São Paulo, Brazil’s lively cultural and economic capital, is now one of the country’s most expensive places to stay. Even without the postcard-perfect beaches of Rio de Janeiro or the natural wonders of the Amazon, the city of work, culture and food has some of the best places to stay in Brazil.
People from all over the world know about the hotels in the city. In the second edition of the Casual EXAME Ranking, nine hotels in São Paulo were among the top 50 in Brazil. The Rosewood São Paulo won first place for the second consecutive year. This award not only shows how great the services are, but it also indicates that luxury tourism is coming back to Brazil, which had more than 6.6 million international visitors in 2023.
São Paulo has great resorts on its lovely coast and in the countryside, plus the capital’s luxury. The state’s hotels and resorts have something for everyone, from Guarujá and Ilhabela’s beaches to Campos do Jordão’s mountains. The Atlantic Forest has everything from fancy city getaways to beach resorts that are ideal for families to eco-lodges that are perfect for couples.
This carefully chosen list has five outstanding hotels and resorts in São Paulo. They were chosen because they had won awards in their field, received good reviews from guests, been recognized around the world and had a history of providing great service. These hotels are the best in São Paulo, whether you’re a business traveler looking for luxury, a couple looking for a romantic getaway on the beach, or a family planning a vacation with everything included.
How We Selected the Top Hotels and Resorts in São Paulo
We evaluated the establishments featured in this list based on the following general criteria:
- Awards and recognition from the industry: high rankings in well-known magazines like Casual EXAME, Condé Nast Traveler and the World Travel Awards, as well as awards from all over the world
- Guest Satisfaction: Verified guests always give high ratings and write positive reviews.
- Architecture and Design Excellence: a one-of-a-kind design, historical significance, or cutting-edge architecture Service Quality: Known for treating each guest with care and providing great service
- Service Quality: Known for treating each guest with care and providing great service
- Location and Setting: Great places to be, like the city, the beach, or the woods.
- Things to Do and Amenities: Unique places to stay, eat, relax and have fun
List of Top 5 São Paulo-Based Hotels and Resorts
- Rosewood São Paulo
- Palácio Tangará – Oetker Collection
- W São Paulo
- DPNY Beach Hotel & SPA Ilhabela
- Ilha de Toque Toque Eco Hotel
A Closer Look at Each Hotel and Resort
1. Rosewood São Paulo
The Casual EXAME named the Rosewood São Paulo the best hotel in Brazil for the second year in a row. It is Brazil’s best luxury hotel. In 2025, the hotel cemented its reputation around the world by coming in 24th on “The World’s 50 Best Hotels,” a well-known international list based on the most recent experiences of more than 800 experts from all over the world.
Property Overview
The Rosewood is in the building that used to be the Maternidade Condessa Filomena Matarazzo in the Bela Vista neighborhood of São Paulo, at Rua Itapeva, 435. This project to adapt an old building into a space for modern art and hospitality turned a historic building in São Paulo into a modern space. Cidade Matarazzo is more than just a luxury complex; it’s a cultural center that combines art, fashion and food.
The hotel boasts 181 rooms, arranged between the restored maternity building and a towering vertical garden. Award-winning architect Jean Nouvel signed the design, incorporating the famous Mata Atlântica Tower under a vertical garden.
Key Amenities and Experiences
- Asaya Spa is the best spa in all of Latin America. It has treatments that are beneficial for your health and well-being.
- Unique Accommodations: 160 high-end rooms, like the famous Penthouse Suite
- Gastronomic Excellence: A number of restaurants serve great food
- Art Integration: All of the rooms in the property are like a canvas for modern art.
Ideal Guest Profile
Discerning travelers seeking the pinnacle of urban luxury; art and architecture enthusiasts; celebrities and high-profile visitors requiring privacy and exclusivity; and business leaders combining work with sophisticated hospitality.
Notable Strengths or Differentiators
Rosewood São Paulo is unique because it combines historic preservation, modern architecture and great service. It is one of the top 50 hotels in the world, along with the best hotels in Paris, Tokyo and New York. People are more interested in the many different types of hotels and restaurants in São Paulo and Brazil because they look like culturally rich and luxurious places to visit. Prices start at R$ 3,826 a day.
Contact Information
Website: https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/sao-paulo
2. Palácio Tangará – Oetker Collection
Palácio Tangará is a peaceful place in one of São Paulo’s most exclusive neighborhoods. Casual EXAME put it in third place among the best hotels in Brazil. The famous German Oetker Collection includes this hotel. It has the warmth and beauty of Brazil’s tropics and the hospitality of Europe.
Property Overview
The address of Palácio Tangará is Rua Deputado Laércio Corte, 1,501, in the Panamby neighborhood. Roberto Burle Marx, a famous Brazilian landscape architect, designed the gardens that surround it. The sounds of the city fade away here and the songs of birds fill the air. It feels like you’re far away from the city.
The property was recently fixed up for R$ 4 million. The Jean-Georges restaurant was updated, but it still had a tropical feel and a direct connection to nature. There are 141 rooms in the hotel and 59 of them are suites. They all have a view of the park.
Key Amenities and Experiences
- Jean-Georges Restaurant: The menu was made by famous French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and is carried out by Filipe Rizzato. It has six-course tasting menus that cost R$ 810 and R$ 1,040.
- Burle Marx Gardens: a natural place to relax with landscaped grounds
- Luxury Rooms: 141 rooms and suites with views of the park
- Spa and Wellness: Full-service health and wellness centers
Ideal Guest Profile
Sophisticated travelers seeking tranquility within the city; nature lovers who appreciate landscape architecture; gastronomes desiring world-class dining; couples celebrating special occasions.
Notable Strengths or Differentiators
Palácio Tangará is a one-of-a-kind urban resort that combines the high-end service of a European luxury brand with the natural beauty of Brazilian landscape design. This makes for an experience that can’t be found anywhere else in São Paulo. Recent renovations demonstrate the property’s dedication to maintaining world-class standards. Rates start at about R$3,600 per day.
Contact Information
Website: Palácio Tangará – Oetker Collection
3. W São Paulo
The Casual EXAME ranking says that the W São Paulo is already one of Brazil’s top ten hotels and it hasn’t even been open for a year yet. This lively property brings the brand’s signature bold design and lively atmosphere to the busiest business district in São Paulo.
Property Overview
The W São Paulo opened in 2024 and is close to the famous Faria Lima Avenue in Vila Olímpia. It is in a tower with 45 floors at Rua Funchal, 65. There are 179 rooms and suites and they all start on the 25th floor, where they have outstanding views of the city.
The design is a modern version of São Paulo’s city style that combines irreverence with elements of the local culture. Reviews from guests always mention the excellent service. A traveler from the U.S. said, “Service was some of the best I’ve ever had while traveling,” praising the staff for making guests “feel like royalty.”
Key Amenities and Experiences
- WET Deck: A rooftop pool with great views of the city and a fun atmosphere
- L40 Cozinha de Latitude is a restaurant on the 40th floor that serves food from 16 different countries, including Japan and Portugal.
- Baio Cozinha Sulista is a restaurant owned by Tuca Mezzomo that serves food from the southern part of Brazil.
- The brand’s main idea is to give guests what they want, when they want it, with a Brazilian twist.
- Yoga and spa treatments that use local ingredients are part of wellness programs.
- Live DJ Sets: Regular shows that make the property feel more alive
Ideal Guest Profile
Design-conscious travelers seeking contemporary luxury, younger affluent guests who appreciate vibrant social scenes, business travelers wanting proximity to Faria Lima and international visitors seeking an authentic São Paulo experience.
Notable Strengths or Differentiators
The bold design, stunning views and outstanding service at São Paulo have quickly made it a favorite among travelers who know what they want. People who stay at the hotel say great things about staff members like Mr. Cláudio Lopes, who “went above and beyond,” and Taylor from the concierge team, who made restaurant reservations and planned activities for guests before they even got there. The property is close to Avenida Faria Lima and JK Iguatemi shopping, making it a wonderful place to stay while you explore the city’s lively rhythm. Rates start at R$ 3,053 per day.
Contact Information
Website: w sao paulo
4. DPNY Beach Hotel & SPA Ilhabela
The DPNY Beach Hotel & SPA Ilhabela is the most expensive beach hotel in São Paulo. Condé Nast called this award-winning hotel the best beach hotel in South America, which solidified its status as a top choice for high-end travelers who want sun, sea and great service.
Property Overview
The DPNY Beach Hotel is on Ilhabela, which means “Beautiful Island.” It is a group of islands off the northern coast of the state of São Paulo. It is right on the beach at Praia do Curral. Ilhabela is renowned for its stunning beaches, steep mountains and thick Atlantic Forest.
The hotel has opulent rooms with Asian-style decor, giving it a unique look that combines the charm of Brazil’s coast with the elegance of the East. Guests are always happy with Their stay is reflected in the 1,269 reviews on Booking.com, which give it a 9.3 out of 10 rating.
Key Amenities and Experiences
- There are four restaurants: one serves Mediterranean food, one serves Japanese food and there is a lovely beach club where you can get drinks.
- World-Class Spa: Get massages and other relaxing treatments in a calm setting
- Prime Beachfront Location: You can walk right up to one of the most beautiful beaches in Ilhabela.
- Luxurious Accommodations: Rooms that are both comfortable and stylish, with an Asian touch
- Water Sports and Activities: Get to the island’s well-known sailing, diving and hiking spots.
Ideal Guest Profile
Luxury-seeking couples and honeymooners; sophisticated travelers who appreciate beachfront elegance; gastronomes desiring diverse culinary options; international visitors seeking Brazil’s best coastal properties.
Notable Strengths or Differentiators
The DPNY Beach Hotel was named the best beach hotel in South America by Condé Nast. This makes it one of a select group of coastal properties. Four high-quality restaurants, which is not common for a beach hotel, mean that guests can eat well without leaving the property. The design, which is based on Eastern styles, gives it a unique look that sets it apart from other beach resorts. Prices start at around R$ 3,600 a day.
Contact Information
Website: https://dpny.com.br/
5. Ilha de Toque Toque Eco Hotel
The Ilha de Toque Toque Eco Hotel is a unique kind of luxury hotel that focuses on romance, nature and being beneficial for the environment. Brazil’s first zero-waste hotel is this adults-only retreat. It indicates that you can be eco-friendly and give great service at the same time.
Property Overview
The Ilha de Toque Toque Eco Hotel is on a hill covered in trees above the northern coast of São Paulo state. The goal is to help guests get back in touch with nature. The property is only 30 minutes from the center of São Sebastião and has views of the Atlantic Ocean hitting Toque-Toque Grande beach.
This romantic trip is all about being kinder to the environment. The high-end cabin-like suites are mostly made of recycled wood and are surrounded by the lush tropical jungle. Guests can only hear soft breezes, the waves of the Atlantic Ocean below and the beautiful birds singing in the trees.
With only 14 suites, the hotel offers an intimate, exclusive experience. Rates start from approximately US$200 per night (around R$1,000-1,200, depending on exchange rates) .
Key Amenities and Experiences
- Spa L’Occitane in Brazil: a tempting selection of massages and treatments made with local ingredients
- Private Beach Area: It has everything you need, such as a bar, a restaurant and shady spots with lounge chairs where you can relax.
- Ecological Trails: Many paths through the untouched Atlantic Forest
- Caiçara Cuisine: The food is based on traditional coastal foods and uses fresh fish and seafood from the area.
- Only for adults: guaranteed peace and love
- Hot Tubs: Private balconies with soaking tubs that look out over the ocean or gardens
Ideal Guest Profile
Romantic couples, honeymooners, travelers committed to sustainability and those seeking a digital detox all desire a secluded, eco-conscious retreat that offers privacy, natural beauty and comfort.
Notable Strengths or Differentiators
The first hotel in Brazil with no waste is Ilha de Toque Toque. Guests can enjoy the luxury of the jungle setting without feeling guilty because they know that everything is being done to protect and preserve this beautiful place. The rule that only adults can stay there keeps things calm and the fact that there are only 14 suites makes it feel more exclusive than bigger places. No other place in the world has eco-luxury, L’Occitane spa treatments and real Caiçara food all in one place.
Contact Information
Website: https://ilhadetoquetoque.com.br/en/
How to Choose the Right Hotel or Resort in São Paulo
- Define Your Travel Purpose: Business travelers may prioritize locations near Faria Lima (W São Paulo) or Paulista Avenue (various options). Leisure travelers might want luxury on the beach (DPNY, Ilha de Toque Toque) or in the city (Rosewood, Palácio Tangará).
- São Paulo has cultural attractions, great restaurants and is easy to get to for business. There are resorts, beautiful scenery and places to relax along the coast. Some people do both in order to really get to know the state of São Paulo.
- Look at the size and feel: Big hotels like Rosewood (181 rooms) and Palácio Tangará (141 rooms) have a lot of privacy and things to do. Intimate places like Ilha de Toque Toque (with 14 suites) give you privacy and personal service.
- Review your list of things that are important for sustainability: Eco-friendly travelers should put Ilha de Toque Toque at the top of their list. It’s Brazil’s first hotel with no waste. This hotel shows that you can be eco-friendly and still enjoy luxury.
- Look at the places to eat: People who love food will love Jean-George’s restaurant at Palácio Tangará, W São Paulo’s many venues and DPNY’s four different dining ideas.
- Keep in mind the time of year: The coast is busiest during the Brazilian summer (December to March) and on holidays. Hotels in São Paulo are always full, but they might have better rates during the off-peak season.
- Check for Special Packages: Many places have special offers. Ilha de Toque Toque has 4×3 deals and discounts on weekdays that can help you save a lot of money.
- Look at the accessibility requirements: It might be difficult to get to some places, like eco-lodges on Ilha de Toque Toque, which are on steep ground. Talk to properties directly about what you need.
There are many great places to stay in São Paulo state, from luxury city palaces to fancy beach resorts to cozy eco-retreats. The five hotels that were reviewed—Rosewood São Paulo, Palácio Tangará, W São Paulo, DPNY Beach Hotel & SPA Ilhabela and Ilha de Toque Toque Eco Hotel—show how different hotels can be outstanding in this market.
The World Travel Awards says that Rosewood São Paulo is one of the best hotels in the world. It has a wonderful spa, old buildings and new designs. Palácio Tangará is a quiet urban oasis with Burle Marx gardens and food from Jean-Georges Vongerichten that is world-class. W São Paulo is a bold, modern luxury hotel in the heart of the business district. It has excellent views and service. The DPNY Beach Hotel is the best beach hotel in South America and the most luxurious place to stay on the coast. Ilha de Toque Toque is Brazil’s first hotel with no waste and it shows that luxury and caring for the environment can go hand in hand.
There are good and bad things about each place and the best one for you will depend on what you want to do there, like work, romance, a family vacation, or personal growth. The hospitality workers in São Paulo are ready to greet you with the warmth, style and high standards that have made the state one of Brazil’s best places to visit.
We recommend that you learn more about these properties, book directly to get the best rates and packages and find out why São Paulo is still Brazil’s best place to stay.
FAQ
1. What makes São Paulo’s hotels so highly ranked?
Hotels in São Paulo are always among the best in Brazil because they have many luxury brands, great service, world-class restaurants and important buildings. The Casual EXAME ranking put nine hotels in the city in Brazil’s top 50, with Rosewood São Paulo coming in first. The need for business travel and the presence of sophisticated leisure visitors help keep quality high.
2. What is the best time to visit São Paulo’s coastal resorts?
The weather on the coast of São Paulo is nice all year long, but the best times to go are in the spring (September to November) and fall (March to May), when there are fewer people and the weather is pleasant. Brazil’s summer (December to March) is the busiest time of year and prices are at their highest. But the weather is always perfect for the beach. Winter (June to August) is a wonderful time to hike and explore because the weather is cooler and there aren’t as many people around.
3. Are there all-inclusive resort options in São Paulo state?
Yes, a number of resorts offer packages that include everything or all meals. The Mavsa Resort in Cesário Lange has everything you need, like food and drinks. On the other hand, the Jequitimar Resort & Spa in Guarujá has other board options. Mogi das Cruzes’ Club Med Lake Paradise is a classic all-inclusive resort.
4. How do I get to Ilhabela’s resorts?
The only way to get to Ilhabela is by ferry from São Sebastião, which is on the northern coast of São Paulo state. The ferry runs on a regular basis and takes both people and cars. It takes about three to four hours to drive from São Paulo’s city to the ferry. It’s best to make a reservation when things are busy.
5. What is the price range for luxury hotels in São Paulo?
The prices of high-end hotels in São Paulo vary a lot depending on the time of year and the hotel itself. The Rosewood São Paulo costs around R$ 3,826 per night, the Palácio Tangará costs R$ 3,600 and the W São Paulo costs R$ 3,053. Coastal properties cost between R$ 1,700 and R$ 3,600, depending on the season and the type of room. Ilha de Toque Toque and other small eco-lodges cost about $200 (about R$ 1,000–1,200).
6. Are these hotels suitable for families?
Not all properties are suitable for families. W São Paulo and Rosewood São Paulo are better for adults and business travelers, but families are welcome too. Even though DPNY Beach Hotel and other coastal resorts are fancy, they are suitable for families. Olímpia’s Hot Beach Resort, Atibaia’s Tauá Resort and Guarujá’s Jequitimar Resort are all excellent family resorts with lots of activities for kids and amenities for families.
7. Do São Paulo hotels offer airport transfers?
Most luxury hotels can help you get to and from the airport, but their rules may be different. W São Paulo, for example, doesn’t offer free airport transfers, but they can help guests set them up. Always check the costs and options for transfers when you make a reservation.
8. What should I know about hotel policies for minors in Brazil?
According to Brazilian Federal Law 8.069/1990, people under 18 can’t stay in hotels unless they are with their parents or another adult. If an adult apart from the child’s parents is with them, they need a notarized written permission form that both parents have signed, as well as notarized copies of their IDs. Every minor must have a valid photo ID. People who travel internationally should ensure they have all the right paperwork ready ahead of time.
