The Most Interesting Things to Do in São Paulo

São Paulo reveals itself through neighborhoods, public spaces, and cultural institutions. If you’re pairing the city with Rio or the Amazon, these experiences offer a clear, practical understanding of how the city moves and what makes it compelling.

Walk Avenida Paulista on Sundays

Aerial view of Avenida Paulista in São Paulo city, Brazil

On Sundays, Paulista Avenue becomes entirely pedestrian. No cars — just families, cyclists, performers, and museum-goers moving through the city’s cultural spine. In one walk, you can stop at MASP, Japan House, Itaú Cultural, and SESC Paulista. It’s structured but relaxed, and it captures São Paulo’s civic rhythm better than any single attraction.

Spend a Morning in Ibirapuera Park

São Paulo skyline from Parque Ibirapuera park in Brazil

Ibirapuera is São Paulo’s largest and most purposeful green space. Joggers, cyclists, and families spread out across its lawns and lakes, while the Niemeyer-designed pavilions house exhibitions, design fairs, and concerts.

Explore Liberdade

Liberdade area of São Paulo

Liberdade is the epicenter of Japanese-Brazilian culture, framed by Asian grocery stores, anime shops, and weekend street markets. The Japanese Immigration Museum adds meaningful context to the community’s history. It’s one of the best neighborhood walks in the city for travelers who want cultural depth.

Wander Vila Madalena & Beco do Batman

Mural of street art with abstract figures located in Batman alley in São Paulo

Vila Madalena has the concentration of cafés, small boutiques, and studio spaces that travelers gravitate toward. At its core is Beco do Batman, the constantly evolving alley of street art that sets the creative tone. You only need a few blocks to understand why this is one of the city’s most photographed neighborhoods.

Do a Coffee Circuit in Pinheiros

Pinheiros Ave by Pinheiros river in São Paulo

São Paulo’s coffee culture runs deep. Pinheiros is where specialty roasters, micro-cafés, and tasting rooms cluster within a walkable grid. A casual “coffee circuit” — a few cafés, a few blocks — is an easy way to experience a slower, more grounded version of the city.

Visit Mercado Municipal & the Historic Center

Mercado is a loud, functional food market — fruit sellers, spices, baked goods, and a constant hum of activity. From there, it’s a short walk to Sé Cathedral and Theatro Municipal, which anchor the city’s early architectural footprint. This is where São Paulo feels older and more formal than its outer neighborhoods.