Itaú Cultural
Av. Paulista, 149, Bela Vista, São Paulo, 01311-000
With a prime position on São Paulo’s cultural corridor of Avenida Paulista, Itaú Cultural is one of the city’s most distinctive venues and exhibition spaces. Established more than 35 years ago—and dedicated to collecting, exhibiting, and supporting Brazilian artistic expression—the multi-part space comprises galleries, a theater, and a library and hosts events from exhibitions to performances and screenings.
The basics
One of São Paulo’s major cultural institutions, the not-for-profit Itaú Cultural offers visitors a wide range of experiences. Its two permanent collections—hosted in a design-led, two-story space—are dedicated to Brazilian history and numismatics and are a great place to begin your explorations. The center’s library, dedicated to Brazilian art, is also available to researchers, artists, and art students free of charge.
Itaú Cultural additionally hosts an ever-changing array of temporary exhibitions, theatrical performances, screenings, and talks. Most events are free for visitors; tickets can be picked up beforehand from the box office. Itaú Cultural is a great stop as part of a full day of cultural exploration in São Paulo and easy to explore independently.
Things to know before you go
- Itaú Cultural is fully accessible to wheelchair users.
- The center has no cafe, and consuming food and drink is prohibited on site.
- Visitors should register with the cultural center in advance to gain access to the library.
- Exhibitions are free for all to visit, and you do not need to register for tickets in advance.
How to get there
Itaú Cultural is located at Avenida Paulista, 149, São Paulo. It’s just a quick walk from Brigadeira station (served by Line 2 of the São Paulo Metro) and Vergueiro (served by Line 4). Numerous bus lines frequent the area, while taxis and rideshare services offer an easy and affordable way to get there.
When to get there
Itaú Cultural is open every day except Monday, from late morning until evening; it closes an hour early on Sundays and public holidays. Because the cultural center hosts a wealth of programming and changing exhibitions, it’s worth researching what’s on before your visit.
São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP)
Another must-visit cultural highlight of the Avenida Paulista is the São Paulo Museum of Art (Museu de Arte de São Paulo), or MASP. Housed in an instantly recognizable building by celebrated architect Lina Bo Bardi, the museum is home to one of Latin America’s most important art collections.
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