Best Museums of São Paulo with Panoramic Sightseeing

São Paulo , Brazil

Best Museums of São Paulo with Panoramic Sightseeing

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About this experience

With this tour of museums, get to know the city from a cultural and ethnographic point of view.

São Paulo is the capital of arts with dozens of museums and exhibits that cover all forms of art. It has a countless source of discoveries for Art lovers such as paintings, sculptures, architecture, drawings, printmaking, design, crafts, photography and others.

Take advantage of the one-on-one experience of a private tour while the guide sheds light on the city’s best art museums and galleries.

Visit the São Paulo Museum of Art which was the first modern art museum in Brazil and houses the largest collection of European art in South America.

Next, get cross Paulista ave admiring its modern skyscrapers heading to Ibirapuera Park. Once in Ibirapuera, visit three outstanding art museums that are Afro Brasil, Contemporary Art and Modern Art.

You can also customize the itinerary choosing from the most diverse museums presented below on the "what to expect section" and make your own list.

Available options

Best Museums of São Paulo with Panoramic Sightseeing

Pickup included

What's included

Professional licensed private tour guide.

VAT, all taxes, tolls, handling charges, parking fees during stops and airport Greet & Meet service.

Transport by fully-equipped vehicle.

Private driver for groups bigger than 4 people. Otherwise, the guide drives the vehicle.

Hotels and airport pickup and drop-off. (Within São Paulo and its greater area limits)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We start at the São Paulo Museum of Art, also known as MASP. Did you know it was the first modern art museum in Brazil?

The iconic building designed by Italian-Brazilian architect Lina Bo Bardi houses the largest collection of European art in South America. In its rooms, find more than 11,000 works of art from renowned artists like Picasso, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Gauguin, Modigliani, Toulouse-Lautrec, and many others have their art shown at MASP.

Stop 2

Then go to Ibirapuera Park, the green lung of São Paulo. The park was elected by the “The Guardian magazine” the best Park in the world. The three outstanding art museums MAC, MAM and Afro-Brazil museum played a big role on the deserved winning election of the park.

Tour the main areas of the park, such as the famous auditorium designed by Oscar Niemeyer. You will be impressed by its avant-garde architecture!

MAC - Contemporary Art Museum has a collection of more than 10000 pieces of paintings, sculptures, drawings, carvings and photographs of international and national artists. Works by international artists like Picasso, Paul Klee, Modigliani, Miro, Kandinsky and more.

National artists like Lasar Segall, Di Cavalcanti, Candido Portinari, and contemporary artists has also their masterpieces as well. On the top floor of MAC building has an open-air 360° viewpoint that visitors can see the infiniteness of São Paulo as no other place.

From MAC stroll to MAM, the Modern Art Museum that is just next door.

See the building designed by the renowned architect Oscar Niemayer. MAC has in its collection about 5000 art pieces, and displays the majority of Brazilian artists from the second half of the 20th century.

We'll then visit the Afro Brasil Museum, an institution that pays homage to the African roots of Brazilian culture and recalls its darkest moments. We will look at photos, documents, ceramics and artwork from different parts of Africa, Cuba, Haiti and even the United States.

What's not included

Food and drinks.

Gratuities (optional)

Entrance fees and admission fees.

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.3

3 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

AIRPORT ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS:

Once you have arrived at the airport or seaport there will be a member of our staff waiting for you at the arrivals area holding a clear sign with your name on it, they will then escort you to your waiting private transfer vehicle.

"For TOURS starting at the airport, please send us the flight information so that we can track it and be waiting for you at the right time and terminal."
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HOTEL PICK-UP INSTRUCTIONS:

As soon as the driver or tour guide arrives at your hotel, they get the front desk to call you in the room in case you are not at the lobby.

In the very unlikely situation that the client are not able to locate our driver, please call our emergency telephone number below.

Contacts:

●55 (11) 21571629

●55 (11) 9 9311-9144

●55 (11) 9 4738-2606

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