Things To Do
in Antônio Carlos
Antônio Carlos is a small hill town in Santa Catarina that offers a calm, rural charm and scenic landscapes. Nestled among green valleys and pine-lined roads, it serves as a tranquil gateway to the Serra do Tabuleiro region. The atmosphere blends traditional agriculture with warm, friendly locals and authentic regional cuisine.
It’s an ideal base for day trips to beaches and mountain viewpoints while staying away from crowded tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Antônio Carlos and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll in the town's charming streets, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant local shops. Grab a breakfast at a local café featuring traditional Brazilian treats such as pão de queijo.
Explore the surrounding natural beauty by visiting the nearby Lagoa do Perí, where you can enjoy a relaxing afternoon of hiking and swimming. Be sure to capture photos of stunning views of the lagoon and forests. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, immersing yourself in the peaceful environment.
Savor a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes made with fresh locally sourced ingredients. Engage with friendly locals and learn more about the culture over a glass of cachaça. Wind down your first evening by taking in the stunning sunset views, perhaps by the lagoon.
Head out early to visit the stunning Parque Nacional de São Joaquim, known for its diverse ecology and stunning landscapes. Take a guided nature walk to discover unique flora and fauna while breathing in the fresh mountain air. Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking vistas.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature at one of the park's many serene spots. Spend the afternoon hiking along well-marked trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints. As you hike, look out for wildlife and take time to appreciate the tranquility of the area.
Return to Antônio Carlos to enjoy some traditional Brazilian barbecue known as 'churrasco' at a local eatery. Share stories and experiences with fellow travelers or locals, enjoying the warm atmosphere. End your evening with a gentle stroll through the town under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🚌Local bus ride | $0.75-2 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
| 🛒Groceries | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Florianópolis with easy access to beaches and mountains
- Quiet, scenic rural charm
- Friendly locals and authentic regional experiences
- Good day-trip base for Serra do Tabuleiro
- Limited nightlife and urban attractions
- Some areas require a car to reach rural spots
- Public transit is less frequent than in big cities
- Fewer high-end dining options compared with larger cities
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Eu gostaria de..." - I would like to...
Places to Visit in Antônio Carlos
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of surrounding hills and valleys, especially striking at sunrise and sunset.
Historic church with classic colonial architecture and decorative details.
Forest-covered slopes and distant coastline from elevated overlooks; ideal for landscape shots.
Pastoral scenes with fields, cattle, and winding roads—great for golden-hour photography.
Food in Antônio Carlos
Antônio Carlos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy, cheesy polenta served as a side or main, a staple in hill-country eateries.
Must-Try!
Assorted grilled meats with sides like rice, beans, and farofa, common in local taverns.
Grilled freshwater fish sourced from nearby rivers, often served with fresh vegetables.
Skewered, grilled cheese bites that are a popular street-side snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small municipal market offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, honey, and baked goods.
Weekly markets where farmers sell vegetables, dairy, bread, and handmade snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple 'Olá' or 'Oi' with a handshake; address people respectfully as 'Senhor' or 'Senhora' in formal settings.
Politeness matters; maintain friendly, courteous conversation and avoid sensitive topics with strangers.
Safety
Tipping in Antônio Carlos
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, tipping (gorjeta) is common but not mandatory. If service is not included, 5-10% is typical in restaurants; some establishments automatically add a service charge.
Cash and cards (credit/debit) are widely accepted; mobile payments and contactless options are increasingly common in towns near Florianópolis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated, use sun protection, and carry light rain gear.
Milder days and cooler nights; comfortable for hikes and golden-hour photography.
Cooler and drier days; pleasant for outdoor activities and clear skies for stargazing.
Wetter start with blooming flora; vibrant landscapes and more wildlife activity.
Antônio Carlos at Night
Hiking in Antônio Carlos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of forest trails with scenic overlooks and waterfall viewpoints close to Antônio Carlos.
Elevated routes offering panoramic views of the countryside.
Airports
How to reach Antônio Carlos by plane.
Main gateway to the region; about a 40-60 minute drive from Antônio Carlos depending on traffic.
Smaller international airport serving northern Santa Catarina; estimate 60-90 minutes by road from Antônio Carlos.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A tightly knit rural community with generations of farming families.
Some residents work in nearby Florianópolis or Palhoça and commute to the city.
Tourists and retirees who enjoy the mountains and rural life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local leagues and informal games across towns.
Common at schools and recreation centers, especially in warmer months.
Rural communities celebrate riding; some farms offer guided rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Antônio Carlos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include polenta dishes, hearty vegetable stews, salads, and fresh cheeses; many places can tailor dishes with seasonal produce.