If you think that the São Paulo Metropolitan Region is only about the stone jungle, it’s time to broaden your horizons. After all, we know that the capital offers a multitude of excursions, but it’s always good to discover new places and be surprised.
With a cultural, historical and natural wealth that can go unnoticed, the greater SP area offers a variety of attractions! From religious monuments to natural parks, there’s a bit of everything in these neighboring cities that are worth a day trip .
The best attractions in the São Paulo Metropolitan Region
Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, in Caieiras
According to Wikipedia, “the basilica was inspired by the Gothic style of medieval cathedrals such as Notre-Dame and Saint Chapelle, both in Paris”. With its imposing architecture and beautiful stained glass windows, this Catholic temple is a place of great devotion for the Catholic faithful. In addition, seminarians from all over the world live here, where they study philosophy, theology and religious sciences.
📍Rua Avaí, 430 – Caieiras
Nascentes do Tietê Park, in Salesópolis
“The Tietê River is born here,” says the sign inside the park, which is home to the springs of the state’s largest watercourse. For nature lovers, the place is a true paradise. After all, it’s possible to go hiking, as well as admire waterfalls and the exuberant vegetation of the Atlantic Forest. In other words, it’s the perfect option for those seeking moments of relaxation, contemplation and connection with nature.
📍Estrada do Pico Agudo, km 6 – Salesópolis
Hopi Hari, in Vinhedo
How about taking your next day off to enjoy one of the country’s most famous amusement parks? Just 72 km from São Paulo, you can experience moments of pure adrenaline on rollercoasters, water rides and many others. That’s why it’s the ideal option for those looking for fun, adventure and attractions for all ages.
📍Rodovia dos Bandeirantes, km 72 – Vinhedo
Village of Paranapiacaba, in Santo André
Travel back in time aboard a train to discover this historic village in the Serra do Mar. Founded in the 19th century, Paranapiacaba was born to be the operational control center and residence of the employees of the English train company São Paulo Railway. Today, the small district of Santo André is one of those places that everyone should visit. After all, the “city of the railroad workers”, as it is known, is a real historical treasure. So take the opportunity to explore its cobbled streets, old houses and museums, as well as the special events that take place here.
Zu Lai Temple in Cotia
For those seeking peace and spirituality, the Zu Lai Temple is an unmissable destination. After all, this is the largest Buddhist temple in Latin America, with a built-up area of 10,000m2. With easy access from the Raposo Tavares highway, the space is open to the public with free admission and attracts both practitioners and onlookers.
📍Estrada Fernando Nobre, 1461 – Cotia
Miroku Tower, in Ribeirão Pires
The project to build this tower was inspired by the Horyu temple in the city of Nara, Japan. Located in Ribeirão Pires, the building is one of the region’s main tourist attractions. In addition, it can be reached by boat from the Billings Dam, which makes the experience even more unforgettable. At an impressive 32 meters high, the tower offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding area. Visits take place on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, and you can check out the tour details on the official website.
📍Avenida Palmira, 450 – Ribeirão Pires
Vale dos Templos National Tourist Park, in Itapecerica
Just 33km from the capital is the Vale dos Templos National Tourist Park. The place is a true sanctuary of peace and spirituality, after all, its oriental architecture and beautiful gardens invite visitors to meditation and self-knowledge. Also within the park’s grounds is the Kinkaku-Ji, also known as the Golden Temple, a replica of a Japanese temple in Kyoto, Japan. So, if you like this tip, make a note that visits take place from Wednesday to Sunday and cost R$5.
📍Rua Camarão, 220 – Itapecerica da Serra
Serra da Cantareira Park – Cabuçu Nucleus, in Guarulhos
Cabuçu, in Guarulhos, is the most recent of the Serra da Cantareira Park’s nuclei. Its area represents 1/3 of the entire park and is home to several species of fauna and flora remaining from the Atlantic Rainforest. There are five hiking trails. One of them, the most famous, is the Trilha da Cachoeira. Although the trail is the longest and most difficult, adventurers who choose it are rewarded with a waterfall at the end where you can take a dip.
📍Avenida Pedro de Souza Lopes, 7.903 – Guarulhos
Embu das Artes
Finally, we couldn’t fail to mention Embu das Artes, the charming city of the arts in the São Paulo Metropolitan Region. After all, despite being only 30 km from the capital, it still retains the atmosphere of a country town, with its historic and colorful houses. With its art galleries, craft stores and antiques fairs, it’s a must-see destination for lovers of culture and handicrafts. What’s more, at weekends, the town receives an average of 15,000 tourists who enjoy the local craft market.