One sure way to get Brazilians and Brazilophiles talking is by asking the controversial question: which city do you prefer, Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo? So for today’s interactive feature, that’s the question at hand! 
The question isn’t intended to imply that one city is better than the other (although some people from each city have that opinion). It is simply a question about personal preference: the beach vs. the urban center, outdoor sports vs. cultural sites, etc.
It’s a tough question, but I want to hear from all of you!
12 Comments
Hmm, that is really a tough question. But I’d have to put my money on: neither! I love them both, but I prefer Brasilia, where my family is from.
there are many cities like sao paulo in the world, but there is only one cidade maravilhosa.
I lived in Sao Paulo from 2002 to 2006 teaching english, doing translations, voice
over recordings and the like. Rio is undisputably the prettier city but it is hard to
beat the 24/7 raw vitality to the economic engine of South America, better known
as Sao Paulo or “Sampa”. The city really grows on you. Before long I was proud
to call myself Paulistano (by desire and adoption). I miss it terribly and hope some
day to go back. Ah, saudade!
as an outsider and having only been once to each city I’d have to say Rio all the
way – not much into the industrial-type cities
They are both amazing cities and are completely different, so it is hard to compare. I recommend visiting both. The beach in Rio does give it a bit of an edge though.
Ben,
I am currently interested in moving to Sao Paulo as well. I lived and taught English in Salvador for six months, and I am currently back in the U.S. trying to find employment opportunities in Sao Paulo so that I can move there. Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Andrew
I definitely love Rio…Sao Paulo is too big, too confusing…Rio has the beaches, the sun, the amazing history, the beautiful people scantily dressed….is screams relaxation and vacation while Sao Paulo makes you think of work and reminds you of all the huge cities in the US with plenty of crime, poverty and people
Andrew Hoppe,
Any luck? I’m doing the same kinda research. Did Ben ever get back to you??
I bet Sao Paulo would be better to visit for business and shopping and Rio for pleasure and the beach. I plan a trip there next.
The best is the Rio de Janeiro!
São Paulo is better because its safer then rio and the richest city in brazil
The common debate among many things really. But I hate it when people try to tell me why their city is better or why it’s not interesting to see. Of course they’re doing nothing but giving their experience or opinion based on what they like or don’t like.
What people need to learn to do is talk about what is there and what may seem to be good and bad, versus influencing us based on their own opinion.