Things To Do
in Bom Princípio

The regional barbecue—grilled beef and sausages—served at local churrascarias and family restaurants. Great for groups and a staple of gaucho dining.

Must-Try!

German-influenced sweet cake often topped with streusel or fruit (apple cuca is common); found at bakeries and family-run cafés.

Polenta served with stewed meats, reflecting Italian culinary influence in the region; typical in home-style restaurants.

Bom Princípio’s apple orchards produce fresh juice, artisanal ciders and preserves—available at markets and coop stores.

Small local market stalls and weekend fairs where producers sell fruit, preserves, bakery items and homemade snacks—ideal to taste fresh apple juice, cuca and regional cheeses.

Neighborhood bakeries serve coffee, pão francês, cuca and savory snacks; an informal street-food culture centered around bakeries and food stalls during festivals.

A friendly 'Olá' or 'Bom dia/tarde/noite' and a handshake are common in town; close acquaintances may exchange a light hug or cheek kiss. Politeness and small talk are appreciated.

Bom Princípio is a close-knit rural community—respect local customs, private property and quiet hours, and ask permission before photographing people on private land.

Portuguese is the language of daily life; basic phrases go a long way. Attempting Portuguese greetings and thank-yous is valued by locals.

During local festivals and church events be mindful of dress codes and respectful behavior—these are community-centered occasions.

In restaurants, a 10% service charge may be added automatically; if not, tipping 5–10% for good service is appreciated but not obligatory. For small services like taxi rides or café orders, rounding up the fare or leaving small change is common.

Cash (Brazilian real) is widely used in small shops and markets; cards are accepted in larger restaurants and stores but may not work at small rural vendors. Carry some cash for markets and farm visits; contactless payments and PIX (instant bank transfer) are increasingly common.

December–February: warm to hot days with occasional heavy rain; great time for orchard visits as fruit begins to mature and regional festivals may start. Lightweight clothing plus a rain jacket and sunscreen are recommended.

March–May: harvest season for apples in many years, cooler temperatures and pleasant days—ideal for cider tastings and countryside drives with autumn foliage. Layered clothing works well, and festival calendars often peak.

June–August: cool to cold nights with possible frost; some crisp, clear days that are excellent for photos and cozy meals. Bring warm layers, a good jacket and waterproof footwear for early mornings.

September–November: mild temperatures and blossoming orchards; the landscape becomes green and vibrant, good for hiking and outdoor activities. Expect variable weather—carry a light jacket and expect showers.

The main international/regional airport serving Rio Grande do Sul, approximately 60–90 km from Bom Princípio depending on route—offers national and some international flights; car rental or intercity bus/taxi connections are common ways to reach Bom Princípio.

A regional airport serving Caxias do Sul and the surrounding Serra Gaúcha, closer for some routes and smaller airlines; useful if traveling from within Brazil and connecting to nearby wine-country towns.

Vegetarian options exist but can be limited in smaller eateries—look for salads, polenta, vegetable stews and bakery items. Tell staff 'sou vegetariano/vegetariana' and ask about dishes without meat or use nearby towns for more vegetarian-focused restaurants.

Vegan choices are modest outside larger towns; seek bakeries for fruit and breads and request vegetable dishes without dairy. Bringing snacks or shopping at markets for fresh produce is useful.

Traditional breads and pastries are common; explicit gluten-free options may be rare—ask at bakeries and restaurants and favor naturally gluten-free foods like grilled meats, salads and fruit.

Portuguese is the local language—carry a note explaining allergies in Portuguese (for example, 'Tenho alergia a nozes / frutos do mar') and check ingredients at markets and family restaurants.