Travel to Brazil: Sao Paulo Tours

Why travel to Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is the most populated city in South America, the economic heart of Brazil and amongst the largest metropolises in the world.  With a population that has grown to over 20 million, Sao Paulo is predominantly a city of immigrants; millions of Italians arrived here in the 19th century, followed by a massive wave of Japanese immigration. Smaller groups of Lebanese and Germans, amongst others, were to follow. In the second half of the 20th century, mass immigration from rural Brazil, mainly from the Northeast, changed the demographic landscape of Sao Paulo drastically as people sought to escape the drought and poverty of the sertao – vast brazilian back country. This ethnic diversity and industrial development has produced Brazil’s largest, most cultured and best educated middle class.

Many beautifully maintained historical buildings stand proudly in this teeming metropolis, and are a lovely site to behold in addition to their historical significance and current function. For a truly sacred experience, visitors should attend one of the daily masses in the Monastery of São Bento (Saint Benedict), a mandatory stop for those interested in the city’s history and 17th century architecture. Additionally, the São Paulo Igreija de Sao Francisco de Assisis, originally built in 1647 and renovated a century later, is one of the few physical remnants of the Portuguese empire that remains standing and warrants a visit.

Travelers to Sao Paulo will experience a dynamic city and no doubt be awed by the hundreds of skyscrapers that spread all over the enormous metropolitan area, restaurants to suit the most extravagant tastes, and a nightlife that often stretches into day.

What to do in Sao Paulo

Paulista Avenue is a must see for any traveler in São Paulo and is considered by locals to be the beating heart of the city. It is located in the northeastern section of Jardims, known as Cerqueira César. It is lined with tall skyscrapers, shops, churches, restaurants, cafés, museums, and hotels and has become a symbol of the dynamic and entrepreneurial nature of the city’s economy.

Despite being characterized by multitudes of towering skyscrapers and never-ending throngs of people, Sao Paulo also boasts numerous lush parks, namely the Parque Do Ibirapuera, the picture of serenity containing pristine grassy areas, paths for running and cycling, and a stage for outdoor theater and concerts; and the Parque Trianon, smaller but no less tranquil. Both verdant parks are near Paulista Avenue and offer a welcome break from the noise of the city.

Due to its ethnically diverse metropolitan population, Sau Paulo is a major cultural center in Brazil. This is reflected in the large number of restaurants offering varied and sophisticated cuisine. Do take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to savor traditional and regional Brazilian fare while visiting the city.

When to visit Sao Paulo

A bit further south than Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo is much colder by comparison, a topic which Brazilians love to talk about. The South American winter lasts from June to August, and indeed the chills of Sao Paulo can drop temperatures to 55°F (12°C) on the coldest days, much lower than in Brazil’s other popular destinations. Yet, this should not be a concern except for those accustomed to places with more steady levels of heat.

Overall, spring from September to November is the best time to visit Sao Paulo. This is when the days are sunny but not too hot, and rain falls only sporadically. On very humid days, the moisture and stickiness can make the air feel much hotter than it really is. Summer from December to March is when most Brazilians take their annual vacations, so anticipate more people and higher prices on the beach and other popular tourism areas. Then from March to June, the days are mostly rainy with cozy temperatures all the time.

February’s Carnival celebrations, which give Brazil its international fame, are not particularly colorful or lively in Sao Paulo. Instead, it is better to go to cities such as Rio de Janeiro and Salvador de Bahia to experience the Brazilian parties.

Travel Testimonials

Having personal transfers from airports to hotels (and vice versa) and to be picked up and delivered at our hotels before and after tours took so much of the stress and uncertainty out of the trip. This service allowed us to really enjoy the sights and not worry about the logistics of getting here and there. We were provided with often exceptional guides for specified tours that always met or exceeded expectations.

Diane and Jim Anderson, Victoria, BC Canada

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Considering the many countries (Peru, Chile, Argentina, and Brazil) we visited, and the 14 flights we took, all went well. We were always met on time by extremely competent guides. Once again, thank you for a great vacation and I will certainly recommend Brazil For Less to those who would like a stress free holiday in South America.

Oliver, Malta.

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Sao Paulo Hotels

Sofitel 5*

Rua Sena Madureira 1355 Bloco 1, Ibirapuera, São Paulo

Overlooking the lush green Parque Do Ibirapuera, the excellent Sofitel hotel is ideally located near the Ibirapuera shopping center and the Modern Art Museum. Stylish rooms offer state-of-the-art technology, wireless internet, voicemail, and fax solutions. The array of French and international dishes offered at the hotel’s restaurant are delectable, and the tranquil spa is at your disposal for utmost relaxation. Excellent service will without a doubt make your stay at the Sofitel an unforgettable experience.

Restaurant Laundry Service Room Service Internet Gym Spa Gift Shop Baby Sitter

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Quality Suites Imperial Hall 4*

Rua da Consolacao, 3555, São Paulo

The neighborhood of Jardins, an upscale region of São Paulo is home to this lovely hotel that is conveniently located within walking distance to the fashion and shopping districts of this gorgeous metropolis, all the while based in the financial heart with important banks and business centers only feet away. Rooms are classically decorated with tan-colored, comfortable bed linens and ample lighting, and feature amenities such as cable or satellite TV, air-conditioning and a mini-fridge. The hotel also boasts a delicious breakfast buffet (included), along with the two in-house restaurants (Aquarium and Marcel), a spacious indoor heated pool and a sauna where guest are invited to relax. All this and more ensures that the Quality Suites Imperial Hall will be the perfect complement to your São Paulo vacation.

Restaurant Laundry Service Room Service Internet Gym Swimming Pool Parking

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Tulip Inn Interative 3*

Rua Jose Maria Lisboa 555, São Paulo

The Tulip Inn Interative Hotel is located near the main financial and business center of São Paulo and only a 15-minute drive from Congonhas Airport with a vast selection of shops, bars, restaurants and cultural activities nearby. Its 123 rooms are comfortable and well equipped with cable TV, air conditioning, electronic safe, telephone line with voice mail, high speed internet access, mini bar, pantry bar, and work table. Suites also feature a Jacuzzi and outside patios. Additionally, the hotel restaurant serves delicious international food along with local flavors in its restaurant.

Restaurant Laundry Service Room Service Internet Parking

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