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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

Local tips for Sao Paulo

Stories and neighbourhood know-how from our local guides.

Where to stay in Sao Paulo

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Centre

A Casa do Porco

A world-ranked restaurant celebrating pork in every inventive form.
★ 4.4
$$$
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Pinheiros

Braz Pizzaria

A Paulistano favourite for the citys beloved thin-crust pizza.
★ 4.6
$$
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Bela Vista

Cozinha Ocupacao 9 de Julho

Every Sunday, the ground floor of a nine-story occupied building in Bela Vista turns into one of Sao Paulo’s most talked-about lunch spots, where residents of the MSTC housing movement cook a generous Brazilian buffet open to everyone. Why it matters: the kitchen is run by the Movimento Sem Teto do Centro, a homeless workers’ movement led by activist Carmen Silva, and every meal funds the occupation and keeps the housing struggle visible – the project even featured in the Sao Paulo Bienal. Come hungry for feijoada-style home cooking, stay for the art on the walls and conversations with residents who will happily explain the movement. Lunch runs Sundays 12:30-4:30pm with no fixed price – pay what you can, and arrive early because tables fill fast.
★ 5
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Jardins

Figueira Rubaiyat

★ 4.6
$$$
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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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