Overview
São Paulo is not often on the radar for visitors to Brazil. But it is one of the largest, most innovative, dynamic and diverse cities in the world and if you love the urban environment you shouldn't ignore it. Founded in the 16th century, this capital of commerce has mushroomed relentlessly and now has a population of over 12 million. But it is not a homogenous metropolis: a city fashioned by immigrants, it is composed of a jigsaw of contrasting neighbourhoods, each with a distinctive cultural or economic identity. Liberdade is the largest Japanese community outside their home country. Bela Vista is a jumble of small lanes lined by homes founded by Italians. Jardins is the posh bit, with leafy residential streets, chic restaurants, designer boutiques and upmarket hotels. The compact historic centre – as recently as the 19th century a rustic core - is dwarfed by modern skyscrapers but defined by the extensive Praça de Sé with its grand, bulky cathedral. The city’s foremost artery, the Avenida Paulista, once beloved of coffee barons with the finest promenade, hosts excellent museums as does the Luz district further away from the centre.
This is the cultural heart of Brazil, overwhelming, yes; but pick out the areas you are interested in and it is well worth a visit. Concerts halls, art galleries, and open spaces – there is a multitude of parks – proliferate. Sport has a high profile too - there’s a Formula One Grand Prix circuit and world class football teams. Paulistas are known for their work ethic and always seem to be on the move: you'll find them friendly and helpful.
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Sao Paulo is as cosmopolitan as the city itself. Choose from no-frills, mid-range and high end, luxury hotels in enviable locations.
Where to go when - our guide to Sao Paulo
The weather in Sao Paulo is wide and varied
São Paulo is one of the largest, most innovative, dynamic and diverse cities in the world. Its summers are warm, muggy, wet, and mostly cloudy, while winters are short, cool, and partly cloudy. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 12°C to 28°C. The best times of year to visit São Paulo for warm-weather activities are from early April to early July and from late July to mid September.
View our Sao Paulo weather guidePapagaio
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