Where to stay

São Paulo's rhythm moves to the beat of all kinds of music. Hotels in Jardins put you right in the upscale center for the swankiest bars. Vila Olimpia is another great neighborhood hotspot for stylish nightlife, leaning toward luxury. For the lively bar scene of Baixo Augusta, consider a stay close to Avenida Paulista, São Paulo's version of Broadway. Bela Vista is great for people-watching at a sidewalk bar and is a fun place to begin a night out. For a more bohemian vibe to nighttime pursuits, find the best hotels among the funky bars in Vila Madalena. Book a room near the Barra Funda neighborhood to be near the party zone, with some of the city's newest nightclubs.

Welcome to one of the best cities in the Americas for dining out. It's part of Brazilian culture to meet friends in restaurants, and the variety available in this city is thrilling. Stay close to the old downtown Centro neighborhood for places to try traditional nordestinas recipes of sweet corn pudding and other delights. Hotels in the Liberdade area are in the heart of Japantown, which features fine Asian dining, sushi, and karaoke bars. Alternatively, fans of Italian food should consider a stay near Itaim Bibi. The food markets in São Paulo are simply fabulous and hotels in Pinheiros and Sao Paolo Centre are close to some of the best. Alternatively, seek out one or more of the nearly one dozen restaurants with Michelin stars in neighborhoods throughout the city.

In this city of high-rises with its high-speed pace of life, knowing where green spaces are can help determine where to stay. Hotels in Moema, a tree-lined neighborhood, are close to the beautiful Ibirapuera Park. For an urban retreat with the chance to see monkeys, consider booking a hotel close to Parque Burle Marx. Alternatively, get some fresh air in Park Trianon off Avenida Paulista. The best hotels nearby are in Bela Vista, while Pinheiros and neighboring Vila Madalena have great art galleries and cafés to relax in.