4-Day Family Adventure: Sightseeing, Relaxing & Shopping in Sao Paulo
Sao Paulo, Brazil
4 days
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 2
A Day of Learning and Fun at the Zoo and Science Station
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.
Day 3
Marine Life and Botanical Wonders in Ipiranga and Jabaquara
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.
Day 4
Local Flavors and Shopping in the City Center and Bixiga
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)
1Sao 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.
2Ibirapuera 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.
3Municipal 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.
4Sao Paulo Zoo
The largest zoo in Brazil, it houses a wide variety of animals, including many endangered species.
5Science 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.
6Paulista 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.
7Sao Paulo Aquarium
One of the largest aquariums in South America, it features a variety of marine and freshwater species.
8Botanical Garden of Sao Paulo
A large botanical garden that houses a wide variety of plant species, including a significant collection of Brazilian flora.
9Sao Paulo Cathedral
One of the five largest Neo-Gothic structures in the world, the cathedral is the seat of the Archdiocese of Sao Paulo.
10Municipal 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.
11Sunday 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.
12Skye 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.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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) |
How to get around
Taxi
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
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.
Public Bus
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.
Metro
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.
Bicycle
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.
Car Rental
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.
Walk
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.
Helicopter
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.
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
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.
| Month | Hi / 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?
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