Porto or Sao Paulo?

You'll generally find more things to do in Sao Paulo than Porto. Sao Paulo is bigger than Porto, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Sao Paulo is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Porto is more popular for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Porto is more touristy than Sao Paulo and is known for its authentic old town and the local port wine. 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 Porto different from Sao Paulo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sao Paulo is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Sao Paulo from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Porto can be an interesting and educational experience. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

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

Porto 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, Porto is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

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 Porto or Sao Paulo Better for Nightlife?

Sao Paulo is very popular for nightlife. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife and partying.

Sao Paulo is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Porto offers plenty to do in the evening. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Is Porto or Sao Paulo Better for its Old Town?

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

Many visitors go to Porto to see the historical old town. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Porto or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo is very popular for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Sao Paulo. 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.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Porto or Sao Paulo More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Porto attracts visitors from all around. The city sits beautifully on the water and it has a charming atmosphere.

Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Porto or Sao Paulo Better for Families?

Porto is a great port 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 Porto. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

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 Porto or Sao Paulo Better for Couples?

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

Porto is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

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 Porto or Sao Paulo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto 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 Porto, as it is a very popular port city for budget travelers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Sao Paulo is a good port 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 Porto or Sao Paulo Better for Students?

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

Porto is a great port city to visit as a student. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Sao Paulo is a good port 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 Porto or Sao Paulo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sao Paulo is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its public transit.

Sao Paulo has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere 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.

Porto has some very good public transit options. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

Is Porto or Sao Paulo a more walkable city?

Porto and Sao Paulo are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Porto is very walkable. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

Sao Paulo is a very walkable port 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 Porto Worth Visiting? and Is Sao Paulo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sao Paulo or Porto?

How long in Porto or Sao Paulo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Porto and Sao Paulo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Porto than in Sao Paulo. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Porto, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sao Paulo.

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

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

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

One day in Porto or Sao Paulo?

People visit Porto 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.

In Sao Paulo, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this dynamic big city offers. 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 Porto or Sao Paulo?

People visit Porto because there is so much to do. 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 port city has to offer. This port 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 Porto or Sao Paulo?

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

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 Porto or Sao Paulo?

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

Which is Bigger, Porto or Sao Paulo?

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

Should I visit Porto or Sao Paulo in the Summer?

Both Sao Paulo and Porto are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Porto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Sao Paulo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Porto is generally cooler than Sao Pauloin January. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 21°C (69°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sao Paulo. In July, Porto usually receives less rain than Sao Pauloin January. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Sao Paulo is October to March.

Should I visit Porto or Sao Paulo in the Autumn?

Both Sao Paulo and Porto during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Porto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Sao Paulo in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Porto is cooler than Sao Paulo in the autumn. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in April.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually gets more rain in October than Sao Pauloin April. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Sao Paulo.

Should I visit Porto or Sao Paulo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Porto and Sao Paulo. Many visitors come to Porto in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Sao Paulo for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Porto is much colder than Sao Paulo. Typically, the winter temperatures in Porto in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Sao Paulo averages at about 19°C (66°F)in July.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Porto usually receives more rain than Sao Pauloin July. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. June to August in Sao Paulo is the dry season.

Should I visit Porto or Sao Paulo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Porto as well as Sao Paulo. Most visitors come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Sao Paulo because of the activities around the city.

In April, Porto is generally much colder than Sao Pauloin October. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 14°C (56°F), and Sao Paulo fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

Porto receives a lot of rain in the spring. Porto usually gets more rain in April than Sao Pauloin October. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Sao Paulo receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Sao Paulo is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Sao Paulo and Porto