Sao Paulo: Downtown-Center History Walking Tour - in English
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
São Paulo proudly hosts some of the world's largest immigrant communities, including Italians, Japanese, Syrian-Lebanese, and more. During our exploration, we'll uncover the fascinating history of this city, from its first skyscraper in Latin America to the pre-existing Tupi nation and the ancient South American pathways that once crisscrossed these lands.
Our journey will take us through the “new” center and the historic downtown, where we'll discover the enduring legacies of Jesuits, conquerors, churches, banks, migrants, and immigrants. Along the way, I'll illustrate how São Paulo has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past century, providing insights into what it's like to live here today.
Prepare to ascend to the city's heights, where you'll be awed by its sheer vastness, only to then dive into its vibrant communities, immersing yourself in a kaleidoscope of colors, scents, and hidden details.
This is my daily life in this captivating, beautiful chaos!
Available options
Sao Paulo: Downtown-Center History Walking Tour - in English
What's included
Guided tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Start at Edificio Italia — Begin your journey at the iconic Edifício Itália, once the tallest in São Paulo and still one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. This meeting point places us right at the heart of the “Centro Novo” and sets the stage for a walk through the layers of São Paulo’s complex urban history.
2
Brutalism at Copan - Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, the Copan Building is a masterpiece of Brazilian modernism and brutalist architecture. With its striking curves and massive scale, it reflects the optimism and chaos of São Paulo’s mid-century verticalization and the ambition of a city reinventing itself.
3
Centro Novo Treasures - Explore galleries and underground shopping corridors filled with vinyl records, antiques, manga, and pop culture relics. This vibrant zone reveals the city’s contemporary soul, shaped by diversity, consumer culture, and resistance. A favorite spot for collectors and subcultures alike.
4
Stop 4
Brazilian Identity - At the Municipal Theatre, we reflect on how Brazil shaped its cultural identity. Inspired by European architecture, this building hosted the 1922 Week of Modern Art — a turning point when artists broke from tradition to express something uniquely Brazilian. Here, elegance meets rebellion, and identity takes the stage.
5
Art Déco & Coffee Boom - Admire art déco buildings and grand façades from São Paulo’s coffee golden age. In the early 20th century, this area symbolized wealth, progress, and cosmopolitan ambition. We’ll dive into how coffee financed infrastructure, culture, and deep social contrasts still visible today.
6
Stop 6
Jesuits & Foundations - This is where São Paulo was officially founded in 1554. At Pátio do Colégio, you’ll uncover how Jesuit missionaries and Tupi-Guarani peoples shaped the city’s origins. Beneath the plaza lies the tension between colonization and resistance, religion and power.
7
Stop 7
Neogothic Cathedral - Standing on symbolic “ground zero,” the Sé Cathedral is one of the world’s largest neo-Gothic churches. More than religious architecture, it’s a space of protest, gathering, and identity. Learn about the urban symbolism of this monumental structure.
8
End in Liberdade - Conclude your walk in Liberdade, the largest Japanese neighborhood outside Japan. With its lanterns, markets, and multicultural streets, this district reflects São Paulo’s continuous redefinition through immigration. A vibrant, living example of the city’s hybrid DNA.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
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Tripadvisor
5.0
64 reviews
5★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
it is a walk of about 3 km
Meeting point
I'll wait for you at the entrance of the Italia Building
About São Paulo
São Paulo is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city known for its dynamic culture, diverse cuisine, and bustling urban life. As Brazil's financial and cultural hub, it offers a unique blend of modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and lush parks, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a mix of excitement and relaxation.
Top Attractions
Ibirapuera Park
Ibirapuera Park is São Paulo's most famous green space, offering a vast area for recreation, cultural events, and relaxation. It's a great place for picnics, jogging, and enjoying outdoor activities.
Nature
2-4 hours
Free (some attractions may have entry fees)
São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP)
MASP is one of the most important art museums in Brazil, housing a vast collection of European and Brazilian art. The museum's iconic modernist building is a landmark in itself.
Museum
2-3 hours
R$ 70 (USD 14) for general admission
São Paulo Cathedral
The São Paulo Cathedral is a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture and one of the city's most iconic landmarks. The cathedral's towering spires and intricate details make it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Mercado Municipal
Mercado Municipal is a bustling market offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local delicacies. It's a great place to sample São Paulo's diverse culinary scene and shop for souvenirs.
Market
1-2 hours
Free entry, prices vary by item
Jardim Botânico
Jardim Botânico is a beautiful botanical garden featuring a diverse collection of plants, trees, and flowers. The garden's peaceful atmosphere and scenic paths make it a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Nature
1-2 hours
R$ 7 (USD 1.40) for general admission
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pão de Queijo
Delicious cheese bread made with tapioca flour, originating from Minas Gerais but popular throughout Brazil.
Snack
Gluten-free, contains dairy
Feijoada
A hearty stew made with black beans, pork, and sausages, often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.
Dinner
Contains pork and beans, can be made vegetarian
Acarajé
Deep-fried black-eyed pea fritters stuffed with shrimp, vatapá (a spicy paste), and salad, originating from Bahia but popular in São Paulo.
Snack
Contains shrimp and peanuts, gluten-free
Pastel
Crispy fried pastry pockets filled with various savory ingredients, such as cheese, meat, or hearts of palm.
Snack
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking in nearby nature reserves
Water sports at Santos Beach
Exploring the city's street art and graffiti scene
Relaxing in Ibirapuera Park
Enjoying a traditional Brazilian massage
Visiting a local café or spa
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending local festivals and events
Best Time to Visit
April to June and September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with lower humidity and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
18-28°C (64-82°F)
64-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Italian, Japanese
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts of the city
Currency
Brazilian Real (BRL)
Time Zone
GMT-3 (Brasília Time, BRT)
Electricity
110-127V and 220V (varies by region and establishment)V, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
São Paulo is a vibrant and exciting city, but it also has its share of safety concerns. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in crowded areas and on public transport. Violent crime, including robbery and assault, can occur, especially in certain neighborhoods and at night. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone or at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure and out of sight
- • Avoid walking alone in isolated or unfamiliar neighborhoods, especially at night
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber, and avoid unmarked or unlicensed taxis
Getting there
By air
- São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center
- São Paulo/Congonhas Airport • 10 km (6.2 miles) from city center
By train
Estação da Luz, Estação da Sé
By bus
Terminal Tietê, Terminal Jabaquara
Getting around
Public transport
The metro is efficient, clean, and air-conditioned, making it the preferred mode of transport for locals and tourists alike.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, 99 Taxis
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Jardins
Vila Madalena
Liberdade
Pinheiros
Santa Cecilia
Day trips
Campinas
95 km (59 miles) from São Paulo • Full day
Campinas is a vibrant city known for its universities, cultural attractions, and proximity to nature. It's a great destination for a day trip from São Paulo, offering a mix of urban and outdoor activities.
Santos
75 km (47 miles) from São Paulo • Full day
Santos is a popular beach destination known for its beautiful coastline, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene. It's a great escape from the city for a relaxing day by the sea.
Paraty
250 km (155 miles) from São Paulo • Overnight
Paraty is a charming colonial town known for its historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and lush rainforests. It's a great destination for a longer day trip or overnight stay from São Paulo.
Festivals
Carnival • February or March (varies by year)
São Paulo Fashion Week • July and October
Virada Cultural • May (specific dates vary by year)
Pro tips
- Use the metro or bus to get around the city, as traffic can be heavy and unpredictable
- Be cautious of pickpockets and bag snatchers, especially in crowded areas and on public transport
- Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases, as this will be appreciated by locals and can enhance your travel experience
- Try the local street food and cuisine, as São Paulo is known for its diverse and flavorful food scene
- Visit the city's museums and cultural attractions, as São Paulo has a rich and vibrant artistic scene
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
