Things To Do
in Campos
Campos dos Goytacazes, commonly called Campos, is a coastal city in northern Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil, set along the estuary of a major river and opening onto the Atlantic. It blends a historic center with modern commerce and a strong regional economy tied to agriculture and oil. The city enjoys warm, tropical conditions most of the year, with beaches nearby and a laid-back, friendly atmosphere.
Visitors can expect a mix of cultural sites, markets, and natural scenery just a short drive from the coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Campos' historic center, admiring colonial-era buildings and intricate façades. Visit the iconic Catedral de São Salvador for a glimpse into the city's religious heritage and stunning stained glass windows. Sip a fresh coffee at a local café while observing the lively morning market nearby.
Spend your afternoon exploring the Museu Histórico de Campos, where exhibits detail the city’s past from its founding to modern times. Enjoy a traditional Brazilian lunch at a nearby restaurant offering regional specialties like feijoada and fresh seafood. Afterwards, visit Praça São Salvador to people-watch and appreciate the vibrant local culture.
As dusk settles, take a relaxed walk along Avenida Alberto Torres, soaking in the warm atmosphere of Campos' nightlife. Dine at a churrascaria, savoring perfectly grilled meats and local wines. Finish your evening with a leisurely visit to a nearby bar featuring live samba music and dancing.
Start early with a guided trip to the nearby Serra do Desengano State Park, immersing yourself in the lush Atlantic Forest surroundings. Hike along scenic trails leading to stunning waterfalls where you can take refreshing dips in clear natural pools. Capture the vibrant flora and fauna that make this area a biodiversity hotspot.
Enjoy a packed picnic lunch near the base of one of the waterfalls, listening to the soothing sounds of cascading water. Continue exploring lesser-known trails, encountering unique bird species and native plants. Visit a local artisan village within the park for handmade crafts and organic products.
Return to Campos for a quiet evening, savoring a light dinner of fresh tropical fruits and regional dishes. Take a leisurely walk along the city’s riverwalk, watching the sunset paint the sky with warm hues. Relax at your accommodation with a local cachaça tasting to end the day on a flavorful note.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $2-4 |
| 🥗Basic lunch | $6-10 |
| 🚖Taxi start, 1 mile | $1.5-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal access and varied seafood cuisine
- Friendly, relaxed vibe and affordable prices
- Accessible day trips to beaches and estuaries
- Limited large-scale nightlife compared to big cities
- Public transport to more distant attractions can be less frequent
- "Olá" - Hello
- "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?
Places to Visit in Campos
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour light on colonial façades and a bustling plaza with locals and street vendors.
Clean lines and architectural details provide strong lines for architectural photography, especially in the morning light.
Ships, fishermen, and tidal activity create dynamic urban-river scenes.
Boardwalks over calm water with birds and reflections ideal for nature photography.
Food in Campos
Campos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish stew made with coconut milk and aromatic herbs, typically served with rice and farofa.
Must-Try!
A hearty fish stew with vegetables and herbs, popular in coastal towns and seafood restaurants.
A regional rice dish featuring local greens and spices; flavorful and commonly found in coastal eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can buy fruit, fresh fish, herbs, and prepared snacks from local vendors.
Casual spots offering grilled seafood, tapioca, and tropical fruit cups with quick, affordable options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A cordial hello and a handshake or light kiss on the cheek are common; address people with respectful language in introductions.
Public spaces can be busy; keep conversations calm in public and avoid loud behavior in religious or cultural sites.
Ask permission when photographing people or private spaces; modest attire in sacred sites is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Campos
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated if service is good. Rounding up the bill at casual spots is common.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most venues; carry some cash for markets and smaller shops. Mobile payments and bank transfers are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent tropical showers; afternoons are sunny and vibrant for outdoor activities, but carry water and sunscreen.
Warm days with cooler evenings; shoulder season with fewer crowds and pleasant conditions for exploring the city and surrounding nature.
Milder temperatures, cool nights; rain is less common but can occur; ideal for urban sightseeing and light outdoor walks.
Balanced weather with increasing greenery; nice for photography and outdoor markets with fresh produce.
Campos at Night
Hiking in Campos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short hillside trail offering city views and coastal scenery, suitable for a half-day hike.
Flat boardwalk through mangroves with birdwatching opportunities and calm water reflections.
Airports
How to reach Campos by plane.
Closest regional airport serving the Campos area; transfers by road are available for easy access to the city.
Major international hub offering extensive flight options; longer drive to Campos but convenient for onward international travel.
A larger airport in Espírito Santo region; requires longer transfer to Campos but useful for certain routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix connected to the regional economy with both younger and older residents.
Several educational institutions and family-oriented neighborhoods contribute to a steady community rhythm.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region shares a strong football culture with local matches and community leagues.
Popular on coastal beaches with pickup games and casual competitions.
Local fishing plays a role in culture and cuisine; boat-based activities are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Campos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes centered on vegetables, rice, and beans. Request seafood-free options and watch for fish stock or dendê oil in stews; many places can adapt recipes on request.