Banespa Building São Paulo - smiling woman in grey top
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Banespa Building São Paulo

4.7
·12k reviews·, Brazil

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Banespa Building São Paulo - smiling woman in grey top

Banespa Building São Paulo

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(12k reviews)

"Absolutely love how they transformed this heritage building into observation deck, bar and exhibit complex."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Observation Deck

Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of São Paulo's sprawling metropolis from the top floors.

Instagram
Art Deco Architecture

Art Deco Architecture

Exterior and Interior

Admire the iconic Art Deco design, inspired by the Empire State Building, a true architectural gem.

Instagram
Historical Bank Vault

Historical Bank Vault

Basement

Explore the preserved bank vault, a unique glimpse into the building's past as a financial hub.

Reddit
Rotating Exhibitions

Rotating Exhibitions

Exhibition Halls

Discover diverse cultural, historical, and art exhibitions that change regularly.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Secure your tickets online before visiting to avoid long queues, especially during peak hours. Many visitors recommend booking ahead to guarantee your preferred time slot for the observation deck and exhibitions. Reddit

Manage Photo Expectations

While the views are stunning, some visitors note that dirty glass can hinder photography. Consider visiting on a clear day and be patient to capture the best shots of the São Paulo skyline. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
City lights sparkle
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

surreal ❤️‍🔥 #edificiomartinelli #martinelli #saopaulo
@maalemar
191.3K likes • 1.6M views

Book Online for Ease

Purchase tickets in advance online to skip lines and secure your spot. Reddit :admission_tickets:

Clear Day for Views

Visit on a clear day for the best panoramic city views. TikTok :camerawithflash:

São Paulo entrega a melhor cena #saopaulo #edificiomartinelli #sp
@estherlingrado
53.4K likes • 455K views
In downtown São Paulo, Brazil, the Farol Santander, formerly the Banespa Building, stands tall as an architectural masterpiece inspired by the iconic Empire State Building. Established in 1947 as the Sao Paulo Empire State, with 35 floors, and 528 feet it once housed the Sao Paulo State Bank, symbolizing a significant economic milestone. Today, under Santander’s stewardship, this historic landmark...
brasilcomestoyou
4 likes • 207 views

Explore the Vault

Don't miss the historic bank vault in the basement – it's a unique experience! Reddit :world_map:

Cafe & Bar Options

Enjoy refreshments at the cafe on the 26th floor or the bar/restaurant on the 28th. Reddit :coffee:

Farol Santander; para mim, a torre do Banespa. Inspirado no Empire State Building, o arranha-céu chamado Edifício Altino Arantes, tem 161 metros de altura, 35 andares e 14 elevadores. Inaugurado em 1947, foi considerado por 20 anos o prédio mais alto de São Paulo. Hoje o espaço é sede do Santander Cultural, e o mirante do prédio proporciona uma vista de 360° a até 40 km, de onde é possível avistar...
artenaturezadecoracao
2 likes • 85 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Online for Ease

Purchase tickets in advance online to skip lines and secure your spot. Reddit :admission_tickets:

Clear Day for Views

Visit on a clear day for the best panoramic city views. TikTok :camerawithflash:

Explore the Vault

Don't miss the historic bank vault in the basement – it's a unique experience! Reddit :world_map:

Cafe & Bar Options

Enjoy refreshments at the cafe on the 26th floor or the bar/restaurant on the 28th. Reddit :coffee:

Check Exhibition Schedule

See what current exhibitions are on display to enhance your visit. Instagram :art:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(12k reviews)

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

Stunning city views
Impressive Art Deco design
Cultural exhibitions

What People Dislike

Dirty observation glass
Inconsistent staff interactions

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. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🏙️ 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. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

Farol Santander hosts a variety of exhibitions focusing on art, history, culture, and photography, often reflecting São Paulo's identity and heritage. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

📸 📸 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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

Beyond the panoramic views, the Art Deco interior, the grand crystal chandelier upon entry, and the preserved bank vault are all highly photogenic. Instagram

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Banespa Building will find a mix of engaging elements. The observation deck offers a thrilling experience for children, allowing them to see the city from a bird's-eye view. The exhibitions often cater to a broad audience, with some potentially being interactive or visually stimulating for younger visitors. It's advisable to check the current exhibition schedule to ensure it aligns with your children's interests. The presence of a cafe also provides a convenient spot for snacks and breaks. InstagramReddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photography lovers, the Banespa Building offers incredible opportunities. The panoramic city views are a must-capture, especially during the golden hour or at night when the city lights up. While the glass can sometimes be a challenge, bringing a microfiber cloth can help clean a section for clearer shots. Don't forget to capture the building's stunning Art Deco architecture from the outside, and explore the photogenic interior details like the grand chandelier and the historic bank vault. InstagramReddit

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will appreciate the Banespa Building's rich past. As a former bank headquarters and once the tallest building in São Paulo, it represents a significant chapter in the city's development. Exploring the preserved bank vault and learning about its Art Deco design and construction offers a tangible connection to São Paulo's economic and architectural history. The exhibitions often touch upon the city's heritage, providing further context. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvel: Art Deco & Empire State Inspiration

The Banespa Building, officially known as Farol Santander, is a striking example of Art Deco architecture. Its design, heavily inspired by New York's iconic Empire State Building, was a bold statement of São Paulo's burgeoning economic power and ambition in the mid-20th century. Completed in 1947, it stood as the city's tallest skyscraper for two decades, symbolizing progress and modernity. The building's distinctive setbacks, vertical emphasis, and decorative elements are hallmarks of the Art Deco style, making it a significant landmark in São Paulo's skyline. Instagram+1

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. InstagramReddit

Experiencing the Views and Exhibitions

The primary draw for many visitors to Farol Santander is the panoramic observation deck. Offering breathtaking views across the vast expanse of São Paulo, it provides a unique perspective on the city's immense scale and urban sprawl. While the views are consistently praised, some reviewers mention that the glass can be dirty, potentially impacting the clarity of photographs. Despite this, the unobstructed vistas from the dedicated viewing platforms are a major highlight. TikTokReddit

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. InstagramReddit

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