The title of Brazil’s most beautiful city may go to Rio de Janeiro, but but São Paulo is the commercial heart of the country. This giant melting pot is the largest city in Brazil and the southern hemisphere, and has excellent nightlife and a vibrant creative and cultural scene.
Our favourite neighbourhoods in São Paulo
There’s so much to explore in this sprawling city. Here’s are some of our top must-dos while you’re in town:
Jardins: the city’s most upscale postcode, where you’ll find grand homes, leafy streets, boutique shopping and plenty of great places to eat and drink. Temakeria e Cia does great yakisoba and sushi, and the best coffee can be found at Oscar’s Café. For an upscale meal that will make you feel transported to the romantic, tropical shores of Trancoso, visit Capim Santo. Dinner in their charming garden is sublime. Try their moqueca (seafood stew) and be sure to end with their lemongrass brigadeiro dessert – it’s to die for.
Consolação: This bustling district is on the opposite side of Avenida Paulista from Jardins. Here you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants, some with gardens, balconies or alfresco dining.
Rua Augusta: This bustling strip cuts across Avenida Paulista and is where the cool kids shop by day, and party by night.
Liberdade (Japantown, pictured above): This district is home to the largest Japanese community outside of Japan in the world. Here you’ll find loads of karaoke bars, restaurants and markets. Porque Sim cannot be beaten – the food is amazing and there’s karaoke upstairs.
Vila Madalena: One of the city’s coolest neighbourhoods. Stroll down Beco do Batman, an alleyway filled with edgy street art. Take a wander along leafy Rua Girassol and the surrounding streets – there are plenty of restaurants and shops to explore. Coffee lovers will adore the laid-back vibe at Coffee Lab.
Where is São Paulo?
Safety tips in São Paulo
Like any big city, travellers should follow these tips to help them fly under the radar and stay out of harm’s way. Just be a bit street smart and you’ll be fine:
- Dress down – do as the locals do – avoid expensive clothes and accessories. Don’t carry a bag. Consider using a disposable camera. Leave the iPhone at the hotel.
- Don’t use cash machines on the street or after dark. Only carry the cash you think you’ll need for the day. Make use of hotel safes.
- After dark take taxis, avoid the subway and follow your instincts. Download Uber to your phone.
- Ask your hotel concierge about local tips and areas to avoid.
- If you are robbed, slowly hand over your goods without reacting. Report any crimes to the tourist police.
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Last updated: 25 Nov, 2023