São Paulo
São Paulo, Brazil’s mega city, is located in the southeastern part of the country. It’s huge, with around 12 million people calling it home, making it one of the largest cities in the world. The weather here is pretty warm year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F), though it can get a bit cooler in the winter months.
While it’s not as touristy as some other Brazilian cities, São Paulo still attracts millions of visitors every year, drawn by its incredible mix of culture, food, and art. The city is a major hub for business and entertainment, offering a little something for everyone.
The best time to visit São Paulo is during the dry season, from April to September, when you’ll find less rain and more comfortable temperatures, perfect for exploring everything the city has to offer.
Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Aparecida en Brasil
Musicians playing samba
Arriving to São Paulo
São Paulo is a massive, bustling city in southeastern Brazil, and it’s pretty easy to get there. Most international visitors fly into São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport, which is about a 40-minute drive from the city center. If you’re already in Brazil, you can hop on a domestic flight or catch a long-distance bus to the city.
When you’re deciding where to stay, neighborhoods like Jardins, Vila Madalena, and Pinheiros are great picks. Jardins is upscale and centrally located, perfect for shopping and dining. Vila Madalena has a bohemian vibe with cool bars and street art. Pinheiros is a bit more laid-back but still close to some awesome spots and offers a local feel.
Getting around São Paulo is pretty straightforward. The city has an extensive metro system that’s efficient and connects many parts of the city. Buses are another option, and if you’re up for it, ride-sharing apps are popular and make getting around super easy. Traffic can be a bit crazy, so plan your trips accordingly.
São Paulo’s food scene is legendary. You’ve got to try traditional dishes like feijoada (a hearty black bean stew with pork), pastel (crispy pastries filled with various goodies), and the famous São Paulo pizza. The city’s dining options are as diverse as its population, so whether you’re into street food or high-end restaurants, you’ll find something delicious.
There’s a lot to see and do in São Paulo. Check out the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) for some impressive art collections, or visit the Ibirapuera Park, a huge green space in the heart of the city where you can relax or rent a bike. The Mercado Municipal is a must-visit for food lovers, offering everything from fresh produce to gourmet snacks.
For experiences, don’t miss walking around the Paulista Avenue area, especially on Sundays when it’s closed off to traffic and filled with street performers and vendors. Explore the lively neighborhoods, discover hidden art galleries, or take a day trip to the nearby Embu das Artes for a taste of local crafts and culture. Whether you’re into culture, food, or just exploring, São Paulo has something to offer.
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Currency: The official currency of São Paulo is Brazilian Real (BRL) 1 Brl is equivalent to US$ 0.1822
Keep in mind before travelling to São Paulo
São Paulo is a city that knows how to throw a party, with festivals happening throughout the year. If you’re in town, check out these top 7 events that really bring the city to life.
First off, the São Paulo Carnival in February is a blast with its huge parades and samba music. Then, in June, the Festa Junina is a traditional Brazilian festival featuring folk music, dancing, and delicious food. In September, the São Paulo Fashion Week showcases the latest trends from top designers. October brings the Festa das Crianças, a fun-filled celebration for kids with lots of activities and entertainment. November is all about the Virada Cultural, a massive cultural event with music, theater, and arts spread across the city. December’s Christmas Parade is a festive highlight with colorful floats and performances. Finally, the São Paulo Jazz Festival in August brings together jazz enthusiasts for some great music.
For day trips, you can explore the charming town of Embu das Artes, the beautiful beaches of Santos, the historic city of Campinas, the scenic countryside of Holambra, the nature reserve of Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar, or the picturesque town of Atibaia. Each destination offers its own unique experience just a short drive from the city.
Tips to visit São Paulo
São Paulo is a bustling metropolis where locals are known as “paulistanos.” When you meet someone, a casual “Oi” or “Tudo bem?” works just fine.
The main language spoken here is Portuguese, though you might also hear some English and Spanish, especially in tourist areas. People typically have lunch around 12-2 PM and dinner from 8-10 PM. Business hours are usually from 9 AM to 6 PM, Monday to Friday.
Tipping is customary and about 10% is standard. The city’s health system includes both public and private options, with private healthcare often preferred for its quicker service. Dress code in São Paulo is quite relaxed; casual wear is fine during the day, but you might want to dress up a bit for evenings out. Locals might say “Que legal!” to express something they find cool or interesting.
