São Paulo, Brazil

Walking Tour in São Paulo

On this walk, we dive into the transition from colonial São Paulo to a cosmopolitan metropolis. We begin under the influence of the coffee elite at the Municipal Theater, where we will visit its grand main lobby, and cross the Viaduto do Chá to admire the architecture of Shopping Light and the São Paulo City Hall.

The journey continues toward the city’s academic and religious roots, passing through Largo São Francisco—including a visit to the Church of Saint Francis (subject to opening hours)—and the monumental Sé Cathedral, where we will tour the interior. The pace becomes more urban as we walk down the historic Rua XV de Novembro, passing by the B3 (Stock Exchange) and the iconic Farol Santander, where we will explore its historic lobby.

To conclude, we walk through living history to the Monastery of Saint Benedict (interior visit based on availability) and end our journey at Pateo do Collegio, visiting the complex if it is open, at the exact spot where São Paulo was born over 470 years ago.

Duration

2h30

Not included:

Experiences

Inspired by the Paris Opera, it is the greatest symbol of the coffee elite and the stage for the historic 1922 Modern Art Week. We will visit the lobby to appreciate the luxury of the São Paulo Belle Époque.

The city's first viaduct, built to connect the old center to the new urban expansion area in the 19th century.

Housed in the former power company building, it is a prime example of historic heritage preservation.

Located in the Matarazzo Building, it features luxurious travertine marble finishes and a rooftop terrace garden.

Home to the USP Law School and the historic Church of Saint Francis, a landmark of colonial religious architecture. We will enter the church if it is open for visitors during the tour.

One of the largest neo-Gothic cathedrals in the world. In this tour, we will conduct a guided visit to the interior.

The former financial heart of Brazil, this pedestrian street preserves elegant buildings from the banking peak.

One of the largest stock exchanges in the world and the heart of the national financial market.

Inspired by the Empire State Building, we will visit the lobby area to see its massive chandelier and preserved architecture.

Famous for its monastic architecture and traditional Gregorian chant. Interior visit depends on opening hours.

The exact site of São Paulo's foundation in 1554. We end our journey exactly where it all began over 470 years ago.

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Reviews

Lucas is an amazing tour guide. As a born and raised Paulistano, he knows everything about the city, he is very friendly and has a nice car which makes the tour very comfortable. I did a private tour with him for 6 hours and it felt like I did it with a friend. He is also very flexible and does everything to make sure you have a memorable time in Sao Paulo. I would recommend him to everyone who is looking for a high quality service.

Melih Yilmaz
Review from Google

On the first day of our stay in Sao Paulo we had a tour with Lucas to see the highlights of the city in 5 hours. Lucas showed us all the points of interest by asking our preferences. He was very flexible, knowledgeable and polite. He always tries to make you feel comfortable during the trip. He brought us umbrellas as it was supposed to be a rainy day, he even brought a car seat with him for our little daughter! Just by listening to him telling you the history of the city or the works of the graffiti artists, you can understand that he is passionate about his job and tries to do it in the best way possible. We have done many tours in many parts of the world and we can easily say that Lucas impressed us. We cannot recommend him more.

Berkin Kurşun
Review from Google

One of the best tours I’ve ever taken and one of the best guides I’ve ever had! A personalized and unique approach that makes a megacity like São Paulo easy to navigate, thanks to detailed, varied, and always interesting explanations across several areas: historical, cultural, and gastronomic. He also provides great advice on where tourists can safely go, along with approximate distances from one place to another. In short, he’s passionate about his city and eager to share the beauty it has to offer. To top it all off, the price is more than fair for the quality of service, the safety and cleanliness of the vehicle, punctuality, friendliness, and politeness.

asilvana ceratti
Review from Google

A true professional! Lucas is a wonderful tour guide; knowledgeable of the city, true local of Sao Paolo (Brazil) and well traveled. My daughter and I traveled with Luca to Campo do Jordao (Brazil) and felt safe traveling with Lucas the entire day. Lucas spoke in English and was very easy to understand and communicate with. Hands down a very pleasant experience! Highly recommend!!

Ann Marie Urban
Review from Google

Lucas is a thoughtful, intelligent and helpful tour guide. He took us to the best places and gave us an authentic version of São Paulo. Our trip was better because of Lucas.

Hillary Littlejohn
Review from Google