Things To Do
in Alfenas

Alfenas is a charming city located in the southern region of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Known for its rich coffee culture, it boasts beautiful landscapes and a friendly atmosphere. The city offers a blend of urban life and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

With a vibrant local community and plenty of cultural attractions, Alfenas provides a unique glimpse into Brazilian life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Alfenas
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market, Feira do Produtor, where you can sample fresh produce and traditional Brazilian snacks.

afternoon
:

Explore the historical downtown area, visiting the Igreja Matriz de São Benedito and the charming Praça Getúlio Vargas.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Restaurante e Pizzaria São Carlos, known for its delicious pizzas and local dishes, followed by a stroll through the illuminated streets.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Hike at the nearby Parque Natural Municipal da Serra do Lopo, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the region.

afternoon
:

Relax at one of the many local coffee shops, like Café do Mercado, sipping on Minas Gerais coffee while enjoying the local ambiance.

evening
:

Visit a local bar, such as Bar do Ponto, to experience the nightlife and enjoy live music with the locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚌Public transport ticket$0.75
🏨Hotel night$40
🛒Groceries for a week$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited options for nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Occasional language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers.
  • Public transportation can be less frequent in the evenings.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica?" - Where is?

Places to Visit in Alfenas

Visit one of these nice places.

Igreja Matriz de São Benedito

A stunning church in the heart of Alfenas, known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant surrounding square.

Praça Getúlio Vargas

A picturesque square filled with lush greenery, perfect for capturing the essence of local life.

Parque Natural Municipal da Serra do Lopo

An outdoor park offering breathtaking landscapes and panoramic views, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Alfenas

Alfenas is a food lover's paradise, offering a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of Minas Gerais.

Alfenas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pão de Queijo

A popular cheese bread made from tapioca flour, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Must-Try!

Feijão Tropeiro

A hearty dish made with beans, eggs, sausage, and manioc flour, often served with rice.

Tutu de Feijão

A thick bean puree served with sautéed onions, bacon, and spices, typically enjoyed with rice and collard greens.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira do Produtor

A vibrant local market held on weekends where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and artisanal products.

Street Vendors

Various street vendors sell snacks like pastéis and coxinhas, perfect for a quick bite while exploring the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Alfenas is classified as tropical, with warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter lows can drop to around 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is more frequent in the summer months, while winters are generally dry and sunny.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake or a friendly hug is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dress Code

Dress is generally casual, but it’s advisable to wear appropriate attire when visiting religious sites.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated, but there is some flexibility. If you're late, a simple apology suffices.

Safety Guide

Safety

Alfenas is considered a safe city for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places.

Tipping in Alfenas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used in restaurants and shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities. It's also the rainy season, so be prepared for occasional showers.

Autumn (March to May)

Milder temperatures and less rain make it perfect for hiking and exploring the city.

Winter (June to August)

Cooler temperatures are common, and you can enjoy clear skies. This is a great time for enjoying local coffee.

Spring (September to November)

The weather begins to warm up again, and the landscape becomes vibrant with blooming flowers and greenery.

Nightlife Guide

Alfenas at Night

Alfenas has a lively nightlife scene with bars and clubs offering live music, particularly samba and sertanejo. Many locals gather in bars like Bar do Ponto, where you can enjoy drinks and socialize. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to mingle with locals and other travelers.

Hiking in Alfenas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Lobo

A scenic trail with various levels of difficulty, offering beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Caminho da Pedra

A historical hiking path that takes you through stunning landscapes and leads to ancient rock formations and local flora.

Airports

How to reach Alfenas by plane.

Cássio dos Santos Airport (ALF)

Located approximately 10 km from Alfenas, this small airport offers regional flights and is a convenient entry point to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Alfenas is quite walkable, especially in the downtown area where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within a short distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available. However, some neighborhoods may require a short car ride to access.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of the population consists of Brazilian families with deep roots in the region, contributing to the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Students

Alfenas is home to a number of universities and colleges, making it a vibrant hub for students from various backgrounds.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A beloved sport in Brazil, with many local teams and passionate fans. Matches are often held at local stadiums.

Volleyball

Another popular sport, often played in schools and recreational areas, with community tournaments held throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Alfenas is generally manageable, with main roads connecting different parts of the city. Public transportation options include buses that run regularly throughout the day, though schedules may vary. Most locals prefer to walk or use bicycles for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Alfenas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer meat-free dishes, and local markets provide fresh vegetables for self-catering.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional dishes may contain gluten, some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Alfenas is provided through public and private facilities. The public healthcare system offers basic services, but for specialized care, private clinics and hospitals are recommended. Travelers should have travel insurance to cover any potential medical expenses.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide