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

Should you visit Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a vibrant, colorful, and cultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Sao Paulo travel costs.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a backpacker-friendly, tropical, and party-oriented party island. With stunning beauty, Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, nightlife, and food. See Koh Pha Ngan travel costs.

Sao Paulo and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan than Sao Paulo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Pha Ngan is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Sao Paulo is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Sao Paulo and is popular for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is famous for the Full Moon Parties. Sao Paulo is well known for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene.

How is Sao Paulo different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan?

Sao Paulo is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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

While most people don't head to Koh Pha Ngan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

Is the Food Better in Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sao Paulo is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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).

Koh Pha Ngan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

Is Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find terrific options in both Sao Paulo and Koh Pha Ngan.

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.

The nightlife in Koh Pha Ngan is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

Is Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Sao Paulo is not a resort destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few great resort options. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Sao Paulo is not a resort destination.

Is Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Pha Ngan is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Sao Paulo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Sao Paulo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Sao Paulo is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Koh Pha Ngan are among the best in the world. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Sao Paulo is not a beach destination.

Is Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Koh Pha Ngan is a great party island for hiking. However, Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Pha Ngan for the hiking trails. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan?

Sao Paulo is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Pha Ngan has some nice offerings. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Is Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan More Beautiful?

Koh Pha Ngan is a great party island for its scenery and beauty. However, Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors from all around. The island is more than just Full Moon Parties. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as stunning beaches and eclectic yoga retreats.

Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Sao Paulo is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Sao Paulo. 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.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Sao Paulo and Koh Pha Ngan are both notable to visit as a couple.

Sao Paulo is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Koh Pha Ngan is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan 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 Koh Pha Ngan, as it is a very popular party island for budget travelers. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

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 Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Students?

Sao Paulo is very good for students. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not popular with students.

Sao Paulo is popular with 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.

Koh Pha Ngan is not popular with students.

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

Sao Paulo is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Sao Paulo is well known for its walkability. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Sao Paulo?

How long in Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Sao Paulo because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sao Paulo, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan 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 Koh Pha Ngan.

One day in Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan?

Each neighborhood in Sao Paulo has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the party island of Koh Pha Ngan. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan?

Sao Paulo is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Koh Pha Ngan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This party island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the dynamic big city of Sao Paulo. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

You'll find nightlife and food around the party-oriented party island of Koh Pha Ngan. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this party island makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this party island has to offer.

A week in Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan?

Sao Paulo is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 3-Day Tours from Manaus, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Brazil, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

When comparing the travel costs between Sao Paulo and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Koh Pha Ngan 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 Sao Paulo is in South America and Koh Pha Ngan is in Asia, 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 Sao Paulo Expensive? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 850 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Sao Paulo and Koh Pha Ngan, 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 Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Should I visit Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Sao Paulo as well as Koh Pha Ngan. Most visitors come to Sao Paulo for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

In the summer, Sao Paulo is around the same temperature as Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sao Paulo in January average around 25°C (77°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (76°F)in July.

It's quite rainy in Koh Pha Ngan. Sao Paulo receives a lot of rain in the summer. Sao Paulo usually gets more rain in January than Koh Pha Nganin July. Sao Paulo gets 170 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year. October to March in Sao Paulo is the rainy season.

Should I visit Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Sao Paulo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Sao Paulo because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In April, Sao Paulo is generally around the same temperature as Koh Pha Nganin October. Daily temperatures in Sao Paulo average around 22°C (72°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Pha Ngan. In April, Sao Paulo usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Nganin October. Sao Paulo gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Sao Paulo is June to August. The dry season in Koh Pha Ngan is December to March. The rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan is October and November.

Should I visit Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Sao Paulo during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Sao Paulo this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

Sao Paulo is cooler than Koh Pha Ngan in the winter. The daily temperature in Sao Paulo averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in January.

Sao Paulo usually gets less rain in July than Koh Pha Nganin January. Sao Paulo gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Sao Paulo. December to March is the dry season in Koh Pha Ngan.

Should I visit Sao Paulo or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Sao Paulo and Koh Pha Ngan. Many travelers come to Sao Paulo for the activities around the city. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the spring, Sao Paulo is cooler than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sao Paulo in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (76°F)in April.

In October, Sao Paulo usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Nganin April. Sao Paulo gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, October to March is the rainy season in Sao Paulo.

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Sao Paulo