Best things to do in Sao Paolo
If you are adding Sao Paolo to your itinerary, I have compiled a list of the things and places I had the most fun exploring and what area I would stay in to make it an enjoyable time.
You can do this list over the course of several days or cram it into one really hectic day if you’re only in Sao Paolo for a day.
What area to stay in Sao Paolo, Brazil?
I have to say my favorite area to stay in is the Jardin area. It feels very cozy with lots of cute cafes and restaurants, and it is one of the safer areas at night. It’s also easy to get around to different places you want to see in Sao Paolo. I stayed at Hotel H4 Opera and definitely recommend it! So much space for your bucks!
You can check prices and availability here.
So, on to the most important part!
Best things to do in Sao Paolo!
Here is a list of my top recommendations in Sao Paolo with my absolute favorite at the end!
1. Visit the MASP
This is a very famous modern art museum located in the city center. I found it very interesting and different from other modern art museums I’ve been to.
It’s important to know that the museum is closed on Mondays and if you go in a Tuesday the entrance is free. I went on a Tuesday and even though it was it was not overly crowded.
2. Paulista avenue
This is the iconic Main Street of Sao Paolo. If you like shopping or just people watch, this is the place to go. You can also wander around and look at all the crazy architecture and skyscrapers that fill up the Sao Paolo skyline.
3. See the city from above
While strolling through Paulista Avenue you should definitely get higher up and marvel at the city skyline from one of its many viewpoints. There are many different places to do this. The pictures below are from the Lokkout point at Mirante - Sesc Avenida Paulista. But other viewpoints worth checking out is Edificio Italia or Farol Santander.
4. Liberdade Japanese
I am not gonna lie and say that this is the most impressive place I have ever been, but it’s quit interesting, and if you like Japanese food it’s definitely a place to go. Sao Paolo does have the biggest Japanese population outside of Japan so it’s worth a visit.
5. Take a walking tour in Sao Paolo
There is a company called «Sao Paolo Free walking Tours» which is quite popular and they offer different walking tours around unique and historically important areas of the city. You will learn about the history, architecture and culture. It’s a free walking tour but they do expect you to tip at the end. So not compeletely free, but absolutely worth it. They have one for Paulista avenue, Maddalena area and The Old city center.
6. Batman alley
This is probably my favorite place in Sao Paolo. I love the vibe here, it’s super chill with small markets, cafees and so much beautiful graffiti. If you only have time to visit one place in Sao Paolo I think this might be the one I would pick!
Hopefully this helps you as you are planning a short or longer trip to Sao Paolo!
Let me know if you want more tips, I am happy to help!
Until next time,
Ingrid