Things To Do
in Campinas
Campinas is a dynamic inland city in São Paulo state known for its universities and tech presence. Its historic core sits alongside modern districts filled with shopping, dining, and cultural venues. The climate offers warm summers and cooler nights, making outdoor exploration pleasant most of the year.
From lakeside parks to science museums, Campinas serves as a convenient base for city life and day trips into nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Brazilian pastries and coffee. Afterward, head to Praça Carlos Gomes to admire the stunning architecture surrounding the square. Take a moment to visit the nearby Igreja de São Benedito, a beautiful church known for its intricate details.
For lunch, savor some authentic Brazilian cuisine at a charming restaurant in the center. Spend the afternoon exploring the Museu História Natural, where you'll discover fascinating exhibits about local flora and fauna. Wrap up your exploration with a stroll through the vibrant Mercado Municipal, sampling local foods and goods.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city skyline. Afterward, immerse yourself in Campinas' cultural scene by attending a live music performance at a nearby venue. End your night with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Begin your morning with an invigorating jog or a leisurely walk around the picturesque Parque Taquaral, known for its beautiful lake and lush greenery. Stop by the observatory to catch a glimpse of the early morning sky and take in the serene ambiance of the park. Grab a refreshing coconut water from a local vendor as you watch the locals go about their morning routines.
After a morning spent in nature, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park's designated areas, complete with local snacks and drinks. Spend the afternoon renting a pedal boat and enjoying the tranquility of the lake, surrounded by nature. Alternatively, visit the nearby Museu de História Natural to learn more about the region's ecological diversity.
As evening approaches, find a cozy café within the park for a light dinner, relishing the setting sun over the lake. Participate in a yoga class held in the park, allowing you to unwind and connect with nature. End your day with a peaceful stroll along the water's edge, reflecting on the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🍷Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🏨Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in city center (1 month) | $700-1200 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $5-12 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong university and tech sector driving a vibrant economy
- Pleasant climate and abundant green spaces for outdoor life
- Wide range of dining options from traditional to modern Brazilian cuisine
- Good base for day trips to nature and nearby towns
- Traffic can be heavy during peak hours and distances are often long
- Some neighborhoods require caution after dark, like many large cities
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "A conta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Campinas
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque lakefront with boat houses, promenades, and sunset views ideal for reflections and wide-angle shots.
Gothic-inspired façade and intricate interiors provide classic architectural photography opportunities.
Historic streets, colorful façades, and lively street life perfect for urban photography.
Vibrant interior with colorful stalls, perfect for candid market photography and texture shots.
Planetário and the surrounding park offer night-sky and landscape photography opportunities.
Food in Campinas
Campinas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting fish stew served with farofa and rice, commonly found in regional eateries around the city.
Must-Try!
A hearty black bean stew with pork, often enjoyed in casas de comida and Brazilian chácaras.
A traditional dish pairing chicken with tutu de feijão and rice, popular in Belo Horizonte–influenced spots around Campinas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can sample tropical fruits, regional cheeses, and freshly baked pão de queijo.
Casual stalls offering snacks, pastel de feira, and local caldo de cana (sugarcane juice).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and polite greetings like 'bom dia' or 'boa tarde' are standard; use formal 'senhor/senhora' with strangers.
Brazilian warmth is common, but personal space in public must be respected; crowds in markets can be lively and noisy.
Safety
Tipping in Campinas
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is appreciated but not always mandatory; many restaurants include a 10% service charge, otherwise a small tip (5-10%) is common for good service.
Cash (BRL) and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and PIX are common; ATMs are plentiful.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; carry a light rain jacket, sunscreen, and stay hydrated while exploring outdoor spots like the Lagoa do Taquaral.
Pleasant days with mild evenings; great for city wandering and outdoor cafés.
Cooler nights and comfortable daytime temperatures; layers recommended, especially for dawn or dusk photography and outdoor strolls.
Warm with occasional rain; good for parks and gardens as plants come into bloom.
Campinas at Night
Hiking in Campinas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest-covered hills with well-marked trails, biodiversity, and scenic overlooks suitable for day hikes from Campinas.
Gentle to moderate paths along the Capivari river, offering greenery, farms, and picnic spots within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Campinas by plane.
Located near Campinas, this is the main gateway for many travelers to the region and offers domestic and limited international flights; easy access by highway or car/taxi.
Approximately 100 km from Campinas; major international hub with frequent connections and comprehensive services; reachable by highway or rail/transfer services.
A domestic-focused airport in the São Paulo region, about 90-110 km away depending on route; convenient for quick domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence due to UNICAMP, PUCCAMP, and a growing tech scene, especially in Barão Geraldo and surrounding areas.
Residential neighborhoods with parks, schools, and family-friendly amenities are common across the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and matches drawing fans from across Campinas and surrounding areas.
Common in schools, clubs, and community centers; frequently played in urban parks and sports complexes.
Active community with parks, lakes, and bike lanes encouraging year-round running and cycling.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Campinas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options; look for salads, risottos, or bean-based dishes; Brazilian vegetarian staples like bean soups and veggie pastas are common in fair-priced eateries.