Bustling São Paulo is Brazil’s cultural and commercial powerhouse, and although not nearly as popular with tourists as neighboring Rio de Janeiro, the metropolis has plenty to see and do—if you know where to look. The vast urban sprawl can be intimidating for visitors, so this guide is here to provide a helpful starting point for first-timers.
Where to Stay
Soho House São Paulo
The first Soho House in South America occupies an Italianate former hospital building that’s part of the Cidade Matarazzo complex in Bela Vista, just steps away from the major Avenida Paulista thoroughfare. Centered around a lush courtyard where food and drinks are served day and night, the 32-key property is decorated with Portuguese influences and works by local artists. Additional guest rooms, a fitness center, and a rooftop pool are also due to open this year.
Pulso Hotel Faria Lima
In the heart of São Paulo’s vibrant financial hub, Pulso Hotel stands as a symbol of sleek modernity, featuring a striking mix of wood and glass. The contemporary hotel of 57 rooms sports a ubiquitous contemporary fare and showcase of innovative design, courtesy of illustrious architect Arthur Casas.
Where to Eat & Drink
Spot
Unexpected cuisine combinations abound at this contemporary elevated diner in Bela Vista. At Spot, the atmosphere within the red-hued interior is always lively, with patrons enjoying fresh takes on classic global dishes like salads and pastas, and twists on Brazil’s national cocktail: the Caipirinha.
Taraz
This upscale yet casual restaurant within the Rosewood hotel blends staples from across South America to create a tapas-style offering from chef Felipe Bronze that’s brimming with flavor. To add to the character, the menus are designed to resemble travel documents, and the dining area spills out to a terrace flanked by ancient olive trees.
Where to Visit
Parque Ibirapuera
This large landscaped park is the densely packed city’s green heart and outdoor recreation hub. Several cultural pavilions by Oscar Niemeyer—Brazil’s most important modernist architect—are connected by snaking covered pathways through the tropical greenery, while public facilities range from pickle courts to skateparks. Great for people-watching while out for a morning stroll or jog.
Pinacoteca
A vast collection of contemporary art is displayed thematically through the salons of this art gallery, which has a particularly impressive set of Brazilian works from the 19th century to today. Its impressive century-old building on the edge of Parque Jardim da Luz also houses large atria for larger site-specific interventions, plus spaces for rotating exhibits.
MASP
São Paulo’s beloved modern art museum has one of the best permanent collections of European works in Latin America. Housed within a striking brutalist building by architect Lina Bo Bardi, its open-plan galleries innovatively display paintings within transparent stands. MASP was recently extended into a new 14-storey tower, increasing the museum’s capacity by 66 percent.
Casa Bradesco
The newly opened cultural venue within another building in the Cidade Matarazzo is worth visiting for the bookshop in the foyer alone. The structure was intentionally only partially renovated, allowing the original materials and time-worn surfaces to present its history both inside and out. Expect large-scale exhibitions from renowned global artists from its ambitious program.
Jardins Locale & Oscar Freire
The trendy, central Jardins neighborhood revolves around Rua Oscar Freire, along which the stores of Brazilian and international luxury brands are tightly packed. Meanwhile, smaller independent boutiques can be found on the perpendicular streets. The best of these includes Pinga, a high-end lifestyle concept that stocks a well-curated selection of local labels, and hides a cute tea house in the back. For casual-chic beach or resort wear, both Osklen and Água de Coco have plenty of men’s and women’s options. Grab your gifts from Granado, the iconic perfumery whose products are beautifully packaged. If you like your coffee with a side of culture, BETC Havas Café includes a bookshop, live music, and art exhibits. And don’t forget to stock up on Havaianas from the brand’s flagship!
