São Paulo is a sprawling metropolis with over 12 million inhabitants, a city that never sleeps. While it may not be conventionally beautiful, it's worth experiencing the organized chaos at least once. The city boasts an endless variety of restaurants, catering to every taste and budget, a variety of museums and parks and one of the best nightlife in Brazil.
São Paulo is a year-round destination. However, winter (June to August) is generally the best time to visit, as the cooler temperatures and reduced chance of rain make city tours more enjoyable.
São Paulo is served by three airports:
• Guarulhos (GRU): The main international airport
• Congonhas (CGH): A domestic airport, conveniently located close to the city center
• Viracopos (VCP): Located in Campinas, quite far from São Paulo's city center. If flying into Viracopos, be sure to arrange a transfer as it requires extra travel time
For most visitors, Congonhas is the closest and most convenient option. São Paulo is also easily accessible by bus or car from nearby destinations like Rio de Janeiro or the coastal towns.
1-3 days is ideal for São Paulo. One day is enough to experience the highlights, but if you're a food lover or enjoy nightlife, feel free to stay longer and explore the city's vibrant culinary scene and entertainment options.
For the best experience in São Paulo, we recommend staying in either Vila Madalena or Pinheiros. Vila Madalena is perfect for younger travelers looking to experience the city's vibrant nightlife. Known for its hipster vibe, the area is packed with trendy bars, live music venues, and art studios, making it the go-to neighborhood for a fun night out. It's also home to Beco do Batman, a famous alley filled with colorful street art. Nearby Pinheiros is equally appealing, with excellent restaurants, trendy bars, and cafés that make it a hotspot for foodies. The area is central and well-connected, with easy access to metro stations, allowing you to explore the rest of the city with ease.
We recommend using Uber or 99 to get around the city. São Paulo's metro system is also efficient, safe and well-connected. You can purchase metro tickets through your phone's digital wallet.