Mercado Municipal (Municipal Market), Sao Paulo (must see)

This enormous eclectic-style market first opened in 1933. Since then, it's retained a commitment to provide a central public market offering fruits, vegetables, meats, cereals, and spices. The Mercado Municipal imitates the Berlin Central Market with a covered building and side turrets. The exterior features neoclassical and Gothic influences with grand columns and arches. Glazed windows provide natural light to the interior.

The interior has fabulous stained glass pieces arranged in 32 panels. The stained glass was designed by Russian artist Conrado Sorgenicht Filho, who also designed stained glass panels in 300 Brazilian churches. Instead of religious themes, the stained glass in Mercado Municipal features on-point food production depictions.

On the first floor, visitors will find retailers. Here, you'll find any food item you want and discover new treats and goodies. Look for Brazilian nuts, coffee, fresh fish, oysters, meat, fruits, and vegetables. The second floor has several restaurants. To give you an idea of this market's impressive size, over 1,500 workers work here, and over 350 tons of food are exchanged in the market each day.

Why You Should Visit:
The Mercado Municipal is a beautiful building. The stained glass is worth admiring, and watching locals haggle over fruit prices might give you the confidence to step into the game. This is a worthwhile stop for fresh produce and meats or a traditional Brazilian lunch.

Tips:
Try the famous mortadella sandwich. The market is bustling at lunchtime, so if you love a hectic, immersive experience, try lunchtime. For a quieter pace, go before or after lunch.