How to Spend THREE DAYS in São Paulo, Brazil: 3-Day Itinerary

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Planning a short trip to São Paulo? You’re in the right place! 

Brazil’s largest city is often called the country’s cultural heartbeat, a place where food, music, art, and everyday life all blend into one exciting, fast-moving rhythm. We quickly learned that São Paulo feels less like a tourist destination and more like a city you experience alongside locals, which is exactly what makes it so special.

After countless trips here, we’ve put together a three-day itinerary that mixes iconic landmarks with neighborhood gems, tasty food tours, and even a chance to escape into the countryside. It’s everything we loved about São Paulo wrapped up into three unforgettable days.

Ready to jump in? Let’s go!

Itinerary Overview

São Paulo has a very different energy compared to Rio—instead of flashy tourist draws, the city has more of a local, lived-in feel. That’s exactly why we loved it! Exploring with local guides is the best way to dive into its neighborhoods, learn the stories behind its landmarks, and feel confident while navigating such a huge city. Tours also add a layer of security, since your guide knows which areas to avoid and how to make the most of your time.

Getting around is straightforward thanks to Uber, which is safe, reliable, and affordable. The city is sprawling, so rides can take some time, but we found this to be the easiest way to move between neighborhoods without stress. Once you’re in a specific area, walking is a great way to explore on foot, with plenty of cafés, galleries, and parks to keep you busy between stops.

Day 1: Kick off your trip with a guided city tour covering São Paulo’s top sights, taste the original bauru sandwich for lunch, explore the Japanese neighborhood of Liberdade, and finish with an evening bike tour downtown.

Day 2: Spend the morning on a food and market tour, then choose between Paulista Avenue, the São Paulo Museum of Art, or even an unforgettable helicopter flight for your afternoon, before catching the sunset in Pinheiros and dining nearby.

Day 3: Take a full-day trip out of the city, either to the historic coastal town of Santos or the alpine-style retreat of Campos do Jordão, then return for dinner with a view and live samba in Bexiga.

Day 1 

Morning – See São Paulo’s top sights with a guide

There’s no better way to kick off your time in São Paulo than with this private city tour—we recommend the option that runs from 9 am to 2 pm—complete with hotel pickup. 

We think this is the best way to get oriented in such a massive city, not only do you cover the highlights in just a few hours, but you’re also with a local guide who knows the history, hidden corners, and which areas it’s best to steer clear of. Since the itinerary is customizable, you’ll be able to spend more time at the stops that interest you most.

Our own tour took us through some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. At Parque Ibirapuera, we strolled past sparkling lakes and fountains, then caught the striking Monument to the Bandeiras nearby. We also popped into the Museum of Contemporary Art, where the rooftop offers a sweeping 360° view of São Paulo. 

From there, we headed downtown to see the soaring Catedral da Sé, whose medieval-inspired design marks the very center of the city. Wandering around Sé Square, we could really feel the energy of São Paulo’s historic heart.

Of course, no city tour is complete without a stop at the Mercado Municipal de São Paulo, where colorful stalls overflow with exotic fruits, cheeses, and spices. It’s one of the city’s most famous food hubs, and the perfect place to get a first taste of São Paulo. 

If time allows, your guide may also pass through spots like Batman Alley for incredible street art, Paulista Avenue, or the ornate Theatro Municipal. By the end, you’ll have a solid introduction to the city’s diversity and character, all without worrying about logistics. Just read HUNDREDS of five-star reviews here to see why this tour is ranked among the very best in São Paulo.

Secure your spot on this private city tour here!

Lunch – Ponto Chic

After finishing your city tour, ask your guide to drop you off at Ponto Chic, one of São Paulo’s most iconic eateries. This unassuming spot has been serving locals since the 1920s and is famous as the birthplace of the bauru sandwich, a mouthwatering mix of roast beef, melted cheese, tomato, and pickles on crusty French bread.

We loved how casual and authentic the atmosphere felt, no frills, just really satisfying food that has stood the test of time. It’s the kind of place where students, office workers, and families all tuck into the same hearty sandwich, and it’s the perfect way to refuel before your afternoon of exploring.

Afternoon – Explore Liberdade 

Although your morning tour may have passed by Liberdade, it’s worth heading back for a deeper look at this vibrant neighborhood. Just a 10-minute Uber ride from Ponto Chic, Liberdade is home to the largest Japanese population outside of Japan and offers a fascinating blend of cultures. With about three hours here, you’ll have plenty of time to explore its markets, museums, and cultural centers.

• Walk around Feira da Liberdade – This bustling street market is the heart of the neighborhood, packed with stalls selling Japanese and Brazilian snacks, trinkets, and souvenirs. The atmosphere is lively, and it’s a fun spot to sample treats while people-watching. If you’re visiting on a weekend, the crowds make it even more colorful and full of energy.

• Japan House São Paulo – A sleek cultural center that highlights contemporary Japanese art, design, and technology. It’s free to enter and offers exhibitions that feel fresh and engaging. Even the building itself is striking, with modern architecture that stands out along Avenida Paulista. Just note they’re closed on Mondays.

• Museu Histórico da Imigração Japonesa no Brasil – This museum dives into the history of Japanese immigration to Brazil, tracing the stories of families who came here and the community they built. It’s a moving and fascinating stop if you want to understand how Liberdade came to be. Allow at least an hour here to really appreciate the personal stories and exhibits. Keep in mind they’re also closed on Mondays.

Evening – Bicycle around the city

After exploring Liberdade, make sure to grab a quick bite before heading off on this 3-hour evening bike tour of downtown São Paulo. Meeting at 6:30 pm (just an 11-minute Uber ride from Japan House), this tour starts at 7 pm and is one of the safest and most enjoyable ways to experience the city at night, not to mention cooler than riding in the afternoon heat. 

We loved how much ground we covered in just a few hours, with plenty of stops for photos, stories, and a chance to rest along the way.

Once we set off, we quickly realized how different the city feels after dark. Cycling down Paulista Avenue was a highlight, with its bright lights and constant buzz of activity. We stopped at the Catedral da Sé, which looked even more impressive illuminated at night, and pedaled past landmarks like the Municipal Theatre and Farol Santander, where our guide shared fascinating stories about their history. 

We also rode through squares like Praça da República and Praça Roosevelt, both lively and full of locals enjoying the evening. Passing by the Mercado Municipal at night was another favorite moment—the stained-glass windows seemed to glow from within.

What stood out most for us was how the ride mixed São Paulo’s culture, history, and nightlife into one smooth adventure. From the street art of Batman Alley to the city’s modernist buildings, we felt like we got to experience a whole new side of São Paulo. By the time the tour wraps up around 10 pm, you’ll be ready to call it a night, with a camera full of photos and a deeper appreciation for the city after dark.

Explore Sao Paulo from a whole other angle—book this tour here!

Day 2

Morning – Taste your way around São Paulo

If there’s one thing São Paulo is famous for, it’s food, and there’s no better way to experience it than with this private gastronomic tour of the city. From sizzling street snacks to decadent desserts and local drinks, this five-hour adventure is a feast for all the senses. 

We couldn’t think of a more exciting way to start the day, because every stop gives you not just a taste of Brazilian cuisine, but also the stories, traditions, and people behind it. With hotel pickup included and start times between 8 and 9:30 am, all you need to bring is your appetite.

We started with savory classics like pão de queijo, the irresistible little cheese breads, and coxinha, a fried dough snack shaped like a drumstick and stuffed with shredded chicken. Then came crispy pastéis, often filled with cheese or meat, which we munched on while chatting with vendors. 

At the Municipal Market, our guide introduced us to exotic fruits we’d never even seen before, each with its own burst of flavor. By the time we reached Vila Madalena, São Paulo’s bohemian neighborhood, we were sipping on cachaça, Brazil’s signature spirit, and sampling local brews while admiring colorful street art.

Of course, no Brazilian food tour would be complete without something sweet. We ended with brigadeiros, chocolate truffles covered in sprinkles, and a refreshing bowl of açaí, which hit the spot after hours of walking and tasting. 

What we loved most was how personal this tour felt, wandering from bakeries to markets to bars, all with a guide who seemed to know everyone along the way. By the time you finish around 1 or 2 pm, you’ll be full, happy, and ready to explore the city with fresh energy!

Treat yourself to this mind-blowing food tour and secure your spot here!

Afternoon – Your Choice!

After a morning of food adventures, the afternoon is yours to dive deeper into São Paulo’s cultural side. You’ll have a few hours, so it’s the perfect chance to choose between three top experiences: exploring Paulista Avenue, visiting the world-class São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP), or taking to the skies on a helicopter flight over the city!

Paulista Ave

The most famous street in São Paulo, Paulista Avenue, is best enjoyed on foot. We loved strolling past its mix of sleek modern buildings, cultural institutions, cafés, and restaurants. The energy here is nonstop, and you’ll often come across street performers or art displays. The avenue stretches for nearly 3 kilometers (1.9 miles), and at the end, you’ll find the iconic MASP.

São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP)

If you’re more in the mood for art, head straight to MASP (closed Mondays), which is right on Paulista Avenue. The museum’s striking modernist design makes it a landmark in itself, and inside you’ll find a collection that spans European masters, Brazilian artists, and rotating contemporary exhibitions. 

We spent about 2–3 hours here and could easily have stayed longer! Tickets are $14 USD (R $75), and it’s well worth it if you want a deeper cultural experience.

Helicopter Flight over São Paulo

For something completely different, why not swap walking shoes for a headset on this helicopter flight over São Paulo? The flight starts from Campo de Marte airport, just a 15-minute drive from Paulista Avenue, with start times available every half-hour from 9 am until after 10 pm, so choose a time that works for you—2:30 pm was perfect for us!

While the company offers longer flight options, we recommend sticking with the 15- or 30-minute flights; they fit perfectly with this itinerary’s timing and still give you incredible views. We thought this was one of the most thrilling ways to see the city, soaring over Paulista Avenue, the Sambadrome, the Municipal Market, and even the iconic Copan Building. 

The panoramic views really show off São Paulo’s immense size, and having a pilot point out landmarks as you fly makes it even more memorable.

What really struck us was how the flight stitched together the different sides of São Paulo into one sweeping view, from historic churches and bustling markets to sprawling parks and endless skyscrapers. If you’re looking to add a little adrenaline and a lot of wow-factor to your trip, this is the experience to book—just check the hundreds of five-star reviews here to see why travelers consistently rank it among the city’s best tours.

Ready to take your trip to the next level? Secure your spot here!

Evening – Catch the sunset in Pinheiros

After a full afternoon, let’s slow the pace with a trip to Praça Pôr do Sol in Pinheiros, one of the city’s favorite sunset spots. We joined the locals here and loved the relaxed vibe, people bring blankets, music, and snacks, all settling in to watch the sky turn shades of orange and pink over the São Paulo skyline.

It’s a simple experience, but one that really captures the spirit of the city. Be sure to check the sunset time beforehand so you can arrive a little early and grab a good spot on the grassy hill. Trust us, it’s a beautiful way to close out your second day.

Dinner – Restaurante Vila das Meninas

Just a 4-minute drive from Praça Pôr do Sol, Restaurante Vila das Meninas is the perfect place to treat yourself after watching the sunset. The setting is elegant yet cozy, and the menu leans into creative Brazilian cuisine with dishes that feel both refined and comforting.

It is on the pricier side, but we thought it was absolutely worth the splurge, from the presentation to the flavors, everything felt special. Since it’s a popular spot, we highly recommend making a reservation in advance so you can enjoy a relaxed dinner without any stress.

Related Read: Traveling São Paulo on a budget? Don’t miss our guide to the best cheap and free things to do in São Paulo here—perfect for adding extra experiences without spending more.

Day 3

By your third day, you’ll probably be ready for a change of scenery. São Paulo is exciting but also intense, and this is the perfect moment to leave the city’s fast pace behind for something completely different. You’ve got two fantastic options to choose from, each offering a unique experience. 

If you’re drawn to the coast and want to combine history with time by the ocean, Santos is the perfect choice—it’s a laid-back beach town with fascinating ties to coffee and football. On the other hand, if you’d prefer crisp mountain air and a European-style retreat, Campos do Jordão will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a slice of Switzerland, right in Brazil. 

Either way, you’ll get hotel pickup, a dedicated guide, and a full day of exploring beyond the city limits!

Full day option 1: Visit the historic, coastal town of Santos

If you want a mix of history, culture, and ocean breezes, we highly recommend this full-day private tour to Santos, a charming coastal city just over an hour from São Paulo. With hotel pickup included and a customizable itinerary, this tour makes it easy to experience the highlights without worrying about logistics. Departing at 9 am and returning around 5 pm, it’s a relaxed way to trade the bustle of São Paulo for beaches, historic neighborhoods, and stories that shaped Brazil’s past.

We began at the Coffee Museum, where you can sip an espresso in the elegant café before exploring exhibits on how coffee fueled Brazil’s growth. From there, we hopped on the funicular up Monte Serrat for panoramic views of the city and coastline—the ride itself is a little adventure! We also loved the stop at Porchat Island, where Niemeyer’s monument frames sweeping views of the shoreline and São Vicente, Brazil’s first permanent Portuguese settlement.

Of course, Santos is famous for its beachfront, and we spent time wandering the Orla and Gardens of Santos Beach, home to the world’s largest beachfront garden. It was the perfect spot to stretch our legs and soak up the coastal air. 

By the afternoon, we strolled through the Municipal Botanical Garden of Santos, a peaceful ecological park filled with plant species that also supply the city’s beachfront gardens. Between the coffee, culture, football history, and beach views, this tour gave us a rounded look at why Santos is such a special place. You’ll be back in São Paulo by early evening, with plenty of time to rest before dinner and a final night out.

Grab your spot on this popular tour with flexible payment options here!

Full day option 2: See Campos do Jordão – the Switzerland of Brazil

If mountain views and fresh air sound more appealing than the coast, then this full-day private tour to Campos do Jordão is the way to go. Often called the Switzerland of Brazil, this alpine-style town sits high in the Mantiqueira Mountains and feels worlds apart from São Paulo’s bustling streets. 

With departures at 7, 8, or 9 am and hotel pickup included, the drive up takes you through winding roads and cooler air until you arrive in a town filled with German-inspired chalets, cozy cafés, and scenic plazas.

We loved how the day felt like a choose-your-own-adventure, with plenty of stops to mix nature, culture, and a little indulgence. The Boa Vista Palace, a former governor’s residence, gave us a glimpse of history, while the Felicia Leirner Museum surprised us with its striking sculptures set in a peaceful garden!

Campos do Jordão is also perfect for simply soaking up the atmosphere. In Vila Capivari, the town’s lively center, we strolled past chocolate shops, craft beer bars, and restaurants serving hearty mountain fare. We couldn’t resist stopping at Cervejaria Baden Baden, one of Brazil’s most famous craft breweries, for a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and a tasting session.

If you prefer the outdoors, you can explore Campos do Jordão State Park, with its hiking trails, ancient araucaria trees, and picnic spots, or stop at quirky attractions like Elephant Hill and Ducha de Prata, a set of cascading man-made waterfalls. By the time you return to São Paulo in the early evening, you’ll feel like you’ve taken a mini-vacation to Europe without ever leaving Brazil.

Book this private tour in advance here to secure your spot!

Dinner – The View Bar

After a full day of exploring, treat yourself to a memorable final dinner at The View Bar, a rooftop restaurant that truly lives up to its name. We loved how the sweeping city skyline paired perfectly with creative drinks and beautifully presented dishes; it’s the kind of place that feels like a celebration all on its own.

The atmosphere strikes a nice balance between elegant and relaxed, making it ideal whether you want a romantic dinner or just a memorable final night out in São Paulo. Be sure to arrive a little early if you can, as watching the city lights flicker on from above is all part of the experience. Just The View Bar is closed on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays—so if your third day falls then, Si Señor! Premium TEX-MEX – Jardins is another great nearby option.

Evening – Go to Bexiga for Samba

Round out your last night in São Paulo with a visit to Bexiga, a neighborhood that beats to the rhythm of samba. We loved how alive the streets felt here, music spilling out of bars, people dancing on the sidewalks, and an atmosphere that’s impossible not to get swept up in.

Head toward Augusta Street, where you’ll find plenty of venues offering live music, cold drinks, and a welcoming vibe, whether you’re there to dance or just watch the action. It’s the perfect way to soak up one final dose of São Paulo’s culture, leaving you with the sounds of samba echoing in your head as your trip comes to a close.

Related Read: Want to see more of the country? Check out our full guide to the best places to visit in Brazil here—from iconic cities to hidden gems, it’s packed with ideas for your next adventure.

Where to Stay in São Paulo, Brazil

Now that you’ve got your São Paulo itinerary all sorted out, the next step is choosing where to stay. We’ve narrowed it down to three great options in central neighborhoods—whether you’re after five-star luxury, mid-range comfort, or a budget-friendly base. Hotels here fill up quickly, so if you find availability for your dates, be sure to book before it’s gone!

Luxury – $$$

If you’re looking to splurge, L’Hotel PortoBay São Paulo delivers true five-star luxury right in the heart of Bela Vista. Just steps from Paulista Avenue and the Trianon-MASP metro station, the location is perfect for exploring the city’s top museums, restaurants, and shops. 

What we really love is the extra indulgence on offer: a spa with massage treatments, an indoor heated pool, and two excellent dining options. The Bistro L’Hotel specializes in Italian and Mediterranean dishes, while Gastrobar 011 mixes up cocktails in a stylish setting. It’s a glamorous yet welcoming choice for travelers who want to experience São Paulo in style.

Prices for this luxury stay average between $200 and $600 USD per night, and you can check availability and book it on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

For a comfortable stay at a reasonable price point, the Radisson Pinheiros is a solid choice. Located in one of São Paulo’s trendiest neighborhoods, it puts you close to plenty of shops, cafés, and cultural attractions, with Pacaembu Stadium and the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) both just 3 km (1.8 mi) away. The hotel is also just 11 km (6.8 mi) from Congonhas Airport, making it convenient for arrivals and departures.

The rooms are modern and cozy, with thoughtful touches like air-conditioning, bathrobes, slippers, and even a coffee machine for your morning pick-me-up. On-site, you’ll find a traditional Brazilian restaurant, plus a bar and coffee shop for lighter bites and drinks.

Rooms here start from around $150 USD per night, and you can check availability and book it in advance here!

Budget – $

If you’re after a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on comfort, Vila Galé Paulista is a fantastic pick. Its central location means you’re less than 1 km from the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) and just a short walk to Pacaembu Stadium, with Congonhas Airport about 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) away. It’s a great base for exploring the city without spending too much time in transit.

Despite the affordable price point, the hotel has impressive facilities for guests to enjoy. There’s a fitness center, sauna, a lush garden, and even a year-round outdoor pool, not something you always find in a budget stay. Rooms are simple but stylish, with parquet floors, city views, and amenities like air-conditioning, minibars, and private bathrooms stocked with toiletries.

Rooms here average between $110 and $150 USD per night, and you can secure your rooms in advance here!

For even more great accommodations, check out all of São Paulo’s hotels listed here!

Thanks for reading!

São Paulo is one of those cities that never stops moving, and we’re certain this three-day itinerary will help you see why. From sprawling parks and colorful markets to inventive food tours and live samba, it’s a place where every day feels full of energy and discovery. By the end of your trip, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper connection to Brazil’s cultural heartbeat.

If you’re planning more adventures beyond São Paulo, don’t miss our other Brazil guides here—we’ve traveled the country extensively and put together detailed blogs on some of its most exciting destinations. Or, here are some of our most popular guides to get you started:

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