Things to do in São Paulo: must-sees and where to stay

In short: São Paulo, Brazil’s huge metropolis, is discovered through its museums, neighbourhoods and food. Walk Avenida Paulista and visit MASP, unwind in Ibirapuera Park, eat at the Municipal Market, admire the murals of Beco do Batman, visit the Pinacoteca and the Japanese district of Liberdade. As in any big city, keep an eye on your belongings.

Avenida Paulista and MASP

The city’s great avenue, Avenida Paulista, is home to MASP, the São Paulo Museum of Art, and its building suspended on pillars. On Sundays the avenue is pedestrian-only, livened up by musicians, families and stalls.

Ibirapuera Park

The city’s green lung, Ibirapuera Park brings together lakes, lawns and several museums in buildings designed by Oscar Niemeyer.

The Municipal Market

Under its stained glass, the Municipal Market overflows with tropical fruit and delis. Try the famous mortadella sandwich and pastel de bacalhau.

Vila Madalena and Beco do Batman

In Vila Madalena, a district of bars and studios, Beco do Batman is an alley entirely covered in ever-changing murals.

The Pinacoteca and Liberdade

The Pinacoteca, one of Brazil’s most important art museums, stands near Luz station. Nearby, Liberdade, home to the city’s large Japanese community, with its lanterns, restaurants and weekend market.

Day trips from São Paulo

• The state’s north coast, with Ilhabela and Ubatuba, for beaches and forest.
• Santos, a port city on the ocean, where Pelé played.
• Rio de Janeiro, by plane or bus, to continue the trip.

Getting around

• The metro is fast and handy for the main districts.
• Ride-hailing is plentiful, especially at night.
• From Guarulhos airport, a train (line 13) connects to the city’s rail network; the more central Congonhas airport mainly handles domestic flights.

All our tips for the country: Travel in Brazil.

Where to stay in São Paulo?

• Avenida Paulista. The iconic avenue, its museums and the metro, at the centre of everything. Ideal for: first visit, culture.
• Jardins. An elegant area with tree-lined streets, shops and good restaurants. Ideal for: couples, comfort.
• Vila Madalena and Pinheiros. Bars, street art (Beco do Batman) and nightlife. Ideal for: solo, nightlife.

The areas and useful services are on our São Paulo page.