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Heading to the 2025 Sao Paulo Grand Prix? Dive into the city’s electric mix of racing passion, street culture, and incredible food. From where to eat and explore to the best photo angles, fan zones, and after-dark hotspots near Interlagos, this guide has everything you need for race weekend.
Formula 1 and Brazil have always shared a special bond. From Fittipaldi and Piquet to the legendary Aryton Senna, the country’s racing heritage runs deep – so it’s little wonder that when F1 comes to Sao Paulo each November, it doesn’t just arrive, it entirely takes over.
The buzz starts early, but by the time the weekend rolls around, the whole city feels charged and it’s impossible not to feel the same, wherever you choose to explore. Fans gather in nearby cafes and botecos, debriefing the excitement of the day while music drifts from street corners and murals burst with colour – the perfect location for a festival of motorsport.
If you’ve arrived a day or two early, there’s plenty to see and do in Sao Paulo before diving into the buzz of race weekend:
Stroll through the leafy green of Ibirapuera Park: Take a relaxing morning walk through the expansive Parque Ibirapuera – with winding paths, lakes, art pavilions and plenty of space to soak up the city outside the circuit.
Explore Avenida Paulista & the city’s art scene: Head to the iconic Avenida Paulista, a bustling boulevard with skyscrapers, museums and plenty of cafes. Visit the modern art hubs, pop into a rooftop bar, enjoy the city-views before the weekend kicks in.
Dive into the local food culture in Vila Mada or Jardins: Sao Paulo’s food scene is legendary – whether it’s a traditional churrascaria or a trendy neighbourhood cafe, it’s worth indulging in some local flavour as often as you can.
Admire Sao Paulo Cathedral and the city skyline: From futuristic skyscrapers to the neo-Gothic Sao Paulo Cathedral, the city blends modern design with old-world charm. Step inside the cathedral to appreciate its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
If you’re an early riser, or wanting to squeeze as much sightseeing as you can into the weekend, here are a few shorter trips to make the most of Sao Paulo before heading to the circuit for the racing action:
Visit Morumbi Cemetery to honour Ayrton Senna: Just a few miles from Interlagos, Morumbi Cemetery is the resting place of Brazil’s beloved F1 legend. Fans visit year-round to leave flowers and pay their respects to Senna’s enduring legacy.
Explore Mercado Municipal de Sao Paulo: A short visit to the city’s famous food market really is a feast for the senses. Wander through stalls piled high with tropical fruit, spices, cheeses, and cured meats, and don’t miss out on the legendary mortadella sandwich or pastel de bacalhau (cod pastry).
Step inside the colour of Beco do Batman: In Vila Madalena, this alley is an ever-changing showcase of graffiti and murals. Each wall bursts with creativity, making it one of Sao Paulo’s most photographed spots.
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Vibrant murals and street art fill Beco do Batman, Sao Paulo’s open-air gallery and a must-see during your visit. Swipe for more images
Located about 25km south of downtown Sao Paulo, the Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace, better known as Interlagos, is easy to reach with a little pre-planning. Traffic can be heavy on race days, so do make sure to allow extra time for travel and entry. Public transport is the fastest and most reliable way to get to the circuit.
Train: Take Line 9 (Esmeralda) and get off at Autodromo Station, its then a short walk from the main gates. During race weekend, an express train service operates on Line 9 to increase frequency and reduce travel time.
Rideshare and taxi: If you are arriving by taxi or rideshare request drop-off at one of the designated taxi pockets below:
Driving and parking: Driving to Interlagos is not recommended, as nearby roads are closed and there is no general public parking. Use the metro, train, or shuttle services instead.
Walking and accessibility: Once near the circuit, follow the marked pedestrian routes to your entry gate. The area can be hilly, so consider wearing your comfiest shoes. There are accessible entry gates with ramps and elevators for fans with reduced mobility. Autodromo Station also includes lifts and tactile floor indicators to assist wheelchair users and visually impaired guests.
To support accessibility a shuttle bus service operates around the circuit. The shuttle departs from Autodromo Station and stops near the main gates, helping fans move easily between access points. More information can be found on the website HERE.
Leaving the circuit: After the chequered flag, expect large crowds as thousands of fans leave at once. Grab a snack or drink inside the venue to let the rush ease before heading out. For public transport, Autodromo Station is the closest but can be busy. Walking to Jurubatuba Station, about 20 minutes away, offers a quieter option.
Interlagos is one of the most iconic circuits on the F1 calendar. With building work beginning back in 1938, it retains much of its original character with natural elevation, sweeping curves, and a bowl-like layout that keeps fans close to the action.
Must-see corners and views
Interlagos is a driver’s circuit defined by elevation changes and old-school banking. The lap begins on a curved straight, before plunging into the twisting Senna S. From their driver’s power downhill through Turn 4 and into a technical infield of rhythm shifts and off-camber corners. It ends with a fast climb and a banked final turn that launches cars onto the main straight.
The track’s bowl-like layout means there are great views everywhere, but Grandstand A offers sweeping sights of the infield and main straight, while Grandstand M overlooks the Senna S, where overtakes and first-lap battles light up the race.
Top photo spots
Fanzone
The Fanzone is the heart of the off-track excitement, with live music, delicious food and racing simulators filling every corner. Between sessions, it becomes a mini festival, complete with team merchandise stalls and appearances from drivers and performers that bring Sao Paulo’s carnival-like energy to the circuit.
Top fan hack
Take advantage of the Sprint weekend format by exploring the circuit during Friday and Saturday sessions. It’s the perfect chance to test different viewing spots before Sunday’s main event and enjoy the growing buzz around Interlagos.
When the racing stops, Sao Paulo keeps the momentum going. The city is known for its electric nightlife, where live music, good food, and celebration carry on long after the chequered flag falls.
Vila Olimpia for big-night energy: This modern entertainment district is packed with nightclubs, cocktail bars, and late-night venues. It’s the place to dance, celebrate, and soak up the energy of the city.
Itaim Bibi for fine dining and rooftop views: For a more polished evening, head to Itaim Bibi, home to several sleek restaurants and rooftop terraces. It’s ideal for a post-race dinner or a quiet drink overlooking the skyline.
Centro Historico for local rhythm: Downtown Sao Paulo offers an authentic experience with live samba, casual bars, and late-night food stalls serving local favourites.
Pinheiros for laid-back celebrations: If you want something more relaxed, Pinheiros has cozy wine bars, craft beer pubs, and restaurants that stay open late. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day at the track.
From sizzling street snacks to fine dining, every meal is a treat in Sao Paulo.
Feijoada: Brazil’s national dish is a hearty stew of black beans, pork, and beef, usually served with rice, farofa, and orange slices. It’s rich and comforting, and best enjoyed at a traditional boteco or local restaurant.
Churrasco: No trip to Sao Paulo is complete without experiencing a Brazilian barbecue. Skewers of beef, pork, and chicken are served straight from the grill, often tableside at all-you-can-eat churrascarias across the city.
Coxinha: A street-food favourite shaped like a teardrop and filled with shredded chicken, coxinha is the perfect grab-and-go snack when you’re on the move.
Pao de queijo: These warm, chewy cheese breads are a local classic. Light but satisfying, they pair perfectly with a coffee or fresh juice.
Pastel and caldo de cana: Sao Paulo’s markets are full of food stalls serving crisp, golden pastries called pastel, often stuffed with meat or cheese, alongside cups of sweet sugarcane juice.
Brigadeiro Round off the day with Brazil’s favourite dessert. These chocolate truffles, rolled in sprinkles, are found in every bakery and cafe – a sweet finish to a race-filled weekend.
Caipirinha Raise a glass with Brazil’s most iconic cocktail. Made with cachaca, lime, sugar, and ice, the caipirinha is refreshing and the perfect toast to a fantastic weekend at Interlagos.
Weather and what to pack: Sao Paulo’s weather can change quickly. Expect warm, humid days and cooler evenings, with temperatures around 20–27°C during race weekend. Pack light, breathable clothes, a hat, sunscreen, and a rain poncho for sudden showers.
Local time and rhythm: Sao Paulo runs on Brasília Time. Restaurants open late, and locals often dine around 8 or 9 pm, so adjust your schedule to match the city’s easy-going pace.
Safety and etiquette: Sao Paulo is friendly and full of character, but like any big city, keep valuables out of sight and stick to busy, well-lit areas at night. Use licensed taxis or rideshare apps, and a smile with a simple “Ola” or “Obrigado” goes a long way.
Money and payments: Cards are widely accepted, but keep small notes for food stalls, taxis, and souvenirs. ATMs are easy to find – use those inside malls or banks for extra security.
Power and charging: Brazil uses types C and N socket. Bring a universal adapter and a portable charger – perfect for keeping your phone ready for photos, navigation, and race updates.
Learn a few local phrases: Portuguese is the main language, and while many people in hotels or restaurants speak some English, learning a few basics goes a long way:
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