Where the Locals Would Stay
“Tivoli São Paulo-Mofarrej (from $312; tivolihotels.com) is one block from Avenida Paulista, the heart of the city—and ideal for those who don’t want to deal with traffic, as you can get anywhere by foot from here. The views are amazing, especially from Spanish chef Sergi Arola’s restaurant Arola Vintetres, on the 23rd floor. Visiting bands tend to stay here.” —Caetano Calomino, artist
“We Hostel Design (private rooms from $32; wehostel.com.br) is the first boutique hostel in São Paulo. It’s located in a mansion from the early 1900s; the owners kept its original parquet floors and brought in fifties-era furniture. It’s close to Rua Joaquim Távora, a bohemian district full of bars.” —Monique Maion, singer-songwriter
“It’s crazy expensive and a real splurge, but the Fasano (from $700; fasano.com.br) is beautifully located two blocks from Rua Oscar Freire in Jardins. The attention to detail across the entire property is outstanding, from the travertine marble in the lobby, brought in from Italy, to the blackout shades and heated towel racks in the guest rooms.” —Alex Atala, chef-restaurateur