Sao Paulo holidays

How to reach São Paulo

• Flight time: Flights to São Paulo from London take around 11–12 hours non-stop. British Airways and LATAM offer direct options from London Heathrow to São Paulo’s Guarulhos Airport.

• Transfer time: From Guarulhos Airport, the most convenient way to reach the city centre is by taxi or the Airport Bus Service. Both take about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic. The bus service runs 24 hours a day, making it a reliable option.

• Price: A taxi from the airport to central São Paulo costs around 120BRL. The Airport Bus Service is more economical, with tickets priced at 50BRL. Another budget-friendly option is the metropolitan overground train line, which connects Guarulhos Airport with the city’s metro system.

Best time to visit São Paulo

São Paulo’s climate is relatively mild year-round, so the best time to visit depends on what you want to see and do during your Sao Paulo holidays.

• March to May is autumn in São Paulo, bringing cooler temperatures and less rain. Average temperatures range from 15 to 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing. Expect 6–7 hours of sunshine daily.

• June to August is winter in São Paulo, with temperatures dropping to between 12 and 22°C and an average of 5–6 hours of sunshine daily. It’s the driest time of year, so outdoor activities are comfortable, though evenings can get chilly.

• September to November is spring and brings warmer temperatures (ranging from 18 to 28°C), a gradual increase in rainfall and 6–7 hours of sunshine daily.

• December to February is summer in São Paulo. It’s also the wettest season, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30°C and 7–8 hours of sunshine daily. While the weather can be hot and humid, this is also when the city comes alive with events like Carnival and the spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Portuguese is the official language, but English is commonly understood in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: Paulistanos (São Paulo residents) are known for their work ethic and often have a more reserved demeanour compared to other Brazilians. Punctuality is appreciated, especially in business settings. Dress codes are generally smart-casual in restaurants and cultural venues.

• Health and safety: São Paulo is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it’s important to stay alert. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in less crowded areas, especially at night. It’s also wise to use insect repellent, particularly during the summer when mosquito-borne illnesses are more prevalent.

• Currency: Brazil uses the Brazilian Real (BRL). ATMs are widely available, but for safety, using machines inside banks is recommended. Credit cards are accepted in most places, though some smaller businesses prefer cash.

• Getting around: São Paulo has an extensive public transport network, including buses, the metro and suburban trains. A single metro ride costs around 5BRL. The Bilhete Único card, which offers discounted fares, is helpful if you plan to use public transport frequently. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are also popular and reliable.

• Electricity and plug types: Brazil uses a mix of 110V and 220V depending on the region, and Plugs are generally two-pin. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: São Paulo operates on Brasília Time (BRT), 3 hours behind GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK citizens don’t need a visa for holidays to São Paulo if staying for less than 90 days. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.

Best things to do in São Paulo

São Paulo (often called Sampa) is a vibrant city full of experiences waiting to be discovered, from bustling markets to tranquil parks.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Edifício Itália: One of the tallest buildings in São Paulo, the Edifício Itália offers 360-degree views of the city from its rooftop. The Terraço Itália restaurant is an excellent spot to take in the scenery while enjoying a meal or drink.

• Edifício Altino Arantes: The observation deck at this skyscraper (also known as the Banespa Building) offers uninterrupted views of São Paulo’s vast urban landscape.

The best districts

• Avenida Paulista: São Paulo’s most iconic avenue is lined with museums, shopping centres and cultural institutions. It’s a great place to soak up the city’s energy and visit the renowned Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP).

• Vila Madalena: This bohemian neighbourhood is known for its vibrant street art, lively bars and eclectic boutiques.

Parks and gardens

• Parque do Ibirapuera: Often compared to New York’s Central Park, Parque do Ibirapuera is the city’s green lung and a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike. The park is home to several museums, including the Museu de Arte Moderna and the Museu Afro Brasil.

• Parque da Luz: One of São Paulo’s oldest parks, Parque da Luz, is home to the Pinacoteca do Estado – one of Brazil’s most important art museums.

Historical monuments

• Theatro Municipal: This architectural masterpiece, built in the early 20th century, hosts a variety of performances, from opera to ballet. Free guided tours are available.

• Pátio do Colégio: This historical complex, located at the site where São Paulo was founded in 1554, includes a church and museum.

• Catedral da Sé: Located in Praça da Sé, this Neo-Gothic cathedral is one of the largest churches in Brazil and a key landmark in São Paulo.

Day trips in the area

• Paranapiacaba: Just an hour from São Paulo, this charming village was originally built as a base for British railway workers. It’s now a popular destination for hiking and exploring the lush Atlantic Forest surrounding it.

• Campos do Jordão: Often referred to as the ‘Brazilian Switzerland’, this mountain town is a perfect getaway during the cooler months. Its European-style chalets and pine forests make it a favourite destination for those looking to escape the heat and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.

• Ilhabela: For a beach escape, head to the island of Ilhabela, known for its pristine beaches, waterfalls and lush rainforest.

Activities for families in São Paulo

São Paulo offers a range of family-friendly activities, making it an enjoyable destination for travellers of all ages.

• Aquário de São Paulo: This large aquarium features a diverse collection of marine life, including sharks, penguins and tropical fish. It’s an engaging experience for children and adults alike, with interactive exhibits and educational displays.

• Parque da Mônica: Located inside the Shopping SP Market, this theme park is based on the popular Brazilian comic book character Mônica. Visitors can enjoy rides, shows and activities, many of which are perfect for younger children.

• Museu Catavento: An interactive science museum housed in a beautifully restored palace, Museu Catavento is a fun destination for curious minds. The museum’s hands-on exhibits cover various topics, including biology and physics.

Free things to do in São Paulo

With a glut of free activities and sights to see, you don’t have to spend a fortune to explore São Paulo.

• Free museums: Many of São Paulo’s top museums, including the Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP) and the Pinacoteca do Estado, offer free entry on certain days of the week. Check online for the latest dates.

• Free guided tours: The São Paulo Free Walking Tour offers complimentary tours of the city’s main neighbourhoods, including the historic city centre and the bohemian Vila Madalena. These tours are tip-based, so you can contribute as much as you feel comfortable.

• Beco do Batman: This famous alley in Vila Madalena is an open-air gallery of street art that’s completely free to explore and enjoy. The vibrant murals change regularly, so there’s always something new to see.

Local dishes in São Paulo

One of the great delights of holidays to São Paulo is indulging in the city’s diverse culinary scene. Here’s what’s not to miss:

Some typical dishes

• Feijoada: This rich and hearty stew is made with black beans and various cuts of pork and beef. It’s traditionally served with rice, collard greens and orange slices.

• Virado à Paulista: This regional dish is a staple in São Paulo and consists of rice, tutu de feijão (mashed beans with manioc flour), pork chops, sausages and collard greens.

Meat dishes

• Churrasco: Brazilian barbecue is famous for its variety of grilled meats, particularly picanha (rump cap). São Paulo is home to numerous churrascarias where meat is served continuously until you’re satisfied.

• Carne de Sol: This traditional dish from the northeast of Brazil is popular in São Paulo. It features sun-dried beef served with accompaniments like cassava and fried onions.

Street food

• Coxinha: This popular snack consists of deep-fried dough balls filled with shredded chicken and sometimes cream cheese – perfect for a quick bite on the go.

• Pastel: A crispy pastry pocket filled with various fillings such as cheese, beef or shrimp, often found at street markets and beach kiosks.

Sweets and desserts

• Brigadeiro: A Brazilian classic, these chocolate truffles made from condensed milk, cocoa powder and butter are a must-try. They’re often rolled in chocolate sprinkles and served at celebrations.

• Romeu e Julieta: This is a simple yet delicious dessert that combines slices of guava paste with creamy cheese.

Local drinks

• Caipirinha: The national cocktail of Brazil, made with cachaça (a sugarcane spirit), lime, sugar and ice. Refreshing but potent.

• Guaraná: A popular soft drink made from the Amazonian guaraná berry, known for its unique flavour and energy-boosting properties.