Best Things to do in Sao Luis (Maranhao) | Must-see attractions 2025

Igreja da Se

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Pç. D. Pedro II (Igreja Nossa Sra. da Vitória)

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Igreja da Se, São Luís’ 17th-century cathedral, features intricate frescoes and a baroque altar. Located along Av Dom Pedro II, it holds cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free. No admission charge required.

Museu Historico e Artistico do Maranhao

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Rua do Sol 302

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The Museu Histórico e Artístico do Maranhão in São Luís showcases 19th-century upper-class life through its curated collections and restored mansion architecture.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Entry includes a guided tour in Portuguese.

Igreja Nossa Senhora dos Remedios

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Praca Goncalves Dias

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Igreja Nossa Senhora dos Remedios in Sao Luis, Brazil, is a historic church built in 1794, showcasing Baroque architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Special events may have a ticket charge.

Convent of Mercy

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

Rua Da Palma

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The Convent of Mercy in São Luís, Brazil, is a significant heritage museum showcasing religious artifacts and colonial architecture.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Nossa Senhora do Rosario dos Pretos

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Rua do Egito Centro

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Nossa Senhora do Rosario dos Pretos is a historic church in Sao Luis, Brazil, significant for its Baroque architecture and cultural importance to Afro-Brazilian heritage.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free entry. Donations appreciated for maintenance and support.

Cafua das Merces

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Rua Jacinto Maia

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Cafua das Merces, located in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil, is a historical museum known for its rich cultural heritage and architectural significance.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Santo Antonio Church

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Rua Padre Antonio Veira - Centro

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Santo Antonio Church in Sao Luis, Brazil, is a historic Catholic church known for its Baroque architecture and cultural significance in the region.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Special events may have fees.

iglesia de San Pantaleon

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

R. São Pantaleão

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Iglesia de San Pantaleon is a historical church located in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil, known for its unique architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free entry for all visitors.

Sao Jose do Desterro Church

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Bairro de Desterro - Centro

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Sao Jose do Desterro Church in Sao Luis is a historical landmark built in 1711, known for its baroque architecture and cultural significance in Brazil's colonial history.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Sao Joao Church

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Rua da Paz com a Rua Sao Joao - Centro

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Sao Joao Church, located in Sao Luis, Maranhão, Brazil, features stunning baroque architecture and rich cultural history. It was founded in 1723 and remains a significant religious site.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for maintenance and restoration.

Nossa Senhora Santana Church

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Rua de Santana - Centro

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Nossa Senhora Santana Church in Sao Luis, Brazil, is a historically significant site known for its colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free.

Palacio La Ravardiere

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

Avenida Pedro II s/n

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Palácio de La Ravardière, dating back to 1689, now serves as São Luís' City Hall, featuring a bust of its French founder, Daniel de la Touche.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. No entry fees are required for visiting.

Casa de Cultura Huguenote Daniel de La Touche

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Rua Djalma Dutra 128

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Casa de Cultura Huguenote Daniel de La Touche in São Luís, Maranhão, features cultural exhibits and historical artifacts reflective of the region's French heritage.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a ticket fee.

Palacio Cristo Rei

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Praça Gonçalves Dias - Centro

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Palacio Cristo Rei is a historic tourist attraction in São Luís, Brazil, featuring rich architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Archeology and Natural History Research Center of Maranhao

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Rua do Giz

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The Archeology and Natural History Research Center of Maranhao in Sao Luis features exhibits on regional archeology and natural history, attracting researchers and tourists alike.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Parque Botanico da Vale

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

s/n Av. dos Portugueses

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Parque Botanico da Vale in São Luis, Brazil, features diverse flora, gardens, and cultural spaces, allowing visitors to connect with nature and heritage.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Arthur Azevedo Theather

2:00 PM–8:00 PM

Theater

Rua do Sol s/n

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Arthur Azevedo Theater in Sao Luis, Brazil, offers a rich cultural experience with its unique architecture and historical significance. Embrace the local arts scene.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Paid. Ticket prices vary based on the event and seating selection.

Casa do Tambor de Crioula

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

R. da Estrela

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Casa do Tambor de Crioula preserves the cultural heritage of Maranhão, Brazil, showcasing traditional music, dance, and local artisanship in a vibrant setting.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have associated costs.

Museu do Reggae do Maranhao

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Rua da Estrela Praia Grande

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Museu do Reggae do Maranhao is the first reggae-themed museum outside Jamaica, located in São Luís, Brazil, showcasing the cultural impact of reggae music.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Igreja do Carmo

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Praça João Lisboa

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Igreja do Carmo is a historic Catholic church in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil, known for its unique architecture and rich cultural significance.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations may be welcomed for maintenance.

The City's Fortification System

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Dr. Jackson Kepler Lago - Ponta D'areia

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The City's Fortification System is an open-air museum in São Luís, Brazil, featuring historical forts that showcase colonial architecture and rich history.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a fee.

Mac Center

8:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

Cohama (Rua Euclides Faria)

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Mac Center in Sao Luis, Brazil offers modern office spaces, meeting rooms, and event venues for businesses looking to thrive in an urban environment.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Monthly membership or hourly rental fees apply. Day passes are also available for occasional users.

Shopping Marajo

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Avenida Guajajaras

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Shopping Marajo is a large shopping center in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil, featuring over 100 stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a ticket.

Igreja Batista Luz e Vida

6:00 PM–9:00 PM

Church

Brazil

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Igreja Batista Luz e Vida in Sao Luis, Brazil, is a vibrant Baptist church known for its community outreach and modern architecture that supports spiritual growth.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome but not required.

Igreja De N Sra da Conceicao

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Av. Casemiro Júnior

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Igreja De N Sra da Conceicao, founded in 1789, features Baroque architecture and significant cultural heritage in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free to enter. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Igreja de Sant'ana

8:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Avenida Qutro

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Igreja de Sant'ana in São Luís, Maranhão, is a historic church founded in 1720, renowned for its Baroque architecture and role in local culture.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Special events may have specific fees.

Igreja Batista do Angelim

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

Brazil

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Igreja Batista do Angelim is a Baptist church in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil, known for its community involvement and contemporary worship style.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed to support community programs.

Igreja Batista do Olho D'Agua

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Brazil

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Igreja Batista do Olho D'Agua in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil, is a vibrant Baptist church known for its community activities and welcoming environment.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community initiatives.

Igreja Santissima Trindade

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

São Luís

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Igreja Santissima Trindade is a historic church in Sao Luis, Maranhao, Brazil, known for its neoclassical architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Catedral de Louvor Maranata

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Brazil

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Catedral de Louvor Maranata in Sao Luis, Brazil, is a modern church emphasizing community and worship, with each member actively involved in ministry.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are accepted to support community programs.

Jaracati Shopping

9:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Av. Professor Carlos Cunha

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Jaracati Shopping in Sao Luis, Brazil, features diverse shops, dining options, and entertainment, making it a central hub for both locals and visitors.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Special events or certain attractions may have additional costs.

Patio Norte Shopping

Mo-Su 10:00-22:00

Mall

Estrada de São Jose de Ribamar (Rua do Cajueiro)

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Patio Norte Shopping in Sao Luis, Brazil offers diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment options suitable for families and tourists alike.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special events may have a cost.

Galileu Center

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Mall

São Luís

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Galileu Center in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil is a science and astronomy museum that promotes education through interactive exhibits and programs for all ages.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Some workshops may require a nominal fee.

Aririzal Center

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Mall

Rua Aririzal

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Aririzal Center in Sao Luis, Brazil, is a cultural hub showcasing local art, crafts, and history, with a focus on Maranhão's diverse heritage.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some workshops may require a small fee.

Rio Anil Shopping

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

8 Av. São Luís Rei de França

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Rio Anil Shopping in São Luis, Brazil features over 200 shops, a food court, cinemas, and a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a prime shopping destination.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some events or promotions may involve additional charges.

Show do RPM

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Event hall

Brazil

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Show do RPM in São Luís features local music and cultural performances, showcasing Maranhão's rich cultural heritage. Enjoy vibrant displays and engaging experiences.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special events may have a small fee.

Palacio Henrique De La Roque

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

Av. Jeronimo de Albuquerque (S/n)

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Palacio Henrique De La Roque is a historic palace in Sao Luis, Brazil, reflecting 18th-century architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Shopping do Cidadao

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Public Building

Shopping da Ilha

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Shopping do Cidadao in São Luís offers a variety of shops, dining options, and entertainment activities. It's a vibrant shopping destination popular among locals and visitors.

Duration: Around 2-3 hours.

Free. Some events may require a paid ticket.

Ceuma Turu Direito

8:00 AM–7:00 PM

University

Av Dos Francesses

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Ceuma Turu Direito in Sao Luis, Brazil, is an educational institution known for its expansive campus, strong academic programs, and community engagement initiatives.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free entry for campus tours and events; specific workshops may have a fee.

Igreja Presbiteriana do Cruzeiro do Anil

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

Brazil

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Igreja Presbiteriana do Cruzeiro do Anil is a prominent church in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil, known for its rich history and cultural contributions.

Duration: Around 1 hour.

Free. Donations are encouraged during events.

Igreja Batista Nacional Em Altos Do Calhau

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Brazil

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Igreja Batista Nacional Em Altos Do Calhau in São Luís offers vibrant community worship. The church's architecture reflects modern influences and plays a key role in local culture.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community programs.

Assembleia De Deus Area 78

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Rua Jorge Mendes N-06

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Assembleia De Deus Area 78 in Sao Luis, Brazil, offers vibrant services and community events, highlighting the influence of Evangelical Christianity in the region.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are encouraged but not required during services.

Curso de Direito

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

University

São Luís

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Curso de Direito in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil, offers a comprehensive legal education with a focus on Brazilian law, founded in the cultural heart of the region.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free entry for visitors. Special events may have an admission fee.

Uniceuma

6:00 AM–6:00 PM

University

Brazil

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Uniceuma, located in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil, features diverse ecosystems with sand dunes, lagoons, and rich biodiversity, ideal for nature lovers and explorers.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Some guided tours may have a fee.

Igreja Batista do Cohatrac

6:00 PM–9:00 PM

Church

Cohatrac (Av. Contorno Leste)

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Igreja Batista do Cohatrac is a prominent Baptist church in São Luís, Maranhão, known for its vibrant community and architectural design.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community activities.

Igreja Nossa Senhora da Natividade

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

São Luís

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Igreja Nossa Senhora da Natividade is a historic church in Sao Luis, Brazil, known for its baroque architecture and cultural significance dating back to the 18th century.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Special events may have fees.

Shopping Passeio

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Brazil

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Shopping Passeio is a vibrant shopping center in São Luís, Maranhão, featuring a variety of stores, food courts, and entertainment options for all ages.

Duration: Around 2-3 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Valparaiso Acqua Park

9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Theme Park

Estrada da Pindoba

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Valparaiso Acqua Park is a fun water park in Sao Luis, Brazil. It features several pools and exciting attractions for visitors of all ages, along with dining options that serve local foods.

Duration: approx. 2-4 hours

$10

Beach Aracagy

8:00 AM-6:00 PM

Landmark

Av. Atlântica

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Beach Aracagy is a popular spot in Sao Luis, Maranhao. It features soft sand and clear waters, making it a great place for swimming and relaxing by the sea.

Duration: approx. 2-3 hours

Free

Sao Luiz Historical Center

9:00 AM-6:00 PM

Landmark

Tv. Boa Ventura

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The São Luiz Historical Center is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colonial architecture and rich history. Visitors can explore colorful buildings and museums that reflect the city's diverse past.

Duration: approx. 2-3 hours

Free