Tatiana Cesso
For the second consecutive year, Rosewood São Paulo has been named the best hotel in South America by the prestigious The World’s 50 Best Hotels ranking. The list, which celebrates the finest hotels globally, placed the São Paulo establishment in 24th position, making it the only Brazilian hotel to be featured among the world’s top 50 in 2024.
Opened in 2022, Rosewood São Paulo has quickly made its mark among the world’s most renowned hotels, thanks to its sophisticated architecture, Brazilian art collection, and top-tier service. Located in the historic Cidade Matarazzo, an iconic 20th-century complex that has been meticulously restored, and nestled near Avenida Paulista, the city’s most famous avenue, the hotel spans 30,000 square meters, the hotel combines modern luxury with historic charm. The establishment is a masterclass in blending the old with the new. The hotel occupies two main buildings: the former Filomena Matarazzo Maternity Hospital, where 500,000 Paulistanos were born, and the visually stunning Torre Mata Atlântica. This tower, designed by renowned Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, stands as a tribute to Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, covered in lush greenery and home to over 250 trees.
Stepping into Rosewood São Paulo is like stepping into a haven of luxury, history, and nature. The design, helmed by acclaimed French entrepreneur Alexandre Allard, breathes life into every corner. Whether you’re in one of the 180 rooms or suites, dining in one of the six exclusive on-site restaurants, or relaxing by the rooftop infinity pool, the hotel’s signature ‘A Sense of Place’ philosophy is ever-present, ensuring that every guest feels connected to both the space and the rich cultural fabric of São Paulo.
A Celebration of Art and Culture
Beyond its stunning architecture and lush surroundings, what truly makes Rosewood São Paulo stand out is its commitment to celebrating Brazilian art and culture. The hotel houses a remarkable collection of 450 artworks created exclusively by 57 Brazilian artists. These artworks, ranging from sculptures to paintings and intricate textiles, encapsulate the vibrancy of Brazil’s artistic soul. One standout feature is the jazz bar, Rabo di Galo, where the ceiling itself is a work of art. This celestial, psychedelic masterpiece was crafted by artist Rodrigo de Azevedo Saad, known as Cabelo, and took over 68 hours to complete. Such attention to detail, paired with a deep reverence for local artistry, enhances the guest experience, transforming a stay at Rosewood São Paulo into an immersive cultural journey.
A new cultural addition to the hotel’s historic Cidade Matarazzo complex is Cidade Bradesco, a multidisciplinary space housed in the former Umberto I Hospital. Spanning two floors, this cultural hub is designed to host exhibitions and events featuring large-scale works that blend art, botany, science, design, music, and innovation. Promoting both national and international artistic exchanges, Cidade Bradesco offers 5,000 square meters of dynamic cultural experiences, just steps away from Avenida Paulista, yet surrounded by nature, providing visitors a perfect blend of urban energy and natural tranquility.
Eco-Conscious Luxury
In an era where sustainability is paramount, Rosewood São Paulo’s commitment to the environment goes beyond surface-level green initiatives. The hotel is part of Brazil’s largest upcycling project, utilizing 100% locally sourced materials and actively supporting a biodiversity program aimed at repopulating indigenous flora and fauna from the Mata Atlântica rainforest. The striking Mata Atlântica Tower, adorned with trees up to 14 meters tall, is a visual and ecological testament to the hotel’s dedication to nature. Inside, there’s a rigorous renewable energy plan and an in-house water filtration system that provides glass-bottled water, further minimizing its environmental footprint. This eco-conscious approach, intertwined with luxury, sets a new standard in the hospitality industry, proving that sustainability and elegance can coexist seamlessly.
A Hub for the Stylish and Elite
It’s no surprise that with such an alluring setting, Rosewood São Paulo has become a magnet for stylish international and local elites. The hotel’s restaurants, bars, and lounges buzz with energy, with movers and shakers gathering nightly at Le Jardin, the chic lobby bar. The rooftop infinity pool offers not just a relaxing swim but breathtaking views of São Paulo’s skyline, while the expansive spa is a tranquil retreat for guests seeking a moment of serenity. The recently launched 12,000-square-foot penthouse suite has quickly become one of the most coveted accommodations in the city. Designed with an organic, home-like feel, it features a garden inspired by Brazil’s rainforest, an oversized marble bathtub, and an infinity pool that seemingly merges with the skyline of São Paulo.
Exemplary Service and Attention to Detail
What elevates the Rosewood São Paulo experience beyond its stunning aesthetics and eco-credentials is its exceptional service. The staff’s warm, attentive, and personalized approach makes every guest feel not only welcome but truly special. Whether it’s remembering a guest’s favorite drink or offering bespoke city tours, the hotel’s service team goes above and beyond to ensure that each stay is unforgettable. It is this dedication to the art of hospitality that has solidified Rosewood São Paulo’s place among the world’s elite hotels.
A Brazilian Jewel on the Global Stage
In just two short years, Rosewood São Paulo has become a symbol of Brazilian elegance and a benchmark for luxury in South America. Its unique combination of heritage, art, sustainability, and top-tier service offers travelers a destination that is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience that lingers long after check-out. As the only hotel in Brazil to make The World’s 50 Best Hotels list, Rosewood São Paulo stands proudly as a testament to the power of thoughtful design, rich history, and impeccable hospitality. For those seeking the ultimate São Paulo experience, this award-winning hotel is not to be missed.
