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AHOY fellow globe troller. I hear you’re heading to São Paulo. You lucky thing.
As the most populous city in South America, it’s full of the energy and excitement you’d expect from a city with over 20 million people!
São Paulo is one of those cities that keeps you in a trance the entire time you’re there. The city is a melting pot of different cultures which flows through its vibrant art, music and cuisine. Dive in head first, and your mind will be in sensory heaven.
Not only is it home to some of the best food in Brazil, you’ll also find enchanting parks, festivals and museums to discover.
However, as with any city, some areas of São Paulo are more exciting than others. To make the most of your time in São Paulo, you’ll want to base yourself in an area that best suits you and your travel dreams!
Are you looking to dance the night away? Do you want to base yourself near the top attractions and museums? How about in a neighbourhood that oozes artistic and creative vibes?
No matter what you’re after, I’ve got you covered. In this where to stay in São Paulo guide, I’ve compiled the top areas to stay in the city and categorised them by interest. So, you can jump in and quickly understand which area is best for you.
So, let’s get scrollin’ and find out where in São Paulo is best for you.
- Where to Stay in São Paulo
- São Paulo Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in São Paulo
- Join our entrepreneurship retreat in Bali!
- 5 Best Areas to Stay in São Paulo
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in São Paulo
- What To Pack For São Paulo
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for São Paulo
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in São Paulo
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Here are our top picks for accommodation in São Paulo, if you’re looking for something specific, regardless of area.
If you’re travelling on a budget, we’d recommend staying in one of Sao Paulo’s best hostels. Keep the costs low while enjoying a comfy bed, a great place to rest your head, and the chance to meet likeminded backpackers.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Grand Hotel Ca d’Oro | Best Hotel in São Paulo
Surrounded by bars, markets, and restaurants, this hotel in Sao Paulo boasts some incredible views with a rooftop swimming pool and fitness area for some time away from the busy city.
Rooms here are well looked after and have everything you should need to ensure your stay is perfect.
Senses Vila Madalena | Best Airbnb in São Paulo
This Airbnb is indulgent and luxurious in it’s decor and a pleasure to stay in. The location is fabulous and you can get a real insight to local life here, whether on foot or by bike. There is a bike available free of charge if you want to picnic in the parks nearby or visit restaurants.
Or you can just indulge in your accommodation and make the most of the gym, pool, sauna AND snooker room available. Yes, you can stay fit on vacay here, no need for a sterile hotel stay, amigos!
São Paulo Hostel Club | Best Hostel in São Paulo
Newly decorated with clean bathrooms and bedrooms, the staff at this hotel are really welcoming. The perfect base from which to explore the city, the metro is half a block away. Plus there is a free breakfast to set you up for the day ahead.
Centro
The cultural and historic centre of São Paulo is a giant area full of architecture and heritage. Between the jostling jungle of modern skyscrapers and commercial billboards lies the history of this Brazilian city, and where you’ll also find many of São Paulo’s cultural institutions like galleries and museums.
Vila Madalena
This farmland turned well-to-do middle-class neighbourhood turned bohemian student haunt is an exciting area of São Paulo to say the least.
Baixo Augusta
This area – meaning ‘Downtown Augusta’ – is centered around a stretch of the Rua Augusta that is nestled between Avenida Paulista to the west and Centro to the east.
Liberdade
Liberdade’s entrance is marked by a nine-metre-tall torii (traditional Japanese gate to Shinto shrines), so it shouldn’t surprising to hear this south-central district is home to a large community of Japanese immigrants; in fact, it’s the largest Japanese community outside of Japan itself.
Moema
Largely dictated by its grid system, Moema is choc-a-block with eateries and bars situated between high-rises like canyons. As with much of São Paulo, there’s never a dull moment here, with so much choice in terms of food and drink choices in the area.
This sprawling metropolis is the most populous city in Brazil, and the entire Southern Hemisphere and Western Hemisphere at that. It’s truly a monster of a city that could take years to explore. That’s why it’s good to know when is the best time to visit São Paulo.
Though a huge, modern city home to most of Brazil’s tallest skyscrapers, São Paulo is made up of many different areas that reflect its chequered past and exponential growth.
First founded as São Paulo dos Campos de Piratininga in 1554, the village grew over time; still, by the 17th century, this was one of the poorest regions of the Portuguese colony. That all changed when gold – and other precious stones – were discovered in the surrounding area.
It’s no wonder São Paulo has grown into what it is today.
We’ve rounded up the five best neighborhoods in São Paulo to make it easier to choose where to stay.
We start naturally in Centro – or Centro Histórico – the historic centre of São Paulo. Not only is it home to its oldest buildings, but historic buildings right up until the 20th century make up the beautiful architectural landscape of Centro.
Close to five centuries of construction and growth are represented in this stunning area, and it’s where you’ll find the Martelli Building, the first skyscraper in Latin America.
Way out west of Centro is the upper-middle-class neighborhood of Vila Madalena. This far-removed area is known for being the bohemian centre of São Paulo, with mural art, a fun, vibrant nightlife, and studios and cafes galore, Vila Madalena attracts the city’s hip young professionals and artists alike.
But in terms of nightlife, the undisputed most dynamic nightlife area is Baixa Augusta, our pick for where to stay in São Paulo for nightlife. This buzzing downtown area, just west of Centro, is known for its many bars and restaurants.
Immediately south of Centro is Liberdade – home to the largest Japanese community outside of Japan.
Lastly, even further to the south and slightly west, is Moema. This former farmland – home to English and German immigrants – now boasts São Paulo’s largest park, Parque Ibirapuera, as well as some exciting gastronomic and nightlife options.
Still unsure on where to stay in São Paulo? Let’s discuss these neighborhoods in more detail…
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5 Best Areas to Stay in São Paulo
If you’re backpacking Brazil, the chance that you’ll end up in Sao Paulo is pretty high. One thing you have to keep in mind: São Paulo is a massive city, and a daunting prospect if you thought you could see all the sights in a few days. It’s just not possible!
However, breaking down the city by its best areas makes seeing the highlights that much easier.
Thankfully, there is a great selection of public transport options, from trolley buses to the massive metro network, Latin America’s largest metro system, carrying 8 million people every day!
But staying in an area that suits you (and your budget) makes things a lot simpler, of course. So let’s see what São Paulo has to offer…
1. Centro Neighborhood – Where to Stay in São Paulo for the First Time
The cultural and historic centre of São Paulo is a giant area full of architecture and heritage. Between the jostling jungle of modern skyscrapers and commercial billboards lies the history of this Brazilian city, and where you’ll also find many of São Paulo’s cultural institutions like galleries and museums.
The bustling Centro can be an assault on the senses with so many buildings and people everywhere. Wind your way through the cocktail of baroque, neoclassical and modern facades to explore this fascinating area.
Vibe Republica | Best Airbnb in Centro
A place where you can replace the drama of taxis with the efficiency of the Subway, this apartment is new and compact. That’s not to say you won’t find everything you need here, there’s even a private balcony and air conditioning. You’re also within walking distance of supermarkets if you want to cook for yourself using the kitchen in this apartment.
Hostel Carabelas | Best Hostel in Centro
This hostel is in a unique old building which is beautiful with refurbished, new rooms. The staff are friendly and helpful at this hostel and it comes with fabulous amenities. There’s hot water (fabulous for sweaty backpackers) and toiletries in the bathrooms too which is a nice touch.
What it lacks in personality, it makes up for in functionality, and is super popular so you’re sure to get the hostel life experience.
Hotel Calstar | Best Hotel in Centro
This hotel’s location is very close to the metro, and surrounded by shops and eateries, which makes it a great hotel for discovering the city.
The staff here are accommodating and very helpful and the rooms are large and well kept. There is a big Brazilian breakfast for guests to enjoy too.
Things to See and Do in Centro
- Pay a visit to Latin America’s first skyscraper, Edifício Martinelli (1929).
- Marvel at the charming and impressive central square of Praça da Sé…
- … And check out the awe-inspiring São Paulo Cathedral.
- Snap the eclectic building of Palácio das Indústrias.
- Stare up at the Edifício Copan, one of the largest buildings in Brazil.
- Visit Pátio do Colégio, which is where it all started in 1554.
- Browse the Shopping Light mall, housed in the stunning early 20th-century Alexandre Mackenzie Building.
- Catch a glimpse of the amazing 1920s Palácio dos Correios.
- Hit up one of Brazil’s popular Festivals; Lollapalooza!
- Wander inside the magnificent Igreja Santo Antônio dating back to 1592.
- Go see the iconic 1960s skyscraper Edifício Itália…
- … And finish off your day with a drink at its 41st floor bar and restaurant.
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View on Osprey2. Vila Madalena – Where to Stay in São Paulo on a Budget
This farmland turned well-to-do middle-class neighborhood turned bohemian student haunt is an exciting area of São Paulo to say the least.
By the 1990s this district had become an enclave of cool, attracting everyone from hippies and artists, to foreigners and tattooists. Everyone interested in anything alternative or artistic found their way to this district.
Today the graffiti-clad streets of Vila Madalena comprise this coolest area of São Paulo. A mix of its old-school charm, gritty street art style and newer, trendier bars and cafes dot the area, all alongside artists’ studios and creative spaces.
Not only is this one of the coolest places to stay in São Paulo, it’s also the best spot to stay on a budget, as it caters to many students.
O de Casa Hostel | Best Hostel in Vila Madalena
Located in the lively Vila Madalena District, you’re in an epic location to see all the best bits of this epic city. Hostels in Brazil are vibrant, full of life and people who love it and O de Casa Hostel is no exception. With free wifi, two swimming pools, an onsite restaurant and bar, as well as a garden and 24 hour reception, you will want for nothing.
Zen Hotel Brasil | Best Hotel in Vila Madalena
This hotel in brazil lives up to its name in its reputation, this is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy soaking up Sao Paulo. The outdoor areas are divine and a cool, serene scape from the hustle and bustle of the city. That being said, you’re still in Vila Madalena which is the spot to be.
This area is full of local people doing local things which, if you ask me, is the most valuable way to experience a place. You can get twin rooms, double rooms and even suites that sleep up to four.
Charming Suite | Best Airbnb in Vila Madalena
This is a simple, spacious room with a roomy bathroom and all the amenities you’d want in a holiday home. There are beautiful wooden furnishings which make this space feel homely, too. There’s central heating and wifi so you’ll always feel connected and comfortable.
There’s a kitchenette and you have your own private entrance. This studio has all the amenities you might need to enjoy the most artistic and bohemian neighborhood of the city.
Things to See and Do in Vila Madalena
- Check out the graffiti and street art that characterises the area.
- Browse the wares and pick up some vintage gems at the eclectic Benedito Calixto Fair – one the best antique and handicrafts fairs in Brazil.
- Try delicious local Brazilian food at Consulado Mineiro.
- Check out the gallery/art space/cafe/music venue of Espaço Cultural Alberico Rodrigues.
- Drink in the stylish Nola with its rap/hip hop vibe.
- Check out the cute floral garments on offer at Anbê.
- Don’t miss out on the coffee-connoisseur’s paradise at Coffee Lab.
- Kick back with a beer and a warm pastel de queijo (deep-fried cheese parcel) at the old-school Mercearia São Pedro.
- And visit Alto da Harmonia for a drink and one of the best views of Vila Madalena.
3. Baixo Augusta – Where to Stay in São Paulo for Nightlife
This area – meaning ‘Downtown Augusta’ – is centered around a stretch of the Rua Augusta that is nestled between Avenida Paulista to the west and Centro to the east.
It happens to be home to São Paulo’s most exciting, dynamic nightlife, with a different feel than Vila Madalena since it’s located much, much closer to the centre of town.
Baixo Augusta is also home to the city’s LGBT community; there are even plans to turn Rua Frei Caneca into an official ‘Gay Street’.
Bohemian 1 bed loft | Best Airbnb in Baixo Augusta
This one bed and bathroom fifth-floor loft is centrally located 800 meters from Av. Paulista and within walking distance, to two metro stations. The loft has air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, a large balcony with a view and a bathroom. In addition, the host also offers complimentary Wifi and a flat-screen TV.
Hotel San Gabriel | Best Hotel in Baixo Augusta
The location of this hotel is excellent, especially if want to party since many of the area’s vibrant bars are within walking distance. The rooms are basic, but clean and comfortable, and staff are warm and really helpful.
Capsula Hotel Sao Paulo | Best Hostel in Baixo Augusta
With heaps of storage space (look under the beds!), this Sao Paulo hostel is a fabulous choice for cheap accommodation. In a central location, it’s the perfect place to base yourself to explore from during your stay. The rooms are small and well contained, it’s kiiiind of more of a hotel vibe, than a hostel, but still cute though.
Things to See and Do in Baixo Augusta
- Enjoy old-school hits till late at Le Rêve Club, housed in a beautiful 20th-century building.
- Get your street food on at Calçadão Urbanoide, a unique outdoors food court filled with countless food trucks.
- Eat vegetarian food in retro surroundings at Tubaína.
- Check out the gallery at Teatro Augusta.
- Visit O Pedaço da Pizza for a slice or two of late-night pizza.
- Drink cocktails and eat boteco (classic Brazilian finger food) at Z Carniceria, a cool bar housed in an old butcher’s shop.
- Rock-lovers should head to Beco 203 for music and drinks.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Liberdade Neighborhood – Coolest Place to Stay in São Paulo
Liberdade’s entrance is marked by a nine-metre-tall torii (traditional Japanese gate to Shinto shrines), so it shouldn’t surprising to hear this south-central district is home to a large community of Japanese immigrants; in fact, it’s the largest Japanese community outside of Japan itself.
This bustling district is now popular with the youth of São Paulo who are into Japanese culture, particularly manga (Japanese comics) or cosplay.
Alongside Vila Madalena, we think this is one of the coolest and most unique places to stay in São Paulo.
Leques Brasil Hotel Escola | Best Hotel in Liberdade
Big rooms, professional staff, and a huge buffet breakfast: what more could you need from a hotel?
Clean and modern, and near metro access and excellent restaurants, this hotel covers all of the basics. Even more, you’ll have access to their outdoor pool for ultimate relaxation.
Fujima Hostel | Best Hostel in Liberdade
There are female only and male only dorms as well as mixed dorms and private rooms in this inner city Sao Paulo hostel. Pretty much everything you could possibly want to see or do is within walking distance from this epic hostel. There’s a lounge to chill in when you’re done exploring and a shared kitchen to use if you want to make your own meals.
Things to See and Do in Liberdade
- Get your photo snapped under the Liberdade torii.
- Browse the buzzing Liberdade street market every Saturday and Sunday.
- Eat some incredibly tasty ramen at Restaurante Lamen ASKA.
- Try Korean comfort food at Restaurante Portal da Coreia.
- Visit the Buddhist temple at Instituto Lohan.
- Pick up some impossibly tasty baked goods at Famiglia Franciulli.
- Experience vegan cuisine at Lanchonete Broto Primavera.
- Stroll and people-watch in the bustling Praça Liberdade.
5. Moema Neighborhood – Where to Stay in São Paulo for Families
Largely dictated by its grid system, Moema is choc-a-block with eateries and bars situated between high-rises like canyons. As with much of São Paulo, there’s never a dull moment here, with so much choice in terms of food and drink choices in the area.
To the north, however, this part of town is dominated by São Paulo’s largest green space: Parque Ibirapuera, home to a number of institutions housed in buildings designed by Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. São Paulo is safe here to stay with your little ones.
Mercure São Paulo | Best Hotel in Moema
Enjoy the slow pace of life in the city at this hotel, which features a pool that is half indoors and half outdoors, surrounded by sunbeds and tables.
The rooms offer very good value for money and the hotel feels very secure. At this branch of Mercure there’s also a gym.
Women Only Penthouse | Best Hostel in Moema
If you’re travelling with the gals, or a solo female traveller, this is the spot! Sorry brothers, find another hostel 😉
This unique accommodation feels homely with the people that tend to frequent it. Located in a lovely barrio (neighbourhood) so you can walk around, but also have easy access to public transport to visit further afield. This is a social accommodation and the friendly staff help to facilitate forming friendships with the other women staying here.
Things to See and Do in Moema
- Stroll around the sprawling Parque Ibirapuera and check out…
- …the Pavilhão Japonês (a historic Japanese pavilion)…
- … the art museum of Oca Ibirapuera…
- … São Paulo Museum of Modern Art…
- … Planetarium Ibirapuera Aristotle Orsini…
- … and the Museum of Afro Brazil, charting the African diaspora in Brazil.
- Eat at one of the best pizza places in town, Pizza Speranza.
- Try a seriously tasty burger at Lanchonete da Cidade.
- Visit the unique Hannover Fondue, a fondue-only restaurant with options like cheese, meat, chocolate and chicken!
- Enjoy some high-end Tuscan dishes at the rustic La Pasta Gialla.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in São Paulo
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of São Paulo and where to stay.
What To Pack For São Paulo
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for São Paulo
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in São Paulo
As the largest city in Brazil and all of South America, you’ll never run out of things to do in São Paulo.
That said, this means your options for where to stay in São Paulo are endless…
If you’re still not set on a specific area, I’ll recap our favorite recommendations for places to stay in São Paulo.
São Paulo Hostel Club is the perfect base for backpackers to explore the city. You are in a good area with a metro station half-a-block away. You can also expect free breakfast, clean bathrooms, and a helpful staff.
One of the best hotels in São Paulo is, without a doubt, Grand Hotel Ca d’Oro. Surrounded by bars, markets, and restaurants, this hotel is situated in a great area, and boasts incredible views from the rooftop swimming pool.
Have you been to São Paulo, Brazil? Let us know if we missed anything below!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Brazil.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Sao Paulo.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth South America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
Buy Us a Coffee!
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