Things To Do
in Chapecó

Chapecó is a vibrant city located in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. Known for its rich agricultural industry, it is often referred to as the 'capital of the West.' The city features a blend of modern infrastructure and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists.

Chapecó is particularly famous for its cultural events and sports teams, particularly football.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Chapecó
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Chapecó Urban Park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and peaceful environment. Afterward, grab breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Chapecó Museum to learn about the city’s history and culture. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant offering traditional Brazilian cuisine.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a stroll through the city center, where you can find shops and local markets. Enjoy dinner at a popular steakhouse known for its local beef.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a morning trip to the nearby Chapecó River for some scenic views and relaxation by the water. Have breakfast at a local bakery.

afternoon
:

Explore the local artisan markets for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Lunch at a food market featuring regional delicacies.

evening
:

Enjoy a cultural evening by attending a local music concert or theater performance. Dine at a trendy bistro that offers both local and international dishes.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍕Pizza$15
🚇Public transport ticket$1
🛏️Hotel (mid-range)$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited English-speaking locals.
  • Public transport may be less frequent.
  • Some areas may feel rural to urban dwellers.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Chapecó

Visit one of these nice places.

Chapecó Urban Park

A beautiful park with diverse flora, perfect for nature photography.

Centro Cultural 25 de Julho

A cultural center with unique architecture and vibrant colors, ideal for capturing urban landscapes.

Chapecó River

Scenic views along the riverbanks provide stunning sunset photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chapecó

Chapecó offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of flavors and dishes that reflect the region's agricultural richness.

Chapecó Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Churrasco

Brazilian barbecue, typically featuring beef, pork, and chicken, cooked on skewers.

Must-Try!

Pinhão

Edible seeds from the Brazilian pine tree, often roasted or cooked in stews.

Feijão Tropeiro

A traditional dish made with beans, bacon, and manioc flour, often served with eggs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira do Produtor

A weekly market where local farmers sell fresh produce, cheeses, and other regional products.

Street Food Stalls

Vendors selling snacks like coxinhas (chicken croquettes) and pastel (fried pastry with various fillings).

Climate Guide

Weather

Chapecó experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers with temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F) and cool winters where temperatures can drop to around 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is common throughout the year, with the wettest months being from December to March. Spring and autumn provide mild temperatures and are ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dining Etiquette

It's polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin.

Dress Code

Casual but neat attire is generally expected in social settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chapecó is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuable items in public and be cautious in less populated areas at night. It's advisable to use registered taxis or rideshare apps for transportation after dark.

Tipping in Chapecó

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is common in restaurants, usually around 10% of the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm and humid, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Autumn

Mild temperatures with beautiful fall foliage, great for photography.

Winter

Cool and occasionally chilly, suitable for cozy indoor activities like culinary tours.

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers, perfect for nature walks.

Nightlife Guide

Chapecó at Night

Chapecó boasts a lively nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. The downtown area is particularly vibrant, offering a mix of traditional and modern establishments. Popular places include pubs featuring local craft beers and nightclubs that play a variety of music, from samba to electronic. Weekends see a bustling crowd, especially among younger locals and students.

Hiking in Chapecó

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Xaxim

A scenic trail in Parque do Xaxim that offers views of the surrounding nature and wildlife.

Caminho da Luz

A moderate hiking trail that leads to beautiful viewpoints overlooking the Chapecó River.

Airports

How to reach Chapecó by plane.

Serafin Enoss Bertaso Airport (XAP)

Located approximately 10 km from downtown Chapecó, this airport offers domestic flights and serves as the main gateway to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chapecó is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available. However, some suburban areas may require a vehicle for easier access to attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Italian Descendants

Many residents are of Italian descent, influencing local culture, cuisine, and festivals.

Indigenous Communities

Indigenous groups contribute to the cultural diversity of the region, with their traditions and crafts.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A beloved sport in Chapecó, with local teams like Chapecoense garnering passionate support.

Basketball

Basketball is also popular, with local clubs and community leagues engaging many residents.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chapecó is generally manageable, with main roads and avenues well-maintained. Public transportation options include buses that connect different parts of the city. However, during peak hours, traffic congestion may occur in the downtown area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chapecó.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly dishes, particularly salads and local vegetable dishes.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are available, but it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Chapecó is accessible with several public and private hospitals and clinics. Emergency services are available, but it's advisable for travelers to have health insurance to cover any medical needs. Pharmacies are also common, providing over-the-counter medications.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide