São Paulo, Brazil’s bustling megacity and economic heart, is the largest city in South America and a global hub for business, culture, and gastronomy. With a population exceeding 12 million, Sampa, as it’s affectionately known, offers an energy that is quite unlike any other. Due to the city’s vast size and diversity, finding the best areas to stay in São Paulo is essential for those traveling to this Brazilian metropolis.
Founded in 1554 by Jesuit missionaries, São Paulo grew from a modest settlement into one of the world’s most influential cities, driven by the coffee boom in the 19th century and rapid industrialization in the 20th century. Today, the city is a melting pot of influences, where modern skyscrapers coexist with historic landmarks such as the São Bento Monastery and Pátio do Colégio. The historic downtown reveals the city’s origins, while districts like Liberdade showcase the strong presence of the Japanese community, the largest outside Japan.
If you’re wondering where to stay in São Paulo, the best choice is Jardim Paulista. Known for its prime location near Avenida Paulista, this neighborhood offers the perfect combination of comfort, safety, and easy access to cultural hubs, fine dining, and green spaces. However, other districts shine depending on your preferences. Other great areas to stay in São Paulo include: Itaim Bibi, which is an upscale and safe bairro, ideal for travelers looking for luxury stays; Moema stands out for its peaceful residential atmosphere; and Vila Mariana is a great option for families, offering parks and a welcoming environment.
Among São Paulo’s top attractions is Avenida Paulista, a symbol of modernity and the city’s cultural epicenter, home to museums like MASP and vibrant cultural centers. Ibirapuera Park provides a green escape in the urban landscape, ranking among Brazil’s most important city parks. The city’s culinary scene is another highlight, featuring world-renowned restaurants that celebrate both Brazilian and international cuisine, alongside street markets and iconic food halls like the Mercado Municipal.
São Paulo is well-connected both nationally and internationally. The primary international gateway, Guarulhos Airport (GRU), welcomes flights from around the world, while Congonhas Airport (CGH) mainly handles domestic routes. For getting around the city, São Paulo’s metro system is one of the most efficient ways to travel, with six main lines identified by colors and numbers, seamlessly connecting with commuter trains and bus corridors. Stations are well-signposted, making it easy to navigate different districts and tourist attractions. In addition to the metro, the city boasts an extensive bus network and ride-hailing services, which complement urban mobility.
Beyond the urban buzz, São Paulo offers easy access to stunning natural landscapes. Just a few hours from the city, visitors can explore the São Paulo coastline, with beach destinations like Guarujá and Ilhabela, or venture into the Serra da Mantiqueira mountains for scenic hiking trails.
What are the best areas to stay in São Paulo?
Given the city’s vast size, choosing from the best areas to stay in São Paulo makes a huge difference in enjoying a complete experience—whether you’re looking to dive into its vibrant nightlife scene, explore its rich history, or relax in a natural setting.
1. Jardim Paulista
The most recommended area to stay in São Paulo

An optimal combination of location, security and cultural offer makes Jardim Paulista one of the best areas to stay in São Paulo.
Located in West São Paulo, Jardim Paulista is part of the Jardins district and sits close to Avenida Paulista, one of the city’s main financial and cultural hubs. The neighborhood offers easy access to key attractions such as MASP, Parque Trianon, and various renowned restaurants. It also features tree-lined streets and an infrastructure that blends high-end residential areas with a wide range of services.
Historically, the neighborhood played a key role in São Paulo’s urban expansion, helping solidify the city as an economic powerhouse in the 20th century. Jardim Paulista is part of the Jardins area, which also includes other upscale neighborhoods like Jardim América, Jardim Europa, and Jardim Paulistano. The development of Avenida Paulista, originally lined with mansions belonging to the coffee elite, transformed the region into one of Latin America’s most important financial and cultural centers. This legacy is reflected in its diverse architecture, ranging from modern buildings to preserved historic landmarks like Casa das Rosas, a cultural space housed in a former mansion.
Jardim Paulista is home to major cultural and leisure attractions. Highlights include MASP, known for its European and Brazilian art collection, Parque Trianon, perfect for nature walks, and Casa das Rosas, a venue dedicated to literature and poetry. Japan House São Paulo showcases exhibitions on Japanese culture, while Itaú Cultural hosts contemporary art exhibitions. The neighborhood is also close to the FIESP Cultural Center, which features art exhibits and theater performances. For food lovers, Rua Augusta and Alameda Santos offer renowned restaurants, while traditional bars can be found near Avenida Paulista. Shopping options include Shopping Cidade São Paulo, independent art galleries, and bookstores like Martins Fontes along Avenida Paulista.
Getting around Jardim Paulista is easy, thanks to its access to multiple metro lines, particularly Line 2-Green, which connects the area to key parts of the city. Important stations like Trianon-Masp and Brigadeiro, both located along Avenida Paulista, provide direct access to downtown Vila Madalena and Consolação. The neighborhood is also well-served by bus routes and bike lanes and is a walkable area with wide, well-maintained sidewalks.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Jardim Paulista
2. Itaim Bibi
The best area to stay in Sao Paulo for a business trip

Itaim Bibi is an excellent place to stay thanks to its central location, great restaurant options and vibrant nightlife, as well as easy access to other areas.
Itaim Bibi, located in the southern part of São Paulo, is one of the city’s most modern neighborhoods, known for its thriving business scene and lively nightlife. The district is close to major roads such as Avenida Faria Lima, Marginal Pinheiros, and Avenida Juscelino Kubitschek. It serves as a financial hub, home to headquarters of major national and multinational companies, as well as tech offices and innovation centers, including startup hubs and coworking spaces that drive the city’s business ecosystem.
Itaim Bibi developed as part of São Paulo’s urban expansion during the 1970s and 1980s, when it began to establish itself as an important business center. Before that, the neighborhood had a more residential and industrial character, with farms and small factories. Rapid growth led to the construction of high-end commercial buildings and luxury residential condominiums. Opened in 2008, Parque do Povo is one of the area’s main green spaces, featuring sports courts, a running track, picnic areas, and a bike lane connected to the city’s cycling network.
Itaim Bibi is known for its vibrant food scene, with renowned national and international restaurants along Rua Joaquim Floriano, Avenida Brigadeiro Faria Lima, and Rua Tabapuã. The neighborhood is home to iconic establishments such as Eataly, a large gastronomic center dedicated to Italian cuisine, as well as award-winning restaurants featured in international food guides. The nightlife is lively, with upscale bars, nightclubs, and lounges, particularly along Rua Amauri, known for its high-end dining and entertainment options.
Access to Itaim Bibi is convenient, with several bus lines and proximity to Cidade Jardim Station (CPTM), which connects the area to Line 9-Esmeralda. While the neighborhood is not directly served by the metro, it has efficient connections to the city’s public transportation network, with nearby stations such as Faria Lima (Line 4-Yellow) and Eucaliptos (Line 5-Lilac), accessible via bus routes. Additionally, the area is well-equipped with bike lanes, including the Faria Lima cycling route, and pedestrian-friendly streets, making short commutes practical. It is also a strategic location for those using private transportation, with ample parking and easy access to São Paulo’s main roads.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Itaim Bibi
3. Downtown Sao Paulo
The best area for history and culture

Downtown São Paulo is among the best areas to stay in São Paulo for its convenient location and tourist and cultural attractions.
São Paulo’s downtown, the historic heart of the city, is home to key landmarks that trace the foundation and development of Brazil’s largest metropolis. Perhaps the most famous is Pátio do Colégio, the site where the city was founded in 1554. The São Paulo Cathedral (Catedral da Sé), with its impressive neo-Gothic architecture, stands in Praça da Sé. Nearby, the Marco Zero marks the central point from which the city’s main roads extend.
Downtown São Paulo is filled with historic buildings, such as the Martinelli Building, Brazil’s first skyscraper, and the Copan Building, a modernist icon designed by Oscar Niemeyer.
The Municipal Theater, inspired by the Paris Opera, is one of the city’s premier cultural venues, while Sala São Paulo, housed in the former Júlio Prestes Station, is renowned for its world-class acoustics.
The area offers a wealth of cultural attractions, including the Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil (CCBB), which hosts art exhibitions, film screenings, and theater performances, and the Farol Santander, a 35-story skyscraper featuring an observation deck, exhibition spaces, and panoramic city views. The São Bento Monastery, known for its Gregorian chant masses and traditional bakery, is another historic and religious highlight.
Downtown is also a bustling commercial hub, with streets like 25 de Março, famous for its bustling popular markets, and Rua São Bento, lined with historic buildings. For more upscale shopping, the Shopping Light Mall occupies a historic building from the 1920s. The São Paulo Municipal Market, known as Mercadão, is a must-visit for those looking to sample local specialties, including the famous mortadella sandwich.
Access to downtown is easy. Several metro lines, including Line 1 (Sé and São Bento), Line 3 (República), and Line 4 (Luz), run through the area. Connections to the CPTM train network and an extensive bus system are also available. The district is ideal for exploring on foot, with pedestrian-friendly streets, plazas, and pathways that connect its key attractions.
Our hand-picked accommodations in São Paulo City Center
4. Vila Mariana
One of The best areas to stay in São Paulo for families traveling with kids

Vila Mariana is prized for its strategic location, wide range of cultural options and proximity to Ibirapuera Park.
Vila Mariana, located in the southern area of São Paulo, is a residential neighborhood with a laid-back atmosphere and a vibrant cultural scene. The area is known for its variety of restaurants, offering everything from casual international cuisine to traditional Brazilian dishes, as well as a nightlife filled with trendy bars, many of which are popular among students due to the proximity to universities and cultural centers.
In Ibirapuera Park, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, you’ll find lakes, trails, and important architectural sites such as the Ibirapuera Auditorium, designed by Oscar Niemeyer, and the São Paulo Museum of Modern Art (MAM). The Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC), housed in a Niemeyer-designed building, features an extensive collection and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city.
The neighborhood is also home to Sesc Vila Mariana, a cultural center offering a diverse program of performing arts, exhibitions, sports activities, and workshops. Joaquim Távora Street is one of the liveliest spots, lined with bars and cafés that attract a young and diverse crowd.
Public transportation is efficient, with Metro Line 1-Blue serving the neighborhood through Vila Mariana, Ana Rosa, and Chácara Klabin stations, the latter also connecting to Line 2-Green. Additionally, the area has multiple bus routes, bike lanes, and tree-lined streets, making it ideal for walking and short commutes.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Vila Mariana
5. Consolação
The best location for LGBTQ+ travelers to Sao Paulo

Recognized as São Paulo’s gay village, Consolação is famous for its proximity to Avenida Paulista, its diversity of bars and restaurants, and its vibrant LGBT scene.
Consolação, located west of downtown São Paulo, is a neighborhood that blends residential areas, cultural hubs, and a vibrant nightlife. Avenida Paulista, one of the city’s most iconic streets, runs through the district and is home to Conjunto Nacional, a modernist architectural landmark featuring bookstores like Livraria Cultura, cinemas, and cultural spaces. Rua Augusta, known for its eclectic mix of bars, nightclubs, and alternative shops, is one of São Paulo’s main social hotspots.
Consolação is one of Brazil’s main LGBTQIA+ hubs, with Rua Augusta and Rua Frei Caneca as key locations. Rua Augusta is home to a wide variety of bars and historic clubs that have played a crucial role in the LGBTQIA+ movement in the city. Meanwhile, Rua Frei Caneca—often nicknamed “Frei Caneca Gay“—features bars, nightclubs, and drag shows, as well as popular karaoke nights. Venues like Cantho Bar and Yacht Club are well-known staples of the scene. Its proximity to Avenida Paulista, which hosts the annual São Paulo LGBTQIA+ Pride Parade, one of the largest in the world, makes this area a recommended place to stay in São Paulo—no matter who you love.
Among the main points of interest are the Consolação Cemetery, featuring sculptures by renowned artists and the tombs of historical Brazilian figures; FAAP Theater, known for its diverse lineup of performances; and Espaço Itaú de Cinema, a theater specializing in art films and independent productions. The recently revitalized Parque Augusta offers walking trails, leisure areas, and space for cultural events.
The neighborhood is also known for its food scene, offering everything from international cuisine to street food, particularly around Rua Bela Cintra. Public transportation is efficient, with the Consolação (Line 2-Green) and Paulista (Line 4-Yellow) metro stations, as well as numerous bus routes and bike lanes that make getting around easy.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Consolação
6. Bela Vista
A central and vibrant neighborhood to stay in São Paulo

São Paulo’s Little Italy, Bela Vista is known for its pizzerias along Rua Treze de Maio and its vibrant nightlife.
Bela Vista, located in downtown São Paulo, is a great neighborhood to stay in, known for its strong Italian immigrant influence, particularly in the historic Bixiga district.
The area is a major cultural and gastronomic hub, especially famous for the Italian cantinas along Rua Treze de Maio, which preserve the culinary traditions brought by immigrants. Bixiga is also known for the Festa de Nossa Senhora Achiropita, one of the city’s largest street festivals, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
The neighborhood is home to the iconic Teatro Sérgio Cardoso, featuring a diverse lineup of plays and performances, as well as the historic Teatro Renault, which hosts major international musical productions. The Museu Memória do Bixiga is dedicated to preserving the history of the Italian community and the neighborhood’s development.
In the Avenida Paulista area, Bela Vista stands out for housing MASP (São Paulo Museum of Art), renowned for its collection of European and Brazilian masterpieces, and Sesc Avenida Paulista, which offers exhibitions, concerts, and educational activities. The neighborhood also features Mirante 9 de Julho, a revitalized space with a café, cultural events, and a scenic view of the city.
Transportation is convenient with metro stations such as Brigadeiro, Trianon-Masp, and São Joaquim, connecting the neighborhood to various parts of the city. Additionally, Bela Vista is well-served by bus routes and major roads like Avenida Paulista and Rua Vergueiro.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Bela Vista
7. Moema
One of the best areas to stay in São Paulo

Located in the south of São Paulo, Moema is a sophisticated neighborhood next to Ibirapuera Park.
Moema, located in the southern part of São Paulo, is a neighborhood known for its proximity to Ibirapuera Park, one of the city’s largest and most important green spaces, providing easy access to recreational areas, trails, museums, and the Ibirapuera Auditorium, designed by Oscar Niemeyer.
Moema is divided into two main areas: Moema Pássaros and Moema Índios, named after streets that pay tribute to birds and Indigenous ethnic groups, respectively. The neighborhood is well known for its diverse culinary scene, offering everything from traditional Brazilian steakhouses to international cuisine, particularly along Avenida Ibirapuera and Rua Gaivota.
The area is home to Shopping Ibirapuera, one of São Paulo’s oldest malls, featuring a wide selection of stores, cinemas, and dining options. Moema also has a strong presence of bars and cafés, adding to its lively social scene.
Public transportation is well-developed, with Line 5-Lilac of the metro serving the neighborhood through stations like Moema and Eucaliptos, along with an extensive bus network. The district has convenient access to major roads such as Avenida dos Bandeirantes and Avenida Santo Amaro, connecting Moema to other parts of the city, including Congonhas Airport, which is just a few minutes away.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Moema
8. República
A central location offering cultural sights and nightlife

República is a central district known for its historic buildings such as the Edifício Itália and Teatro Municipal. It is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, restaurants and cultural events.
Located directly northwest of downtown São Paulo, República is a historic neighborhood that was among the first to feature skyscrapers and serve as a hub for cultural and political movements, particularly during the city’s industrialization and the peak of São Paulo’s bohemian scene in the 20th century.
The neighborhood’s main landmark is Praça da República, surrounded by iconic buildings such as the Copan Building, designed by Oscar Niemeyer, and the Edifício Itália, which boasts an observation deck with panoramic views of the city. República is also home to the Edifício Esther, one of São Paulo’s first modernist architectural works.
Among the neighborhood’s cultural and historical attractions are the São Paulo Municipal Theater, a stage for major performances since 1911, and the Mário de Andrade Library, one of the largest in Brazil. República also features the Martinelli Building, São Paulo’s first skyscraper, and the Solar da Marquesa de Santos, which preserves the history of Brazil’s imperial era.
Other highlights include the Viaduto do Chá, one of the city’s oldest bridges connecting Old Downtown to New Downtown, and Largo do Arouche, known for its cultural and culinary scene. Here, traditional venues such as Bar do Nelson, dedicated to Brazilian music, and the historic Hotel San Raphael add to the neighborhood’s charm.
The area also serves as a stage for public events and outdoor artistic performances. Largo do Arouche remains a historic reference point for the LGBTQIA+ scene in República, featuring bars and spaces that attract the community, including ABC Bailão, known for its lively parties, and Bar Queen, popular for its fabulous drag performances.
Additionally, the neighborhood is home to the Galeria do Rock, famous for its music stores, alternative fashion shops, and deep connection to São Paulo’s urban culture.
Access to República is convenient via the República Station, which connects Metro Line 3-Red and Line 4-Yellow. The neighborhood is also served by an extensive bus network running along major avenues such as Avenida São Luís and Avenida Ipiranga.
República is an excellent option for LGBTQIA+ travelers visiting São Paulo. Additionally, the neighborhood offers a wide range of accommodations, from mid-range hotels to budget-friendly options.
Our hand-picked accommodations in República
9. Pinheiros
One of the coolest areas to stay in São Paulo for young travelers

Pinheiros is known for its cool atmosphere, especially in the Baixo Pinheiros neighborhood.
Pinheiros, located in the western part of São Paulo, is one of the city’s most lively neighborhoods and a recommended area to stay in São Paulo. The district borders Vila Madalena and Marginal Pinheiros, while also being close to Avenida Faria Lima, a major financial hub.
Among the main attractions in Pinheiros are the Instituto Tomie Ohtake, which hosts contemporary art exhibitions, and Sesc Pinheiros, offering a diverse cultural program that includes live performances by Brazilian artists, experimental theater productions, and seasonal events like the Sesc Winter Festival, alongside workshops and exhibitions highlighting local artistic talent. The neighborhood is also known for the Beco do Batman, an open-air street art gallery with colorful murals that are frequently updated.
Gastronomy is one of Pinheiros’ highlights, with markets such as the Mercadão de Pinheiros, where visitors can find local products and restaurants led by renowned chefs, including Tuju, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant, and Arturito, run by chef Paola Carosella.
Public transportation is efficient, with the Faria Lima station on Metro Line 4-Yellow and Pinheiros station, which connects the metro to Line 9-Emerald of the CPTM. The neighborhood is also well-served by bus routes and bike lanes.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Pinheiros
10. Liberdade
A little piece of Japan in South America

Liberdade is one of the best areas to stay in São Paulo for fans of Japanese culture and gastronomy.
Liberdade, located in central São Paulo, about 1.2 miles (2 km) southeast of downtown, is home to the largest Japanese community outside Japan. The district is iconic for its streets adorned with red lanterns and torii-style gateways, reflecting its deep-rooted Japanese cultural influence.
Among Liberdade’s main attractions is Praça da Liberdade, the heart of the neighborhood, where cultural events and street fairs take place on weekends. The Busshinji Temple, a Soto Zen Buddhist temple, offers meditation sessions, while the Historical Museum of Japanese Immigration, housed in the Brazilian Society of Japanese Culture building, preserves documents, photographs, and artifacts that tell the story of Japanese immigration to Brazil.
Galvão Bueno Street is the district’s main commercial hub, lined with specialty Asian shops, supermarkets, and traditional stationery stores. Gastronomy is a highlight, with restaurants serving Japanese, Chinese, and Korean cuisine. Popular spots include Aska and Izakaya Kintaro, known for their ramen and authentic dishes.
Public transportation is efficient, with the Liberdade Station on Metro Line 1-Blue, connecting the neighborhood to downtown and other parts of São Paulo. The district is also served by several bus routes running along major roads like Avenida da Liberdade and Rua Vergueiro.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Liberdade
11. Vila Olímpia
one of the safest areas to stay in São Paulo

Located in the southwest part of the city, Vila Olímpia is a modern and safe area to stay in São Paulo.
Vila Olímpia, located about 5 miles (8 km) southwest of downtown, is considered one of the safest areas for visitors. The neighborhood is known for its commercial skyscrapers, high-end hotels, and a wide selection of restaurants and bars.
Among Vila Olímpia’s main attractions are the Parque do Povo, which features outdoor activity areas, running tracks, and bike lanes, and the JK Iguatemi Mall, offering international luxury brands, movie theaters, and upscale dining options. Its safety record and upscale amenities make it an ideal district to stay for foreign visitors.
Vila Olímpia has a vibrant nightlife, with popular nightclubs and trendy bars. Additionally, the neighborhood is home to the headquarters of many multinational companies, making it a key hub for business and corporate events. This makes it an excellent area for business travelers looking for convenient accommodations.
Public transportation is well connected, with the Vila Olímpia Station on CPTM’s Line 9-Emerald, linking the district to other parts of São Paulo. Several bus lines also operate along major avenues, such as Avenida Faria Lima and Avenida Juscelino Kubitschek.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Vila Olímpia
12. Perdizes
A lively student district

Located in West São Paulo, Perdizes is a residential neighborhood home to several universities, as well as theaters and parks.
Perdizes, located in the western part of São Paulo, is a neighborhood known for its green spaces, cultural spots, and peaceful atmosphere. It is close to Allianz Parque, one of the city’s main stadiums, which also hosts major concerts and events. Another highlight is Parque da Água Branca, offering picnic areas, organic markets, and outdoor activities.
The cultural scene in Perdizes includes Teatro Tuca, affiliated with the Pontifical Catholic University of São Paulo (PUC-SP), which features a diverse program of plays and academic events. Nearby, Sesc Pompeia, designed by Lina Bo Bardi, offers art exhibitions, live music, and sports activities.
The neighborhood has a wide variety of cafés, bars, and restaurants, mainly concentrated on Rua Cardoso de Almeida and Avenida Sumaré. For shopping, Shopping Bourbon is a key destination, featuring major brand stores, an IMAX cinema, and a supermarket.
Public transportation in Perdizes is well-connected, with multiple bus lines and proximity to Palmeiras-Barra Funda Metro Station (Line 3-Red). Major roads like Avenida Sumaré and Avenida Francisco Matarazzo also provide easy access to other parts of the city.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Perdizes
13. Vila Madalena
A quiet area to stay in São Paulo

Vila Madalena is a great place to stay in São Paulo for those looking for a quiet and bohemian atmosphere.
Vila Madalena, one of the best areas to stay in São Paulo, is located in the western part of the city, about 4.3 miles (7 km) west of downtown. It is a neighborhood known for its strong artistic scene and vibrant nightlife. The area is famous for Beco do Batman, one of the city’s top street art hotspots, featuring graffiti murals that change regularly and attract artists from across Brazil.
The neighborhood is also home to several contemporary art galleries, such as Galeria Choque Cultural and Galeria Fortes D’Aloia & Gabriel, which showcase works from both emerging and established artists. Vila Madalena has a dynamic cultural scene, with studios, art fairs, and independent spaces that host exhibitions and events.
Rua Aspicuelta and Rua Mourato Coelho are lined with traditional bars and pubs, known for live music and a relaxed atmosphere. Restaurants like Jacarandá and Pitico offer a diverse culinary experience that reflects the neighborhood’s eclectic character.
Public transportation in Vila Madalena is well-served by the Vila Madalena Station on the Green Line 2 of the metro, providing direct access to other areas of São Paulo. The neighborhood also has multiple bus lines and bike lanes, ensuring easy connections to nearby districts.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Vila Madalena
14. Campo Belo & Congonhas Airport
The best location for travelers on a domestic stopover

Southwest of the city center, Campo Belo and Congonhas Airport are convenient areas to stay in São Paulo for travelers on domestic stopovers.
Campo Belo, located approximately 6.2 miles (10 km) south of downtown, is a mainly residential neighborhood that combines tranquility with proximity to major commercial hubs and Congonhas Airport.
The main highlight of the area is Congonhas Airport (CGH), one of the busiest airports in Brazil, specializing in domestic flights to major cities across the country. Opened in 1936, the airport features a main runway of 6,365 feet (1,940 meters) and an auxiliary runway of 4,710 feet (1,435 meters), serving as a key hub for airlines such as LATAM, Gol, and Azul.
The airport offers licensed taxi services, ride-hailing options, and direct public transportation connections, including bus lines that link the terminal to the metro system. The Eucaliptos Station on the Lilac Line 5 is the closest metro stop, providing an easy connection to the city’s transit network.
Campo Belo is also a well-connected area, with easy access to major roads such as Avenida dos Bandeirantes and Avenida Washington Luís, facilitating travel to other parts of the city and to the airport itself. The neighborhood is served by Campo Belo Station on the Lilac Line 5, which integrates seamlessly into São Paulo’s metro system.
Our hand-picked accommodations near Sao Paulo’s domestic airport (Congonhas)
15. Guarulhos & São Paulo International Airport
The best place to stay in São Paulo for travelers on an international stopover

Guarulhos & GRU International Airport are the perfect areas to stay in São Paulo for travelers with international connections.
The area surrounding São Paulo/Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), located about 15.5 miles (25 km) northeast of downtown São Paulo, is an important logistics hub featuring hotels, commercial centers, and services tailored for travelers. Opened in 1985, it is the busiest airport in Brazil by passenger volume and handles some domestic routes and many international flights.
The main direct routes from GRU include major cities in the United States, Canada, and Argentina, along with key locations across the Americas. The airport also operates long-haul flights to European countries, particularly Portugal, Spain, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Additionally, there are direct connections to select cities in Africa and the Middle East.
Guarulhos Airport has three passenger terminals (T1, T2, and T3), connected by a free 24-hour shuttle bus service. Terminal 3 handles international services operated by major carriers like LATAM, Gol, American Airlines, Air Canada, Delta, TAP, Aerolíneas Argentinas, Air France, KLM, British Airways, Iberia, and Emirates. Meanwhile, Terminals 1 and 2 are dedicated to domestic and regional flights.
Transportation between the airport and São Paulo is made easy by the Line 13-Jade train (CPTM), which connects Terminal 1 to Engenheiro Goulart station, where passengers can transfer to the São Paulo metro system. Additionally, executive bus services (Airport Bus Service) link the airport to different parts of the city, while licensed taxis and ride-hailing apps provide further transit options.
Near the airport in Guarulhos, visitors will find many hotels, as well as malls like the Internacional Shopping Guarulhos, which features a selection of shops, restaurants, and cinemas. The area is also served by major highways, including the Presidente Dutra Highway and the Ayrton Senna Highway, ensuring convenient access to the city.
Our hand-picked accommodations near São Paulo International Airport (Guarulhos)
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