4-Day Family Adventure: Sightseeing, Relaxing & Shopping in Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo, Brazil

4 days

Cathedral of Se
The Banespão skyscraper is the fifth tallest building in Sao Paulo
Skyline of Sao Paulo from Ibirapuera Park
Ponte Estaiada bridge
View of the Primera Praia beach in the Morro area

About Sao Paulo, Brazil

Sao Paulo, Brazil's vibrant financial hub, is a captivating blend of cultures and styles. As a city that never sleeps, it offers a diverse range of experiences from its world-class gastronomy, rich architectural heritage, to its pulsating nightlife. Explore the iconic Paulista Avenue, home to numerous cultural institutions including the Sao Paulo Museum of Art. Visit Ibirapuera Park, a green oasis in the heart of the city, or immerse yourself in the local culture at the Municipal Market. Sao Paulo's music scene is a melting pot of genres, and its shopping ranges from luxurious designer boutiques to unique local markets. With its mix of modern skyscrapers and historical landmarks, Sao Paulo is a city of contrasts waiting to be discovered.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Art and Culture in Avenida Paulista

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Sao Paulo Museum of Art, home to one of the most significant collections of Western art in Latin America. Enjoy the diverse collection of European paintings, sculptures, and works of art from the Renaissance to the 20th century.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Brazilian lunch in a family-friendly restaurant. Try the national dish, feijoada, a black bean stew with pork, served with rice, collard greens, and farofa.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a stroll in Ibirapuera Park, one of the largest urban parks in Sao Paulo. The park is a great place for relaxation and offers several attractions for children, including playgrounds, bike paths, and a planetarium.

Dinner

For dinner, try a rodizio-style restaurant, where you can sample a variety of grilled meats served by waiters who move around the room with the skewers.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Municipal Theatre of Sao Paulo, one of the city's most important cultural landmarks. Enjoy a family-friendly performance or concert.

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to the Sao Paulo Zoo, home to over 3,000 animals representing 400 species. The zoo is a great educational experience for children.

Lunch

Have lunch at a restaurant offering a variety of Brazilian dishes, including pao de queijo (cheese bread), acaraje (shrimp-filled dough balls), and moqueca (fish stew).

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Science Station, an interactive science museum that offers fun and educational exhibits for children of all ages.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant offering a variety of international cuisines. Try the Brazilian sushi, a fusion of Japanese and Brazilian flavors.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll along Paulista Avenue, one of the city's main thoroughfares, known for its shopping, cultural institutions, and nightlife.

Morning

Start your third day with a visit to the Sao Paulo Aquarium, the largest aquarium in Latin America. The aquarium houses a variety of marine and freshwater species.

Lunch

Have lunch at a seafood restaurant. Try the traditional Brazilian dish, moqueca, a fish stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, garlic, coriander, and palm oil.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Botanical Garden of Sao Paulo, a peaceful oasis in the city. The garden is home to a variety of plant species, including a large collection of orchids.

Dinner

For dinner, try a churrascaria, a Brazilian steakhouse where waiters bring skewers of meat to your table.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Sao Paulo Cathedral, a neo-gothic masterpiece and one of the city's most important religious sites.

Morning

Begin your final day with a visit to the Municipal Market of Sao Paulo, a bustling food market where you can sample a variety of Brazilian fruits, cheeses, and pastries.

Lunch

Have lunch at a restaurant in the market. Try the mortadella sandwich, a local specialty.

Afternoon

Spend your last afternoon in Sao Paulo shopping for souvenirs and local crafts at the Sunday Antiques Fair in Bixiga, a neighborhood known for its Italian heritage and bohemian vibe.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner in Sao Paulo at a restaurant offering a variety of Brazilian dishes. Try the acaraje, a deep-fried ball of dough filled with shrimp.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Skye Bar, located on the rooftop of the Unique Hotel. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city while sipping on a caipirinha, Brazil's national cocktail.

Attractions in Itinerary (12)

Sao Paulo Museum of Art

1
Sao Paulo Museum of Art

Known as MASP, it's an art museum located on Paulista Avenue. It is well known for its headquarters, a 1968 concrete and glass structure designed by Lina Bo Bardi, whose main body is supported by two lateral beams over a 74 meters freestanding space.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Ibirapuera Park

2
Ibirapuera Park

One of the largest city parks in Latin America, Ibirapuera Park is a hub for outdoor activities, cultural events, and houses several important museums.

Parks
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Municipal Theatre of Sao Paulo

3
Municipal Theatre of Sao Paulo

One of the landmarks of the city, the Municipal Theatre of Sao Paulo is a magnificent building with a rich history. It is a venue for concerts and performances, and also offers guided tours that provide insight into its architectural beauty and cultural significance.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Sao Paulo Zoo

4
Sao Paulo Zoo

The largest zoo in Brazil, it houses a wide variety of animals, including many endangered species.

Attractions
Entertainment
Science Station

5
Science Station

The Science Station is an interactive science museum in Sao Paulo. It offers a variety of exhibits that are both educational and fun, making it a great place for families and school groups.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Paulista Avenue

6
Paulista Avenue

One of the most important avenues in Sao Paulo, it is the center of economic and cultural activities, housing an extensive shopping area, cultural institutions, and a vibrant nightlife.

Landmarks
Shopping
Cultural Experiences
Sao Paulo Aquarium

7
Sao Paulo Aquarium

One of the largest aquariums in South America, it features a variety of marine and freshwater species.

Attractions
Entertainment
Botanical Garden of Sao Paulo

8
Botanical Garden of Sao Paulo

A large botanical garden that houses a wide variety of plant species, including a significant collection of Brazilian flora.

Parks
Gardens
Sao Paulo Cathedral

9
Sao Paulo Cathedral

One of the five largest Neo-Gothic structures in the world, the cathedral is the seat of the Archdiocese of Sao Paulo.

Religious Sites
Landmarks
Architecture
Municipal Market of Sao Paulo

10
Municipal Market of Sao Paulo

Known locally as Mercadão, the Municipal Market of Sao Paulo is a bustling food market where you can find a wide variety of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. It's also a great place to grab a bite to eat, with numerous food stalls offering traditional Brazilian dishes.

Food and Drink
Cultural Experiences
Shopping
Sunday Antiques Fair in Bixiga

11
Sunday Antiques Fair in Bixiga

Every Sunday, the neighborhood of Bixiga hosts an antiques fair where you can find a wide range of items, from vintage furniture and clothing to rare books and records. It's a great place to browse, shop, and soak up the local culture.

Shopping
Cultural Experiences
Skye Bar

12
Skye Bar

Located on the rooftop of the Unique Hotel, Skye Bar offers stunning views of Sao Paulo's skyline. It's a popular spot for cocktails and fine dining, and also features a pool and a DJ playing music into the night.

Food and Drink
Entertainment

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Feijoada

Feijoada

A traditional Brazilian stew made of black beans, pork, and beef. It's a hearty dish often served with rice, collard greens, and farofa (toasted cassava flour). It's very popular in Sao Paulo and a must-try for any food lover.

Pastel

Pastel

A popular street food in Sao Paulo, Pastel is a deep-fried pastry filled with various ingredients such as cheese, meat, or palm hearts. It's often enjoyed at local markets or as a quick snack.

Virado à Paulista

Virado à Paulista

A typical dish from Sao Paulo, Virado à Paulista consists of tutu de feijao (bean paste), rice, kale, pork chops, and a fried egg. It's a hearty meal that showcases the city's culinary diversity.

Coxinha

Coxinha

A popular snack in Sao Paulo, Coxinha is a chicken croquette shaped like a chicken drumstick. It's crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and perfect for a quick bite.

Pão de queijo

Pão de queijo

A typical Brazilian breakfast item, Pão de queijo is a small, baked cheese bread. It's soft, chewy, and full of flavor. It's a staple in Sao Paulo and a must-try for any visitor.

Caipirinha

Caipirinha

Brazil's national cocktail made with cachaça (sugar cane hard liquor), sugar, and lime. It's refreshing and strong, and a popular drink in Sao Paulo's bars and restaurants.

Brigadeiro

Brigadeiro

A beloved Brazilian dessert, Brigadeiro is a small chocolate truffle made with condensed milk, butter, and chocolate. It's a sweet treat often served at parties and celebrations in Sao Paulo.

Moqueca de peixe

A traditional Brazilian fish stew made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and coriander. It's a flavorful dish often enjoyed in Sao Paulo's coastal areas.

Acarajé

Acarajé

A popular street food in Sao Paulo, Acarajé is a deep-fried ball of black-eyed pea dough filled with shrimp, vatapá (a paste made from bread, shrimp, coconut milk, and palm oil), and vegetables. It's a flavorful and satisfying snack.

Guaraná

Guaraná

A popular Brazilian soft drink made from the fruit of the guaraná plant. It's sweet, refreshing, and a common beverage in Sao Paulo.

Empada

Empada

A small, round pie filled with various ingredients such as chicken, shrimp, or palm hearts. It's a popular snack in Sao Paulo and can be found in many bakeries and snack bars.

Bauru

Bauru

A traditional Brazilian sandwich made with roast beef, mozzarella cheese, tomato, and pickles on a French bun. It's a popular lunch option in Sao Paulo and a must-try for sandwich lovers.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Sao Paulo, Brazil as a tourist is during the months of March to May and October to November. These periods represent the fall and spring seasons in Brazil, respectively. The weather during these times is typically warm and pleasant, with fewer rain showers, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Additionally, these periods are considered shoulder seasons, meaning they're less crowded with tourists, and you might find better deals on flights and accommodations.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 12

Mon

Carnival Monday

February 13

Tue

Carnival Tuesday

February 14

Wed

Carnival end (until 2pm)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 21

Sun

Tiradentes Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi

September 7

Sat

Independence Day

October 12

Sat

Our Lady of Aparecida / Children's Day

October 28

Mon

Public Service Holiday

November 2

Sat

All Souls' Day

November 15

Fri

Republic Proclamation Day

December 24

Tue

Christmas Eve (from 2pm)

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 31

Tue

New Year's Eve (from 2pm)

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Taxis are a common way to get around in Sao Paulo. They are available 24/7 and can be hailed from the street, booked via phone, or through taxi apps. They are metered and the fare depends on the distance and time of travel.

Ridesharing services such as Uber, 99, and Cabify are widely used in Sao Paulo. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. You can book a ride using their respective apps, which also provide an estimated fare before you confirm the booking.

Sao Paulo has an extensive bus network that covers the entire city. Buses run frequently and are a cost-effective way to travel. However, they can be crowded during peak hours and the traffic can be heavy. You can pay the fare using a Bilhete Único card or cash.

The Sao Paulo Metro is a fast and efficient way to travel around the city. It has five lines that connect major areas of the city. The trains run from 4:40 AM to midnight on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 5 AM to midnight on Sundays and holidays.

Sao Paulo has a growing network of bike lanes and bike-sharing services are available. It's a green and healthy way to get around, especially for short distances. However, be aware that the city's hilly terrain and heavy traffic may pose challenges.

Renting a car can be a good option if you're comfortable driving in heavy traffic and can navigate around the city. Keep in mind that Sao Paulo has strict driving restrictions based on license plate numbers to control traffic congestion.

Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city, especially in pedestrian-friendly areas like the historic downtown and the Paulista Avenue. However, Sao Paulo is a large city, so walking may not be practical for long distances.

Sao Paulo has the world's largest helicopter fleet for private use. It's a popular mode of transport among the city's wealthy residents to avoid traffic. There are several helipads scattered throughout the city, including on top of many high-rise buildings.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

CurrencyR$ BRL

Time zoneFederal District

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 192 or 193 ; Fire: 193; Police: 190

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type N

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Sao Paulo, Brazil as a first time visitor

1

Sao Paulo is the largest city in Brazil and one of the largest in the world.

2

Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The currency used is the Brazilian Real (BRL). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have some cash on hand.

4

Sao Paulo has a tropical monsoon climate with a wet season from October to March and a dry season from April to September.

5

The average temperature ranges from 55°F to 85°F (13°C to 29°C).

6

Tipping is not mandatory in Brazil, but it is customary to leave a 10% tip for good service in restaurants.

7

Public transportation is extensive and includes buses, trains, and a metro system. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.

8

Sao Paulo is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it's important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

9

The city is known for its diverse food scene. Be sure to try local dishes like feijoada, a black bean stew with pork, and pastel, a type of fried pastry.

10

Sao Paulo operates on Brasília time, which is 3 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-3).

11

The city has a vibrant nightlife with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

12

Sao Paulo is a cosmopolitan city with a diverse population. Respect for all cultures is important.

13

The electrical current in Brazil is 110/220 volts. The type of plug used is type N, which has two pins and a grounding pin.

14

Tap water is not generally safe to drink. It's recommended to drink bottled water.

15

Sao Paulo has a strong arts scene with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters.

16

The city is known for its traffic. Plan extra time to get to your destinations, especially during rush hour.

17

Sao Paulo has a high-quality healthcare system. Travel insurance is recommended for any unexpected medical expenses.

18

The city is a major business hub, so dress codes can be more formal than in other parts of Brazil.

19

Sao Paulo hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Sao Paulo Fashion Week and the Sao Paulo Art Biennial.

20

The city is a shopping paradise with a range of options from high-end designer stores to local markets.

Basic Portuguese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Olá

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Tchau

Chow

Leaving or saying goodbye to someone

Please

Por favor

Por fa-vor

When asking for something

Thank you

Obrigado

O-bri-ga-do

After receiving something or someone's help

Yes

Sim

Seem

Agreeing with someone or something

No

Não

Nown

Disagreeing with someone or something

Excuse me

Com licença

Kom li-sen-sa

Getting someone's attention or apologizing

I'm sorry

Desculpe

Desh-kul-pe

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Você fala inglês?

Vo-se fa-la in-glesh

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Eu não entendo

Ew nown en-ten-do

When you don't understand what's being said

Where is the bathroom?

Onde é o banheiro?

On-deh eh o ba-neh-ro

Asking for the location of the restroom

How much does this cost?

Quanto custa isso?

Kwan-to cus-ta is-so

Asking the price of something

I would like to order

Eu gostaria de pedir

Ew gos-ta-ria de pe-dir

Ordering food or drink

Help

Ajuda

A-ju-da

In case of emergency or needing assistance

Can I have the bill, please?

Pode me trazer a conta, por favor?

Po-de me tra-zer a con-ta, por fa-vor

Asking for the bill at a restaurant

Where is...?

Onde fica...?

On-de fi-ca

Asking for directions

Water

Água

A-gwa

Asking for water

Beer

Cerveja

Ser-ve-ja

Ordering a beer

Wine

Vinho

Vin-yo

Ordering wine

Cheers

Saúde

Sa-u-de

Toasting someone

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Swimwear

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Flip flops

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-size body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Prescription medications

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other ID

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (Brazilian Real)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and car rental reservations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Universal power adapter

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Memory card for camera

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel guidebook for Sao Paulo

  • Phrasebook or language app for Portuguese

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes or wet items

Weather Conditions

Sao Paulo, Brazil, is a city that experiences a tropical monsoon climate, meaning it has a wet season and a dry season. The city is known for its unpredictable weather, so it's always a good idea to be prepared for sudden changes. The wet season typically runs from October to March, with January being the wettest month. During this time, you can expect heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoons and evenings. The average temperature during these months ranges from 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C). If you're planning to visit during this period, it's advisable to pack a raincoat or umbrella. The dry season, from April to September, is generally cooler and less humid. The average temperature during this period ranges from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C). Nights can be particularly cool, so it's recommended to bring some warm clothing. Regardless of the season, Sao Paulo can be quite humid, so lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. Also, don't forget to pack sun protection, such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, as the sun can be quite strong, especially during the dry season. Finally, keep in mind that Sao Paulo is a large city with varying microclimates. The weather can differ significantly between different parts of the city, so it's always a good idea to check the local forecast before heading out for the day.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

28° / 19°

January is the warmest month in Sao Paulo, with temperatures ranging from 19°C to 28°C. It's also the rainiest month, so pack an umbrella.

February

28° / 19°

February is still quite warm and rainy, with temperatures similar to January. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

March

27° / 18°

March sees a slight decrease in temperature and rainfall. It's a good time to explore the city's parks and outdoor attractions.

April

25° / 16°

April is the beginning of the dry season in Sao Paulo, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 25°C. It's a great time for outdoor activities.

May

23° / 14°

May is a cooler month, with temperatures dropping to 14°C at night. It's a good time to visit Sao Paulo's cafes and restaurants.

June

22° / 12°

June is the start of winter in Sao Paulo, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 22°C. It's a good time to visit the city's museums and cultural sites.

July

22° / 12°

July is the coldest month in Sao Paulo, but temperatures are still mild by most standards. It's a great time to explore the city's indoor attractions.

August

23° / 13°

August sees a slight increase in temperature, with highs of 23°C. It's a good time to visit the city's parks and outdoor attractions.

September

24° / 14°

September marks the beginning of spring in Sao Paulo, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 24°C. It's a great time for outdoor activities.

October

25° / 15°

October is a warmer month, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. It's a good time to explore the city's parks and outdoor attractions.

November

26° / 17°

November sees a further increase in temperature, with highs of 26°C. It's also the start of the rainy season, so pack an umbrella.

December

27° / 18°

December is a warm and rainy month in Sao Paulo, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 27°C. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

Did you know?

Did you know that Sao Paulo is the largest city in Brazil and the 12th largest city by population in the world?

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