Pinacoteca de São Paulo 🇧🇷

Step into the Pinacoteca de São Paulo—affectionately known as Pina—the oldest art museum in the city. Founded in 1905, this dynamic institution focuses on Brazilian visual arts from the 19th century to the present day while featuring exhibitions from national and international artists. The museum spans three distinct locations: Pinacoteca Luz, Pinacoteca Estação, and Pina Contemporânea.

In the original Pinacoteca Luz building—designed by Ramos de Azevedo and featuring exposed bricks and a soaring central lobby—you can admire one of the largest and most representative collections of Brazilian art. With over 12,000 pieces, what to see includes famous works from master artists like Almeida Júnior and Pedro Alexandrino, along with the famed Nemirovsky Collection of modernism masterpieces, the Brasiliana Collection, and the Roger Wright Collection. Across the site, explore temporary exhibitions, drop by the historic Pinacoteca Estação (which also houses the Memorial da Resistência de São Paulo), or wander into Pina Contemporânea, integrated directly into Parque da Luz with its large public square, observation deck, and expansive basement gallery.

A visit offers an engaging, inclusive, and world-class look into Brazil's artistic history.

What to see at Pinacoteca de São Paulo

• Marvel at over 12,000 works of historic and contemporary Brazilian visual art
• Explore three distinct architectural spaces: Pinacoteca Luz, Pinacoteca Estação, and Pina Contemporânea
• See famous modernist masterpieces within the world-renowned Nemirovsky Collection
• Discover the historic interior design featuring original exposed brickwork and high-ceilinged courtyards

Visiting tips

Be sure to cross over to Pina Contemporânea to enjoy its spacious public square, observation deck, and cafeteria overlooking Parque da Luz.

How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Pinacoteca de São Paulo is easy to reach on São Paulo’s public transport, and pairs naturally with São Paulo Cathedral and Instituto Butantan. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our São Paulo travel guide.