An unexpected treat right in the midst of Avenida Paulista, São Paulo's famous and most impressive avenue, this lovely 'house of roses' is one of the last mansions standing from the time when the Avenida was all grand homes, rather than the soaring corporate skyscrapers of today.

A French-influenced architectural beauty from 1928, the mansion is now an elegant cultural centre, mainly devoted to poetry – it features readings, exhibitions, courses and mainly literary events. The pretty surrounding garden from which it takes its name is an unlikely but lovely spot for a break from the Paulista hustle; and don't miss the fabulous café to the rear, where you can sit inside or outside, screened from the street by the house.