Sao Paulo tours

Things to do in Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo, Brazil is an urban tapestry where innovation meets tradition. It's a city that challenges your senses with its mix of towering glass and quaint streets. The vibrancy of its art scene is evident in the murals of Vila Madalena, each telling its own story. With a guide, peel back the layers of this sprawling city. Enjoy the culinary scene in Jardins, where food becomes an art form. Museums here offer more than just exhibits; they are gateways to understanding the city's soul. Discover cafes where creative minds converge, offering a glimpse into the city's forward-thinking culture. A guided tour shifts you from observer to participant in Sao Paulo's evolving narrative. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Sao Paulo. Explore Sao Paulo your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Sao Paulo tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Sao Paulo for every interest, including: Layover tours: With airport pickup at GRU or CGH, you can zip to Avenida Paulista for MASP’s striking viewpoint, grab a quick mortadella sandwich at the Municipal Market, and snap street art photos in Vila Madalena’s Batman Alley before returning in time for your flight. Art and Culture tours: Visit MASP and the Pinacoteca for Brazilian masterworks, explore murals with a local in Vila Madalena, and step inside the Theatro Municipal or Oscar Niemeyer’s Ibirapuera landmarks to see how design shapes daily life. The metro and commuter trains are extensive, but sights are spread across large distances and traffic can be heavy; if you want to maximise time, ask your local guide about chauffeured tours or adding private transportation to your tours. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Sao Paulo inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Take a private walking tour to discover São Paulo’s dynamic neighbourhoods, each offering a distinct vibe and experience. With a local guide, you’ll uncover the city’s many layers. - Vila Madalena: This trendy area is a haven for art lovers and those who enjoy vibrant street life. Families and cultural tourists can explore galleries, street art, and enjoy cafes and restaurants. - Liberdade: Known for its Japanese influence, Liberdade is a cultural hotspot. It’s perfect for families and those interested in exploring diverse cultural traditions and cuisine. - Jardins: Ideal for those who appreciate fashion and luxury, Jardins offers high-end shopping and fine dining experiences. It’s a great place for multi-generational groups looking to enjoy an upscale atmosphere. - Pinheiros: This eclectic neighbourhood offers something for everyone, from markets to music venues. It’s perfect for those seeking a lively environment and a taste of local culture. Day trip ideas from Sao Paulo Ready to get beyond the big-city rush, you can slip out to nearby towns, beaches, and hill country on easy day trips that pair well with your tour. - Santos: coffee history, a long beachfront garden, and a lively port give you a mix of heritage and sea air, and if you like urban snapshots and fresh seafood, your tour can link the old centre with the coast so you cover more in less time. - Guarujá: quick beach time with soft sand and sheltered bays, great for a relaxed swim or a coastal walk, and surfers, families, and food fans all find handy spots for their pace without leaving the metro area far behind. - Embu das Artes: cobbled lanes lined with studios and weekend markets make it easy to pick up folk art and craft pieces, and if shopping, street snacks, and small galleries are your thing, this compact town keeps it simple. - Campos do Jordão: cooler air, pine forests, and ridge views change the vibe fast, so hikers, chocolate lovers, and anyone needing a break from heat get a full reset in the mountains on one long day. - Paranapiacaba: a misty railway village set in the Serra do Mar with iron bridges and trails, perfect if you like industrial history mixed with nature, and train buffs and walkers can both dig in without a long drive. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Sao Paulo most travellers miss.