Entertainment Overview

São Paulo's nightlife options are seemingly endless, and knowing where to go is key. The chic and wealthy head for establishments, many of which serve food, in the Vila Olímpia, Jardins, and Itaim neighborhoods. The Pinheiros and Vila Madalena neighborhood have a large concentration of Brazilian clubs and bars. The neighborhood of Jardins also has many gay and lesbian spots, whereas Pinheiros and Vila Madalena have a large concentration of youthful bars and clubs.

São Paulo is a city beset by trends, so clubs and bars come and go at a dizzying pace. Though the places listed here were all thriving spots at this writing, the nightlife scene is always changing, and it's best to check with hotel concierges and paulistanos you meet to confirm that a place is still open before heading out on the town.

The world's top orchestras, opera and dance companies, and other troupes always include São Paulo in their South American tours. Most free concerts -- with performances by either Brazilian or international artists -- are presented on Sunday in Parque Ibirapuera. City-sponsored events are usually held in Centro's Vale do Anhangabaú area or in Avenida Paulista.

Listings of events appear in the "Veja São Paulo" insert of the newsweekly Veja. The arts sections of the dailies Folha de São Paulo and O Estado de São Paulo also have listings and reviews. Both papers publish a weekly guide on Friday.

Tickets for many events are available at booths throughout the city and at theater box offices. Many of these venues offer ticket delivery to your hotel for a surcharge.

Fun by Phone (011/5087-3450. www.funbynet.com.br) sells ticket to music concerts, theater, and theme parks. Ticketmaster (011/6846-6000. www.ticketmaster.com.br) also sells tickets by phone and the Internet.