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São Paulo, Brazil, is known among locals as the city that never sleeps, and it is easy to understand why. Although many travelers choose Rio over São Paulo, this vibrant metropolis can be perceived as a microcosm of urban Brazil, bringing together different cultures and becoming a gastronomic destination in South America. It is also one of the fastest-growing populations on earth and is the second most populated city in Latin America, so most places are crowded.
While many people choose to travel to South America to explore its nature, São Paulo is perfect for travelers who look for urban destinations. It has incredible nightlife and restaurants. Here is everything they can expect from São Paulo.
Is It Safe To Visit São Paulo?
Over 12 million people live in São Paulo, one of the largest cities in the world. The metropolis can be considered relatively safe, but travelers should avoid some spots in the city, especially at night. Like in other big cities, there are pickpocket risks among crowds, like metro and bus stations and Praça da Sé, so people should keep their belongings close.
Public transportation is generally safe, and it's also OK to explore the city on food during the day. The best way to navigate the city at night is by ordering an Uber or 99 Taxis.
Best Time To Visit São Paulo
São Paulo is known for its unstable weather, and the best time to visit the city is between March to May or October to November, when there are fewer chances of heavy rains. Yet, the city is known for its dramatic weather changes during the day, so it is always good to pack a light jacket even when visiting during the Brazilian summer.
The city is home to Carnaval parties (often in February) and also Samba School parades. Virada Cultural is another popular 24-hour event featuring concerts and theaters over the city. The São Paulo Gay Pride Parade and the Brazilian Formula 1 Grand Prix are also popular events.
São Paulo Is One Of The World's Great Food Cities
Nearly 20 million people live in Sao Paulo. The city has received migrants from all parts of Brazil, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. As a result, Sao Paulo became one of the most interesting gastronomic destinations on earth. Travelers should give a chance to the street food, such as pastel, coxinha and cachorro quente (the Brazilian version of hot dog). It is also worth planning to have breakfast in one of their traditional bakeries. Of course, there are some restaurants travelers should have in mind.
Casa do Porco
Casa do Porco is the 7th best restaurant in the world, according to the 50 best. As the name suggests in Portuguese, the menu is focused on pork, but there are also tasty vegetarian options. The sandwiches start at $3, and the dish prices are approximately $40. Their most popular dish is Porco Panzé, which consists of pork cooked for up to hours and served with farofa, green cabbage, and black beans.
D.O.M
D.O.M has been among the country's best restaurants for years and is led by renowned chef Alex Atala. Located at Jardins, one of the fanciest neighborhoods in Sao Paulo, the restaurants offer sophisticated dishes prepared with Brazilian ingredients, such as açaí, cupuaçu, jambu, and tucupi.
Evvai
Evvai features a fancy dining room, and its menu features traditional and contemporary Italian dishes. The restaurant stands out for combining Brazilian and Italian cuisine and is among the best restaurants in town.
Mercadão
People visiting São Paulo for the first time will probably hear they should go to the traditional Mercadão to try their mortadella sandwich. The municipal market has several fruit shops and restaurants, but it has become famous for its massive sandwiches.
An Amazing Nightlife
São Paulo has one of the most vibrant nightlife in Brazil. There is always an event happening, and there are good bars and clubs in almost every borough. The good thing about visiting a city as big as São Paulo is that everyone has options. For travelers aiming to blend among locals, the best way is to find a boteco, drink a beer and talk with friends.
Rua Augusta is probably the busiest spot in the city, but Vila Madalena and Pinheiros are also great places to visit. Itaim Bibi and Vila Olímpia are home to some great clubs.
Lively Neighborhoods
São Paulo has over 30 boroughs, each offering different reasons to visit. While some places are famous for their foods, others attract visitors for their art galleries or bars. Of course, some are more popular among tourists.
Liberdade
São Paulo is the largest Japanese colony outside Japan, and travelers can have a glimpse of it at Liberdade. Known as the Japanese neighborhood, Liberdade is filled with Japanese restaurants and shops with Asian products. The place is also home to several events that celebrate Japanese culture during the year. It is one of the most visited places in Sao Paulo.
Vila Madalena
Vila Madalena is known for its bars and is a great place to go out at night. During the day, tourists can explore many art galleries and the most famous spot in the region: beco do Batman, a famous alley with graffiti artwork.
Bixiga
Italian immigrants founded Bixiga in the 19th century, and the place is home to some of the best pizza parlors and cantinas in the city. Those trying to find a great place to eat should check Bixiga.
Passionate Soccer Fans
Soccer is sacred in Brazil, and almost every person supports a team. They are passionate about the sport, which means that going to the stadium to watch a match is a great experience. São Paulo is home to some of the most influential teams in the country, including Corinthians, Palmeiras, and Santos.
Travelers who want to know more about the sport in the country should include the Football Museum on their itinerary.