The definitive example of urban sprawl if ever there was one, Sao Paulo can intimidate first-time visitors. The thought of 20 million people in one metro area, with all the inherent congestion and traffic, can make you a little batty, quite understandably. So while some might want to run for the closest cachaça distillery, take it easy.

The fact of the matter is that Sao Paulo, Brazil’s premier and most important city, is quite manageable when you boil it down. Big? Yes. Millions of people? Sure. But the core of the city, the veritable heart of Sao Paulo, is a tidy collection of superb neighborhoods, landmarks and points of interest. And as always, here are the top ten must-see attractions.

Museum of Art

Paulista Avenue is one of the most vital streets in all of Brazil, let alone Sao Paulo. The vibrant urban artery is a good place to start in the city, namely with the excellent Museum of Art. The facility’s architecture is as much the attraction as the art inside. Modernist architect Lina Bo Bardi drew up the plans for what is now a paramount city landmark.

Sao Paulo Cathedral

A Neo-Gothic masterpiece built in 1967, after decades of work, Sao Paulo Cathedral is immense and spectacular. With capacity for 8,000 people, the interior features incredible marble work and design details.

Bom Retiro and Luz

A central historic district of Sao Paulo rife with notable architecture, Bom Retiro has a lot to offer pedestrians. Start with the terrific Estaçao da Luz and Museum of the Portuguese Language and make your way to Jardim da Luz. If you can score a ticket to see a concert at the Julio Prestes Cultural Center, even better.

Ibirapuera Park

In what could very well be one of the best urban parks in the world, let alone South America, Ibirapuera Park is the place to chill out and take a deep breath in Sao Paulo. The venerable city oasis offers a lot for visitors to see, from the Museum of Contemporary Art and Obelisk of Sao Paulo to Ibirapuera Auditorium, the brainchild of design wizard Oscar Niemeyer.

Vila Olimpia

For nightlife fun in Sao Paulo, head to the Vila Olimpia ‘hood. This is where all the action is between sunset and sunrise. From dive bars and live music to ultra-swish dance clubs, Vila Olimpia has it all.

Edifício Itália

Mid-20th century design aesthetics may not be able to hold a candle to the modern skyscrapers of today but still, Sao Paulo’s Edifício Itália is tremendous. What makes the 46 story high-rise worthwhile is the rooftop observation deck, with superb views of the city.

Pátio do Colégio

A Jesuit church and school that dates back to the mid-16th century, the Pátio do Colégio is one of the most important heritage landmarks in Sao Paulo. The edifice contains a museum and colonial art exhibit.

Vila Madalena and Pinheiros

Famous for nightlife and a dynamic civic vibe, the Vila Madalena district and Pinheiros borough of Sao Paulo is a definite must-see. Some refer to Pinheiros as the new downtown of the city and with scores of luxury shops, beautiful homes, clubs, restaurants and museums, the wealthy area is a great place to hang out in the city.

Morumbi

Up to 15 km away from downtown Sao Paulo, the Morumbi district of the city is a study in contrasts. Though home to a favela shanty, the area is more famous for the vast amount of real estate wealth it contains. Two worthwhile attractions are the Palácio dos Bandeirantes and Morumbi cemetery, where many make a pilgrimage stop to the grave of former Formula One World Champion Ayrton Senna.

Festivals

Brazil is a country of festivals and in that same spirit, Sao Paulo draws millions every year to a variety of fabulous events. Some of the best include the Sao Paulo Art Biennial, Sao Paulo Gay Pride Parade, Sao Paulo Fashion Week, Sao Paulo International Film Festival and the cream of the crop, Carnival.

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