After Barra Funda was voted one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world, it was Liberdade‘s turn to stand out in the international media. The most Asian region of São Paulo has just been included in Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel Destinations“ ranking, which elects the best destinations to visit in 2026. It is the only Brazilian representative on the list.
Liberdade is among the best destinations to visit
Lonely Planet, which belongs to BBC International, is the largest publisher of travel guides in the world. Each year, its renowned ranking of destinations inspires travelers from all over the world, recommending cultural, natural and gastronomic attractions in countries such as Italy, Peru, Mexico, Australia and South Korea.
According to Best in Travel Destinations 2026, the Liberdade neighborhood is the best option for those looking for a mix of culture and gastronomy. The publication mentions the traditional Feira da Liberdade and the Lohan Temple as unmissable attractions, and claims that the neighborhood has some of the best markets in São Paulo.
Best in Travel” guide recalls Liberdade’s black origins
No one can deny that Liberdade is the most Asian area of São Paulo. But few know that the neighborhood’s origins are also linked to Afro-Brazilian culture. Long before the arrival of the Japanese immigrants, the area had a large number of black people a fact that, over time, fell into oblivion.
Although many tourists (and even some São Paulo residents) don’t know this, the Best in Travel Destinations ranking is aware and has passed on the information to future visitors to São Paulo. As well as attractions that refer to the history of the Japanese-Brazilian community, the guide also recommends a visit to the Chapel of the Afflicted to learn about its Afro-Brazilian origins and witness the memories of a difficult past.
