Things To Do
in Caxias
Caxias is a historic city in Maranhão, Brazil, set along riverine landscapes and shaded by colonial-era architecture. Its colorful streets, markets, and Afro-Brazilian influences reveal a warm, traditional culture with a welcoming local vibe. The city serves as a gateway to Maranhão’s rural beauty and cultural heritage, while maintaining a relaxed, small-town pace.
Visitors can explore centuries-old buildings, savor regional dishes, and use Caxias as a base for day trips into the surrounding countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Praça da República, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the colonial buildings. As you stroll through the square, stop by the local café to enjoy a traditional Brazilian breakfast of pão de queijo and coffee. After breakfast, explore the Museu Histórico de Caxias do Sul to learn about the rich history of this vibrant city.
In the afternoon, visit the iconic Catedral de Caxias do Sul, known for its impressive neo-Gothic style and stunning stained glass windows. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring local delicacies such as polenta and galeto. Spend the rest of the afternoon shopping for artisanal crafts and souvenirs at the Mercado Municipal.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local bar to enjoy some live Brazilian music, immersing yourself in the cultural vibe of the city. Pair your drinks with traditional snacks like coxinhas and pastéis while mingling with locals. End your night with a stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the charming atmosphere of Caxias at night.
Start your day with a scenic drive through the picturesque valleys of Serra Gaúcha, known for its lush vineyards and rolling hills. Arrive at a renowned winery where you can participate in a guided tour, learning about the wine-making process and the region's unique grape varieties. Enjoy a light breakfast of local cheeses and breads paired with a glass of sparkling wine.
In the afternoon, indulge in a wine tasting experience, sampling various award-winning wines while enjoying breathtaking views of the vineyard landscape. After the tasting, enjoy a gourmet lunch at the winery's restaurant, featuring dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Spend some time exploring the charming town of Bento Gonçalves, visiting local shops and art galleries.
Return to Caxias and relax at your hotel before heading out for dinner at a cozy steakhouse known for its delicious churrasco. Enjoy a hearty meal paired with regional wines, and don't forget to try the traditional Brazilian farofa. End the evening with a leisurely walk around the city center, enjoying the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥤Beverage at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚌Public transport ride | $0.5-2 |
| 🍽️Main course at mid-range restaurant | $10-20 |
| 🏨Hostel or budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich colonial architecture and culture
- Warm, welcoming people and regional cuisine
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Occasional heat and humidity can be intense in summer
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica...?" - Where is it?
- "Eu sou vegetariano/vegetariana" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Caxias
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful colonial buildings, arched doorways, and cobblestone lanes offer timeless compositions, especially in early morning light.
A calm stretch along the local river where boats, palms, and sunset colors create reflective water scenes.
A central square with activity, church towers, and daily life that makes dynamic street photography.
Vibrant stalls, textiles, and crafts with bright colors—great for candid and detail shots.
Food in Caxias
Caxias Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory rice dish cooked with dried shrimp, jute leaves (vinagreira), and spicy seasonings; best found in regional eateries serving Maranhão specialties.
Must-Try!
A flavorful fish stew with coconut milk, peppers, and herbs, often served with rice or farofa.
Rice and beans cooked together with dried meat or sausage, a staple in the region.
Sun-dried beef served with cassava (manioc) flour, a classic rural-market dish.
Fish soup with vegetables, popular as a comforting meal in markets and casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can taste fresh fruit, regional ingredients, and street snacks such as tapioca and coconut desserts.
Tapiocas (rice flour crepes) and acarajé-like fried snacks; try a fish skewer by the waterfront stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake with eye contact is common; addressing people with senhor/senhora or first names with permission; show friendliness and patience in conversations.
Respect religious sites and local festivals; avoid loud discussions in sacred spaces; dress modestly when visiting churches or cultural centers.
Safety
Tipping in Caxias
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, tips of 5-10% are common if service charge isn’t included. For casual cafes or markets, rounding up is appreciated.
Cash (reais) is widely accepted, and credit/debit cards are common in larger establishments; some small vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers. Hydrate, wear light clothing, use sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Continued heat with occasional rainfall; comfortable evenings and milder days—great for city walks and outdoor markets.
Generally the coolest period, but still warm relative to many regions. Cooler evenings—bring a light jacket for nights out.
Warm to hot with improving conditions after the wet season; perfect for outdoor festivals and hiking near rural areas.
Caxias at Night
Hiking in Caxias
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A region with canyons, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints; drives from Caxias require planning but offer rewarding hikes.
Gentle hikes through savanna and forested landscapes, suitable for a half-day trip.
Airports
How to reach Caxias by plane.
Located in São Luís; the main international/domestic hub for the region; typically reached by bus or private transfer from Caxias.
Regional airport serving western Maranhão; easier option for some rural routes and closer to certain destinations in the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of the population with mixed European, African, and Indigenous ancestry.
People of European descent form a significant minority in the urban area.
Afro-Brazilian communities contribute to culture, music, and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and pickup games common in parks and schools.
Active community centers and street performances; enjoy local games and demonstrations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Caxias.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find bean-based dishes, cassava, fruits, rice, and salads. When ordering, ask for separate sides to avoid meat stock and request sauces on the side to control oil and spices.