How to Plan Your Aparecida Tour: The Largest Church of Brazil in Sao Paulo

If you’re up for a religious adventure, going on a trip to Aparecida is one of the best things you can do. Located in the state of São Paulo in Brazil, Aparecida is home to the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Aparecida, which is the largest church in Brazil and one of the largest in the world. To plan your trip, follow this guide to make the most out of your visit.

Experience

This tour offers a unique religious and historical experience in one of the most significant religious sites in South America. You’ll have an up-close and personal experience with the Aparecida Virgin Mary statue, learn about the history of Christianity in Brazil, and marvel at one of the world’s most impressive religious structures.

Highlights

• Watch mass rites at a church capable of holding 30,000 worshippers • Discover the history surrounding the Aparecida Virgin Mary statue, among Brazilian Christianity’s most important relics • Marvel at the grandeur of one of the world’s most spectacular religious structures

Tour Description

After pickup from your hotel in São Paulo at 7:30 AM, the tour will take you on an approximately 3-hour journey to Aparecida. You will have a quick stop at Itaguaçu Port to learn the history of the Virgin Mary statue. The statue was found by fishermen in the 18th century and had many miracles surrounding it, quickly causing the city to become an important site of religious pilgrimage. In 1955 plans for the cathedral were unveiled, and it was consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1980. Once you reach Aparecida, you’ll head straight to the historic center for a tour of the cathedral. This religious structure can hold up to 30,000 worshippers and is one of the largest and most impressive churches in the world. Take your time to explore the ground and appreciate its grandeur — don’t forget to look up to see its beautiful stained-glass windows. After exploring the cathedral, you’ll have some free time to shop and explore the area outside of the church. You can find a variety of souvenirs, from religious items to traditional Brazilian crafts, including fresh cheese from the region that is not to be missed. The tour lasts approximately 10 hours and includes transportation, a guide, and entrance to the cathedral. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the ground is extensive, and to bring water to keep yourself hydrated.

Booking the Tour

If you’re interested in this tour, you can book it through GetYourGuide with this link: Book the tour here. The tour usually costs around $75-$80, but prices may vary depending on the season.

Book Your Tour Now

The Aparecida tour is an unforgettable experience for everyone, not just for those who have a religious interest. With its stunning architecture and history, it offers something for every type of traveler. By following this guide, you can plan your trip to the largest church in Brazil and have an incredible adventure that you will never forget.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sao Paulo: Your Ultimate Guide

Sao Paulo is a city where modern skyscrapers are surrounded by colonial architecture. The city has a vibrant culture and economy, attracting millions of tourists every year. In this guide, we will answer frequently asked questions about Sao Paulo, including the best accommodations, attractions, and things to do in the city.

1. What is the best time to visit Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a tropical climate with mild temperatures throughout the year, making it an ideal city to visit at any time. However, December through March is the rainy season, so it is best to visit Sao Paulo during the dry season from May to September.

2. What are the best accommodations in Sao Paulo?

There are many good accommodations in Sao Paulo, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the best hotels include:

• Tivoli Sao Paulo – Mofarrej: A luxury hotel in the heart of the city. The hotel has a spa, fitness center, and rooftop pool.
• Melia Jardim Europa: A stylish hotel in the Jardim Europa neighborhood. The hotel has a restaurant, fitness center, and sauna.
• Novotel Sao Paulo Morumbi: A family-friendly hotel located near shopping centers, restaurants, and parks. The hotel has a pool, fitness center, and sauna.
• Hostel Vila Mariana: A budget-friendly hostel located in the Vila Mariana neighborhood. The hostel has a communal kitchen and lounge area.

3. What are the best attractions in Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo is known for its museums, parks, and cultural attractions. Some of the best attractions include:

• Museu de Arte de Sao Paulo: One of the most important museums in Brazil, featuring a collection of artwork from around the world.
• Ibirapuera Park: The largest and most popular park in Sao Paulo. The park has walking trails, bike paths, and several museums.
• Theatro Municipal: A beautiful opera house located in the city center. The theater hosts performances by local and international artists.
• Bairro da Liberdade: Sao Paulo’s traditional Japanese neighborhood. The neighborhood has many Japanese shops, restaurants, and cultural events.
• Pinacoteca do Estado de Sao Paulo: A museum dedicated to Brazilian art. The museum has a collection of paintings, sculptures, and installations.

4. What are the best things to do in Sao Paulo?

In addition to visiting attractions, Sao Paulo offers many activities for tourists. Some of the best things to do include:

• Eat at a churrascaria: Sao Paulo is famous for its churrascarias, which are Brazilian BBQ restaurants. The meat is served on skewers and carved tableside.
• Visit a street fair: Sao Paulo has many street fairs with food, music, and crafts. Some of the most popular fairs are Feira da Praça Benedito Calixto and Feira do Bixiga.
• Take a helicopter tour: See Sao Paulo from above on a helicopter tour. The tour includes views of the city’s skyscrapers, parks, and landmarks.
• Experience Sao Paulo’s nightlife: Sao Paulo has a vibrant nightlife scene with clubs, bars, and live music venues. Some popular places to go out include Rua Augusta, Vila Madalena, and Jardins.
• Go shopping: Sao Paulo is a shopper’s paradise, with many malls, street markets, and boutiques. Some of the best places to shop include Shopping Iguatemi, Shopping Vila Olimpia, and Rua Oscar Freire.

5. What are the transportation options in Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a good public transportation system, including buses, subways, and trains. The city also has many taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and 99. However, traffic can be heavy and unpredictable, so it is best to plan ahead and leave plenty of time to get around the city.

Book Your Tour Now

Sao Paulo is a city with much to offer tourists, from museums and parks to nightlife and shopping. By following this guide, you can make the most of your visit to this vibrant city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in São Paulo

São Paulo, the largest city in Brazil, is known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful architecture. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming for tourists to decide where to start. In this guide, we will help you navigate the city and make the most of your time by highlighting the must-see attractions, best places to eat, and top things to do as a tourist in São Paulo.

Getting Around in São Paulo

Before diving into the best tourist attractions in the city, it’s important to understand how to get around in São Paulo. The city has a well-developed transportation network consisting of buses, metro, and taxis. The metro is the fastest and most efficient way to get around the city, and it serves all major tourist areas. If you prefer to take a taxi, we recommend using reputable companies like 99 and Uber to avoid any potential scams. Additionally, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings at all times, as pickpocketing is common in crowded areas.

Must-See Attractions in São Paulo

1. The São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) – This museum is a must-visit for art lovers. It is home to the largest collection of European art in Latin America, including works by Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Picasso. The building itself is a work of art, with a unique design that suspends the museum over a busy avenue. 2. Sé Cathedral – This impressive cathedral dates back to the 17th century and is a prime example of colonial Baroque architecture. A visit to this cathedral offers a glimpse into the history and culture of São Paulo. 3. Mercado Municipal – This market is a haven for foodies, with over 300 stalls selling a diverse range of food and drink. The market is known for its mortadella sandwich, which is a must-try for visitors. 4. Ibirapuera Park – This expansive park is a great place to enjoy nature and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It offers a variety of activities, including jogging paths, bike rentals, and art exhibitions.

Best Places to Eat in São Paulo

1. Fogo de Chão – This Brazilian steakhouse is a must-visit for meat lovers. The restaurant offers a variety of cuts of meat cooked over an open flame, as well as a salad bar with over 30 options. 2. Bar do Juarez – This cozy bar and restaurant serves up delicious Brazilian cuisine, including the popular dish of picanha, a juicy cut of beef. 3. A Casa do Porco – This restaurant is located in the downtown area and offers a creative menu of pork dishes, including crispy pork belly and homemade sausage. 4. Mocotó – This restaurant specializes in Northeastern Brazilian cuisine, with dishes like grilled goat and carne de sol, a popular dried beef dish.

Top Things to Do in São Paulo

1. Take a street art tour – São Paulo is known for its vibrant street art scene, and taking a tour of the city’s murals is a great way to get a glimpse into the local culture. 2. Visit a samba school – Samba is an essential part of Brazilian culture, and visiting a samba school offers visitors a chance to experience the music and dance firsthand. 3. Attend a soccer match – Soccer is the most popular sport in Brazil, and attending a match is a must-do for sports fans. 4. Explore the city’s nightlife – São Paulo has a rich nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and clubs offering live music and dancing until the early hours of the morning.

Book Your Tour Now

São Paulo is a vibrant and exciting city with something to offer for every type of traveler. From the must-see tourist attractions to delicious cuisine and exciting nightlife, there is never a dull moment in this bustling metropolis. By following this guide and planning your itinerary, you can make the most of your time in São Paulo and create memories that will last a lifetime.