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Sao Paulo

Saturday markets, cafe culture & street art

Browse Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is one of the most rewarding places to explore, and this local guide brings together the best things to do, where to eat and where to stay in one place. Highlights include Benedito Calixto Market, Avenida Paulista and MASP. Food lovers should not miss A Casa do Porco and Braz Pizzaria. Below you will find 11 hand-picked local recommendations across sights, restaurants, hotels and tours, which you can filter by category and budget to plan the perfect trip, whether you have a weekend or a week.

Sao Paulo at a glance

  • Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
  • Best time to visit: spring and autumn
  • Highlights: Benedito Calixto Market and Avenida Paulista
  • Where to stay: Vila Madalena and Jardins
  • Local picks: 11 hand-chosen recommendations
  • Getting around: walkable, plus easy public transport

Where to stay in Sao Paulo

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Centre

A world-ranked restaurant celebrating pork in every inventive form.
★ 4.7
$$$

Paulista

The citys great avenue of culture, museums and Sunday strolls.
★ 4.6
$

Vila Madalena

An open-air gallery of ever-changing street art in Vila Madalena.
★ 4.5
$

Pinheiros

A quiet square most of the week that becomes one of Sao Paulo’s coolest spots every Saturday, when an antiques-and-everything market fills it up. Graze traditional food from all over Brazil, hunt for vintage finds, browse the galleries around the square – and stay for the live chorinho band in the afternoon.
★ 4.5
$

Pinheiros

A Paulistano favourite for the citys beloved thin-crust pizza.
★ 4.5
$$

Jardins

The watermelon-shaped design landmark with a rooftop pool and bar.
★ 4.6
$$$

Vila Mariana

The citys great green lung, dotted with Niemeyer pavilions.
★ 4.7
$

Paulista

The floating red-beamed art museum with easel-mounted masterpieces.
★ 4.7
$

Centre

The stained-glass Mercadao, famous for its mortadella sandwiches.
★ 4.5
$

Luz

A beautifully restored museum of Brazilian art beside Luz station.
★ 4.7
$

Vila Madalena

A guided walk through the murals and lanes of Vila Madalena.
★ 4.5
$$

Book your trip to Sao Paulo

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Sao Paulo travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Sao Paulo?

Two to three days is enough to enjoy the highlights of Sao Paulo at a relaxed pace.

Where is the best area to stay in Sao Paulo?

Stay central and walkable to the main sights for a first visit.

What are the best things to do in Sao Paulo?

Browse the local picks above, from top sights and museums to where to eat and stay. Or read our best things to do in Sao Paulo guide.

What is the best time to visit Sao Paulo?

Spring and autumn usually bring the most comfortable weather and thinner crowds, though Sao Paulo is worth visiting year-round.

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