Where to Stay in Sao Paulo: Neighborhoods

I find that when traveling to a new city your first question, when booking a hotel and activities, is to know the city’s neighborhoods and figure out where is what. Surprisingly this information is quite hard to find, so I have put together an easy guide to Sao Paulo’s neighborhood personalities. See bellow and find the best fit for you!

Vila Madalena: This is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in town. Vila Madalena is known for its great bars (botecos) with a young party scene. On Saturday afternoon the streets are filled with people sitting at tables that overflow from the bar onto the sidewalk. The best hostels are here, like Vila Madalena Hostel.

Ibirapuera: This area, made up of a few neighborhoods, is one of the most valued areas in the city, because of its marvelous view to the largest park in town. Much like the neighborhoods that surround Central Park in NY, Ibirapuera is also a trendy, more upscale and sophisticated neighborhood. Hotels like Bourbon and Sofitel are located here.Itaim Bibi: This fairly new neighborhood hosts office buildings of some of the largest businesses in the World, including Google and HSBC. Apartment rates have also sky rocked, due to its centralized location, fabulous restaurants, clubs and shopping malls. A good place to stay here is, Melia or the Radisson.

Jardins: This is by far the most prestigious neighborhood in Sao Paulo. This is where the best hotels are, like Tivolli, Fasano, Emiliano and where the A-class society lives. It is the most traditional neighborhood, and also is home to the best restaurants and designer stores. Everything is walking distance, especially with-in the most valued block between Paulista, 9 de Julho, Brasil and Rebouças nicknamed little Manhattan. Neighborhoods like Cerqueira Cesar and Jardim Paulista are also part of Jardins

Morumbi: If your in town on business, this is the place to be. The highway Marginal Pinheiros is home to the largest corporation buildings in Sao Paulo. You must rent a car if you choose this neighborhood, as everything is far away and across highways. The Grand Hyatt is located here, where most stars and CEO’s choose to stay. The Morumbi Stadium is also located in this neighborhood where all the important football games and huge concerts take place.