3 Best Bars in Centro, São Paulo

First opened in 1948, Bar Brahma used to be the meeting place of artists, intellectuals, and politicians. The decor is a time warp to the mid-20th century, with furniture, lamps, and a piano true to the period. This is one of the best places in São Paulo for live music, with traditional samba and Brazilian pop groups scheduled every week. Caetano Veloso immortalized the intersection of Ipiranga and São João Avenues, where the bar is located, in his 1978 song "Sampa." Cover fees range from R$15 to R$50.

Cine Joia takes the form of a resurrected vintage cinema, minus the seating but with the added attraction of a top-notch video-mapping system. See the site for live dates, or check out regular club nights like Talco Bells, where you'll hear soul classics. Cover fees average R$60.

You wouldn't imagine there's a hidden bar inside this old and poorly maintained building, with karaoke rooms that you can reserve for a fun night of singing. There's also a lively rooftop nightclub that attracts people of all styles, especially the young, by playing POP, Brazilian music, hip-hop, and Reggaeton. Snack options available.