Things To Do
in São Luís
São Luís, the capital of Maranhão state in Brazil, is a vibrant city known for its rich colonial history, diverse cultural heritage, and beautiful coastal scenery. With well-preserved 17th-century architecture, particularly in its historic center, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage site. São Luís is also famous for its unique blend of African, Portuguese, and indigenous influences, evident in its music, food, and festivals.
Visitors will find a lively atmosphere, especially during the annual Bumba Meu Boi festival, celebrating local traditions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Palácio dos Leões, the former governor's palace with stunning colonial architecture and beautiful gardens.
Wander through the historic streets lined with azulejos (ceramic tiles) and visit the Museu Histórico e Artístico do Maranhão to learn about the region's history.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll along the waterfront promenade to take in the sunset over the bay.
Visit the Casa das Tulhas, a bustling market where you can find local crafts, spices, and traditional foods.
Take a trip to the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, known for its stunning sand dunes and lagoons, perfect for swimming and exploring.
Return to São Luís for a lively evening of traditional music and dance at a local bar or cultural center.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Restaurant | $10-$20 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-$4 |
| 🚌Public Transport Ticket | $1 |
| 🍺Domestic Beer | $3 |
| 🛍️Souvenir | $5-$15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Beautiful beaches and natural landscapes
- Vibrant local festivals and nightlife
- High humidity can be uncomfortable
- Limited English spoken in some areas
- Transportation can be challenging outside the city center
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in São Luís
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful beach with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for sunset photography.
The historic center features colorful colonial buildings and vibrant street art, ideal for capturing the essence of São Luís.
A viewpoint offering panoramic views of the coastline and city skyline, especially breathtaking at dusk.
Food in São Luís
São Luís Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional rice dish made with a local herb called 'cuxá', mixed with shrimp and spices.
Must-Try!
A savory shrimp pie made with a flaky crust, often served as an appetizer.
A dish of shredded codfish prepared with onions, eggs, and potatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market featuring a variety of local foods, handicrafts, and fruits.
Try local snacks like 'pastel' (fried pastry) and 'acarajé' (fried bean cake) from street vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; close friends often greet with a kiss on the cheek.
Be respectful of local traditions and customs, especially during festivals.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; swimsuits are acceptable at the beach.
Safety
Tipping in São Luís
Ensure a smooth experience
It is common to tip around 10% in restaurants; check if a service charge is included.
Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is preferred in markets and small eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid, ideal for beach activities and exploring outdoor attractions.
Expect heavy rains; great for indoor activities and cultural experiences.
Pleasant temperatures and less humidity, perfect for sightseeing and cultural festivals.
Warm temperatures with occasional rain; good for outdoor adventures and visiting national parks.
São Luís at Night
Hiking in São Luís
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Explore the stunning landscapes of dunes and lagoons on various marked trails in this national park.
A bit further from the city, this park offers beautiful trails through canyons and waterfalls, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Airports
How to reach São Luís by plane.
Located about 15 km from the city center, this airport connects São Luís with major cities in Brazil and a few international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The region is home to several indigenous communities that contribute to the cultural diversity of São Luís.
A significant portion of the population is of African descent, shaping the city's music, food, and festivals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in São Luís, with local teams playing in regional leagues.
Martial arts, especially Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, are gaining popularity, with many schools and competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting São Luís.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to ask for specific dishes.
Gluten-free options are limited; it's best to check with the restaurant about ingredients.