What Should You Pack for São Paulo?
São Paulo’s weather is pretty mild year-round, but it can be unpredictable—so layers are your best friend! In the summer, it’s warm and humid, so bring light, breathable clothing. You’ll also want to have a rain jacket or umbrella since there’s often rain in the afternoons. In winter, the weather is cooler, but nothing too harsh, so a light jacket or sweater is perfect for the evenings. No matter when you visit, comfy shoes are a must for exploring this bustling city!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Exploring Avenida Paulista, visiting Ibirapuera Park, discovering street art in Vila Madalena, shopping in Jardins, and visiting the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP).
Dress Code
São Paulo is a cosmopolitan city with a mix of casual and chic styles. During the day, locals dress smart-casual, especially if you’re visiting cultural sites or shopping in trendy areas like Jardins. In the evening, the style can be more elevated, especially if you’re dining at a nice restaurant or attending a gallery opening. Jeans, dresses, and nice tops are all great options for both day and night. If you plan to explore the street art in Vila Madalena or visit Ibirapuera Park, comfortable shoes and casual attire are perfect!
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Spring
60 – 75°F
(16 – 24°C
)
Summer
70 – 85°F
(21 – 29°C
)
Fall
60 – 75°F
(16 – 24°C
)
Winter
55 – 70°F
(13 – 21°C
)
Spring: Mild and humid, with occasional rain
Summer: Warm and humid, with frequent rain
Fall: Cool and dry, with sunny days
Winter: Mild, with occasional rain
Spring
5.2 inches of rain
Summer
9.2 inches of rain
Fall
4.5 inches of rain
Winter
2.6 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for warm days exploring São Paulo’s museums and cultural sites.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for cooler evenings out in the city.
3. Sweaters: Ideal for layering during fall and winter when temperatures dip in the evenings.
4. Tank Tops: Useful for the hot and humid summer days—great for walking along Avenida Paulista!
5. Casual Jacket: Perfect for mild evenings or a cooler morning walk through Ibirapuera Park.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Ideal for both casual and dressy outings—I really liked these for a day of shopping in Jardins!
2. Leggings: Great for walking tours and casual afternoons at Ibirapuera Park.
3. Shorts: Perfect for warm summer days spent sightseeing or enjoying the parks.
4. Dresses: Great for evenings out or stylish lunches at São Paulo’s trendy restaurants.
5. Skirt: A versatile option for both day and night, especially when paired with a casual jacket.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable shoes are a must for walking around São Paulo—I loved having mine for exploring the city’s neighborhoods!
2. Sandals: Great for summer days, whether you’re shopping or visiting local cafes.
3. Flats: Perfect for a stylish yet comfortable option for evenings out.
4. Hat: Useful for sun protection on warm days while exploring parks or outdoor markets.
5. Sunglasses: São Paulo is bright and sunny, so these are a must!
6. Swimsuit: Great for enjoying hotel pools or if you plan to take a trip to the nearby beaches.
7. Pajamas: Cozy and comfortable for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for a weekend trip, keeping essentials within reach.
2. Daypack: Ideal for carrying your camera, snacks, and water while exploring São Paulo’s attractions.
3. Purse: A practical but stylish purse for carrying your personal items while exploring the city’s shops and cafes.
4. Tote Bag: Great for carrying extra items or any shopping finds you pick up along the way.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layers: São Paulo’s weather can change throughout the day, so pack layers to adjust as needed.
- Comfortable shoes: São Paulo is a huge city, so you’ll likely do a lot of walking.
- Rain gear: Summer means rain showers, so a light rain jacket or umbrella is a must.
- Dress to impress: For dinner or nightlife, São Paulo leans towards chic, so pack something stylish for the evenings.
São Paulo Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SÃO PAULO?
The best time to visit São Paulo is during the months of March to May and September to November. These months offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. September’s also great because there are fewer tourists, making it easier to enjoy the city’s parks, museums, and outdoor activities.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN SÃO PAULO?
São Paulo Fashion Week (April/October): One of the largest fashion events in the world, perfect for fashion lovers and solo travelers interested in design and culture.
Carnival (February/March): A vibrant and colorful event filled with parades, street parties, and samba dancing, great for couples and groups.
Virada Cultural (May): A 24-hour event featuring concerts, performances, and art exhibitions, ideal for families and culture enthusiasts.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN SÃO PAULO?
São Paulo is a mix of culture, art, and urban energy. One of my favorite places is Avenida Paulista, where you can find museums, shops, and street performances all in one spot. Don’t miss Ibirapuera Park, a massive green space that’s perfect for relaxing or cycling. For art lovers, the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) is a must-see, and you can explore the vibrant street art in Vila Madalena for a more offbeat experience.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT SÃO PAULO?
4-5 days is ideal to experience São Paulo’s highlights, including its museums, parks, and nightlife. A weekend trip can cover the essentials.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit Avenida Paulista and the São Paulo Museum of Art, then head to Ibirapuera Park for a relaxing afternoon. On day two, explore the street art in Vila Madalena, visit the Pinacoteca Museum, and enjoy dinner in the Jardins district.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, explore the Mercado Municipal for food tastings and stroll through Liberdade, the Japanese district. Spend day four visiting the Paulista neighborhood’s galleries and cafes. On day five, take a day trip to Embu das Artes for local crafts and art galleries.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: Spend day six visiting the historic center of São Paulo, including the São Bento Monastery and the Sé Cathedral. On day seven, take a bike ride through Ibirapuera Park and visit the Modern Art Museum (MAM).
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, explore the Latin American Memorial and the Casa das Rosas. On day nine, enjoy a visit to the Butantan Institute, and on day ten, take a trip to the nearby coastal city of Santos for a day at the beach.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, explore the art galleries and cafes in the Vila Madalena neighborhood. On day twelve, visit the beautiful botanical garden, and use the last few days to relax, shop, or enjoy São Paulo’s nightlife.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN SÃO PAULO?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR SÃO PAULO?
Heavy coats: São Paulo’s mild climate doesn’t require heavy outerwear.
High heels: São Paulo is a big city with lots of walking, so comfortable shoes are better for exploring.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO SÃO PAULO ?
Airfare: $500-$1,200 depending on your starting location and season. Prices are higher during major events like São Paulo Fashion Week.
Accommodation: $80-$250 per night depending on the location and type of accommodation.
Transportation: $20-$50 for public transport or Uber rides, with the option to use the metro.
Meals: $30-$70 per day depending on whether you eat at local cafes or high-end restaurants.
Activities: $20-$50 per day depending on museum visits, shopping, and cultural activities.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN SÃO PAULO? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping in São Paulo is customary but not mandatory. A 10% service charge is often included in restaurant bills. It’s also polite to tip bellhops and hotel staff about R$5-10 for good service.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SÃO PAULO BEFORE I VISIT?
- Use the metro: São Paulo’s traffic can be intense, but the metro is an affordable and efficient way to get around.
- Stay hydrated: São Paulo’s climate can be humid, so carry water, especially when walking.
- Explore on foot: Many of São Paulo’s neighborhoods, like Jardins and Vila Madalena, are best explored by foot.
- Try local foods: Don’t miss trying coxinha, feijoada, and brigadeiro—São Paulo’s famous Brazilian snacks!