Belo Horizonte

Day Trips

Start your day with a visit to Praça da Liberdade, a vibrant square surrounded by stunning colonial architecture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the nearby cafes, savoring traditional Brazilian pão de queijo and fresh coffee. Take some time to explore the nearby Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil, where you can admire contemporary art exhibitions.

Stroll through the bustling Mercado Central, where the vibrant colors and aromas of local produce, spices, and snacks beckon. Sample delicious local specialties like feijão de corda or doce de leite as you meander through the stalls. Afterward, visit the beautiful Igreja São José, a stunning 19th-century church with intricate interiors.

As the sun sets, head to the trendy Savassi neighborhood for dinner at a local churrascaria, indulging in an all-you-can-eat barbecue feast. After dinner, explore the lively nightlife, perhaps stopping by a local bar to enjoy some live music or a caipirinha. End your evening with a scenic walk through the illuminated Praça da Liberdade.

Begin your day at the Pampulha Modern Ensemble, a UNESCO World Heritage site designed by Oscar Niemeyer. Explore the stunning architecture of the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi and the surrounding gardens, which offer a peaceful escape from the city. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café with views of the lake.

Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to the Museu de Arte da Pampulha, which features a diverse collection of modern art. Spend time walking around the picturesque Pampulha Lagoon, where you can rent a pedal boat for a fun and relaxing experience. Grab lunch at one of the local restaurants that offer fresh seafood and regional dishes.

As evening approaches, return to the Pampulha area for a sunset view over the lagoon. Dine at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying the local cuisine with a focus on fresh fish and tropical flavors. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the water, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

Rise early and head to Serra do Curral, a mountain range that offers stunning panoramic views of Belo Horizonte. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local bakery, then embark on a hike through the lush trails of the national park. Keep an eye out for native wildlife as you ascend the trails, taking in the breathtaking scenery.

After your hike, relax with a picnic lunch at one of the scenic viewpoints overlooking the city. Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding nature paths, perhaps visiting Parque das Mangabeiras, which features beautiful gardens and more hiking opportunities. Engage with locals enjoying the outdoors and learn about the flora and fauna of the region.

Return to the city and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a trendy restaurant in the city center. Savor a mix of local and contemporary dishes that highlight the region's culinary diversity. Cap off the evening with a visit to a local music venue to experience the vibrant sounds of Brazilian music.

Start your day at the Feira Hippie, a vibrant open-air market that showcases local arts and crafts every Sunday. Browse through stalls filled with handmade jewelry, textiles, and artwork, and interact with the artisans behind the pieces. Enjoy a breakfast snack of fresh fruit or a traditional coxinha while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

After shopping, visit the Museu Clube da Esquina to learn about the legendary Brazilian music movement that originated in Minas Gerais. Engage with exhibits that showcase the influence of local musicians and their contributions to Brazilian culture. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that serves traditional dishes like pão de queijo and escondidinho.

As the day winds down, head to the historic Santa Tereza neighborhood for dinner at a cozy, family-run restaurant. Savor traditional Minas Gerais cuisine while enjoying the rustic charm of the area. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the neighborhood, admiring the colorful street art and lively atmosphere.

Begin your culinary exploration with a visit to a local market or bakery, sampling fresh ingredients like queijo minas and local fruits. Attend a cooking class where you can learn how to prepare traditional dishes such as feijão tropeiro or frango com quiabo. Engage with a local chef who will share stories about the cultural significance of Minas Gerais cuisine.

Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a communal lunch featuring the dishes you've prepared during the cooking class. Spend the afternoon visiting a local winery to taste regional wines and learn about the production process in Minas Gerais. Explore the vineyard and enjoy a scenic view of the rolling hills while sipping a glass of local wine.

As the evening sets in, return to the city for a gourmet dining experience at a popular restaurant known for its modern take on traditional cuisine. Indulge in a multi-course meal that highlights the best of Minas Gerais flavors. After dinner, find a cozy café to relax and enjoy a dessert like brigadeiro or a sweet tapioca treat.

Start your day at the Museu de Arte Moderna, where you can immerse yourself in Brazil's contemporary art scene. Explore the thought-provoking exhibitions and installations that reflect modern Brazilian culture. Grab breakfast at the museum café, enjoying the artistic ambiance.

Head to the nearby Praça do Papa, a park that offers stunning views of the city, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll. While there, you can relax on the grass or grab a snack from local vendors. Visit the nearby Centro de Arte Popular, which showcases folk art and crafts from across Brazil.

As night falls, enjoy dinner at a chic restaurant in the Savassi district, where you can taste innovative dishes inspired by global cuisines. After your meal, explore the local nightlife, perhaps visiting a bar featuring live samba or bossa nova music. End your evening with a nightcap, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Belo Horizonte.

Take a day trip to Inhotim, a breathtaking contemporary art museum and botanical garden located about an hour from Belo Horizonte. Start your visit with a guided tour that highlights the stunning outdoor installations and diverse plant life. Enjoy a light breakfast at the café on the premises, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Spend the afternoon wandering through the expansive gardens and galleries, taking your time to appreciate the unique artworks and sculptures. Engage with the environment as you stroll through the picturesque landscapes, photographing your favorite pieces. Enjoy lunch at one of the onsite restaurants that offer fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

As the day comes to a close, return to Belo Horizonte and unwind at your hotel or a cozy café. Reflect on the incredible art and nature you experienced at Inhotim while enjoying a refreshing drink. If you're up for it, seek out a local spot for a casual dinner and mingle with residents to share your day's adventures.

Start your day with a visit to Estádio Mineirão, one of Brazil's most famous soccer stadiums. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of Brazil's passion for football and see behind-the-scenes areas like the locker rooms. Grab breakfast at a nearby café, enjoying the energy of local fans gearing up for a match.

After your stadium tour, spend the afternoon at Parque Municipal, where you can rent a bike or simply enjoy a leisurely walk amidst lush greenery and serene lakes. Engage with locals participating in various recreational activities and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the park. For lunch, find a local food truck or kiosk serving traditional snacks like pastéis or acarajé.

As the evening approaches, return to the city center for a casual dinner at a lively restaurant featuring local dishes. Enjoy a meal while watching a live sports game on TV, embracing the local sports culture. Finish the night with a visit to a bar where you can join in on a game of pool or share stories with fellow sports enthusiasts.

Begin your day at Lagoa da Pampulha, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning walk around the scenic lake. Stop by a café for breakfast, enjoying a fresh juice and a pastry while taking in the views of the water. Engage with local joggers and cyclists, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

Spend your afternoon exploring the surrounding park areas, perhaps renting a bicycle to cover more ground and enjoy the lush landscape. Visit the nearby Igreja de São Francisco de Assis, whose unique architecture and beautiful gardens offer a perfect backdrop for photos. For lunch, find a nearby restaurant serving Minas Gerais specialties, such as tutu de feijão.

As the sun sets, find a spot along the lake to unwind while watching the colors of the sky change. Head to a local restaurant for dinner, indulging in regional dishes that highlight the rich flavors of Minas Gerais. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the lake, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and stunning night views.