Where to Stay in São Paulo: A Neighbourhood Guide

Short answer: Paulista or Jardins for most first-timers. You'll be central, near museums and restaurants, and on the metro. In a city this big, staying close to a station matters more than any other factor.

Avenida Paulista

Hotels of every level along the avenue and the streets beside it, with Line 2 stations along its length and connections to Line 4, and airport buses stop along it. It's busy, well lit and feels safe, and it's the most practical base for sightseeing, with MASP and the Sunday street life on the doorstep. The downside is that it can feel businesslike in the evenings.

Jardins

Leafy, upmarket streets just southwest of Paulista, with boutiques, restaurants and some of the city's best hotels. Quiet at night and within walking distance of the avenue and its metro stations.

Pinheiros and Vila Madalena

The heart of the city's food and nightlife, with street art, bars, independent shops and a young crowd. There are boutique hotels and good apartment rentals. Line 4 serves Pinheiros, while parts of Vila Madalena are a walk or short Uber from a station. It can be noisy on weekend nights.

Itaim Bibi and Vila Olímpia

The modern business district, with international chain hotels and many of the city's top restaurants. Convenient for work trips, but further from the sights and less connected by metro.

Areas we'd avoid

The historic centre has cheap hotels in grand old buildings, but it empties at night and the streets can feel unsafe. The area around Luz station has serious problems with drugs and crime. And don't be tempted by a cheaper hotel far from the metro: you'll spend the savings, and hours, on Uber and traffic.