Things To Do
in Belo Horizonte
Belo Horizonte, the capital of Minas Gerais, is renowned for its beautiful hills, modern architecture, and vibrant culture. The city boasts a rich culinary scene, offering a variety of traditional Brazilian dishes. Known for its friendly locals and a relaxed atmosphere, Belo Horizonte is also a hub for arts and music.
With numerous parks and nearby natural attractions, it provides an excellent blend of urban and outdoor experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Praça da Liberdade, a beautiful public square surrounded by historical buildings and gardens. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and take photos of the stunning architecture.
Head to Mercado Central, where you can sample local foods and shop for souvenirs. Don't miss trying the famous pão de queijo (cheese bread) and local cheeses.
Visit the Savassi neighborhood for dinner at a traditional churrascaria (barbecue restaurant) and enjoy the lively atmosphere with live music.
Take a trip to Parque das Mangabeiras, a large urban park with beautiful trails and lookout points over the city. Enjoy a morning hike and the fresh air.
Visit the Museu de Arte da Pampulha, an iconic architectural landmark designed by Oscar Niemeyer, and explore its impressive art collection.
Wrap up your day at a local bar in the Santa Tereza neighborhood, famous for its vibrant nightlife and live samba music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $10-$25 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-$5 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (5 km) | $3-$6 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $30-$50 |
| 🎟️Cinema ticket | $5-$10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich culinary scene with unique local dishes.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Beautiful parks and outdoor activities.
- Public transportation can be limited in some areas.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours.
- Some neighborhoods may be less safe after dark.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Onde fica..." - Where is...
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Belo Horizonte
Visit one of these nice places.
This historic square is adorned with beautiful gardens and stunning colonial architecture, making it perfect for photos.
An iconic church designed by Oscar Niemeyer, featuring unique architecture and a serene lake setting.
Offering sweeping views of the city and lush greenery, this park is ideal for capturing nature and urban landscapes.
Food in Belo Horizonte
Belo Horizonte Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These delightful cheese breads are a staple snack in Minas Gerais, enjoyed fresh and warm.
Must-Try!
A hearty dish made with beans, manioc flour, and sausage, often served with fried eggs.
A thick bean paste served with rice and typically accompanied by meats, this dish is both filling and flavorful.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can taste and buy local cheeses, cured meats, and sweets, as well as enjoy street food stalls.
A weekly open-air market featuring crafts, art, and delicious street food options, held in the Feira de Arte e Artesanato.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Brazilians are warm and friendly; greetings usually involve a handshake or a kiss on the cheek.
Wait for the host to invite you to start eating; it's polite to say 'bom apetite' before meals.
Brazilians tend to stand closer during conversations compared to some cultures, so be prepared for a more intimate space.
Safety
Tipping in Belo Horizonte
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, and many locals also tip taxi drivers and hotel staff.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for small purchases and street food.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot temperatures, with highs around 30°C (86°F). It's a great time for outdoor activities, but stay hydrated.
Temperatures start to cool down, ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). The weather is pleasant for exploring the city.
Mild temperatures can drop to around 10°C (50°F) at night, making it comfortable for sightseeing. Rain is less frequent.
With temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F), this season offers beautiful blooms and is excellent for outdoor activities.
Belo Horizonte at Night
Hiking in Belo Horizonte
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail located in the Serra do Curral, offering stunning views and a chance to experience local flora and fauna.
This trail is part of the Rola-Moça State Park, providing a challenging hike with beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Belo Horizonte by plane.
Located about 40 km from downtown Belo Horizonte, this airport serves domestic and international flights, providing easy access to the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population is comprised of working-class citizens, many of whom are engaged in various sectors including manufacturing and services.
With several universities in the city, a large demographic of students contributes to the vibrant cultural scene and nightlife.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Belo Horizonte is home to two major football clubs, Atlético Mineiro and Cruzeiro, and matches are a significant part of local culture.
Volleyball is also popular, with many locals participating in recreational and competitive leagues throughout the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Belo Horizonte.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Belo Horizonte offer vegetarian dishes, especially those featuring beans, rice, and fresh vegetables.
While traditional Brazilian cuisine often includes gluten, many places can accommodate gluten-free diets upon request.