What to do for free in São Paulo? Brasil ATM reveals 7 amazing tips for your next trip!
São Paulo, the largest city in Brazil, is a paradise for those seeking unique experiences without spending much. The city offers an impressive range of free activities for both locals and visitors.
Known as the cultural capital of the country, São Paulo is home to over 100 museums, many of which offer free admission on certain days of the week. Its urban parks, like the iconic Ibirapuera Park, are perfect for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts.
For street art lovers, the city is filled with colorful murals and graffiti. And let’s not forget the rich free cultural scene, including concerts, exhibitions, and public events.
With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best free things to do in São Paulo. Each suggestion has been carefully selected. Brasil ATM shows you how to enjoy the best of the city without breaking the bank!
Read in this post
- Free things to do in São Paulo – 7 options
- Free things to do with kids in São Paulo
- Free things to do in São Paulo at night
- Free things to do in São Paulo on sunday
- Withdraw cash at ATM24h machines
- Discover Brasil ATM (A Todo Momento)
- FAQ
Free things to do in São Paulo – 7 options
Exploring São Paulo for free is an amazing experience. The metropolis offers an impressive variety of attractions at no cost for those who want to discover it. Below, we present 7 must-see options for those looking for free things to do in São Paulo. Check out Brasil ATM’s tips to make the most of each experience without spending a dime.
1. Visit MASP for free on Tuesdays
The São Paulo Museum of Art Assis Chateaubriand (MASP) is one of the most important museums in Latin America. Located on Avenida Paulista, MASP offers free admission every Tuesday. Its collection of over 10,000 works includes pieces by both Brazilian and international artists. This museum is a must-see for anyone looking for free things to do in São Paulo.
In addition to its permanent exhibitions, MASP regularly features temporary shows. Don’t miss the unique architecture of the building, designed by Lina Bo Bardi. The open space beneath the museum is also a popular meeting point, hosting cultural events and antique fairs on Sundays.
2. Explore street art in Vila Madalena
Vila Madalena, São Paulo’s bohemian neighborhood, is an open-air museum of street art. The Beco do Batman, famous for its graffiti and colorful murals, is the highlight of this free attraction. Walking through the narrow streets of the neighborhood is a delight, especially on weekends. You can also enjoy a brunch or lunch at one of its charming cafés.
Take advantage of the opportunity to snap incredible photos and immerse yourself in the city’s alternative culture. On weekends, the area also hosts craft fairs and street food markets, making your cultural stroll even more enjoyable.
3. Walk along Avenida Paulista on Sundays
Avenida Paulista, the financial heart of São Paulo, transforms into a giant urban playground on Sundays. Closed to cars, the avenue fills with cyclists, pedestrians, and street performers. It’s the perfect time to appreciate the unique architecture of its buildings and visit local museums.
Be sure to stop by the Mirante 9 de Julho, which offers a panoramic view of the city. Take advantage of free cultural attractions, including live music and theater performances. To wrap up your walk, try the delicious treats from the food trucks spread along the avenue.
4. Explore the historic center on foot
The Historic Center of São Paulo is a treasure trove of architecture and culture. Start your free walking tour at Praça da Sé, the city’s ground zero. Then, head to Pateo do Collegio, where São Paulo was founded. Admire the grandeur of the Sé Cathedral and the São Bento Monastery.
Don’t miss the Mercado Municipal, a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Even if you don’t buy anything, you can enjoy the vibrant colors and aromas of exotic fruits. End your tour at the Martinelli Building, one of the city’s first skyscrapers. On Saturdays, there are free guided visits to its rooftop, offering breathtaking views of São Paulo.
5. Relax at Villa-Lobos Park
Villa-Lobos Park is a great choice for those seeking nature and outdoor activities. With vast green spaces, the park features walking trails, a bike lane, and fitness equipment. On weekends, families enjoy picnics, and yoga enthusiasts gather for group sessions.
The park also offers a free cultural program, with regular performances at its outdoor amphitheater. Literature lovers can visit the Villa-Lobos Library, which has a great collection and cozy reading spots. This urban oasis is perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature—completely free.
6. Visit the Immigration Museum
The Immigration Museum, located in the Mooca neighborhood, offers free admission on Saturdays. Housed in the former Immigrants’ Hostel, the museum tells the stories of millions of people who helped build São Paulo. Its exhibitions provide a fascinating look at the city’s multicultural heritage.
In addition to its permanent collection, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions and free workshops. Don’t forget to visit its peaceful garden, a perfect place for reflection. On Saturdays, an organic market takes place at the museum, offering a variety of traditional foods from different cultures—a true culinary journey without spending a penny.
7. Visit Independence Park
Located in the Ipiranga neighborhood, Independence Park is an oasis of history and nature. Its beautifully maintained gardens and green spaces are perfect for picnics and walks. The park is also home to the Ipiranga Museum, recently reopened after a major restoration. While the museum itself has an entry fee, the park is entirely free and offers a rich historical experience.
Don’t miss the Monument to Independence, an imposing structure marking the spot where Dom Pedro I declared Brazil’s independence. On Sundays, the park comes to life with free musical performances at the bandstand. It’s an excellent way to blend history, culture, and nature without spending a dime.
Free things to do with kids in São Paulo
São Paulo is a city full of free options to entertain and educate children. Here are some must-see suggestions for free activities with kids in SP:
Ibirapuera Park: This iconic park is a true natural playground. Kids can run on the grass, ride bikes along the cycling paths, or play in the various playgrounds scattered throughout the area. On weekends, the park offers free activities such as art workshops and storytelling sessions.
Catavento Museum: Located in the Palácio das Indústrias, the Catavento Museum offers free admission on Tuesdays. It features interactive exhibits on science and technology, making it the perfect place to spark children’s curiosity. They can explore human anatomy, space, and physical phenomena in a fun and educational way.
SESC: Various SESC locations in São Paulo offer free children’s programming. From theater plays and storytelling to art and music workshops, there is always something exciting happening. Check the schedule of the nearest SESC unit to enjoy these activities with your kids.
Free things to do in São Paulo at night
São Paulo is a city that never sleeps and offers plenty of free options for those looking to enjoy the night without spending a dime. Here are some must-see suggestions for free nighttime activities in SP:
Virada Cultural: This annual event transforms the city into a massive open-air stage. The festival features free concerts, exhibitions, and performances at various locations across São Paulo. Virada Cultural is a unique opportunity to experience the city’s nightlife without spending anything.
Mirante 9 de Julho: Located in downtown São Paulo, this viewpoint offers a stunning view of the illuminated city. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset and enjoy São Paulo’s nighttime skyline. Occasionally, the space also hosts free live music performances and film screenings.
Beco do Batman: While best known during the day, Beco do Batman takes on a special atmosphere at night. The graffiti and murals come to life under the night lighting, creating a unique backdrop for photos and evening strolls. The surrounding Vila Madalena area also offers a vibrant nightlife scene to explore.
Free things to do in São Paulo on sunday
On Sundays, São Paulo transforms, offering a wide variety of free activities for all tastes. Here are some must-see suggestions for free things to do in SP on Sunday:
Avenue Paulista: On Sundays, the iconic avenue is closed to cars and turns into a huge urban park. Take advantage of the open space to bike, rollerblade, or simply walk. Street performers, musicians, and craft fairs make the experience even more special. The atmosphere is festive and relaxed, perfect for enjoying the city in a unique way.
Museum of Art about São Paulo (MASP): MASP offers free admission on Sundays, from 10 AM to 6 PM. It’s a great opportunity to explore one of the most important art collections in Latin America. Beneath the museum’s open space, you’ll also find a traditional antique fair every Sunday.
Parque da Água Branca: This charming park in the city’s west zone comes to life on Sundays. In addition to its green areas and lakes, the park hosts a farmers’ market with organic products, live music performances at the bandstand, and fun activities for children. It’s the perfect spot for a family picnic or a relaxing stroll.
Withdraw cash at ATM24h machines
For a smooth and even more enjoyable experience in São Paulo and Brazil as a whole, it’s important to have some cash on hand. In some places, cash is essential for food, transportation, attraction entry fees, and more.
| Where | Location |
|---|---|
| SHOPPING NAÇÕES UNIDAS | See all the points here |
| HOTEL REINASSANCE | See all the points here |
| GRAND MERCURE SÃO PAULO IBIRAPUERA | See all the points here |
| AEROPORTO DE CONGONHAS EMBARQUE | See all the points here |
| FOUR SEASONS HOTEL SÃO PAULO | See all the points here |
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FAQ
Explore parks like Ibirapuera, visit museums with free admission on specific days, or attend free cultural events at cultural centers like CCSP. Check the city’s cultural schedule for today’s options. Read more.
On Sundays, enjoy Paulista open to pedestrians, with bike lanes, street performers, and craft fairs. Visit MASP for free on Tuesdays, explore the FIESP Cultural Center, or take in the view from Mirante 9 de Julho. Read more.
Take children to the Catavento Museum (free on Tuesdays), explore the playgrounds at Ibirapuera Park, or join free kids’ activities at SESC. Many CEUs also offer free children’s programming on weekends. Read more.
