Best of São Paulo in 3 to 5 Days

Best of São Paulo in 3 to 5 Days

If You Have 3 Days

On the first day, plan a walk along Avenida Paulista and visit its many cultural attractions, such as Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP) and Instituto Itaú Cultural. In the evening, you could see a movie at the nearby Espaço Unibanco, or try one of the Italian restaurants in Bixiga, the Italian neighborhood, near the start of Avenida Paulista. Head to Centro on the second day to see such landmarks as Edifício Martinelli and Teatro Municipal. Don't miss the Latin crafts exhibit at the Memorial da América Latina, northwest of Centro. On the third day, head for Parque Ibirapuera to visit one of its museums or just relax under the trees. After that, you can try one of the bars in nearby Itaim or Vila Olímpia to see how paulistas enjoy their happy hour.

If You Have 5 Days

In addition to the attractions outlined in the three-day itinerary, take a day to visit the snake museum at Instituto Butantã at the Universidade de São Paulo and/or the Fundação Maria Luisa e Oscar Americano. These sights are far from one another; it's best to get a cab. You can go by bus, but it's slow going. In the evening, get a drink at one of Vila Madalena's bars; here you can see a part of the city's exciting nightlife. On your last day, tour Museu do Ipiranga and its environs, where Brazil's independence was declared. Afterward, walk by Liberdade neighborhood to see the Japanese shops and have dinner at one of the local restaurants.