Private Sao Paulo Architecture Tour – The Most Diverse Styles, Shapes & Sizes

São Paulo , Brazil

Private Sao Paulo Architecture Tour – The Most Diverse Styles, Shapes & Sizes

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About this experience

The city of Sao Paulo is a melting pot of colonial, modern, contemporary and art deco buildings; discover all of this and more on this architecture tour.

Delight the lines, curves and details of well-designed pieces art that may seem common in the eyes of some, but in the company of an expert guide can be mind-blowing.

Start at Higienopolis area, one of the best places to observe the contrast between old and new. Admire old colonial houses and modern architecture that coexist without altering the harmony of the landscape.

Walk through the center of Sao Paulo and see how the 19th-century European styles combine with more recent architecture.

We can't finish without mentioning Paulo Mendes da Rocha, an architecture master and winner of the Pritzker Architecture Prize. Or Oscar Niemeyer, whose modern designs can be found all over São Paulo.

Continue along the Paulista and Faria Lima ave. to see their modern and iconic skyscrapers and Jardim America, the first planned area in town.

Available options

Private Sao Paulo Architecture Tour – The Most Diverse Styles, Shapes & Sizes

Pickup included

What's included

Hotels pickups and drop-offs. (Within São Paulo)

Professional licensed private tour guide.

VAT, all taxes, handling charges and parking fees during stops.

Transport by fully-equipped vehicle.

Private driver for groups bigger 4 people, otherwise the guide drives the vehicle themselves.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Higienópolis is an old district in the city of São Paulo, since its foundation was residence of the more wealthy classes.

There are lots of palaces that belonged to the coffee barons and their children, together with the modernist buildings from the early twentieth century, makes it a reference when it comes to architecture in São Paulo.

There are examples in styles such as eclectic, neoclassical, picturesque, Norman, Florentine, art nouveau, neocolonial, art deco, and others, being the subject of studies and researches. Many of these properties have been registered as historical heritage properties and are under preservations laws.

Stop 2

Walk through the historical downtown of Sao Paulo to see the history of the city being told by its constructions and concrete manifestations.

A village that until 1872 had little more than 30 thousand inhabitants and was restricted to a couple of streets, São Paulo has been going through an everlasting process of verticalization from the early times into this current metropolis status of more than 12 million inhabitants.

Discover some of the superstar architects behind the designs and the quirky and unusual features of São Paulo’s innovative buildings.

Stop 3

Paulista avenue is one of the most important in São Paulo architecturally and historically. It has several different architectonic styles representing the last 130 years ranging from old mansions to high-teach green buildings.

Mirrored buildings, glazed towers, environmentally-friendly buildings, giant free spans, vertical gardens and the largest number of helipads in the city. The area of the Brigadeiro Faria Lima Avenue it’s the main Brazil’s business district full of modern pieces of architecture.

Among the mirrored buildings, the architecture that most attracts attention is the Pátio Victor Malzoni. It has most expensive square meter in town and a preserved 18th century house listed as a historical heritage. The two interconnected modern towers contrasts with the historical old house. It’s really gem!

What's not included

Entrance fees, although the tour is not aimed to get into sights that charge admission fees.

Food and drinks.

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

16 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

PICK-UP INFORMATION:
• Wherever place you specify at the time of the booking. As it’s a private tour, you choose the best pick-up point that suits your needs as long as it's within the city of São Paulo limits or its greater area.
• We DO NOT do pick-ups in the countryside or coastal area of the state of São Paulo.
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DROP-OFF INSTRUCTIONS:
• Wherever place you specify at the time of the booking. As it’s a private tour, you choose the best drop-off point that suits your needs as long as it's within the city of São Paulo limits or its greater area.
• We DO NOT do drop-offs in the countryside or coastal area of the state of São Paulo.
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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.

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