Farol Santander

Farol Santander occupies the former Banespa headquarters, a mid-century tower on Rua João Brícola in the historic centre that was once the tallest building in the city. Its stepped profile was inspired by the Empire State Building in New York, and its rooftop terrace has long been one of the best places to understand São Paulo's scale. On a clear day the view stretches across an ocean of towers to the horizon, and you can pick out Avenida Paulista, the Edifício Copan and the old railway lines that shaped the centre. The building has been converted into a cultural centre with exhibition spaces, an art programme and a restaurant, and the lift ride up is part of the experience. It is a rewarding stop for anyone who likes cityscapes, architecture or photography.

A typical visit takes about an hour and a half, including time on the viewing terrace and in the exhibition spaces below it. The terrace is open to the air, with a protective barrier and wide sweeping views in every direction, and it is at its best on a clear morning or in the late afternoon when the light turns golden.

Wind can pick up at height, so a light layer is useful even in warm weather. The lower floors host changing art and cultural exhibitions, and the lobby of the building keeps much of its original character.

Entry to the terrace is ticketed, and popular times such as weekends and public holidays can see queues, so check the opening days and book ahead if you can. The building keeps a weekly closing day, and visiting hours vary, so confirm the details before you set out. Bags may be checked on entry, and tripods are generally discouraged, so travel light. The lifts and viewing deck are step-free, which makes it one of the more accessible viewpoints in the city.

The tower stands among the historic landmarks of the old centre, so it pairs naturally with the Sé cathedral, the Mercadão and the Pinacoteca. A private guided tour with transport and a skip-the-line entry is on offer for those who want a guide and a simple connection between sights.

In the old centre, keep your phone out of sight in crowded streets, use a ride-hailing car for evening journeys, and aim to be at the top for the afternoon light. If the weather looks hazy, wait for a clearer day, since the view is the whole point.

Bring a little patience for the lifts at busy times, and use the wait to look at the historic details of the lobby, where the mid-century design still shows. Once on the terrace, walk the full circuit before you start taking photographs, because each side reveals a different part of the city: the dense towers of the centre, the green gaps of parks, and in the distance the long ridge where Avenida Paulista runs.

A good habit is to identify a few landmarks first, such as the Copan building, the Mercadão roof and the cathedral spires below you, so the skyline becomes a map. Early morning visits often bring the clearest air, while sunset brings colour and a crowd. The cafe and restaurant in the building make it easy to stay for a drink, and the exhibitions below are worth a short look on the way down.