Get your bearings in this city of 20 million people with a morning sightseeing tour. Options abound, from walking and cycling tours of downtown to more comprehensive bus tours that take you through several of the city’s most important neighborhoods. You could even tour by vintage VW bus.

After lunch, take the afternoon to experience the vibrant arts scene in Sampa. Prebook your admission ticket to the São Paulo Art Museum for skip-the-line access to the most important collection of Western art in Latin America, or hit the streets by bike or on foot in search of the city’s best street art.

Now that you’ve seen São Paulo from street level, get above it all with an evening cocktail on the rooftop observation deck of the Itália Building (Edifício Itália)—one of the city’s tallest and most photographed landmarks.

Start your second day by putting your finger on the pulse of modern São Paulo with a morning stroll along Paulista Avenue. Explore this cultural and financial district solo or with a guide who can point out important landmarks, such as the Japan House and House of Roses. Be sure to sample some local snacks along the way.

São Paulo enjoys one of the most diverse food scenes in South America. This afternoon, treat your tastebuds to a foodie tour through the Municipal Market or one of the city’s best culinary neighborhoods, such as Pinheiros or Vila Madalena. If you’d prefer to get hands-on, opt for a Brazilian cooking class instead.

This evening, party like a Paulistano during a barhopping tour through the city. Enjoy caipirinhas or beers at nightlife hot spots while you learn more about local drinking customs. At the end of the night, you’ll have a safe ride back to your hotel.