Cidade Matarazzo is one of the most coveted hotel, dining, and leisure complexes in São Paulo. Just a few meters from Paulista Avenue, the complex spans 30,000 square meters and brings together historic landmarks, recreational areas, culinary experiences, and the 6th best hotel in the world.
Many São Paulo residents wonder how much it costs to visit Cidade Matarazzo. After all, at first glance, such a luxurious destination seems out of reach for most people. However, there is no admission fee to explore the complex’s open areas. In other words: you can stroll through the gardens and admire its contemporary architecture without paying a thing!
Luxury complex once housed a hospital
The site’s history begins with the former Matarazzo Hospital and Maternity Ward. The historic complex remained abandoned for years, until French-American businessman Alexandre Allard acquired the property and took on the challenge of transforming it into a cultural space.
The restoration preserved the historic buildings and gave them new uses. Today, the site is home to the Rosewood São Paulo ( considered Brazil’s only “six-star” hotel, with nightly rates starting at R$ 2,800), as well as restaurants, bars, art spaces, and cultural experiences.
The complex also features the Mata Atlântica Tower, a landmark building designed by award-winning French architect Jean Nouvel. As a result, Cidade Matarazzo has become a sort of “city within a city, ” where classical and contemporary architecture coexist in harmony.
What to do in Cidade Matarazzo?
Your tour can begin at the Santa Luzia Chapel, which dates back to 1922. The chapel was part of the Matarazzo Hospital and lay abandoned for two decades before undergoing a thorough restoration that restored its original beauty.
Next, take a stroll through the Pátio das Oliveiras, whose century-old trees were brought from Uruguay, and enjoy the unmistakable view from the Mata Atlântica Tower. Another free option is Casa Bradesco, which offers free admission on Tuesdays.
Finally, the restaurants at Cidade Matarazzo are an attraction in their own right. If you can splurge on a dining experience, it’s worth enjoying a refined brunch at Le Jardin, sampling the French-Brazilian dishes at Blaise, savoring the South American flavors at Taraz, or immersing yourself in Italian cuisine at Mata Città.
