Banespa Building São Paulo
Iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic São Paulo views and cultural exhibitions, once the city's tallest building.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Banespa Building São Paulo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic São Paulo views and cultural exhibitions, once the city's tallest building.
"Absolutely love how they transformed this heritage building into observation deck, bar and exhibit complex."
Book Online for Ease
Purchase tickets in advance online to skip lines and secure your spot. :admission_tickets:
Clear Day for Views
Visit on a clear day for the best panoramic city views. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views
Observation Deck
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of São Paulo's sprawling metropolis from the top floors.
Art Deco Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the iconic Art Deco design, inspired by the Empire State Building, a true architectural gem.
Historical Bank Vault
Basement
Explore the preserved bank vault, a unique glimpse into the building's past as a financial hub.
Rotating Exhibitions
Exhibition Halls
Discover diverse cultural, historical, and art exhibitions that change regularly.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Manage Photo Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Online for Ease
Purchase tickets in advance online to skip lines and secure your spot. :admission_tickets:
Clear Day for Views
Visit on a clear day for the best panoramic city views. :camerawithflash:
Explore the Vault
Don't miss the historic bank vault in the basement – it's a unique experience! :world_map:
Cafe & Bar Options
Enjoy refreshments at the cafe on the 26th floor or the bar/restaurant on the 28th. :coffee:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Online for Ease
Purchase tickets in advance online to skip lines and secure your spot. :admission_tickets:
Clear Day for Views
Visit on a clear day for the best panoramic city views. :camerawithflash:
Explore the Vault
Don't miss the historic bank vault in the basement – it's a unique experience! :world_map:
Cafe & Bar Options
Enjoy refreshments at the cafe on the 26th floor or the bar/restaurant on the 28th. :coffee:
Check Exhibition Schedule
See what current exhibitions are on display to enhance your visit. :art:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Banespa Building (Farol Santander) for its breathtaking panoramic views of São Paulo and its impressive Art Deco architecture. The transformation of this historic building into a cultural center with exhibitions and amenities is also highly appreciated. However, some guests have noted that the observation deck glass can be dirty, impacting photo quality, and a few have reported unwelcoming interactions with staff.
"Nice view over the city but a shame that the glass is dirty so it's difficult to take good photos. Also there are viewing platforms on 2 sides of the building but not 360 view.
There's a cafe on the 26th floor which does various food and hot drinks or a bar/restaurant on the 28th floor."
Suzie G
"Absolutely love how they transformed this heritage building into observation deck, bar and exhibit complex. The bar in the basement worths a visit because that’s where the safe of the bank used to be. The observation deck on the top is impressive!"
James
"What an awesome building that reflects the dreams and unity for the people of Sao Paulo, the exhibition and display rooms make it well worth a visit, beside the views from the lookout decks"
Wboy74
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Banespa Building, now known as Farol Santander, is easily accessible by public transport. You can take the metro to São Bento station (Line 1-Blue) and it's a short walk from there. Many visitors also use ride-sharing apps or taxis to reach the downtown area.
While there isn't dedicated parking for the building itself, several public parking garages are located in the surrounding downtown area. It's often more convenient to use public transport or ride-sharing services due to traffic congestion.
From Guarulhos Airport (GRU), you can take an airport bus service to the Tietê Bus Terminal and then transfer to the metro, or opt for a taxi or ride-sharing service directly to the Banespa Building. The journey can take 1-2 hours depending on traffic.
Yes, the area around the Banespa Building is part of São Paulo's historic downtown and is walkable. However, be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, as with any busy urban center.
The building generally offers accessibility, but it's best to check with Farol Santander directly for specific details regarding elevators and access to all exhibition areas and the observation deck.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for the observation deck and exhibitions can vary. As of recent information, a combined ticket was around R$25, but it's highly recommended to check the official Farol Santander website for the most current pricing and package options.
It is strongly advised to purchase your tickets online in advance, especially for weekends and holidays, to avoid long queues and ensure entry at your desired time.
Farol Santander typically operates from Tuesday to Sunday, with varying hours for exhibitions and the observation deck. It's essential to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening times, as they can change.
Yes, Farol Santander often offers different ticket options, including access to specific exhibitions, the observation deck, or combined packages. Check their website for the latest offerings.
While the observation deck is a major draw, Farol Santander also hosts various exhibitions and cultural events. You can typically purchase tickets for specific exhibitions if you're not interested in the panoramic views.
🎫 🏙️ Onsite Experience
From the observation deck, you'll get stunning panoramic views of São Paulo's vast urban landscape, including landmarks like the Municipal Theater, the Vale do Anhangabaú, and the historic downtown area.
Yes, there's a cafe on the 26th floor offering food and hot drinks, and a bar/restaurant on the 28th floor. These provide great spots to relax and enjoy the views.
Farol Santander hosts a variety of exhibitions focusing on art, history, culture, and photography, often reflecting São Paulo's identity and heritage.
Some visitors find that dirty glass can make photography challenging. It's recommended to visit on a clear day and be patient to get the best shots.
Originally the headquarters of the Bank of São Paulo State (Banespa), this Art Deco skyscraper was a symbol of the city's economic power and was once the tallest building in São Paulo.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
For photography, consider visiting during the 'golden hour' in the late afternoon for warm light, or in the evening to capture the city's dazzling lights. Weekday mornings also offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
To get the best skyline photos, try to visit on a clear day. If the glass is smudged, use a lens cloth to clean a small section for your shot. Experiment with different angles and focal lengths.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and around tall buildings for safety and privacy reasons. It's highly unlikely drones are permitted for public use at Farol Santander.
Beyond the panoramic views, the Art Deco interior, the grand crystal chandelier upon entry, and the preserved bank vault are all highly photogenic.
For personal use, standard camera equipment is usually fine. However, for professional photoshoots or commercial purposes, you'll likely need to obtain special permits from Farol Santander.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: Art Deco & Empire State Inspiration
Visitors often marvel at the building's grandeur, noting its imposing presence and the intricate details that reflect its era. The transition from its original function as the headquarters of the Bank of São Paulo State (Banespa) to its current role as a cultural and observation center, Farol Santander, highlights its enduring significance. The preservation of its historical features, such as the impressive crystal chandelier and the former bank vault, allows visitors to connect with its rich past while enjoying contemporary exhibitions and views.
Experiencing the Views and Exhibitions
Beyond the views, Farol Santander functions as a vibrant cultural hub. It hosts a rotating schedule of exhibitions that delve into art, history, photography, and São Paulo's cultural identity. These exhibitions are often well-curated and add significant value to a visit, offering a deeper understanding of the city and its people. The inclusion of amenities like a cafe and a bar/restaurant on upper floors allows visitors to extend their stay and enjoy the atmosphere.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit