Things To Do
in Canoas

Canoas is a vibrant city located in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, just north of Porto Alegre. Known for its rich cultural heritage and history, it boasts a blend of urban development and green spaces. The city is a hub for commerce and industry while also offering numerous parks and recreational areas for residents and visitors alike.

With a strong community spirit, Canoas hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, reflecting its diverse population.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the City
morning
:

Start your day at Parque Getúlio Vargas, a beautiful park perfect for a morning stroll, where you can enjoy the lush gardens and local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the Historic City Center to admire the architecture of colonial buildings, including the Church of St. John the Baptist and the Municipal Market.

evening
:

Dinner at a local BBQ restaurant, followed by a walk along Avenida Getúlio Vargas to experience the local nightlife.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a trip to the nearby Parque Natural Morro do Osso for a morning hike and panoramic views of the city.

afternoon
:

Visit the Coração de Maria Chapel, a historic site, before exploring the local art scene at the Museu de Artes de Canoas.

evening
:

Enjoy a meal at a local pizzeria, and then catch a live music performance at a nearby bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍕Pizza$10
🚕Taxi ride (5 km)$5
🛒Grocery shopping (weekly)$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Diverse culinary scene with traditional Brazilian dishes.
  • Access to beautiful parks and outdoor activities.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Limited English-speaking services in some areas.
  • Occasional safety concerns in urban settings.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Canoas

Visit one of these nice places.

Parque Getúlio Vargas

A beautifully landscaped park featuring gardens, water bodies, and sculptures, ideal for capturing nature and leisure scenes.

Coração de Maria Chapel

A historic chapel with stunning architecture and vibrant surroundings, a great location for architectural photography.

Avenida Getúlio Vargas

This lively avenue is perfect for street photography, showcasing the hustle and bustle of daily life in Canoas.

Culinary Guide

Food in Canoas

Canoas offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the rich flavors of southern Brazilian cuisine, with a focus on barbecued meats and fresh produce.

Canoas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Churrasco

Brazilian barbecue, typically featuring various cuts of meat cooked over an open flame, served with chimichurri sauce.

Must-Try!

Arroz de Carreteiro

A traditional rice dish cooked with beef, vegetables, and spices, often enjoyed during gatherings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A bustling market where you can find local produce, meats, and artisanal foods, perfect for sampling regional flavors.

Street Pastel Stalls

Vendors selling pastel, a deep-fried pastry filled with various ingredients, from cheese to meat, popular for a quick snack.

Climate Guide

Weather

Canoas experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winters are typically mild, averaging around 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is common throughout the year, with the wettest months occurring in December and January. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with moderate temperatures and lower humidity, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Warm Greetings

Brazilian culture values friendly interactions; a handshake or a kiss on the cheek is common when meeting someone.

Respect for Personal Space

Maintain a comfortable distance during conversations; Brazilians might stand closer than people from other cultures.

Punctuality

While punctuality is appreciated, it’s common for social events to start later than the scheduled time.

Safety Guide

Safety

Canoas is generally safe for visitors, but like any urban area, it’s important to stay vigilant. Avoid displaying valuables in crowded areas, and be cautious when using ATMs, preferably during daylight hours. Stick to well-lit streets at night and consider using registered taxis or rideshare services for transportation.

Tipping in Canoas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% at restaurants; however, check if the service charge is already included in your bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect hot and humid weather, ideal for outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn (March - May)

Temperatures begin to cool, making it a pleasant time for sightseeing with colorful foliage in parks.

Winter (June - August)

Mild winters, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C (50°F), perfect for cozy indoor activities.

Spring (September - November)

A beautiful season with blooming flowers and moderate temperatures, great for outdoor events and festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Canoas at Night

Canoas has a lively nightlife scene, with various bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city caters to all tastes, from intimate bars featuring local artists to larger dance clubs playing Brazilian music and international hits. Popular areas include Avenida Getúlio Vargas and the historic city center, where locals and visitors mingle in the evenings. Many establishments offer happy hour specials, making it an affordable way to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Hiking in Canoas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Morro do Osso

A popular hiking trail offering stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes, suitable for different skill levels.

Caminho dos Açores

A scenic trail that winds through lush vegetation and offers a glimpse of local flora and fauna, ideal for nature enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Canoas by plane.

Salgado Filho International Airport (POA)

Located about 10 km from Canoas, this is the main airport serving the Porto Alegre metropolitan area, offering domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Canoas is fairly walkable, especially in the city center and around major parks. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, but some areas may have uneven pavement. Most attractions are within walking distance of each other, and the city encourages pedestrian activity with pedestrian zones and crosswalks. However, be cautious when crossing streets, as traffic can be unpredictable.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Portuguese Descendants

A significant portion of Canoas' population has Portuguese ancestry, contributing to the region's cultural influences and traditions.

Italian Community

The Italian community has a strong presence in Canoas, especially in culinary traditions, festivals, and local events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Canoas, with local teams and community matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Volleyball

Beach volleyball is commonly played in parks and community areas, reflecting Brazil's love for sports and outdoor activities.

Transportation

Traffic

Canoas experiences moderate traffic, particularly during rush hours, when commuters travel to and from Porto Alegre. Public transportation includes buses that connect various neighborhoods and the city center, making it an affordable option for getting around. While driving is possible, parking can be challenging in busy areas, and it’s advisable to use public transport or rideshare services when possible.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Canoas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to check with staff about specific preparations.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available, especially in larger restaurants, but it’s best to inform staff about dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Canoas has a variety of healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics that provide quality medical care. Public healthcare services are available, but many residents opt for private insurance for quicker access. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 192, and pharmacies are widely available for over-the-counter medications.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide