About Paulista Avenue
Avenida Paulista is São Paulo's most iconic thoroughfare, a 2.8 km boulevard lined with skyscrapers, cultural centers, museums, and the headquarters of Brazil's biggest companies. This is where paulistanos come to work, protest, celebrate, and stroll - especially on Sundays when the avenue closes to cars and transforms into a massive pedestrian space. Pair this stop with the Sao Paulo guide and the wider Brazil overview.
⏰ Hours & Best Times
- Open: 24/7 year-round
- Best: Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM (closed to traffic)
- Evening: Lights and energy after 6 PM on weekdays
- Avoid: Rush hour (7-9 AM, 5-8 PM) weekdays if walking
💰 Costs
- Walking the avenue: Free
- MASP entry: R$30 (free Tuesday)
- Japan House: Free cultural center
- Guided walking tour: R$120-200 per person
✨ Highlights
- 🖼️ MASP: Iconic red building with world-class art collection
- 🏢 Architecture: Mix of modernist and contemporary towers
- 🎨 Cultural centers: Itaú Cultural, Japan House, SESC
- 🎪 Sunday street fair: Artisans, food, and street performers
- 📸 Panoramic view: SESC rooftop terrace
📝 Tips
- Sunday visits: Come for the car-free boulevard and antique fair
- Metro access: Multiple stations along the avenue - super convenient
- Wear comfortable shoes: Lots of walking on hard pavement
- Try local treats: Pastel de feira at Sunday market
- Safety: Generally safe but watch belongings in crowds