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Things to do in Sao Paulo: places and attractions you cannot miss
Find out all the things you can do during your visit to Sao Paulo. Activities, attractions, places, and so much more!
June 26, 2023
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Welcome to this fascinating Brazilian city full of life, culture, and plenty of things to do! If you want to dive into a nice experience and discover the best things this city has to offer, you are in the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the most exciting plans and must-see attractions that make Sao Paulo a unique destination. We will also provide you with very useful information about how to connect to the Internet in Brazil; this way, you will be able to forget about the expensive international roaming service and connect to the Internet with the new eSIM for Sao Paulo.
From its wonderful architecture and world-renowned museums to its bustling markets and diverse cuisine, get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the city that never sleeps. Let’s begin!
What to see and do in Sao Paulo?
Fortunately, each season of the year offers a unique and wonderful experience. In summer, the streets are filled with music festivals, outdoor activities, and lively nightlife. It is the perfect time to enjoy the urban parks, such as Parque Ibirapuera, and make the most of the beautiful nearby beaches, such as Guarujá or Santos.
During Fall, Sao Paulo is colored in warm colors and the weather is milder, creating an ideal environment to explore the neighborhoods of the city. So, you have the opportunity to enjoy delicious street food on the famous Augusta Street. On the other hand, when winter arrives, Sao Paulo is covered in fresh air and a serene environment. It’s the perfect time to dive into the world-class museums that the city has to offer, such as the Sao Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) or the Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC).
In spring, Sao Paulo is filled with flowers, and the energy is rejuvenated. It’s the perfect time to explore the city’s charming botanical parks, such as the Sao Paulo Botanical Garden, and enjoy relaxing walks among a wide variety of exotic plants.
However, something that you cannot miss, no matter what season you arrive in Sao Paulo is your internet connection. For this, you can get a Holafly eSIM card for Sao Paulo, one of the best eSIM cards that will help you have the internet in Brazil all the time, avoiding international roaming or renting a Pocket WiFi.
You may be interested in the best places to travel in May.
1. Best beaches in Sao Paulo
Sao Paulo is not only known for its urban life but also for its wonderful beaches. From quiet and relaxing beaches to ideal destinations for surfing, Sao Paulo offers a wide variety of options for lovers of the sun and the sea.
Maresias Beach
Located in the municipality of São Sebastião, Praia de Maresias is renowned for its golden sands and lively environment. It is known as one of the most popular surf destinations in Brazil. This beach attracts surfers from all over the world. Maresias has also an excellent tourist infrastructure, with restaurants, bars, and quality accommodation options. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the sun and the waves in Maresias!
Juquehy Beach
Located in the municipality of São Sebastião, Praia de Juquehy is a true tropical paradise. With its white sand and blue sea, this beach is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun. Juquehy also offers a wide range of water activities, such as kayaking, diving, and sport fishing. Also, its promenade has a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, where you can taste the delicious local food.
Ilhabela
Its name means beautiful island, and it does not disappoint when it comes to natural beauty. This island, located off the coast of Sao Paulo, is a paradisiacal refuge with more than 40 beaches with crystal clear waters and vegetation. One of the most important beaches is Praia do Bonete, which is located on the southern tip of the island. To reach this beach, you can hike through a beautiful route or take a boat from the port of Ilhabela. Once there, you can enjoy the peacefulness of the beach, explore its nature trails, and dive into its refreshing waters.
2. Museums to visit in Sao Paulo
Dive into the fascinating world of art, history, and culture in the best museums in Sao Paulo. This cosmopolitan city is home to a wide variety of museums that will transport you through time and knowledge.
Sao Paulo Museum of Art (MASP)
Considered one of the most important museums in Latin America, MASP is well-known for its iconic modernist architecture and impressive art collection. Located on Avenida Paulista, in the heart of the city, this museum houses masterpieces by artists such as Van Gogh, Picasso, and Rembrandt.
It has permanent and temporary exhibitions, and it also offers educational activities, guided tours, and talks.
Prices:
- Adults: $12
- Children (0-14 years): Free
Schedule:
- Free Tuesday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (admission until 7:00 pm)
- Wednesday – Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (admission until 5:00 p.m.)
- Closed on Monday
Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC)
Located on the campus of the University of Sao Paulo (USP), the MAC is a must for lovers of contemporary art. This museum houses a wide collection of works by Brazilian and international artists, as well as temporary exhibitions that explore various artistic currents. The MAC offers interactive activities, symposiums, and workshops.
Prices:
- Adults: $2
- Students and children: Free
Schedule:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 10 am to 6 pm
Museum of the Portuguese Language
Located in a historic building in the center of Sao Paulo, the Museum of the Portuguese Language is a true cultural gem. This interactive and multimedia museum celebrates the Portuguese language in all its splendor, from its origin to its evolution. With interactive exhibitions, audiovisual projections, and playful activities, visitors can dive into the richness and diversity of the language.
Prices:
- Adults: $4
- Youth (0 to 7 years): Free
Schedule:
- Tuesday to Sunday (Free on Saturdays) 9:00 am to 4:30 pm
3. Places to visit in Sao Paulo
From breathtaking panoramic views to iconic points of interest, this city has so many things to offer. And you cannot miss any of them!
Ibirapuera Park
Considered one of the green lungs of Sao Paulo, Ibirapuera Park is an urban oasis that offers a perfect mix of nature and culture. Located in the heart of the city, this extensive park has lakes, gardens, trails for walking and jogging, as well as several museums and cultural spaces. You can enjoy a picnic, rent a bike, visit the Museum of Modern Art, or just relax and enjoy the peaceful environment. Admission to the park is free, but some attractions may have an additional cost.
Beco do Batman
If you are looking for an explosion of color and street art, you cannot miss visiting the Beco do Batman in the Bohemian neighborhood of Vila Madalena. This alleyway has been turned into an open-air art gallery, adorned with amazing murals and graffiti. Walking around this place will let you dive into the city’s vibrant art scene. You can arrive by taxi or public transport and explore the area on foot, admiring the talent of local artists for free.
Paulista Avenue
Considered the financial and cultural heart of Sao Paulo, Avenida Paulista is one of the main arteries of the city and an iconic landmark. This vibrant and bustling avenue is home to many skyscrapers, shopping malls, theaters, cinemas, restaurants, and art galleries. Also, it is the scene of cultural events and spectacles. You can enjoy a pleasant walk along the avenue, visit the MASP, stop at the shops, or enjoy the lively nightlife. The entrance to the avenue is free, although the activities you choose to do may have additional costs.
4. Activities to do in Sao Paulo
Dive into the exciting variety of activities that Sao Paulo has to offer and enjoy a trip full of fun and adventures! From exploring the local gastronomy to diving into the nightlife and exploring the cultural scene, there is something for everyone in this fascinating city.
A gastronomic tour of the Municipal Market
Take a delicious food tour of the famous Sao Paulo Municipal Market. This iconic market is known for its wide variety of fresh products, cheeses, sausages, and, above all, its famous mortadella sandwich. You will be able to try various culinary specialties, from exotic fruits to traditional Brazilian pastries. The prices vary depending on the products you pick, but the experience is worth it for foodies.
Street art tour in Vila Madalena
Discover the street art of Sao Paulo on an exciting tour of the Vila Madalena neighborhood. This colorful bohemian area is filled with impressive murals and creative graffiti, which are the perfect background for a unique photo shoot. You can join a tour organized by local guides or just explore on your own. This activity is free and will let you experience the city’s vibrant art scene.
Live music night in the Pinheiros neighborhood
Pinheiros is known for being one of the liveliest neighborhoods in Sao Paulo, especially for its music scene. Enjoy a night filled with live music at the many bars and clubs in the area. From jazz to Brazilian music to rock, you’ll find a wide variety of genres to enjoy. The prices of tickets and drinks may vary depending on the place and the event, but there are options for all budgets.
Visit the Parque de la Independencia and the Paulista Museum
Explore the history and beauty of Parque de la Independencia, home to the iconic Monument to the Independence of Brazil. Walk through its beautiful gardens, visit the Paulista Museum (also known as the Ipiranga Museum), and discover the history of Brazil through its exhibitions. The admission to the park is free, and the cost of museum admission varies depending on the exhibit, but don’t worry, it is usually accessible.
Tips to enjoy your trip to Sao Paulo
Firstly, we recommend you plan your schedule depending on the attractions and places you are planning to visit. Sao Paulo is a huge and diverse city, so it is important to prioritize your activities and destinations based on your preferences and the time you have.
It is also very important to be prepared to move around the city. Sao Paulo has an efficient public transportation system that includes the subway, buses, and taxis. We recommend you use public transportation whenever possible, as it will save you time and you will avoid traffic on the busy streets of the city. You can also consider renting bikes or using ride-sharing services.
And the last but most important point, to make sure you do not miss anything during your visit, you are going to need an internet connection. A nice alternative is the Holafly eSIM card for Sao Paulo, which will let you connect to the internet all the time. You will be able to explore the city, look for directions, share your experiences on social media, and keep in touch with your loved ones without worrying about the connection.
