A popular feature on most tourist itineraries, Mercado Municipal or Municipal Market, is a symbol of São Paulo. Beneath the majestic dome of the 20th-century architectural marvel and surrounded by stained glass panels, lies the bustle of daily barter. On sale are fresh produce, organic fruits and vegetables, seafood, meat, local delicacies, sweets and spices from across the globe that make for great gifts and takeaways. Browse through the varieties of authentic gourmet specialties while soaking in the colors, textures and flavors that truly exemplify the country's signature cultural diversity.
One of Sao Paulo's most iconic streets, Paulista Avenue is an unmissable sight of the city. The avenue spans nearly 2.8 kilometers (1.7 miles); commencing at Praca Marechal Cordeiro de Farias and ending at Praca Oswaldo Cruz. Built in the year 1891 by renowned Uruguay born Joaquim Eugenio de Lima, it flanked what was once one of the city's most affluent neighborhoods that found itself studded with grandiose architectural masterpieces and majestic mansions. Today, it is skirted by a complex urban maze that features the likes of Sao Paulo Museum of Art, Conjunto Nacional and the shimmering Itau Cultural.
JK Iguatemi is the 13th product of the Iguatemi Group. The contemporary establishment epitomizes 21st-century architecture. Browse through the latest lines of clothing and accessories by high-end luxury brands and international designers housed within this sprawling space. Here you can find the only outlet of leading cosmetic label Sephora. Also on floor are an array of exquisite restaurants and cafes and a unparalleled 4D multiplex. A visit to this trend-setting lifestyle mall ensures an enjoyable experience, hence justifying its social status.
MorumbiShopping is the iconic mall of São Paulo, located in the upscale neighborhood of Morumbi. Featuring several international and local brands, it is easily one of the best places to shop. The mall is almost always abuzz with locals and tourists looking for a quick shopping fix. Apart from shopping, the mall is home to some great book and music stores, restaurants and the occasional art exhibitions. MorumbiShopping warrants a fun day of affordable shopping along with a range of good food options.
Since 1963, this prominent shopping mall has been catering to Sao Paulo's punks, goths, and hip-hop fans. Galeria do Rock offers over 450 shops on three levels. Hip-hop enthusiasts will find their haven on the ground level and first floor, while rockers flock to the two floors above that, and miscellaneous shops top it off. It's a great place to visit if you're searching for items to add to your rocker look, or just for people watching!
The Museu de Arte de São Paulo (MASP) attracts many locals and tourists throughout the year on account of its eclectic collection. Another reason for the popularity is the Sunday market that has been taking over the space under it since the '70s. Predominantly known for rare antiques and other collectibles, the MASP Antique Market is spread over 74 meters (243 feet) of the museum's periphery. The many, non-descript stalls that line here feature remarkable trinkets and souvenirs like vintage, posters, postcards, coins and much more at affordable rates.
Shopping Light is a major shopping and entertainment center in São Paulo. This one-stop destination caters to everyone from fashionistas and sports aficionados to techies and those looking for household items. It houses numerous famous brand names encompassing jewelry and accessory stores, fashion apparel, department stores, game and toy shops, electronics and sports labels, outlets selling household products and luggage. One can also find plenty of services including ATMs, banks, opticians, Internet cafés, laundries, spas, salons and gyms. And after an engaging day of shopping, stop at one of their bars or restaurants to savor fast food, sushi, Italian cuisine or whatever else takes your fancy.
Daiso Japan at Sao Paulo offers its customers a staggering selection of over 10,000 Japanese goodies, all at a fixed price of only BRL5.99. The store stocks a variety of products, with everything from cooking utensils, gardening tools, containers and decorative items, to stationery, small toys, accessories, jewellery and gift items. With such a vast collection under a single roof, you could easily while away hours scouring through the shelves for the many treasures that can be found here.
Although you will find a variety of salons, shops and restaurants at the Galeria Sete de Abril, the shopping ceter is best known as a one stop destination for professional photographers and photography enthusiasts. The mall boasts a variety of stores socializing in the same of photography equipment, including cameras, cases, lenses, tripods and much more at fair prices. Most of the stores here cater to professional photographers, however there are few that also deal in basic digital cameras for amateurs. Repairs and technical assistance can also be availed at a few of the shops.
When you enter Casa Godinho you step into more than just a gourmet food shop. This cultural heritage building has housed a grocery store since 1888 and has seen the who's who of politics and the business world shopping here. Just as this store has been bequeathed through generations, for decades the middle class of São Paulo has frequented its premises. In fact, shopping at Casa Godinho for household essentials has become the tradition of many a family in this city. Its silver balance, walnut shelves, cement tiles and the sweet smell of old wood have remained nearly unchanged and fill the shop with a nostalgic charm. Patrons can shop for globe-spanning wine, cereals, artisan breads, oils and spices. It is, perhaps, most famous for its premium codfish. So shop here for an unparalleled satisfaction that has been experienced by generations of shoppers in the past.
Much like the mythical cities of Gold, Rua Barão de Paranapiacaba is a street where you will find yourself surrounded by this precious metal. Also known as Rua do Ouro, or street of gold, the boulevard is lined with jewellery stores offering a selection of beautiful gold ornaments at astonishingly fair prices. If it is the assurance of a brand name that you desire, then this is certainly not the place for you. All of the shops are owned by local jewellers and boast exquisitely crafted pieces fashioned upon classic designs and the latest trends, Ensure that you are given an invoice and the proper certifications for your purchase to guarantee authenticity. With the availability of customized pieces and a wide selection of wedding rings, the street is a popular destination for couples on the verge of tying the knot. Rua do Ouro is located just off the city's Cathedral Square and is easily accessible via public transport.
If you are looking for a place that can offer you the best skate board brands under a single roof, then the Mission Skate Shop is just the place for you. Located on the ground floor of the Galeria do Rock, the shop stocks a vast variety of skate boards and other merchandise from brands like Blind, Anti Hero, Real, Independente, Free Style and Thunder amongst many others. With personalized service, knowledgeable staff and quality products at fair prices, Mission Skate Shop is a great choice for amateurs, enthusiasts, and professional competitors alike.