The Monument to the Flags, created by sculptor Victor Brecheret, is one of the most iconic works of São Paulo. Inaugurated in 1953, it is located in front of the Ibirapuera Park, in Plaza Armando de Salles Oliveira, right next to the Legislative Assembly. The sculpture, made in granite, is about 50 metres long and depicts the flagrants, who were explorers and explorers of the interior of Brazil in the 17th and 18th centuries. What does the work represent? It shows a diverse group of people — Portuguese, indigenous and African — pulling a stone canoe. This scene symbolises the collective effort in the expeditions to the interior of the country, often driven by the search for wealth and territorial expansion. Style and visual impact: The physical strength, movement and expression of the carved figures convey a sense of heroic effort, but today the monument also provokes critical reflections on the violent and colonising role of these expeditions.

️ MAC USP – Museum of Contemporary Art Located in front of the Ibirapuera Park, MAC USP houses one of the largest collections of modern and contemporary art in Latin America. The building, designed by Oscar Niemeyer, also offers one of the most beautiful views of the city, from the top of its panoramic terrace. Among the artists of the collection are names such as Picasso, Tarsila do Amaral and Anita Malfatti.

Cathedral of the See Located in the heart of São Paulo, the Cathedral da Sé is one of the largest neogothic churches in the world. Inaugurated in 1954, it impresses with its grandiosity, colourful glazing and sculpted stone details. The dome, in Renaissance style, is one of the highlights of the construction, as well as the zero mark of the city, right in front of the main staircase.

Freedom District Liberdade is one of São Paulo’s most traditional and unique areas, known for its strong influence on Japanese culture and other Asian communities. As you walk (or drive by) its streets, it’s easy to notice the red lanterns, the kanji signposts and the typical architecture that give a special charm to the place. The area began as an arrival point for immigrants in the early 20th century and, today, is a pole of commerce, gastronomy and cultural events, such as the famous Chinese New Year Festival. Even with the eastern air, Liberdade also preserves historic landmarks, such as ancient churches and the ancient hanging cemetery, giving the area a unique blend of past and present.

Municipal Market of São Paulo (Mercadão) Inaugurated in 1933, the Municipal Market is a true gastronomic icon of the city. With its historic building of colourful glass and imposing architecture, it draws attention for both its beauty and its aromas and flavours. It is the ideal place to try exotic fruits, spices, cheeses, embedded and the famous mortel sandwiches and cod pastels, which have become tourist attractions by themselves. Besides the gastronomic part, the Mercadão also reveals a lot about the cultural and culinary diversity of São Paulo — all gathered under one roof.

️ Avenida Paulista Paulista Avenue is one of the most iconic postcards of São Paulo. Inaugurated in 1891 and originally surrounded by coffee baron houses, it is today a vibrant financial, cultural and urban centre of the city. Along its almost 3 km, Paulista brings together museums, cultural centers, shopping centres, restaurants and modern architecture — in addition to being a venue for demonstrations, fairs and popular events. Highlights such as the MASP (with its free run), the National Conjunto and the mirrored buildings coexist with street artists, cyclists and residents who transform the avenue into a dynamic and full of life, especially on Sundays, when it is open to pedestrians.

Beco of Batman Hidden among the alleys of the Vila Madalena area, the Batman Beco is one of the most creative and colourful points of São Paulo. The venue is a true open-air museum of urban art, with walls entirely covered with graphite that are constantly being renewed. The name emerged in the 1980s, when a Batman drawing appeared on one of the walls — since then, artists from Brazil and the world have turned the alley into a vibrant, democratic gallery. In addition to the visual arts, the environment also reflects the relaxed climate of the region, surrounded by cafes, alternative shops and bars, being one of the most “unprogramable” points in the city.