Whether on foot or in a car, delight in the towering design of the Octavio Frias de Oliveira Bridge. Connecting the two sides of the city, this bridge serves as both a traffic causeway and an iconic image for citizens of São Paulo. Be sure to take a photo to remember your stay.
The Octavio Frias de Oliveira Bridge was completed in May 2008 to connect Marginal Pinheiros to the south area of the city across the Pinheiros River. It was named after the man who led one of the country’s most influential media organizations, Grupo Folha.
As you cross the Pinheiros River along one of the bridge’s curving causeways, look up to its X-shaped design. At 453 feet (138 metres) high, this structure requires the support of hundreds of cables that stretch away from its intersected pillars. This bridge is the only construction in the world that connects two curving roads to a single concrete support.
The view is particularly striking at night when the pillars are lit up dramatically by spotlights. Visitors throughout the year may see different light installations for certain holidays. At Christmas, the bridge is decorated with colourful spotlights to look like a Christmas tree.
After enjoying the sight of the bridge, take advantage of its access to São Paulo’s Centro district. Nearby, enjoy a glimpse of Brazilian nature at the Botanical Gardens or watch colourful fish swimming gracefully at the city aquarium. Farther toward the city, visit some of the area’s must-see attractions, including City Hall and the municipal theatre. In the evenings, look back toward the illuminated bridge from the observation deck of the Edifício Itália (Italia Building) with a tasty cocktail in hand.
The Octavio Frias de Oliveira Bridge is located a short drive southwest of the city’s downtown. Avoid the bridge during peak periods as congestion can slow to a crawl along these causeways.
