The city of Sao Paolo, brimming with skyscrapers and modern architectural buildings, is now known as the third largest city in the entire world. Somehow, despite its size, the city has managed to retain some of its original cultural – featuring local handicraft markets and boutiques – while still growing into one of the most highly esteemed places in the world to enjoy multinational cuisine and theater performances. Before you start to explore, though, you should familiarize yourself with the city itself.

Choosing the Best Time to Visit Sao Paulo

The city of Sao Paulo enjoys a rather mild tropical climate year round with very little difference between each season. While the temperatures are cooler than in some other areas of Brazil, hovering between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 29 degrees Celsius), the brilliant sun makes the weather perfect for enjoying the city and its surrounding beaches.

Even during the Southern Hemisphere’s winter months, from June through August, the temperatures still range between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit (12 to 13 Celsius), ensuring you need nothing more than a sweater or light jacket on the coolest days. The fall months, between March and June, are typically the rainiest.

Moving Around within Sao Paulo

Because the city is so large, we really don’t recommend you rent a car in the city of Sao Paulo. The parking rates are astronomical and you’ll probably spend more time sitting in traffic than anything else – not the kind of aggravation you need while traveling.

The subway system in Sao Paulo is very advanced and is highly recommended by past tourists and locals alike. It’s fast, almost always on schedule, and the different color-coded lines can get you just about anywhere in the city. If the idea of traveling on the subway doesn’t appeal to you try the public bus system. The buses are often a bit more crowded and are a bit more difficult to navigate but are still convenient enough to use. Ask the concierge at your hotel in Sao Paolo for information regarding bus routes.

Safety Considerations in Sao Paulo

Considering Sao Paulo is so large you probably won’t be surprised to hear that petty theft is a bit more common than in other areas. All in all, though, the area is quite safe – especially if you use common sense and are safe about your travels.

Keep your personal effects close to you at all times and, if you are driving (especially alone) keep your windows rolled up. If you must park your car on the streets, which is not recommended, make sure you lock the doors and don’t leave any of your valuables out where they can be seen.

Speaking the Language in Sao Paulo

The main language in Brazil is Portuguese, a Latin-based language with similarities in grammar to those found in Italian or Spanish. Don’t depend on your past Spanish education when traveling to Brazil as the language is different enough to cause confusion unless you are near the borders. Even then your host might understand your question but you’re not as likely to understand the response.

Some common Portuguese phrases you should learn include:

• Por Favor (please)
• Desculpe (sorry)
• Onde e o banheiro? (Where is the toilet?)
• Oi (hi)
• Desculpe, eu nao falo portugues (Sorry, I don’t speak Portuguese)
• Estou perdido (I’m lost)
• Quanto custa? (How much does it cost?)
• Bom Dia (good morning)
• Boa Tarde (good afternoon)
• Boa Noite (good night)

There are, of course, dozens of other phrases you’ll need to know in order to communicate if you can’t find someone who speaks English (though that shouldn’t really be difficult). You may want to get a book or practice CD to work with before you visit.

Where to Eat in Sao Paulo

You will, of course, want to try some traditional Brazilian cuisine during your trip to Sao Paulo. If so, make sure you add at least these two spots to your itinerary.

Fogo de Chao, a restaurant with a few Northern Hemisphere counterparts, is a high quality restaurant where you’ll have the opportunity to taste several different types of roasted meats. Your experience starts with the salad bar, which is loaded with veggies, sides, and salad fixings and will be followed by fresh meats of the best cuts sliced right at your table.

Figueira Rubaiyat is another incredible restaurant and winery serving classic Brazilian cuisine. You’ll enjoy well-prepared food, refreshing outdoor seating, and a decadent ambiance. While the restaurant is a bit pricey, it’s not the most expensive in the area and the food is well worth the investment.

The city of Sao Paulo is overflowing with incredible attractions, sights, beaches, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. It’s up to you to explore and discover your own favorites.