Sao Paulo, Brazil’s largest city and third in the world with a population of about 11 million, is a great destination to visit when backpacking South America.
Sao Paulo, also known as Sampa, is less visited than those with renowned beaches in Brazil, such as Salvador and the famous Rio de Janeiro. Considering the city’s exquisite way of life, brilliant quirky structures, diverse cuisines, and cultural passion, Sao Paulo is a dream paradise for people looking for a fun trip. It is home to world-renowned museums, churches and cathedrals, parks, and monuments, making the city one of the best South American tourist attractions.
While Sao Paulo is a great place to splurge if you have the money, there are free things to do in the city too for those with a small budget. So take advantage of last-minute deals to the city and check out these five free tourist attractions in Sampa.
#1: Ibirapuera Park
No Brazilian trip is complete without taking a glance at the most visited park in Sao Paulo which offers a tranquil escape from the busy streets of the city. Its main attractions are the Japanese Pavilion, Planetarium, Modern Art Museum, the Biennial Art Exhibition building, and the Oca Art Pavilion. If you don’t want to spend anything, you can walk or jog around the beautiful lakes, aquariums, and admire more than 100 bird species thriving in the area. It also features an open-air library every Sunday where you can come to sit back and read a book.
#2: Botanical Gardens
Completely free yet absolutely spectacular, Jardim Botanico or the Botanical Gardens features inviting ponds, an herbarium, and a colorful orchidarium. The view is stunning with a breathtaking landscape and picturesque palm trees scattered all over. Offering year-round seasonal color, you will surely find these gardens a welcome break from the noise of the city.
#3: Metropolitan Cathedral
If you’re looking for a taste of Brazilian faith, this place is perfect for you. This church is a foremost landmark in the center of Sao Paulo. You’re sure to come across it during your self-guided city tour in Sao Paulo. It is the city’s largest cathedral with a capacity of over 8,000 people. Its remarkable attractions include its magnificent Neo-Gothic architecture, colorful stained-glass windows, and intrinsic carvings with a tropical touch.
#4: Altino Arantes Building
This Brazilian structure, located at the heart of Sao Paulo’s central financial district, is a skyscraper inspired by New York’s Empire State Building. The building itself doesn’t have much to offer. It is the view on top that leaves tourists in great awe. Here, you can have a breathtaking look at the whole city. To get there, simply take the elevator to the top.
#5: Sao Paulo Art Museum
If you are looking for world-class art collections, as well as to explore a bit of Brazilian art, this contemporary museum is the perfect destination for you. To take advantage of the free entrance, get here on a Tuesday. The Sao Paulo Art Museum on Paulista Avenue features 19th-century Brazilian paintings done by famous European and international art masters in the last five centuries. Also, don’t forget to check out their Sunday fair that displays antique structures, paintings, and any other forms of art.
