A Safe Exploration of Luz, Sao Paulo’s Decadent Neighborhood, Sao Paulo, Brazil

São Paulo is easily one of the most colourful cities that I have ever been to, with each of its neighborhoods displaying their own characteristic charms that are unmistakably theirs.

Part of the Bom Retiro district, Luz carries parts of São Paulo’s historical legacies but it has also unfortunately undergone some level of decay over the decades, giving it a very unique atmosphere.

Luz borders the neighborhood which is now dubbed as Cracolândia (quite literally translating to “Crackland” in English), which is infamous for its drug distribution and increasing number of homeless people, thereby making it one of the less safe parts of the city.

This guide will walk you through the key sites which can be visited while you are exploring the Luz neighborhood of São Paulo, while skipping the sights located on the more troubled part of the Bom Retiro. That being said, always check the latest information before you visit as situation may evolve.

Well connected to the airport, Luz Station may likely be one of the first landmarks that you come across if you choose to navigate the city using the public transportation.

First opened in the year of 1867, Luz Station is beautifully designed (courtesy of architect Charles Henry Driver), and ever since the year of 1976, it had earned the title of a National Historic Heritage of Brazil. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).