São Paulo, the financial center of Brazil, is among the most populous cities in the world, with approximately 11.5 million people (2022). In 2021, it was ranked as one of the 45 best cities to live in by the Boston Consulting Group. According to data from Visual Capitalist, the city ranks as the 8th most populous urban area on the planet.
With its cosmopolitan character, São Paulo is known by the city that works, that doesn’t sleep, where many are attracted by opportunities. The largest city in Brazil, it has a long history of welcoming immigrants from various countries around the world, and also from other regions of Brazil, in search of the best opportunities for their lives. This mixture contributed and still contributes to the socio-cultural formation of the city, resulting in a metropolis that pulses with a unique energy. The Sao Paulo tourist attractions offer a diverse and authentic cultural scene; gastronomy for all tastes and budgets; recognized architectural tradition and is a place that captivates everyone who visits it.
As a tourist destination, other places in Brazil like Rio de Janeiro, the Amazon, and the Northeastern beaches are more internationally famous than São Paulo. These places have airports that receive international flights, but São Paulo is the primary hub for both domestic and international air travel. So, if São Paulo isn’t your initial main destination but your flight happens to have a layover in the city, you won’t regret taking some time to explore it.
However, if you’re genuinely interested in getting to know the city, be aware that there is no shortage of Sao Paulo tourist attractions. There are tours of all kinds, catering to all tastes and budgets, covering a wide range of areas of interest. In this space, we will showcase the city in much greater detail than standard tourist guides.
- in HISTORY AND CULTURE, there are buildings that have survived over time or have been given new meanings so that they continue to be part of the city’s landscape due to their historical importance
- In MUSEUMS AND EXHIBITIONS, there are several museums, art galleries and cultural centers to explore. We highlight here the MASP (Sao Paulo Museum of art), which has an important and extensive collection with approximately 10 thousand pieces, which is why it is often listed among the best in the world.
- in ARCHITECTURE, the city presents a mix of styles, with modern skyscrapers alongside historic buildings. Architects such as Oscar Niemeyer, Lina Bo Bardi, Paulo Mendes da Rocha left their mark on the city.
- in URBAN PARKS, São Paulo is a frenetic city, chaotic traffic, full of buildings. But it is possible to find places close to nature to relax and rest. We can highlight Ibirapuera Park here, which occupies a large central area, its program is very diverse and features works by the great architect Oscar Niemeyer.
- in ANIMALS, we list places in the city where it is possible to see insects, snakes, fish or various animals, as in the traditional São Paulo zoo. Regardless of the location chosen, it is an interesting tour for children and adults.
- In BUSINESS HUB, we list the locations that concentrate offices and headquarters of the main national and international companies and make São Paulo the financial center of Brazil.
