Things To Do
in São Luís
This city is the capital of the state of Maranhão and is famous for its rich colonial architecture, with a historic center that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its streets are adorned with beautiful, tiled Portuguese-style buildings and it serves as a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.
Known for its vibrant cultural scene, it hosts the annual Bumba Meu Boi festival, which showcases a unique blend of Indigenous, African, and Portuguese influences.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the colonial architecture and colorful Azulejos tiles that define the city.
Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, then visit the Museum of Art. Spend time exploring the handicraft shops and local galleries.
Stroll along the waterfront and take in the sunset views. Conclude your day with a dinner featuring local seafood specialties.
Join a walking tour to learn about São Luís’ rich history and cultural heritage. Engage with local artists and artisans in the marketplace.
Head to the Palácio dos Leões to appreciate its captivating exhibitions. Enjoy a coffee break in a nearby café with local pastries.
Experience a local music performance that showcases the rhythm of Maranhão. Dinner at a traditional restaurant to try authentic regional dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with unique Afro-Brazilian influences.
- Beautiful colonial architecture, especially in the historic center.
- Vibrant local music scene, particularly reggae and traditional folk music.
- Close proximity to stunning natural attractions, like Lençóis Maranhenses National Park.
- Delicious local cuisine, known for seafood and traditional dishes.
- High levels of humidity can make the climate uncomfortable.
- Limited economic opportunities compared to larger cities in Brazil.
- Issues with infrastructure and public services in some areas.
- Higher crime rates in certain neighborhoods.
- Seasonal flooding can affect some regions of the city.
Best Activities in São Luís
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Relax on the beach, swim, and enjoy the coastal views.
Explore the natural beauty, go hiking, and observe local wildlife.
Enjoy water sports, take a leisurely walk, and savor picturesque sunsets.
Tours
Uncover the best of São Luís with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in São Luís
Visit one of these nice places.
A viewpoint overlooking the beautiful Lagoa da Jansen, offering stunning views of the lagoon and the surrounding area.
An area filled with colorful colonial architecture and cobblestone streets, providing numerous photo opportunities and picturesque views.
A waterfront area known for its scenic views of the sea, boats, and the old iron bridge, offering great opportunities for photography.
Food in São Luís
São Luís Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish made with shrimp, rice, and vinagreira leaves, creating a tangy and aromatic flavor. Best found at local restaurants or during traditional festivities.
Must-Try!
A type of fish stew prepared with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and coriander, promising a rich and creamy taste. Often served in local eateries and beachside kiosks.
A dish highlighting grilled seafood, such as lobster, shrimp, and fish, seasoned with local herbs and spices. Widely available at coastal restaurants and seafood markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know São Luís better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An iconic seafood market where visitors can try fresh fish, crab, and other marine delicacies. It's a bustling spot offering a variety of street food stalls and casual dining spots.
A vibrant street market featuring local snacks like tapioca crepes, grilled meats, and traditional desserts. This is the perfect place to sample different local treats and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In São Luís, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to people, especially when engaging in conversation.
Showing respect for age and social status is a cultural norm in São Luís. It's common to address people using titles such as Senhor (Mr.) or Senhora (Mrs.), especially in formal settings.
São Luís is known for its rich cultural diversity, and it's important to demonstrate openness and respect towards different ethnicities, languages, and traditions.
Safety
Tipping in São Luís
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not always expected in São Luís, Brazil. In restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill, so additional tipping is not necessary. However, if exceptional service is provided, a small tip of 5-10% can be given. Tipping for other services such as taxis and hotel staff is not common.
In São Luís, Brazil, cash is widely used for day-to-day transactions. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in most establishments, especially in tourist areas. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case some places do not accept cards. ATMs are readily available for withdrawing cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit São Luís, with clear skies and lower humidity. The weather is generally warm, making it perfect for exploring the city's historic architecture and enjoying outdoor activities. It's also the festival season, with events like São João and São Pedro offering a vibrant cultural experience.
During the rainy season, São Luís experiences heavy rainfall and higher humidity. While the lush green landscape can be picturesque, outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather. However, this period also brings cooler temperatures and the famous Bumba Meu Boi festival, a colorful celebration of folklore and music.
São Luís at Night
Hiking in São Luís
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park featuring vast sand dunes and seasonal lagoons, perfect for hiking and exploring the unique landscape.
A beautiful mountain range located near São Luís, offering various trails that reveal breathtaking views and rich biodiversity.
A state park with several trails, lush vegetation, and opportunities for wildlife observation, ideal for a day hike close to the city.
Located near São Luís, this beach area offers a picturesque setting with trails leading through coastal vegetation and lagoons.
The world's largest cashew tree offers trails in a unique environment, combining nature walks with the chance to enjoy local flora.
Aiports
How to reach São Luís by plane.
The main international airport serving São Luís, Brazil.
Located in Fortaleza, Ceará, this international airport is approximately 550 km from São Luís.
The international airport in Belém, Pará, located around 800 km from São Luís.
Situated in Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, this international airport is about 900 km from São Luís.
Located in Recife, Pernambuco, this international airport is approximately 1,200 km from São Luís.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in São Luís, comprising individuals of mixed racial backgrounds, reflecting the city's diverse heritage.
A significant portion of the population identifies as Black, with strong cultural roots and contributions to the city’s history and traditions.
This group includes individuals of European descent, contributing to the historical and cultural landscape of São Luís.
A smaller demographic group, primarily consisting of descendants of immigrants from East Asia, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Comprises the original inhabitants of the region, although their numbers are relatively small compared to other groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in São Luís, with passionate local clubs and a vibrant amateur scene. The city hosts numerous matches and supports both national and local teams.
With its beautiful beaches, São Luís is a hotspot for beach volleyball, attracting players of all ages and skill levels. The sport is played recreationally and in local tournaments.
Basketball has a growing fan base in São Luís, with many youth programs and local competitions fostering talent in urban areas.
Handball is gaining popularity in schools and clubs across São Luís, supported by local associations that promote the sport.
The beaches around São Luís offer excellent conditions for surfing, attracting both locals and tourists who enjoy the waves.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting São Luís.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries and cafes provide vegetarian and vegan alternatives, with options such as cassava-based snacks, fruit smoothies, and vegetable stews.
Some restaurants and cafes in São Luís cater to gluten-free diets, offering dishes made from tapioca flour, fresh seafood, and locally grown produce.