A spectacular way to experience this cultural diversity is visiting two of its oldest cities, São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, both capitals of the states where they are located (which bear the same name), being the first and second largest cities in Brazil.
Whether on a business or a leisure trip, São Paulo and Rio cannot be left off of your itinerary. These cities are home to a little bit of everything that makes Brazil an outstanding country, with the greatest biodiversity in the world, and no shortage of cultural events. Fasten your seat belts and get ready for a trip around Brazil’s diversity. In this article, you can learn a bit more about the cultural melting pot that are Rio and São Paulo.
Discover São Paulo. “Sampa”, for close friends.
Sampa, São Paulo’s affectionate nickname, is a trendy city full of culture, with theater plays and exhibitions on display, and bars and restaurants open at any time of day or night. The city has numerous cinemas, theaters, cultural centers, museums, historic buildings, parks and art galleries. In addition, it is considered the Latin American fine dining capital, offering high-end international restaurants and refined regional options signed by renowned Brazilian chefs.
In São Paulo, you will find attractions to enjoy every minute of the day. Among them is Avenida Paulista, the financial center of São Paulo, where museums, cultural spaces, shopping spots and great restaurants are located. On this avenue, you will come across the São Paulo Museum of Art – MASP, which is landmarked by the national Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute. Containing around 10,000 pieces of African, American, Asian, Brazilian and European art, varying from antiquities to 21st century pieces, MASP is considered the most important art museum in the Southern Hemisphere.
If you want to check out an outdoor gallery, make sure to visit Beco do Batman (Batman Alley). There you will come across the city’s most instagrammable street art and find several 3D murals, graffiti, and illustrations in a true open-air urban museum, perfect for taking pictures and making good memories.
Another spot you can’t miss on your trip is the São Paulo Municipal Market. Popularly known as Mercadão, it is one of the most important tourist spots in the city, a place for those who want to eat well, discover exotic fruits and taste traditional snacks.
Since São Paulo is a world of culture, you can reach the other side of the globe without leaving the city. All you have to do is visit the Liberdade neighborhood, the largest Japanese community stronghold outside Japan. There you will feel in Brazil and in Japan at the same time. In Liberdade there are several markets, stores that sell Japanese products and foods, not to mention the numerous and delicious Asian food restaurants.
São Paulo is a historical, economic, cultural and tourism force. Because it was built by migrants from other regions of Brazil and immigrants from several countries, it is the most cosmopolitan city in Brazil. A multifaceted metropolis that captivates visitors with its diversity and culture.
Visit Rio de Janeiro and be charmed by the wonderful city. Known as the wonderful city, the city of Rio de Janeiro lives up to its nickname. With more than 450 years of history, the capital of Rio de Janeiro combines geographical features (the sea, the mountains and the forest) with the friendliness of its people, making it a wow destination for every visitor. No wonder it was the first city in the world to receive the title of World Heritage Site from UNESCO in the Cultural Landscape category.
In addition to culture, Rio also exudes natural beauty. One of its must-see tourist attractions is the Tijuca National Park, one of the largest urban forests on the planet, where tourists can hike, explore its mountains, caves and waterfalls, and enjoy incredible landscapes. For those who like adventure, the park also offers climbing, hang gliding and other activities.
One of the most famous monuments in Rio de Janeiro is also located in the park. It is an attraction you cannot miss when visiting Rio: Christ the Redeemer. With open arms over Guanabara, the Christ stands at the top of Corcovado Hill and is the largest and most famous Art Deco sculpture in the world. Located around 709 meters above sea level, it is 30 meters tall and has 8 meters of pedestal, which
weighs over 1100 tons!
And speaking of heights, if you want to see the city from above, it is worth taking a ride on the Sugar Loaf cable car. The cable car is about 396 meters above sea level and connects Morro da Urca to the Sugar Loaf Hill. It was the first cable car in Brazil and the third in the world. The ride is fun and the view is impressive.
In addition to its most famous attractions, the city offers countless programs to enjoy nature, adventure, religion, history and culture, such as tours of the Botanical Garden, Parque Lage, Santa Teresa Cable Car, Metropolitan Cathedral, Museum of Modern Art and the Museum of Tomorrow.
And for those who want to experience Carnival, there is nothing more traditional to feel the energy of the Brazilian people than experiencing Carnival in Rio (and in São Paulo as well). There are several options to enjoy one of the most famous festivities in the world, including the samba school parades and the street carnival.
With so many options, it goes without saying that Rio really is the wonderful city, right? It is clear that when you come to Brazil, Rio and São Paulo should definitely be on top of your list. These two destinations allow you to dive, into either to the sea or into the culture, and explore the best of tourism in Brazil. Besides, Brazil awaits you with so much more. Here, you will also find diverse and inspiring cuisine, an extensive coastline with warm and crystal-clear waters, and year-round sunshine for you to enjoy outdoors. Go to visitbrasil.com/en to learn more about Rio, São Paulo and many other charming Brazilian cities. Come have a wow experience in Brazil!
Source: en.travel2latam.com