Lifestyle in Sao Paulo

São Paulo is a cosmopolitan city and a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities. Brazilians are known to be friendly and welcoming to foreigners. The lifestyle in São Paulo ranks among the most exciting in the country. Expats are sure to enjoy a rich cultural experience in this diverse city.

Moving To São Paulo

Shopping in São Paulo

From international designer labels to local, traditional items, there are plenty of shopping options in São Paulo across the city.

For an upscale shopping experience, expats can visit Iguatemi Shopping or Shopping Cidade São Paulo in trendy Avenida Paulista. Rua Oscar Freire is one of the most popular shopping districts in São Paulo. Shopping Pátio Higienópolis, a mall in the Higienópolis neighbourhood, is another option for luxurious products.

Avenida Paulista is also home to many shops and restaurants. For American-type malls, expats can try Cidade Jardim and Shopping Eldorado, plus Centro Comercial Aricanduva. These are all home to the typical array of shops, restaurants, food courts and cinemas one would expect from any mall.

Entertainment and eating out in São Paulo

As a multicultural city, it’s no surprise that entertainment and eating out in São Paulo offer a diverse and exciting dining scene. Expats will be spoilt for choice when it comes to restaurants and nightlife in the city.

There is a multitude of local restaurants offering traditional Brazilian cuisine, including meat and seafood specialities. At these local eateries, expats will be able to sample local dishes such as feijoada, made from pork and black beans, and the popular barbecued meat churrasco. For those wanting a taste of home, there are also many internationally recognised brands of takeaway and chain restaurants.

São Paulo has a bustling nightlife scene with plenty of stylish bars and clubs, from smaller, intimate venues to the massive megaclubs dotted around the city. There are also many options to enjoy traditional samba and see live bands.

Bela Vista, parts of Centro, and Rua Augusta are popular nightspots with numerous clubs and bars, plus restaurants to choose from. If you’re looking for something a bit more Bohemian, head to Vila Madalena, which is home to several local bars and clubs and is also an excellent place to see live samba bands.

Outdoor activities and sports in São Paulo

Football culture is massive in Brazil, and outdoor activities and sports in São Paulo are no exception. Whether it’s attending a live game at one of the city’s major stadiums or watching in a pub or someone’s home, Brazilians are passionate about supporting their teams.

There is a range of outdoor entertainment options for families to enjoy in São Paulo. São Paulo Zoo and Simba Safari are two such options, where hundreds of indigenous animals can be seen in their natural habitat. There are also a fair few parks dotted across the city for families to enjoy a day out.

São Paulo is not located directly on the coast, but beach lovers need not despair. Beautiful beaches are only a few hours’ drive away and offer a great opportunity if you’re looking to escape the rat race for a day or weekend getaway.

See and do in São Paulo

São Paulo offers expats and locals alike numerous things to see and do. Thanks to São Paulo’s large size, expats will always have the opportunity to discover something new. Below is a selection of our favourite attractions.

Ibirapuera Park

Ibirapuera Park is one of the best urban parks in Latin America. The park boasts numerous playgrounds, cycling trails and picnic spots. It’s the perfect place for a family day. Art lovers will also have easy access to the Afro-Brazilian Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art and the OCA Museum.

Mercadão Municipal

If you’re a gourmand moving to São Paulo, you shouldn’t miss the Mercadão market. This municipal market plays host to vendors and artisans from all over the city, selling a multitude of cuisines and spices for expats to try.

Pinacoteca

São Paulo’s first art gallery, Pinacoteca, houses an extensive art collection with works from some of the best local and international artists. Art and architecture lovers will enjoy marvelling at the gallery’s beautiful buildings and garden, as well as the striking pieces.

Memorial da América Latina

Brazil’s ode to Latin America, Memorial da América Latina, is home to more than 4,000 artefacts and artworks from around the region. The six buildings contain documents and sculptures, plus handicrafts that aim to enhance Brazil’s cultural, social and political ties to Latin America.

Theatro Municipal

Inaugurated in 1911, Theatro Municipal is São Paulo’s most splendid construction. Inspired by Paris’ Palais Garnier, this lavish theatre features a heavily ornamented facade and an interior clad in gold and marble. Local music and dance schools get the opportunity to showcase their talent here.

Meeting people and making friends in São Paulo

Meeting people and making friends in São Paulo becomes easier when you connect through shared interests and community activities. Join sports clubs or hiking groups if you’re outdoorsy, or attend local cultural events.

Business networking events are particularly popular among São Paulo’s international professional community. Many expats find success through established organisations like the International Newcomers Club, which has been supporting new arrivals for over 60 years with regular social events and volunteer opportunities.

Online platforms are excellent for finding events and activities suited to your interests, while volunteering with local charities provides meaningful ways to contribute to the community while meeting people. Social media groups also play an important role in connecting internationals, although many prefer the face-to-face interaction that comes with organised meetups and club activities.

Useful links

• Meetup São Paulo
• International Newcomers Club of São Paulo