Sao Paulo TRAVEL GUIDE
Sao Paulo Brazil: A Quick Look
I must confess I never imagined myself writing a travel guide. Although this was less a São Paulo travel guide and more of a love letter to so many wonderful memories. If you want your own, then you’re coming to the right place. Here, you will find everything you need to know, from pre-planning your trip to staying safe.
You might be thinking, ‘Do I really need a São Paulo travel guide?’. And the answer to that will come at the end of this article when you realize how much more you’re prepared to take this trip. I hope to help you enjoy this place as much as I do upon each visit.
Be this visit number one, three, or fifteen, there are always new things to learn, so follow me on this São Paulo travel guide for today! Also, for an in-depth country guide, see our complete Brazil travel guide.
São Paulo Brazil: Quick Travel Tips Before You Go
🛫 Airport: The best airport in São Paulo, Brazil, is called Guarulhos International Airport. Its airport code is GRU.
🤑 Currency: Brazilian Real, shown by the R$ symbol.
🗣️ Language: Portuguese, although English is common in tourist spots and in hotels.
🕰️ Time Zone: Brasilia Standard Time (GMT-3). One hour ahead of EST and 4 hours ahead of PST.
💵 Cost: Quite affordable if you are coming from a stronger currency such as the US dollar, EURO, or Yen.
🛜 Internet: Incredibly fast and reliable mobile internet and the subway system has wifi in an emergency.
📄 Brazil Visa: As of now, If you are traveling from the United States, Canada, Australia, or Japan, then NO. This could change as of October 1, 2023. Track the status and details here. For EU Nationals, you do NOT need a visa, and you may not be affected by the Oct 1, 2023 change. You can see the details here.
🔌 Power Outlets: In Brazil, we have two associated plug types, C and N. Plug type C is the one with two round pins. Plug type N has two round pins and a larger grounding pin.
🔋 Power Grid: Wonderful! Brazil operates entirely on a 127/220V supply voltage and 60 Hz. Some newer hotels operate at 220V but don’t count on this.
📳 Brazil SIM Card: If you are considering the necessity of a SIM card for Brazil, trust me: the answer is a loud yes. They are not expensive, and to have one in any country you travel to is a must.
🚘 Car Rentals: Renting a car in Brazil can be a little overwhelming, and you can be nervous about driving abroad. However, it can be the best way to move depending on the trip you plan after reading this São Paulo travel guide.
São Paulo Brazil: Safety Travel Tips (Use Common Sense)
🍏 Food safety: Food is safe pretty much everywhere. Use your common sense, though, and avoid sketchy-looking things like seafood on the streets.
💧Water safety: Tap water isn’t indicated for drinking, except for outside use, like washing hands and brushing teeth. Filtered water and ice are safe to consume. Restaurants usually have filters as well. Prefer to filter your water or buy bottled water. Consider using a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle for convenient access to clean and safe drinking water during your travels.
👷♀️ Daytime safety: The most common thing in any tourist area is petty theft. Here are some tips. Ditch designer clothes, purses, and jewelry (including expensive watches. Don’t bury your head in your phone. Only have your phone out when absolutely necessary.
🦺 Nighttime safety: Use common sense like in any big city you visit. Don’t put valuables in your pocket, don’t walk alone at night, don’t pull your phone out on the street, don’t wear jewelry or watches or expensive purses, and don’t use the metro at night.
👺 Avoiding scams: Make sure your valuables are safe. Buy tickets for sightseeing tours and concerts online, not from street vendors. Taxis or Ubers should be booked directly from apps or through your hotel. Be mindful of where you withdraw your money; do it at banks only. Also, never leave your drink unattended.
São Paulo Brazil Travel Tips: A Local Perspective
🏨 Best neighborhoods for tourists: Avenida Paulista (best central location and for nightlife), Paraiso and Vila Mariana (families), Jardim Europa (couples), Via Madalena and Pinheiros (solo travelers and groups).
🎄Top Brazilian holidays and traditions: This São Paulo travel guide recommends you try Carnival, Festa Junina (June Festival), Independence Day (Sete de Setembro), and Christmas around here.
🍜 Local food to try: Some traditional dishes you HAVE to try are Pavê, cachorro quente, brigadeiro, coxinha, feijoda, pão de queijo, and churrasco.
🍹 Local drinks to try (alcoholic): Cachaça, caipirinhas, and Catuaba.
🧉 Local drinks to try (non-alcoholic): In São Paulo, it’s all about the Guaraná and Coffee.
🚶♂️Walkability: Wonderful! You are easily able to walk to most things in a short time or jump on the subway, too.
🎉 Nightlife: It is AMAZING. Not all São Paulo travel guides will tell you how wonderful it can get when the sun goes down.
😀 Friendly to foreigners: São Paulo is super welcoming. It’s already waiting for you.
🏥 Hospitals: Great, as São Paulo is the main metropolitan area in the country, many renowned establishments are here
🇺🇸 English speaking: Pretty much all over since it is a very touristic and business-led area.
São Paulo TRAVEL GUIDE
Where is São Paulo, Brazil Located?
São Paulo Map
São Paulo, or Sampa, if you want to sound local, in the southeastern region of Brazil. The city, the capital of its homonymous state, is a beacon for everyone who dreams of making it. Meanwhile, the state boasts everything from coastal areas to beautiful highlands.
What State is São Paulo In?
São Paulo is a concrete jungle just shy of the coast in a state with the same name. São Paulo, both the state and its capital city, are well worth visiting. A brilliant mix of history and modern times, you are in for a treat by coming here.
What’s the Closest Airport to São Paulo, Brazil?
There are three airports that service São Paulo: Guarulhos International Airport (Code: GRU), Congonhas Airport (CGH), and Viracopos International Airport (VCP). Since you’ll be coming from abroad, you are better off selecting Guarulhos as your final destination.
What is the Best Way to Get to Your São Paulo Hotel?
Once you arrive at Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) in São Paulo’s metropolitan area, there are a few ways to get to where you’re staying.
The simplest and easiest way to do it is by organizing a private shuttle. That saves you the trouble of having to organize it upon landing. But if you don’t really mind, then there are a few things you can do.
You can try a taxi, but BE CERTAIN the meter is turned on to avoid scams. This is a thing to pay attention to in every country, and it is not different in Brazil.
Renting a car in São Paulo is an excellent option. Rental car agencies are at the airport, making for easy pickup and drop-off. It is the way to go if you plan to drive all around or if it is more of a family trip. But parking in São Paulo ain’t easy, and it’s not cheap either. If you want to save some room in your budget or plan to drink a little, then prefer Uber or shuttles.
Pro Tip: If you are planning to take an Uber, make sure that you have a Brazil SIM card so that your phone operates properly. You never want to depend on free public WIFI for using your ride-share apps.
How to Get Around São Paulo?
Ride Sharing (top choice): Ride-share apps like Uber are very used in São Paulo, mainly because they’re cheap and convenient. If you want the least amount of hassle, this is the way to go.
Rent a Car (top choice): A rental car offers the ultimate freedom in your São Paulo adventure. Through this, you will be able to explore nearby history and reach every corner of the town. If that’s in your plans, remember to bring your valid documents and prepare for right-side driving.
Take a Taxi: Taking a taxi is an excellent choice but should not be your main way to get around. São Paulo doesn’t have that many taxis around, and the prices can be a little steep. I generally go for them only when I absolutely have to
Public transportation: Not every São Paulo travel guide will tell you how amazing the subway is here. I wouldn’t say the same for surface trains and buses, but the subway is my favorite way to get around every time I’m there.
When to Go to São Paulo?
Every São Paulo travel guide will tell you something different about when to come here. But this is simply up to you and your goal for the trip, so let me tell you a little about each season here.
São Paulo Brazil Summer (December to March): If you are into sunny days, music festivals, and parties, this is the time to go. Sure, it will be peak tourist season with travelers from Brazil and abroad coming in. From comic conventions to great music and everything in between, it’s the best time to enjoy.
Summer Carnival: Carnival deserves its own spot! It’s the most famous party in Brazil for good reason. People celebrate the joy of being alive in every street for days on end! It usually happens in late February, but accommodations can get booked up far ahead, so plan in advance.
São Paulo Brazil Fall (April and May): If you’re like me and enjoy a more laid-back vibe, then this is the season for you. Autumn/Fall is a wonderful time to enjoy slower days and lower prices, too, since it’s not peak season.
São Paulo Brazil Winter (June to August): Winter here is when the rain falls, but don’t let that stop you. Colder weather is still wonderful to enjoy most attractions since they are inside. Other than the second half of July, there’s also the major advantage of few, if any, crowds.
São Paulo, Brazil Spring (September to November): Spring is my second favorite time to go. Given it’s not as hot as the summer and it usually has great cultural programs, it’s surely a wonderful time to enjoy these streets.
Keep in mind that there is no wrong time to visit São Paulo!
Where to Stay in São Paulo, Brazil (By Neighborhood)
São Paulo is a massive town, so choosing where to stay depends a lot on what kind of trip you’re planning and who you’re going with.
Your main options are Avenida Paulista (best central location and for nightlife), Paraiso and Vila Mariana (families), Jardim Europa (couples), Via Madalena and Pinheiros (solo travelers and groups).
Food halls and rooftop bars are booming in São Paulo, especially in areas like Pinheiros and Jardins. Spots like Mirante 9 de Julho and Faria Lima’s Sky Hall are mixing cuisine with city views, drawing younger crowds seeking good vibes and urban energy.
I’ve dedicated this next section of our São Paulo travel guide to understanding what each area offers a little better.
Avenida Paulista (Best Central Location And Nightlife)
When it comes to easy access to transit while being within walking distance of several tourist spots, Avenida Paulista is where you want to be. Not only that, it’s also within a short distance of nightlife’s darling Rua Augusta, which I’ll talk about a little further down this São Paulo Travel guide.
Paraiso and Vila Mariana (Families)
Paraíso and Vila Mariana are both great places to stay as a family since they’re central enough but also a little further down from the chaos Avenida Paulista is on most days. Here, you can easily venture into the subway or get a car to every hotspot in town. In case you rent a car, here a lot of hotels have parking too.
Jardim Europa (Couples)
As a couple, your best bet is staying in the Jardins area, but I’d recommend Jardim Europa out of them the most. It’s a more upscale neighborhood while still being super affordable, full of renowned restaurants and eateries for you to try.
Via Madalena and Pinheiros (solo travelers and groups)
Now, if you’re going as a group or doing solo on a budget, either Via Madalena or Pinheiros are great bets. These neighborhoods are easily accessible through transit, which then leads anywhere you want to go. Accommodations here are also considerably cheaper and calmer.
Best Things to Do in São Paulo, Brazil
- Discover The Museums: There are museums for all tastes here! From typical art to others that expose Brazil’s history amidst a beautiful garden. In case there is a day or two extra in your schedule, try one up!
- Hit Avenida Paulista: Avenida Paulista is one of the main postcards here, and there’s so much to do. On Sundays, the avenue is closed for cars, and everyone can just enjoy the road!
- Visit Liberdade: Liberdade is a must in every São Paulo travel guide you consult. It’s an entire neighborhood filled with Asian traditions and products with that wonderful Brazilian touch.
- Enjoy Rua Augusta: To me, this is the heart of São Paulo’s nightlife. An entire street is home to several unique bars and restaurants for you to have a blast.
- Immerse Yourself in Green: Ibirapuera Park is a breath of fresh air in such a vast city. It compares to Central Park with lots of places to be explored.
- Try Brazilian Food: One of my favorite things about Sampa is how every culture has a spot, and because of that, so many traditional foods can be tasted.
- Walk Through The Municipal Market: this market reminds me of those fairs in fantasy movies because everything you could want is here. From artisanal foods to handcrafted goods, come and enjoy!
- Go Shopping: One thing Sampa has are shopping malls. From fancier upscale stores to traditional cuisines, there is some fun to be had here.
Best São Paulo Tours
Tours in São Paulo are one of my favorite ways to get some tourism done in a unique way. You can see sites, surrounding areas, and so much more! Unless your plans include renting a car, taking a tour can be an easy and cost-effective way to get your sightseeing done. You definitely don’t want to be relying on ride apps or cabs because that adds up quickly.
Tours are a streamlined way to really dive into a place without the hassle of planning. Below, I’ve dedicated a section of this São Paulo travel guide to the best kinds of tours in the São Paulo area. They go from walking tours to personal photographers to pub crawls; let’s take a look!
💡Pro Tip: If I plan to spend more than four days in a new place, I like to first take a broad tour of neighborhoods to get a feel of everything and then decide where I would like to spend more of my time. It is so sad to find a great spot with half a day left in town.
💡Pro Tip: When it comes to booking tours, never get them from people on the street. You are better off doing it online or with your hotel concierge. But hotels act as middlemen and might hike up prices just to take a cut.
Here are the top tours for São Paulo: :
- Complete São Paulo City Tour: This kind of tour will take you through an in-depth journey. Along with a professional guide and sometimes even transit costs covered, it is recommended to tick some spots off of your list.
- São Paulo Walking Tour: If you’re a more active person and want to see Sampa from the ground up, taking a guided walking tour is the way to go! You can book them even through Airbnb, and some locals offer them for free.
- Bar Crawling Tour: São Paulo is famous for its vibrant nightlife. Book this tour if you want to have an unforgettable time and lifetime memories.
- Eco Tours: Every São Paulo travel guide will tell you how Ibirapuera Park is a must. Not all of them will tell you to book a tour to check all the best spots in it for a rather reasonable price.
- Photo Tours: Another awesome thing you can do is to hire a tour with a private photographer to register your moments while out in town.
- Metropolitan Area Tours: If you want to explore a little further, schedule a tour for another nearby town. The São Paulo area is full of quaint little towns to explore.
- Private Custom Tours: If you want to personalize your experience a little further, go for a private custom tour. This way, you’re able to make your own plans and follow your own beat, with the advantage of not having to worry about a group.
Is São Paulo Safe for Tourists?
In general, every São Paulo travel guide will agree that it is a safe city for tourists. This is not to say there is absolutely no crime; it happens just like in any big city or destination. You should take some precautions as usual.
The main concern is what we call petty crimes, such as theft, pretty much year-round. Be it in Rio, São Paulo, Milan, or Paris, the risk of being caught unprepared is the same. The more planning you do, the less of a target you are.
💡Here Are My Pro Safety Tips For Every City You Travel To:
- Valuables should go in two spots in your person when out and about. Small valuables, credit cards, and even your phone are safer in those thin fanny packs to hide under clothing. Other things you ‘don’t mind’ losing should be in other spots. Like this, if pickpocketing or confrontation does happen, you’re at less risk of losing things.
- When in popular spots, especially with crowds, avoid getting your valuables out as much as possible. Thieves pay attention to that kind of behavior!
- Be mindful of chaos. Often, it is just a distraction so that petty thefts can happen.
- As your São Paulo travel guide, I try to be as thorough with research as possible, but things can change super fast. So always check with your accommodation if there are any areas to avoid currently.
- Forget bling at home. Avoid visible brands, fancy jewelry, or watches. All of that makes you stand out as a target.
Normal precautions are important all the time. São Paulo does have a lower crime rate when compared to other cities. Most neighborhoods are well-patrolled, and people love to welcome visitors.
Its neighborhoods are well-patrolled, and residents are welcoming toward tourists.
That being said, what matters most is to be aware of your environment, even more during the night or in crowded spots. Remember that you are responsible for your safety, so plan ahead and have a great time.
What is the Best Travel Insurance for Brazil?
This is a question that I get a lot, as travel insurance can get confusing. This is a critical part of your trip though so that you do not have to worry when visiting São Paulo or any other part of the world.
Figuring out travel insurance can be overwhelming. However, having the right travel insurance coverage is essential for a stress-free trip to São Paulo, Brazil. The key is to make sure it is simple and flexible.
To streamline this, we have broken down the best travel insurance companies out there in the industry that are all great but also serve different needs.
Let’s explore what each of them brings to the table:
✅ World Nomads: Best for comprehensive coverage, flexibility, AND adventure sports. Covers trip cancellation, emergency medical costs, and emergency medical transportation and protects your travel gear.
✅ SafetyWing: This is for general travelers, frequent travelers, and long-term digital nomads in Brazil. Provides lots of flexibility as far as start date, coverage extension, and automatic renewals. It also has limited home-country coverage.
✅ Travel Insurance Master: Brazil travel insurance search tool, this is for people who really want to compare policies.
São Paulo Travel Guide: Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Drink the Water in São Paulo, Brazil?
Straight from the tap is a massive NO.
It doesn’t matter which São Paulo travel guide you consult. Everyone will tell you unfiltered water is a no for drinking. It is typically safe for general use, but don’t even risk drinking it.
You’re good for brushing teeth, showers, and whatnot! But when it comes to drinking, I’d recommend a reusable bottle to refill or just buying bottled water when needed.
That being said, a lot of São Paulo restaurants offer ‘água da casa,’ which is just filtered water to customers and used for ice, so you’re good. Be sure to ask the restaurant, and if they don’t have it, you can go back to bottled water for the time.
Also, always look at the weather because the Brazilian sun can get very strong, so you want to stay hydrated. Getting sick should be the last on your trip bucket list.
So Steps to Stay Safe With the Water Are:
- In an AirBnb, boil the water if you do not have bottled water or a filter.
- In a hotel with no filter, buy bottled water, but this can get expensive.
- Get a reusable water bottle that you can refill. And since refilling is free, you don’t have to worry about something so simple to solve while in São Paulo, Brazil. Consider bringing along a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle for convenient access to clean and safe drinking water during your travels.
What’s the São Paulo Weather Like?
São Paulo, Brazil, has a mostly subtropical climate, and it’s heavily influenced by monsoon seasons.
You can expect hot summers with temperatures from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius (77-86 degrees Fahrenheit). Sometimes, there are intense heat waves, so always have light clothing at hand. As for winter, it cools down to between 13 and 22 degrees Celsius (55-72 degrees Fahrenheit).
Most of the rainfall happens during warmer months, so you can expect to have dry weather from June until September/October. With the beginning of the fall season in May and going until the end of spring in November, you should have nice weather for your trip.
I’d say which season you go in isn’t so important because what matters is your goal. On a daily basis, São Paulo’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s good to have a light jacket or umbrella with you at all times.
Is São Paulo Expensive?
If it’s already an inexpensive destination for locals, for tourists from the US, Europe, or any other stronger currency, it gets even cheaper because of exchange rates. Expenses like accommodations, food, transport, and others end up a lot cheaper than usual.
Eating out happens at a much lower cost, especially at local spots, just because your currency is ‘worth’ more.
Do keep in mind that your costs can add up a lot higher if you want finer things while here. Higher-end hotels, restaurants, and such will be more expensive but still a little cheaper in comparison to your own prices.
I’d like to mention prices will generally go up during peak seasons, especially in the most popular areas. So, if you want to save your budget for something else, plan your trip to other moments, and you’ll be fine.
Is São Paulo Worth Visiting?
A hundred percent yes! São Paulo is not a famous destination in Brazil for no reason. It is a city that contains multitudes and will always have something new to show you.
It has something for all travelers, from nature to musical theatre.
Locals lovingly call it Sampa, and it is so much more than a concrete jungle. You can enjoy nature in the parks, party in unique clubs, enjoy open-air art installations, or catch a play in theaters. There are also so many tours you can take in order to have the trip of your dreams.
I was there three times in 2022, and each time surprised me with new restaurants and foods to try. From traditional Asian cuisine to whatever else you can think of, São Paulo has it all.
Locals are always ready to share their town with you and help you be safe in this enormous place. But if you are not a fan of crowds or prefer a calmer vibe, plan for the shoulder seasons and enjoy!
How Many Days Do I Need in São Paulo, Brazil?
The answer to this question isn’t as simple as one, two, or three.
Most São Paulo travel guides will tell you anything from three to seven days, but I think it depends a lot on what your plans are.
If you plan a more culture-led visit, then you will need at least four full days in town. After all, there are several great museums, and you will want to take your time. But if you’re more into checking out the sights, then you may need a little over a full week.
I think that the amount of days you will need depends on your goal. Plan your time, then add a couple more days just to be safe.
General São Paulo Brazil Travel Info & FAQ
🌞 São Paulo Weather
São Paulo was lovingly nicknamed ‘Terra da Garoa,’ which translates to ‘land of the drizzle.’ Given it is a big city so close to a major river, the weather can be quite humid.
Depending on the time of year you come, you can experience drier weather, though. During the summer, there are hotter days with little to no rain experience. While winter can be a marathon of drizzles from time to time.
It really is a year-round destination, so it’s only a matter of paying attention to which season you’re going in, but temperatures are mild in general.
💰 Brazil Currency
The official currency in Brazil is the Brazilian Real, shown by either BRL or R$. Nowadays, cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it’s wise to have some cash on hand, especially in São Paulo, where street fairs just show up, and you may want to get some food or a souvenir. I’d hate for you to miss out on something amazing because of not having cash.
🗣️ Brazil Language
Since Brazil’s official language is Portuguese, both in São Paulo and all through the country, this is what you’re most likely to hear in the streets.
Yes, English is around in several tourist spots and hotels, but this São Paulo travel guide recommends learning a few things in the native language. Just a few sentences in Portuguese can go a long way toward integrating you with this amazing place.
If you want to learn a bit of Portuguese prior to going, DuoLingo and Pimsleur are great tools to use.
🛫 São Paulo Brazil Busy Season & Slow Season
São Paulo Busy Season: Arguably, São Paulo’s busiest season is the Summer, from December to March, and also the Brazilian Winter break, usually the last weeks in July. As these are considered to be super busy times by every São Paulo travel guide, expect to find crowds and hiked-up prices.
São Paulo Slow Season: If you want to avoid bigger crowds, plan for August to November. Given most of the slow season during the southern hemisphere winter, also plan for colder weather and better deals.
São Paulo Shoulder Season: São Paulo only has three months I’d consider a shoulder season. From April to June, you can enjoy rather mild weather that doesn’t have the extremes of summer and winter go through. São Paulo’s main attractions will be ready to welcome you with fewer crowds in your way!
Do I Need a Visa for Brazil?
The Short Answer: If you are traveling from the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan, the answer is no, UNTIL October 1, 2023, then the answer is yes. Currently, no visa is necessary from European Union (EU) countries. This looks like it will be the case even after October 1, 2023.
The Longer Answer: Traveling to Brazil is a great experience, but it is important to make sure you have all your ducks in a row so to speak. That means having the proper documentation needed to enter the country.
Here’s what you need to know about securing a visa for Brazil, specifically for citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, and European Union (EU) countries.
Section 1: US, Canada, Australia, and Japan
Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan can currently enter visa-free travel to Brazil for tourism or business purposes.
This applies to stays of up to 90 days within a 12-month period. All you need is a valid passport with an expiry date at least six months beyond your intended departure from Brazil.
Brazil is looking to implement the visa requirement again for these four countries as of October 1, 2023, so plan in advance for this.
Section 2: European Union (EU) Nationals
For most European Union citizens, including those from the UK, Germany, France, and Italy, also benefit from visa-free entry to Brazil.
This policy permits EU nationals to stay in Brazil for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days within a 12-month period. Like others, they will need a passport that is valid for at least six months past the date of entry into Brazil.
Visa and immigration requirements can and do change. It is always advised to check the latest information from the official government websites of Brazil or your home country’s foreign travel advisory services before making travel plans.
For the most recent and comprehensive information about visa requirements for all nationalities, consult the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or a Brazilian embassy or consulate near you during your pre-planning phase of your trip.
The October 1st, 2023 update does not look like it will affect EU Nationals, but research accordingly here.
What Do I Need on My Brazil Packing List?
Perhaps the worst thing ever is accidentally overpacking and having to haul those unnecessary things halfway across the globe with you. It is also equally terrible to desperately need something and not have it. That can put a damper on anyone’s mood.
Packing for a trip to Brazil, or any international trip, in fact, should be done in advance! I’d say to start by getting one of those digital luggage scales to avoid being overweight.
Here’s a curated list focusing on your primary needs:
🔌 Power Adapters: Brazil has types C and N outlets, which can be a hassle if you don’t plan ahead. You can buy the correct adapters for your devices ahead of time to avoid scrambling around and wasting time to buy one there. Consider bringing a universal travel adapter to ensure compatibility with various outlets during your travels.
📳 Brazil and São Paulo SIM Card: You know that being connected is essential, even more so when traveling abroad. Don’t forget to get a Brazilian or São Paulo-specific SIM card to communicate and access the internet. This is a must-have if you plan to rely on Google Maps, Uber, or similar things.
💧 Filterable Water Bottle: Tap water in São Paulo is generally safe for use but definitely not for drinking. Be like me, and carry a reusable water bottle everywhere you go! Consider bringing a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle for convenient access to clean and safe drinking water during your travels.
💊 Anti-Hangover Meds: São Paulo’s nightlife is a sight to see! But you don’t want to waste an entire day out of your time with a hangover. So, include some anti-hangover meds in your first aid kit.
👒 Sun Protection: The Brazilian sun is no joke, so don’t underestimate it! I recommend you pack a high-SPF sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself or budget to get them here. Just a short time in the sun can make your next few days unpleasant; trust a person who’s had sunburns literally in the head.
🦟 Bug Repellent:
By now, you know Brazil’s weather is tropical, and depending on where you go, you’ll have many mosquitoes as your company. No matter where you are, this item is necessary. Consider using an eco-friendly bug repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes while minimizing environmental impact.
🩴 Comfortable Footwear: Don’t forget you will cross many terrains here. Pack comfy shoes for walking, sandals, flip-flops, and whatever else you think is going to be necessary.
📄 Travel Documents: If you remember one thing this São Paulo travel guide tells you, remember to take all of your important documents with you. Passport, visa (if required), travel insurance papers, and anything else. I’d go ahead and also make copies of everything just in case loss or theft happens. Without them, you’d be in a nightmare.
As for the rest of your packing, just keep in mind to pack appropriate clothing for the season you’re traveling to São Paulo. You can change this list to fit your heart’s desires so long as you plan to have a great time!
Is it Safe to Rent a Car and Drive in São Paulo, Brazil?
Of course! It is super safe to rent and drive a car in São Paulo. But also keep in mind this town has a more stressful driving atmosphere and also a lot of traffic.
Comfortable experience for visitors.
Brazilian traffic laws are easy to navigate, but São Paulo’s metropolitan area is home to many people, so be attentive. Trust your rental car GPS, which can be in KM, so check the configurations and the key signs, and you’ll be fine.
Remember, in Brazil, we drive on the right-hand side. If you go for renting a car, make sure to have a good insurance policy too for peace of mind reasons. Most rental places have them available, too.
When you park, especially on the street, ensure the car is locked and leave no personal items in sight.
All in all, driving around São Paulo is a safe and cool experience. It offers freedom, flexibility, and bragging rights to an awesome experience. Although it’d not be my first choice, driving in São Paulo is definitely part of my bucket list.
Do I Need to Speak Portuguese to Visit Brazil?
If you go to some places that are a little more of the road, maybe a little. But when it comes to areas like São Paulo, then not at all! Even the subway here has announcements in English, and most people in the hospitality and commerce industries speak it to some degree.
However, learning a little Portuguese can make your travel experience even better by giving you the ability to interact with the culture around you properly. In situations where English isn’t available, tools like Duoling can help you! Not only Duo but some other platforms also have great, user-friendly apps to help you learn the basics for your trip.
But worry not! Even without fluent Portuguese, you will be able to navigate Brazil perfectly. I’m a person who loves to learn some basics before going to another country. So, if you want to be like your São Paulo travel guide, take a shot at some Portuguese before you come over.
Here are some great language preparation options for your trip to Brazil:
Learn Basic Portuguese: Using some platforms to learn language basics is great, but I prefer ones like DuoLingo or Pimsleur. They have interactive courses to help you gain confidence and speak a little Portuguese before your trip.
Use Google Translate App:
This one can be a lifesaver when it comes to navigating language barriers. Remember, it works online, so you will also need a Brazilian SIM card with plenty of data available.
Get a Portuguese Phrasebook: It may sound silly, but consider packing a Portuguese phrasebook, for example, the Lonely Planet Portuguese Phrasebook. It can be handy to have a non-digital assistant to help with communicating and understanding the local language in a pinch.
You won’t become fluent, but even basic knowledge can go a long way. It will definitely enrich your trip to São Paulo. Locals love it when visitors make an effort, even if it feels small.
Is Brazil Safe for Solo Female Travel?
Well, Brazil, in general, can be a very safe destination! When it comes specifically to São Paulo, I recommend taking some extra precautions because of it being such a big city.
There are some implicit safety measures I’d say are a must, such as staying in well-reviewed accommodations in areas close to movement, only booking your tickets online since there’s no control if you’re actually going alone, avoiding being out on the street by yourself at night and be watchful of your surroundings.
Also, don’t go out with anything too flashy or visibly branded; leave that in your hotel.
No São Paulo travel guide will point out specific behaviors or dress codes, but we all put a light on using only trustworthy transport. The subway is generally super safe, and during the day, it’s always my go-to. But if I end up out later than 8 p.m., then I get an Uber! This is the app that works best here; don’t forget to have mobile internet to use it!
Keep yourself connected to people, tell them about your plans and when you plan on going back to your accommodation for the night. I usually go as far as sharing my location until I’m safely inside.
As a person who travels alone often and to São Paulo twice as much, trust me as the São Paulo travel guide you’ve chosen: this is the experience of a lifetime! Whether you’re going for a weekend or doing an in-depth exploration, São Paulo is waiting for you!
