The Ultimate Brazil Travel Guide: Sao Paulo

Things to know before you go to Sao Paulo

Is São Paulo safe for tourists

Like any big city, there are safer and more dangerous areas, but the majority of tourists who stay in the tourist areas will not have problems. Crime does exist, but it is usually concentrated in parts of the city that visitors have no reason to go to. Sticking to well-known areas, planning your movements in advance, and being aware of your surroundings will go a long way in avoiding trouble.

In Sao Paulo, areas like Jardins, Pinheiros, Vila Madalena, Itaim Bibi, and Moema are considered safer and are popular among tourists and expats for their amenities, restaurants, and lively nightlife. On the other hand, parts of the historic downtown, such as Sé, República, and some areas on the outskirts of the city can be riskier, especially after dark.

These are my personal recommendations for ways you can stay safe:

• Stay in the recommended areas for visitors, such as Jardins, Vila Madalena, or near Avenida Paulista

• Use Uber or other reputable rideshare services with a credit card linked to your account, as it avoids handling cash and provides a digital record of your trip

• Avoid walking at night, particularly in quieter neighbourhoods or streets with little lighting

• Keep your phone, jewellery, and other valuables out of sight when in public or travelling on public transport

• Be cautious when withdrawing cash, choose ATMs located inside banks or shopping centres

• If in doubt, ask your hotel or host for up-to-date local advice on places to avoid

Travel insurance for São Paulo

Travel insurance is not just a nice-to-have, it is an important safety-net that can prevent a stressful incident from turning into an expensive disaster. The reality is that unexpected events can happen on any trip. Even something as simple as missing a connecting flight can lead to unexpected accommodation and transport costs. If you become unwell, medical bills in another country can quickly become expensive. Without insurance, you have to handle all of this on your own in an unfamiliar environment, possibly in a language you do not speak.

I have personally relied on travel insurance multiple times, including when I had belongings stolen in Europe, fell sick while travelling in Asia, and had flights cancelled. In each case, the support I received meant I could focus on solving the problem instead of worrying about costs.

For a small daily cost, you can be covered for a wide range of scenarios, from theft to delayed flights and medical emergencies. Having one phone number to call and a company that deals with the problem for you is worth far more than the price of the policy. I personally use Safety Wing, and I recommend them to friends, family, and anyone travelling internationally. You can get a quote here.

A few more things to know about Sao Paulo

• The Largest City in the Southern Hemisphere: São Paulo is Brazil’s thriving financial and cultural hub. Being such a large city, it offers a rich variety of experiences, from world-class museums and galleries to street art, live music, and bustling nightlife. You’ll find diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character.

• Culinary scene: São Paulo is a true culinary capital, where Brazil’s indigenous, African, and European influences blend with flavors from around the world. One of the standout features is the city’s Japanese community, the largest outside of Japan, which has given rise to some of the best Japanese food in the world. In neighborhoods like Liberdade, you’ll find excellent sushi, ramen, and other Japanese dishes. Beyond Japanese cuisine, São Paulo offers everything from traditional Brazilian steakhouses to cutting-edge fusion restaurants.

• Free Museum Entry: Sao Paulo has a wide variety of museums and galleries, and many offer free entry on specific days. The São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) is free on Tuesdays and the first Thursday of each month (tickets must be reserved online). In addition, the Pinacoteca, one of the city’s most important art museums, is free on Saturdays, and the Museum of the Portuguese Language offers free entry on Saturdays as well.

• Unpredictable Weather: São Paulo’s weather can change dramatically throughout the day. Be sure to pack layers and carry an umbrella for sudden rain showers, especially if you’re visiting between December and March when rain is more frequent.

• Language - do you need to learn Portuguese? Although São Paulo is an international city with English spoken in many tourist areas, knowing some basic Portuguese will go a long way in connecting with locals. Even learning a few phrases can enhance your experience and make navigating the city easier.