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Mercado Municipal Paulistano: A Feast for the Senses

Experience São Paulo's vibrant culture and culinary delights at the historic Mercado Municipal, a feast for the senses since 1933.

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The Mercado Municipal Paulistano, affectionately known as the 'Mercadão,' is a vibrant public market in São Paulo's historic center. Inaugurated in 1933, it's a feast for the senses, offering a vast array of fresh produce, meats, spices, and gourmet foods within a stunning neoclassical building adorned with striking stained glass.

A brief summary to Mercado Municipal Paulistano

  • Monday 6 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-6 pm
  • Friday 6 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends.
  • Don't miss the famous mortadella sandwich and pastel de bacalhau.
  • Take time to admire the stunning stained-glass windows.
  • Be aware of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Consider using public transport, as parking can be limited.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Luz Metro/CPTM station, a major transport hub, the Mercado Municipal is approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Upon exiting the station, walk east along Rua da Cantareira. The market will be on your left. The current fare for the Metro or CPTM is R$5.20. You can transfer between the Metro and CPTM without incurring extra charges.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and 99 are readily available throughout São Paulo. From the city center (e.g., Praça da Sé), a taxi ride to the Mercado Municipal will typically take 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. A 5km ride in Sao Paulo costs about 25.6 BRL. Be sure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Centro Histórico, walking to the Mercado Municipal is a viable option. From the São Bento Monastery, head north along Rua São Bento, then turn right onto Rua da Cantareira. The market will be on your right. The walk is approximately 10 minutes. No costs are involved.

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Discover more about Mercado Municipal Paulistano

The Mercado Municipal Paulistano, or simply Mercadão, is more than just a market; it's a São Paulo institution. Located in the city's historic center, this bustling marketplace has been a hub of commerce and culture since its inauguration on January 25, 1933, São Paulo's anniversary. Designed by the architect Francisco Ramos de Azevedo's office and with facades by Felisberto Ranzini, the building itself is a masterpiece, showcasing a mix of neoclassical and Gothic styles. Inside, a dazzling array of sights, sounds, and smells awaits. Hundreds of vendors offer everything from exotic fruits and vegetables sourced from across Brazil to premium cuts of meat, fragrant spices, and artisanal cheeses. The market is particularly renowned for its enormous stained-glass windows, crafted by Russian artist Conrado Sorgenicht Filho, which depict scenes of food production in the São Paulo region. These windows flood the market with colorful light, creating a truly unique atmosphere. Beyond the shopping, the Mercadão is a culinary destination in its own right. It's home to numerous restaurants and food stalls, serving up everything from traditional Brazilian dishes to international cuisine. Two must-try items are the mortadella sandwich, piled high with the famous Brazilian sausage, and the pastel de bacalhau, a crispy codfish pastry. The market has gone through renovations, including a significant one in 2004 that added a mezzanine level with more restaurants. Today, the Mercado Municipal Paulistano remains a vital part of São Paulo's identity, attracting locals and tourists alike with its vibrant atmosphere, stunning architecture, and incredible food.

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