Your fun guide to the iconic bites and sights in São Paulo, Brazil

Paulista Avenue. Photo by Wilfredor, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

If you want to experience the essence of São Paulo in one go, head straight to Paulista Avenue! Often dubbed the Brazilian Champs-Élysées, this avenue is always buzzing with life — businesses, parks, museums, shops, and restaurants galore. Hop off at the Estação Paulista Metro station to begin your adventure on the city's most iconic street.

Midway through, you’ll stumble upon Trianon Park, a charming garden with shady walkways, benches, and cool sculptures — and it’s totally free to enter. Just a bit further, you’ll find the São Paulo Museum of Art (Museu de Arte), considered the best of its kind in Latin America.

Paulista is a goldmine for street photography, with its colorful mix of people and striking architecture. But be mindful — where there’s a crowd, pickpockets can lurk, so stay alert. And don’t forget to admire the street art! São Paulo is famous for it, with massive murals by artists like Kobra adorning the buildings. On weekend nights, the avenue comes alive with street performers, and you can’t help but get swept up in the energy as people dance, sing, and celebrate life.

Pro tip: After soaking in the sights on Paulista, hop on the Yellow Line at Republica station and take it one stop to Luz. From there, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the Mercado Municipal, a foodie heaven packed with vendors selling everything from dried cod to exotic Amazonian fruits.

Coordinates on Google Maps: Av. Paulista, Mercado Municipal Paulistano

In Brazil, per-kilo restaurants are a go-to option for thousands, especially during lunchtime. You get to eat what you want, as much as you want, and it’s quick! The best advice is to start with small portions of your favorite dishes — there’s always room to go back for more if something catches your eye.

For a more upscale experience, check out Fogo de Chão Jardins, a top-tier buffet just steps from Paulista Avenue and even praised by Michelin inspectors. What makes it stand out is its sophisticated interior and impressive wine collection, turning your meal into a gourmet feast. The meat selection is endless — try ribeye, beef shoulder, and other premium cuts prepared in classic churrasco style. Add some fresh veggies from the salad bar, and finish off with a delicious tres leches dessert and a traditional Caipirinha.

Average bill — $25

Edifício Altino Arantes (Banespa skyscraper). Photo by Donatas Dabravolskas, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

São Paulo is packed with skyscrapers, but the 161-meter-tall Edifício Altino Arantes, which looks a lot like the Empire State Building, is one of the tallest and most iconic. Built in 1947 in an art deco style, it originally housed the old Banespa bank, and the name stuck.

Head to the top for incredible views of the city. You’ll get perfect shots of landmarks like the Santa Ifigenia Bridge, Mirante do Vale, the Sé Cathedral, and São Bento Monastery — all from unique angles.

The building has been revamped and now features a café, a skate park on the 21st floor, and a museum with rotating exhibits. Some of the highlights include a panoramic skyline made of trash by artist Vik Muniz and a cool three-minute historical film shown in a mirrored cinema. There’s even a chic loft you can rent for $735 a night on Airbnb.

Access to the observation deck is free, but it’s tiny — only 5-7 people at a time, and you only get five minutes, especially when there’s a queue (and there usually is). A great alternative is the nearby Martinelli building. There’s almost never a line — most people don’t even know you can go up — and the view is just as stunning, only a bit lower.

Book your tickets in advance and find out more on the official site
Coordinates on Google Maps: Altino Arantes Building, Martinelli Building

If you’re looking for another lookout spot in São Paulo, check out Terraço Italia! This rooftop bar and fine dining restaurant sits on the 41st floor of the iconic Edificio Italia in the vibrant República district. While the building has a popular observation deck that charges about $10, tickets often sell out fast. So, why not skip the line and head to the bar just a few floors down? You can sip on some fabulous cocktails while soaking up the same incredible views. Just a quick note: shorts and t-shirts might not get you in, but it really depends on the host at the door.

The restaurant serves exquisite Italian cuisine crafted by Tuscan Chef Pasquale Mancini. Enjoy a gourmet lunch or indulge in an à la carte dinner in one of three stylish halls. You can’t go wrong with dishes like Italian caprese, sesame-crusted tuna, buffalo mozzarella ravioli, or Prosecco-infused salmon. They also have a fantastic selection of pasta, meat dishes, and mouthwatering desserts.

As the sun sets, the staff lights cozy lamps on the tables, and the city skyline sparkles with glimmers, creating a breathtaking atmosphere for a truly magical dining experience. Don’t miss it!

Average bill — $30

Bradesco Bank in Liberdade, São Paulo. Photo by Denis Rizzoli, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Liberdade is one of the city’s most beloved and must-visit gems that’s sure to steal your heart. This vibrant neighborhood, located right next to the historic center, was originally home to Japanese immigrants, but today it’s a lively mix of cultures that welcomes everyone.

Taking a stroll here is an absolute joy with your camera clicking non-stop, while your wallet might take a hit with all the tempting shops around selling everything from traditional Japanese foods and quirky crafts to manga comics and budget-friendly electronics. The area is also packed with Japanese restaurants, including izakayas serving delicious bar snacks with sake and beer, ramen spots featuring a single dish, and sushi bars catering to all budgets, whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or a fancy dining.

For the best experience, plan your visit for a Saturday or Sunday morning when the Feira da Liberdade street market is in full swing. It's the perfect time to wander around, indulge in tasty treats, and soak up the lively atmosphere as paulistanos come together to celebrate this unique cultural hotspot.

Coordinates on Google Maps: Liberdade, Liberdade street market

Brazil is home to the largest population of people of Japanese descent outside of the Land of the Rising Sun, which means you can find some fantastic traditional cuisine all over the city. If you’re searching for the ultimate ramen experience in São Paulo, check out Lamen Aska in the bustling Liberdade neighborhood. Don’t be fooled by its unassuming exterior — arrive early (before it opens) or be prepared to wait in line for up to an hour!

The main attractions on the menu are gyoza and lamen (they say "lamen" in Portuguese, not ramen) with a variety of delicious fillings like meat, nori, or bamboo. And for a side, definitely try hiyashi chūka made with noodles prepared fresh in-house. Chef Takeshi-San trained under a ramen master in Japan, so you know the food is top-notch!

To complete your meal, grab a bottle of sake (starting at $0.18 for 180 ml) or a refreshing Heineken, depending on your vibe.

Average bill — $6

The rocky peak Pedra Grande – Atibaia. Photo by Paulo César Prezoto de Barros, licensed under CC BY 2.0

Serra da Cantareira is a massive park featuring lush, preserved tropical forests (Mata Atlântica) that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts eager to explore Brazil's diverse flora and fauna. This expansive area offers rustic hiking and biking trails, as well as swimmable lakes for those looking to cool off after a day of adventure.

There are four visitor centers: Pedra Grande, Engordador, Águas Claras, and Cabuçu. We recommend starting at Pedra Grande (Big Rock), a popular spot where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city after a scenic 3-kilometer hike up the mountain. The summit provides a panoramic vista that’s especially stunning at sunset, making it a must-see during your visit.

Pro tip: public transportation doesn’t reach this spot, so your best bet is to grab an Uber from wherever you’re staying. If you’re looking to save some cash, you can take the blue metro line north to the last stop (Tucuruvi) and then call an Uber from there. Don’t forget to bring water and snacks to make the most of your adventure!

Coordinates on Google Maps: Parque Estadual Cantareira - Núcleo Pedra Grande

If you're on the hunt for a trendy spot to eat in São Paulo, look no further than Corrutela, nestled near the iconic Batman Alley. This restaurant is celebrated for its creative and dynamic dishes, a stellar selection of natural wines, and a cool playlist that keeps the vibe just right. With a strong focus on sustainability and a zero-waste philosophy, Corrutela cuts out plastic and utilizes solar energy, making it a favorite among eco-conscious foodies. Inside, the decor is a minimalist, industrial-chic dream, complete with exposed ceiling pipes. And right at the entrance, you’ll find a composting machine that gets the eco-minded diners buzzing with excitement.

Under the leadership of the talented chef Cesar Costa — who snagged the 2021 Flor de Caña Sustainable Restaurant Award — this place serves up a fresh, veg-forward menu that’s occasionally full of surprises, like toasted cashews with a hint of cinnamon or a twist on Caesar salad that includes anchovy sauce infused with orange zest. Also, don’t miss out on their incredible gratin of native Brazilian potatoes and cheese, refreshing oyster ceviche with Brazil nuts, roasted pumpkin with crispy red rice, and chicken liver paired with string beans and pecans.

They even go the extra mile by grinding their own wheat for bread, churning butter from scratch, and grinding cacao beans for a delicious in-house chocolate tart. Each dish at Corrutela is crafted with care, ensuring every bite is bursting with personality and unique flavor!

Average bill — $26

Ipiranga museum. Photo by Luiz coelho, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

On the banks of the Ipiranga River, the story of Brazil's independence began, and you can explore all the details of this remarkable event in this article. The museum itself is an architectural gem, featuring a striking design with its distinctive shape and flowing curves, a true hallmark of its renowned architect, Oscar Niemeyer.

Surrounded by a stunning park, the museum creates an inviting atmosphere that attracts thousands of visitors daily. You’ll see people wandering through forest paths, biking, skateboarding, and rollerblading on broad boulevards, or just basking in the sun by the lovely waterfalls.

Step inside the museum, and you’ll discover a rich collection that spans a variety of eras and artistic styles — everything from classical art to cutting-edge contemporary pieces. A must-see is Pedro Américo's impressive painting, Independência ou Morte, which dramatically depicts the moment in 1822 when Dom Pedro I declared Brazil's independence right here on the banks of the Ipiranga River.

The museum also hosts lectures, seminars, workshops, and family-friendly events. And don’t forget to check out the breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains from the rooftop!

To learn more, be sure to visit the official museum website
Coordinates on Google Maps: Museu do Ipiranga

Just a few blocks from the Ipiranga Museum lies one of São Paulo's most authentic burger spots: Hamburguer do Seu Oswaldo. With over 60 years of history, this place has kept its original charm since day one. They even don’t use calculators, aiming to stay true to tradition.

Their burgers and sandwiches come on freshly baked buns made from a recipe that dates back to 1966. They use top-quality pork for the patties and a generous helping of homemade tomato sauce. Many diners swear they’ve never tasted burgers this perfect, with families returning for generations — some even share stories of their parents visiting back in the day. After a day of exploring the museum and wandering through the beautiful Ipiranga Park, this simple yet incredibly delicious meal is just what you need.

Average bill — $7

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