13 Thrilling Issues To Do In Sao Paulo, Brazil

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Sao Paulo is a kind of cities that may shock you with how a lot it gives. It’s a metropolis that’s thriving with tradition; from its numerous neighborhoods to its dynamic artwork scene, you’ll discover a multitude of various methods of life scattered round each nook.

It’s the biggest metropolis in Brazil by inhabitants, so it’s unsurprising there are a variety of thrilling issues to do in Sao Paulo. 

Whether or not you’re a foodie, a nightlife lover, a household, or a pair – there’s a Sao Paulo attraction for each sort of traveller. 

On this information, we’ve listed our favorite sights in Sao Paulo in addition to a number of hidden gems, plus some concepts for the place to remain, so you may make planning in your Sao Paulo itinerary simple.

Is Sao Paulo Price Visiting?

Earlier than I get into the highest sights in Sao Paulo, you is likely to be on the fence about whether or not or to not go to Sao Paulo.

Whereas it’s not as vibrant as Rio de Janeiro and it doesn’t have seashores, it does have one thing particular and distinctive about it.

Sao Paulo is probably the most populated metropolis within the nation, and with that, comes a various tradition and numerous communities that carry their very own flavours and vibe to the town.

Its gastronomy tradition is second to none; whether or not you get pleasure from road meals, world-class michelin-star eating, or road meals – you had higher carry your elasticated waistband pants to Sao Paulo!

There’s additionally an enormous artwork group. You’ll discover loads of artwork museums, neighborhoods with road artwork, and performances taking place every single day in Sao Paulo.

Sao Paulo is unquestionably price visiting in your journey to Brazil due to its diversified tradition and host of sights.

Issues to Do in Sao Paulo

Now you understand a bit of bit about why Sao Paulo is an superior metropolis, it’s time to check out the highest sights within the metropolis. Go have a look…

1. Loosen up in Ibirapuera Park

• Hours: 5.00am – 12.00am
• Handle: Av. Pedro Álvares Cabral – Vila Mariana, São Paulo – SP, 04094-050,

Sao Paulo will not be close to the coast, and the character parks are positioned a good distance out of the town, however the metropolis centre remains to be recognized for its greenery. Why? It’s all due to Ibirapuera Park.

This can be a 158 hectare city park within the middle of the town, and in 2017, it was recorded as probably the most visited park in South America – sure, the entire continent.

This massively in style park captivates guests with its countless actions. You may lease bikes and cycle across the bike paths, take a ship out on the lake, or simply sit again and chill out beneath the shady timber.

You may even discover yoga and capoeira classes that locals and guests can get pleasure from collectively. Ibirapuera Park gives the right escape from the stresses of the busy metropolis.

2. Take a Free Previous City Strolling Tour

• Hours: This tour leaves every single day at 11.00am
• Handle: The assembly level is at Republica Sq., reverse the Vacationer Data Centre

I all the time assume the easiest way to get to know a metropolis and find out about its tradition and historical past is on a strolling tour, and better of all – it’s free! Though for those who’ve by no means performed a free walking tour earlier than, it is best to observe that it’s well mannered to tip the information on the finish. However this nonetheless stays one among our favorite free issues to do in Sao Paulo.

In case you solely have time for one strolling tour, I like to recommend the Previous Downtown Strolling Tour. This takes you across the historic a part of Sao Paulo, to the Sé Cathedral, previous the Municipal Theater, Matarazzo constructing, Farol Santander, São Bento Monastery and way more.

You’ll be taught all about how the town was based and what the locals do for enjoyable. Afterwards, you’ll be able to ask your information for suggestions for locations to eat, drink and discover.

This tour takes round 3.5 hours so put on strolling footwear.

3. Examine Out The Road Artwork on Batman Alley

• Hours: 24 hours (although we don’t suggest going at evening)
• Handle: R. Medeiros de Albuquerque, 82-154 – Jardim das Bandeiras, São Paulo – SP, 05436-060

I discussed earlier that Sao Paulo has a thriving artwork scene, and it’s not simply in its many artwork museums (which I’ll let you know about later). There’s additionally an enormous road artwork scene, notably within the Vila Madalena space.

One road that has develop into probably the most well-known for its road artwork is Batman Alley, which was given its nickname due to the DC Comedian graffiti that was added to the wall in 1980.

This alley stretches from the Rua Gonçalo Afonso and Rua Medeiros de Albuquerque space within the Vila Madalena and is lined on either side with unimaginable graffiti.

Many of the art work was created by artwork college students who take inspiration from psychedelic and cubist artwork and it’s cared for by the area people.

4. See the enduring São Paulo Cathedral

• Hours: 8.00am – 6.00pm
• Handle: Praça da Sé – Sé, São Paulo – SP, 01001-000

One of the vital lovely items of structure within the metropolis is the Sao Paulo Cathedral. It has a troubled historical past. The primary cathedral was inbuilt 1616 however was demolished and rebuilt in 1764, after which demolished and rebuilt once more in 1911. 

So though it seems previous, the constructing you see standing in the present day is the one which was inbuilt 1911, and was refurbished in 2000 and 2002.

Regardless of being teared up and teared down so much, the constructing remains to be the biggest Catholic church in São Paulo. Its model is a Neo-Gothic model, aside from the dome, which has been impressed by the Renaissance structure seen in Florence, Italy.

The within has been embellished with round 800 tons of uncommon marble, with sculptures of Brazilian produce reminiscent of espresso branches, pineapples, and native animals reminiscent of armadillos.

Sadly, the realm outdoors the Sao Paulo Cathedral is filled with homeless individuals, and whereas most of them imply no hurt, a number of of them will pickpocket you for those who give them a chance. Take your photographs right here, after which don’t grasp round.

5. Examine Out The Artwork Museums

Sao Paulo’s artwork tradition is among the greatest causes to go to the town. There are 110 museums within the metropolis, the biggest variety of museums in the entire of Latin America.

In fact, it might be a problem to see all of them, however for those who solely have time for a number of, we suggest you go to the next:

São Paulo Museum of Artwork (MASP)

• Hours: 10.00am – 6.00pm (closed Monday, open till 8.00pm on Tuesday)
• Handle: Av. Paulista, 1578 – Bela Vista, São Paulo – SP, 01310-200

Positioned on Avenue Paulista, the Sao Paulo Museum of Artwork is among the most well-known artwork museums within the metropolis.

The structure alone is what makes this museum an iconic landmark, because it showcases among the most spectacular Brazilian fashionable structure. 

Inside, you will discover artistic endeavors from not simply Brazilian however Worldwide artists, together with Pablo Picasso, Vincent Van Gogh, Claude Monet, and a number of other items by Pierre-Auguste Renoir.

Pinacoteca de São Paulo

• Hours: 10.00am – 6.00pm (closed Tuesdays)
• Handle: Praça da Luz, 2 – Luz, São Paulo – SP, 01120-010

One other essential artwork museum in Sao Paulo is the Pinacoteca de São Paulo, which is nestled in a fantastic 1900 constructing in Jardim da Luz. It was initially constructed because the headquarters of the Lyceum of Arts and Crafts and is the oldest artwork museum within the metropolis.

It incorporates a large assortment of Brazilian artwork from the Nineteenth-century, largely work and sculptures. 

It turned extra well-known in 2008 when a heist came about, and the museum misplaced two work by Pablo Picasso in addition to the Girls on the Window portray by Emiliano Di Cavalcanti and Couple by Lasar Segall.

Two work have been recovered, however the others are nonetheless lacking.

6. Discover Avenida Paulista

• Hours: 24 hours
• Handle: from Marechal Cordeiro de Farias Sq. in Consolação to Oswaldo Cruz Sq. in Vila Mariana

Paulista Avenue is probably the most well-known road in Sao Paulo. It stretches for two.8 kilometres and is lined with museums, monetary and cultural establishments, and main buying complexes.

It’s the principle hub of the town and the place everybody goes to do their buying or to dine at the very best eating places. 

It’s the place among the most fascinating fashionable structure within the metropolis lies in addition to Sao Paulo’s high sights the Sao Paulo Museum of Artwork and Purchasing Cidade São Paulo.

It’s the avenue that holds the Homosexual Delight Parade every year, and the Saint Silvester Street Race each New 12 months’s Eve.

Each Sunday, the road is closed off from site visitors and is pedestrianized, so for those who’re searching for issues to do in Sao Paulo on the weekend, be sure you add this to your Sunday itinerary.

7. Have A Elegant Cocktail In Olivio Bar

• Hours: 5.00pm – 12.00am Monday and Wednesday, 4.00pm – 1.00am Tuesday, 12.00pm – 1.00am Thursday – Sunday
• Handle: R. Delfina, 196 – Vila Madalena, São Paulo – SP, 05443-010

In search of issues to do in Sao Paulo at evening? How about consuming a cocktail out of a shark’s head? Nicely, not an actual head, however it is among the few novelty cocktail glasses you’ll be able to have your drink served in on the stylish Olivio Bar.

Have your photographs served in a check tube or drink a “Forbidden Fruit” cocktail served on a platter with a plant and a faux snake – for those who’re a fan of bars that mix artwork with ambiance, that is the place for you.

Positive, it’s a bit expensive, and perhaps a bit of gimmicky, however it’s additionally very enjoyable and a well-liked place to drink, so that you’ll discover the ambiance is as electrifying because the drinks. It’s definitely one of many extra distinctive sights in Sao Paulo.

8. Study About Soccer Tradition at Museu do Futebol (Soccer Museum)

• Hours: 9.00am – 5.00pm (closed Mondays)
• Handle: Praça Charles Miller, s/n – Pacaembu, São Paulo – SP, 01234-010

Soccer to Brazilians is sort of a faith, so you can not make a journey to Sao Paulo and never go to the Soccer Museum as you understand it’s going to be good.

The museum showcases displays of the best soccer achievements, from girls in soccer to the best footballers of all time.

You may also see some thrilling memoirs and reactions to Brazil’s 4 FIFA World Cup wins in 1958, 1970, 1994 and 2002.

There are fifteen rooms protecting an area of 6,000 sq. ft. Who knew there was a lot soccer historical past in Brazil?

9. Marvel At The Stunning Parque da Independància and Museu do Ipiranga

• Hours: 5.00am – 8.00pm
• Handle: Av. Nazaré, s/n – Ipiranga, São Paulo – SP, 04263-200

One other gorgeous park in Sao Paulo is the Parque da Independencia, which you will discover off the enduring Avenue Paulista. It was inaugurated in 1989 and was devoted to Pedro I.

The park incorporates a Monument to Independence and the Casa do Grito and has a stunning forest and manicured garden that guests can stroll down. There’s additionally a French Backyard.

Essentially the most well-known monument within the park is the Museu Paulista (or Museu do Ipiranga because it’s typically known as), which belongs to the College of São Paulo. It’s a Brazilian historical past museum that has been constructed on the place the place Emperor Pedro I first proclaimed Brazil’s independence.

The museum has an enormous assortment of furnishings, paperwork, and artifacts regarding the Brazilian Empire period in 1822–1889.

The spotlight is the 1888 portray Independência ou Morte (Independence or Demise) by Pedro Américo.

The museum was refurbished in 2013 and eventually reopened in 2022.

10. Eat Japanese Meals

Sure, you learn this proper. In case you didn’t know already, Sao Paulo is dwelling to the biggest group of Japanese individuals outdoors of Japan, on the earth! 

This implies yow will discover some actually incredible and genuine Japanese meals in Sao Paulo.

The Liberdade district has the best inhabitants of Japanese immigrants, however you will discover superb Japanese eating places all around the metropolis.

Some extremely rated eating places are Shin-Zushi close to Avenue Paulista, JAM Jardins only a few blocks away from Shin-Zushi, and Jun Sakamoto, which is a Michelin-starred restaurant specialising in sushi (observe, you should ebook an appointment for this restaurant). 

11. Gorge on a Mortadella Sandwich

• Hours: 5.30am – 5.00pm (6.00am – 3.00pm Sunday)
• Handle: Rua da Cantareira, Rua E, 306 – Field 14 – Centro Histórico de São Paulo, São Paulo

In case you don’t have the funds for Michelin-starred sushi, then don’t fear, you’ll be able to nonetheless ignite your culinary senses by tucking into some Brazilian road meals.

All around the metropolis, you’ll discover locations serving empanadas, bolinhos, or my private favorite, a easy pão de queijo (dough balls stuffed with cheese). 

However when in Sao Paulo, the road meals you mustn’t miss is a hearty sandwich known as a Mortadella Sandwich, which is so massive you’ll be able to share it with 4 individuals and all be full.

The very best place to do that sandwich is at Bar do Mané in a meals market within the historic centre. It’s often very busy so be ready to attend some time. 

However it’s undoubtedly price ready for, these sandwiches are HUGE and scrumptious.

12. Watch the Brazilian Grand Prix, São Paulo

One of many greatest occasions in Brazil (except for Carnival in Rio de Janeiro that’s) is the Brazilian Grand Prix. It started in 1972 and has had 4 Brazilian winners because it started.

Every year, it’s one of many greatest sporting occasions within the metropolis. 

In case you occur to be visiting in November, then you definitely’re in luck, as watching the Brazilian Grand Prix is among the high issues to do in Sao Paulo within the Autumn.

13. Meet the Guarani Tribe

Wish to get out of the town and see how individuals dwell within the countryside? You then would possibly get pleasure from this tour to satisfy the Guarani Tribe.

The Guarani individuals dwell in a easy and pure approach, and are one of many few indigenous tribes to nonetheless dwell on this approach close to Sao Paulo.

The tribes dwell within the Capivari Monos Environmental Safety Space and Jaraguá State Park, and guests coming to their village can be launched to their plantations, be taught in regards to the ancestral historical past and tradition, see how they develop meals and dwell their day by day life.

Every go to to the village helps the Guarani individuals and their group initiatives.

The place to Keep in Sao Paulo

Since Sao Paulo is a large metropolis and has 1000’s of lodging choices, it may be overwhelming understanding the place to remain in Sao Paulo. 

That will help you out, I’ve listed a few of my favorite choices beneath. However first, a bit of extra critically, I have to let you know…

The place to Keep away from in Sao Paulo

I discussed earlier that there are some areas to keep away from in Sao Paulo, and I ought to broaden on this level a bit of additional.

Sao Paulo is an unimaginable metropolis that provides a lot and for probably the most half, it’s secure to go to, and I don’t wish to be a scare mongerer…

Nevertheless, I might be mendacity to you if I didn’t let you know there are some neighborhoods which can be unsafe for vacationers to go to.

These neighborhoods are within the Previous City across the cathedral, the place there’s a enormous homeless group. It’s often advantageous to journey there in small teams on a strolling tour, however you don’t want to linger there nor keep there.

Another harmful neighborhoods are Pari, Perdizes, Lapa, Campo Limpo, Vila Clementino and Capão Redondo. Typically talking, for those who keep out of the favelas and away from these infamous neighborhoods.

Likewise, when taking the metro, watch out on the pink line and the blue line, particularly at evening, since these trains cease at Carandiru, Parada Inglesa, Carrão, Corinthians-Itaquera, Sé, Barra Funda, Tatuapé and República that are within the neighborhoods talked about above.

In case you’re going out at evening, it’s greatest to take an Uber again to your lodging.

Lodging in Sao Paulo

Thankfully, there are many secure neighborhoods in Sao Paulo for vacationers. Most vacationers select to remain in Vila Madalena which is taken into account one of many most secure neighborhoods. 

It has some full of life bars and a few top-class eating places, plus it’s on the Inexperienced Line on the metro so you will get to sights simply. The close by Jardins and Pinheiros neighborhoods are additionally thought of fairly secure to remain in.

Listed below are some nice locations to remain in Sao Paulo:

Selina Madelena 

Selina Hostels have appeared to take over South America as they’re in each main metropolis, and so they have one factor in frequent; they’re all the time tremendous good.

They’re hostels, which suggests you will have dorm rooms and a few non-public rooms, however they don’t goal on the backpacker crowd. You’ll discover extra solo travellers and digital nomads choosing a Selina, which suggests you’ll be able to meet like-minded travellers, be social, and nonetheless get evening’s relaxation.

The Selina in Sao Paulo has a beautiful rooftop restaurant and bar, a shared lounge, a kitchen (god bless) and a few night leisure.

Renaissance São Paulo Lodge

For a bit of extra luxurious, you would possibly just like the Renaissance Sao Paulo Lodge within the Jardin district. It’s a five-star resort that has resort-like facilities, together with a beautiful outside swimming pool and a complete flooring devoted to wellness known as the ZenZone.

It additionally has an onsite restaurant serving up Brazilian delicacies utilizing freshly-sourced substances. 

On high of this, it has its personal THEATRE. That’s proper, as much as 500 friends can get pleasure from performances on the onsite theatre on weekends.

And I haven’t even informed you in regards to the rooms but; they’re all state-of-the-art, fashionable, and spacious.

And the very best half is you’re inside strolling distance of among the high sights in Sao Paulo reminiscent of Paulista Avenue, Oscar Freire Road, the Museu de Arte de São Paulo, and Conjunto Nacional.

Common excursions and sights in Sao Paulo

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