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Look out the window as your plane descends to São Paulo's Congonhas airport, and you'll see nothing but high-rise towers as far as the eye can see.
Now the largest metropolis in South America - and, with 17 million people spread over 3.000 square miles, the third-largest city in the world - São Paulo is the chosen base for nearly 75% of all fairs and congresses held in Brazil. It is known throughout the country as the "business capital". Although this is a well-deserved title, it does not reveal everything else this great metropolis has to offer. Here, it is fundamental to underscore its restaurants, its intense nightlife and the busy artistic calendar. These are responsible for prolonging the stays of those visitors who arrive in the city only to work or to participate in events and who end up surrendering to these wonders.
To have an idea how important the Paulistano (resident of the city of São Paulo) ranks cuisine, all you need to say is that it is treated as seriously as business. That's why all those who appreciate the pleasures of food can be certain: São Paulo will never let you down. From the corner bar to the most refined restaurant in the Jardins districts, from the snack served over the counter to the famous pastas in Italian cantinas, from the hot dog to the most varied international menus – gastronomy in São Paulo is varied, unbiased and completely cosmopolitan. As a starting point for your visit to São Paulo, no place better than Paulista Avenue, one of the city's landmarks. Home to nearly 30% of the São Paulo financial center, it is one of the most loved districts by its residents. For those who wish to have the feeling of visiting the whole world in one place, São Paulo is a must destination. Immigrants from every corner of Brazil and the world can be found there. You will find Jews, Italians, Japanese, Arabs, in short, people from everywhere on the planet. They live in communities that preserve the traditions of the countries of origin. And they live in perfect harmony with each other.
When the topic is fun and art, São Paulo impresses. The capital of the state has nearly 300 cinemas, more than 100 theaters, a dozen cultural centers and 70 museums, among diverse historical buildings. There are also theme parks, countless leisure areas and two large stadiums. It is also interesting to underscore the Interlagos Speedway, home of the city's Formula 1 Grand Prix. In a city this size, shopping is not only part of the itinerary, but also one of the main attractions. With its countless shopping malls, streets with specialized commerce and arts and crafts fairs, the city guarantees options for every taste.
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