State of Sao Paulo trip planner

State of Sao Paulo Holiday Planning Guide

A trip to State of Sao Paulo reveals one of Brazil's wealthiest regions, considered one of South America's economic powerhouses and known for its high standard of living. The eponymous state capital remains one of the country's most cosmopolitan urban centers, housing almost 20 million residents in its metropolitan region. Beyond this hub of frantic nightlife and thriving commerce, a tour of State of Sao Paulo showcases lively beaches scattered across 600 km (370 mi) of coastline. Farther inland, visitors take advantage of the area's pleasant climate and explore numerous waterfalls, caves, mountains, rivers, spas, parks, and historical buildings dating back to early colonial times.

Places to Visit in State of Sao Paulo

Places in State of Sao Paulo

Ilhabela: A nature lover's paradise, this lush island boasts everything from scenic jungle trails and pristine beaches, to diving and whale watching hotspots.

Ubatuba: Plentiful sandy beaches and surf spots make this place a popular base point for exploring the region and a staple of tourism in State of Sao Paulo.

Santos: This vivacious port city, known for its football stars, offers a variety of historic sights and lively beaches.

Campos Do Jordao: The highest city in Brazil tops many lists of popular places to visit in State of Sao Paulo, attracting local and foreign tourists with its cool climate, European architecture, and scenic mountain views.

Sao Paulo: One of the most populous cities in the world and a cultural hub, the sprawling state capital boasts vibrant entertainment, shopping, and culinary scenes.

Popular State of Sao Paulo Tourist Attractions

Ibirapuera Park: Sao Paulo's largest park, the city's green lung remains a popular gathering point, recreational space, and event venue.

Paulista Avenue: Wandering this major city thoroughfare, you'll encounter landmark buildings, museums, galleries, and a variety of shopping opportunities.

Elephant Wall (Morro do Elefante): Reach the summit of this hill for rewarding views and tranquil picnic spots, located just a short distance from the city center.

Thermas dos Laranjais: Everything from thermal pools and exciting slides, to a tropical aviary awaits at this sprawling amusement park, a popular kid-friendly tourist attraction in State of Sao Paulo.

Mercado Municipal: Sample a wide array of local delicacies, fresh fruits, and snacks at this vast covered market, situated in a notable Belle Epoque building.

Ducha de Prata: The hike to the "Silver Shower" is a traditional activity in Campos Do Jordao, leading to an artificial waterfall in a scenic natural setting.

Parque Hopi Hari: Wandering the themed sections of this vast amusement park you'll encounter a range of costumed characters, as well as a wide assortment of exciting rides.

Horto Florestal: The verdant trails of Horto Florestal house an array of local plants and animals, making the park a great place for a picnic, relaxing walk, or brisk jog.

Football Museum: Through a variety of exhibits and interactive displays, this museum showcases the history and celebrates the stars of Brazil's favorite pastime.

Planning a State of Sao Paulo Vacation with Kids

Places to Visit in State of Sao Paulo with Kids

Although not the most popular choice for families with kids, a vacation in State of Sao Paulo can be a great opportunity for anyone interested in discovering many historic sights, tranquil villages, and scenic beaches.

Hit the North Coast to relax in the mountain resorts of Campos Do Jordao, or lounge on the sands of Sao Sebastiao, a town known for its numerous picturesque beaches.

If you're looking for big-city convenience but want to steer clear of the chaotic capital, consider a trip to Campinas or the lively Ribeirao Preto.

You can also enjoy a peaceful vacation on Bertioga seaside or the hot spring resorts of Aguas de Sao Pedro.

Things to Do in State of Sao Paulo with Kids

An abundance of beaches, museums, and parks await on a holiday in State of Sao Paulo, most of them family-friendly.

Keep the kids entertained with a day of splashing on the slides at the wildly popular water park in Olimpia, or alternatively Bertioga's SESC.

If you're visiting the sprawling capital city, take the family to Zoológico de São Paulo, or meet the colorful marine animals of Sao Paulo Aquarium.

Another popular option for animal lovers is Zooparque, while KidZania Sao Paulo allows kids to explore their creativity with a variety of activities and simulations.

Tips for a Family Vacation in State of Sao Paulo

A trip to State of Sao Paulo can be a great option for a family vacation if you take basic precautions, comparable to those for other Brazilian destinations.

Although accommodations are welcoming to children and often provide babysitting services, book in advance to ensure your preferences, such as interconnected rooms, are met.

Infants and toddlers can generally stay for free in hotels, but cribs are rarely available, while rental cars usually lack child seat options.

Supplies such as disposable diapers and baby food are easily found in most supermarkets and pharmacies.

You won't need vaccinations for a holiday in State of Sao Paulo, but make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and mosquito repellent.

Dining and Shopping on Holiday in State of Sao Paulo

Cuisine of State of Sao Paulo

The typical dishes from State of Sao Paulo resemble those of the rest of southeastern Brazil, so expect plenty of rice and beans. That said, the cuisine of the region is also heavily influenced by European immigrants, especially Italians, making pizza one of the most beloved foods in the state.

A representative dish from the region is "Virado a Paulista," a popular breakfast meal including, among other things, rice, beans, greens, and pork.

If you have a sweet tooth, don't forget to try some of the popular milk-based desserts and exotic fruits.

Coffee- and sugarcane-based liquors remain the most popular beverages, similar to the rest of Brazil.

Add cities from the so-called Fruit Circuit to your State of Sao Paulo itinerary to check out farms and wineries, sampling local delicacies along the way.

Shopping in State of Sao Paulo

The state's eponymous capital city remains a mecca of shopping opportunities in the region, boasting everything from glossy shopping malls to outdoor marketplaces.

If you're looking for Western-style shopping centers, options abound.

Malls are plentiful in Sao Paulo, and usually feature a wide array of shops and restaurants.

Head to Rua 25 de Marco for some affordable gifts and mementos from your holiday in State of Sao Paulo. For fresh produce and local delicacies, check out one of the colorful food markets.

Know Before You Go on a Trip to State of Sao Paulo

Interesting Facts About State of Sao Paulo

* The state houses the largest and most diverse population in Brazil

* Sao Paulo, the state's eponymous capital, is the largest city in Brazil

* The state boasts the second highest average income per person, as well one of the highest standards of living in Brazil

Holidays & Festivals in State of Sao Paulo

The populous State of Sao Paulo is known for its "caipira" culture, evident in its cuisine, traditional "sertanejo" music, and numerous rodeo celebrations, the most famous being the one in Jaguariuna (May).

Besides the array of Catholic observances throughout the year, many immigrant communities organize their own annual festivities, which range from the Dutch flower festival in Holambra, to Vinhedo's grape and vine celebrations, established by Italian immigrants.

Head to the capital during your tour of State of Sao Paulo in February for the vivacious yearly carnival, or visit Campos do Jordao in July to enjoy the popular festival of classical music.

Useful State of Sao Paulo Travel Tips

Climate of State of Sao Paulo

The climate in State of Sao Paulo generally depends on the altitude, with mountainous areas boasting a subtropical and the coast a tropical climate.

Cities with a higher altitude have chilly, dry weather in winter, along with hot, rainy summers.

If you're planning a vacation in State of Sao Paulo, remember that coastal areas have a constant wet season throughout the year, with abundant rainfall and humidity.

The state capital is somewhere in between, in both altitude and proximity to the tropics, with temperatures ranging from 12-28 C (54-82 F) on average.

The temperature in mountainous cities such as Campos do Jordao can drop as low as 3 C (37 F) in the winter months.

Transportation in State of Sao Paulo

Besides renting a car, intercity buses and commuter rail can be good options for your tour of State of Sao Paulo.

Within the sprawling state capital metro area, you'll find a complex and expansive web of buses, trolleybuses, and subway lines.

Taxis are also widely used, but if you get into one, make sure that your drive is metered. If in doubt, summon a taxi through the local cell phone app, rather than calling or hailing one from the street.