Things To Do
in Assis
Assis is a charming inland city in western São Paulo state, nestled among fields and gentle hills. The town blends historic architecture with a modern, friendly vibe that welcomes visitors. Its lively markets, eateries, and cultural events reflect a strong agricultural heritage.
Surrounded by rural scenery, Assis offers easy day trips, river views, and crafts that showcase interior Brazil.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey by wandering through the charming streets of Assis, soaking in the rich history and architecture of its historic center. Visit the beautiful Igreja Matriz de São Francisco and admire its stunning artworks. Don’t forget to grab a coffee at a local café while observing the daily life of the town.
In the afternoon, head to the Museu de História e Folclore, where you can learn about the local culture and folklore of the region. Enjoy a leisurely walk in the nearby Praça dos Três Poderes, immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere. A visit to local artisan shops will provide unique souvenirs and gifts.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant to savor traditional Brazilian cuisine, such as feijoada or a delicious grilled meat platter. The vibrant nightlife begins to stir, offering live music in several venues around town. Experience the friendly ambiance as locals gather to enjoy the evening.
Kickstart your day with a hike to the nearby Serra do Mar, where the breathtaking views of the valleys will leave you in awe. The crisp morning air is perfect for birdwatching and capturing stunning photographs of the regional flora and fauna. The tranquility of nature will rejuvenate your spirit.
After the hike, enjoy a packed picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots. Spend the afternoon exploring the diverse ecosystems and perhaps visiting waterfalls in the surrounding area. This is an excellent opportunity for some quiet time or engaging in light outdoor activities.
Conclude your day by returning to Assis, where you can visit a local market to appreciate regional handicrafts and fresh produce. A leisurely dinner at a family-run restaurant will provide a chance to taste local specialties. Enjoy the peaceful evening atmosphere as you stroll through the quiet town streets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-2 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a relaxed, safe feel in the city center
- Strong culinary traditions and accessible day trips
- Good value for money with regional charm
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Smaller selection of high-end dining and international brands
- Transportation options can be less frequent outside peak hours
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Eu não entendo" - I don't understand
Places to Visit in Assis
Visit one of these nice places.
The central square with historic buildings and a church spire, ideal for dawn or twilight shots and candid street scenes.
A prominent church with a recognizable facade; great for architectural detail and exterior portraits.
A viewpoints area offering city panoramas, especially picturesque at sunset.
Green spaces, ponds, and walking trails that provide natural backdrops and reflections.
Calm waters and tree-lined shores suitable for tranquil landscape and reflection shots.
Food in Assis
Assis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic combo of rice, beans, fried eggs, greens, and pork, often served with pork scraps or extra sides.
Must-Try!
A hearty black bean stew with pork, typically served with rice, farofa, kale, and orange slices.
Grilled or roasted fish paired with cassava (mandioca) and a light sauce.
Cheese-filled Brazilian yuca flour rolls, a popular snack or breakfast option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and ready-to-eat snacks; a great place to observe everyday life and sample local bites.
Weekly street market where vendors sell produce, regional specialties, and homemade treats; ideal for a quick, flavorful lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; address people politely as Senhor/Senhora (Mr./Ms.) or use first names with a friendly tone once rapport is established.
Be patient in queues, use polite language, and show appreciation for hospitality. Avoid discussing sensitive topics in initial meetings.
Dress modestly in religious or formal spaces; ask before taking photos of people, especially in markets or religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Assis
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Brazil is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, leaving optional 5-10% for good service is common; you can simply round up the bill. For street vendors and markets, tipping is not expected.
Cash (Brazilian real, BRL) and cards are widely accepted. Most shops and restaurants take debit/credit cards; contactless payments are common. ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and often humid with frequent afternoon showers. Carry water, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid peak heat.
Milder days with cooler evenings. This is a comfortable period for walking tours and outdoor markets, with occasional rain showers.
Cooler and drier air with pleasant daytime temperatures. Layers are useful, especially in the mornings and evenings; mornings can feel chilly.
Warming temperatures and rising humidity; ideal for city strolls, parks, and outdoor photography as flowers begin to bloom.
Assis at Night
Hiking in Assis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short loop through parklands and countryside; suitable for easy hikes and wildlife watching.
A longer route that passes farms and small streams, offering quiet, pastoral landscapes a short drive from the city.
Airports
How to reach Assis by plane.
Major international gateway offering flights to domestic and international destinations; about a 3-5 hour drive to Assis depending on traffic.
Primary city airport with strong domestic connections; convenient for quick inbound flights to the region, roughly 4-5 hours by road depending on conditions.
Regional airport serving the interior; useful for faster connections if flying into the interior of São Paulo state before traveling to Assis.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A steady base of educated residents and university students contributing to a youthful energy.
Many long-term residents value community services, parks, and local markets.
Nearby agricultural communities that maintain traditional practices and sourcing for local markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in town and across Brazil; local matches and casual games are common in parks and schools.
Played in neighborhood courts and community centers; pickup games are common in the evenings.
A favored sport in schools and clubs, with indoor and outdoor courts available in parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Assis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted; look for beans, rice, salads, and fried plantains. When ordering, ask for sem carne or sem bacon and request meat-free preparation.