South America's largest megacity — Brazil's economic capital, where world-class cuisine meets contemporary art. Finance and culture cluster around Paulista Avenue, while Vila Madalena is alive with graffiti art and indie galleries. Liberdade offers Japanese and Korean culture, and the Italian quarter serves authentic pasta — a truly multicultural city. São Paulo also boasts Brazil's best nightlife.
Best Season
The April-September dry season is the best time to visit. October-March is hot and rainy, but full of festivals.
Budget
Daily budget around KRW 120,000-220,000 (accommodation 60,000-140,000; food 30,000-50,000; transport and admissions around 30,000).
Transport
About 1 hour from Guarulhos Airport to the city by airport bus or taxi. The metro (six lines) is convenient, and Uber is widely used. SIM cards available at the airport (Vivo, Claro). Card payments are widespread, but cash is needed at local markets. Restaurants include a 10% service charge automatically.
Visa
Korean passport holders can stay visa-free for up to 90 days.
Safety
It's a big city, so guard your valuables and avoid walking at night. Use app-based taxis like Uber or 99.
Popular attractions in São Paulo
São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP)
A modern-architecture museum holding the Southern Hemisphere's finest collection of European art.
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Ibirapuera Park
São Paulo's favorite urban retreat — a downtown park dotted with museums and cultural venues.
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Paulista Avenue
São Paulo's main boulevard, packed with financial institutions and cultural venues.
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Signature food of São Paulo
Coxinha
🍢 Street FoodBrazil's signature street snack — a teardrop-shaped, breaded chicken croquette. R$5-10 each. Find them at metro station stalls and padarias (bakeries).
Pastel
🍢 Street FoodBrazilian-style fried turnovers with crisp dough wrapped around fillings like meat or cheese. R$5-12 each. Popular at Liberdade Market and the Mercado Municipal (central market).
Feijoada
🍱 TraditionalBrazil's national stew of black beans and pork cuts, served with rice, farofa, and kale. R$40-80 per serving. Traditionally a Wednesday and Saturday lunch. Try it at a boteco (local bar).