Things To Do
in Contagem
Contagem is a growing city in Minas Gerais, Brazil, just northwest of Belo Horizonte. A lively mix of residential neighborhoods, local markets, and emerging cultural spaces makes it easy to explore on a budget. Nestled near the Serra do Curral foothills, Contagem provides quick access to nature without leaving the metropolitan area.
Visitors are greeted by warm Minas Gerais hospitality and a cuisine scene that blends traditional flavors with affordable eateries.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in the heart of Contagem, savoring fresh pão de queijo and coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the Historic Center, where you can admire colonial architecture and visit the charming Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Conceição. Capture the vibrant street life and the artistic murals that adorn the buildings, giving you a snapshot of the city's rich culture.
For lunch, enjoy a traditional Brazilian meal at a nearby restaurant, featuring local favorites like feijoada or a hearty churrasco. Post-lunch, visit the Museu de Contagem to learn about the city's history and its development over the years, engaging with fascinating exhibits. Spend some time relaxing in the Praça da Jabuticabeira, where you can people-watch and enjoy the lush surroundings.
As the sun sets, head to a popular local eatery for dinner, where you can indulge in regional specialties and enjoy live music. After your meal, take a stroll through the vibrant streets filled with local shops and artisans showcasing their crafts. Wrap up your evening with a drink at a bar known for its craft cocktails and lively atmosphere.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, then prepare for a morning hike in the Parque Natural Municipal de Contagem, a beautiful natural reserve. As you meander along the trails, breathe in the fresh air while observing the diverse flora and fauna that make this park a sanctuary for wildlife. Enjoy the serene environment, perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the park's designated areas, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon exploring the park's various ecosystems, perhaps taking a guided tour to learn about the local biodiversity. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife that inhabit the area.
As dusk approaches, head back to Contagem and treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant specializing in fresh, organic dishes. Afterward, visit a nearby café for dessert, where you can indulge in traditional Brazilian sweets like brigadeiro or quindim. Conclude your evening by reflecting on the day's adventures in the tranquil ambiance of the café.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (1-2 miles) | $3-6 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment rent (city center) | $300-500 per month |
| 💡Utilities (basic monthly) | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordability and good value for money
- Strategic access to Belo Horizonte and other sights in Minas Gerais
- Friendly locals and a developing arts and food scene
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with BH center
- Less tourist infrastructure in some neighborhoods
- Public transport options can be basic outside the city center
- "Oi" - Hi
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Eu não falo português" - I don't speak Portuguese
- "Banho quente, por favor" - Hot water, please
- "Saúde!" - Cheers/To your health!
Places to Visit in Contagem
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic streets with colonial-inspired façades and daily life that make for atmospheric city photography.
Green spaces and lookout points offering skyline views and shaded paths for landscape and portrait shots.
Vibrant market stalls with produce, crafts, and people—perfect for candid street photography.
Food in Contagem
Contagem Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cheese bread, a Minas classic, fresh from ovens in bakeries and street stalls.
Must-Try!
Beans cooked with farinha de mandioca, bacon or sausage, eggs, and herbs, usually served with rice and pork.
Bean purée blended with cassava flour and seasoned with herbs, typically served with rice and farofa.
Fresh Minas cheese, mild and creamy, eaten on its own or with bread.
Chicken with okra, a comforting Minas Gerais staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market with fresh produce, cheeses, pão, and prepared foods.
Regular street markets offering fresh fruit, snacks, and Minas pastries on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake or brief kiss on the cheek with closer friends. Use Senhor/Senhora for adults and addresses; avoid loud, disruptive behavior in public.
Social events are often relaxed about time; give people space in queues and public transport, and be patient in crowds.
Safety
Tipping in Contagem
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not mandatory; 10% is typical if service is not included. Small tips for taxi drivers or bartenders are appreciated but not expected.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for markets and small vendors that may not take cards. Pix and bank transfers are popular for other payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a compact rain layer.
Pleasant days and cooler evenings; great for outdoor walks and city sightseeing.
Mild to cool days with cooler nights; bring a light jacket for evenings.
Warming temperatures with occasional showers; good for outdoor markets and hiking.
Contagem at Night
Hiking in Contagem
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several light to moderate trails with city views; accessible within a short drive from Contagem.
Urban hiking options with well-marked paths and scenic overlooks; day trips possible.
Short drives to mountain towns offer longer hikes and scenic landscapes in Minas Gerais.
Airports
How to reach Contagem by plane.
Located near Confins, about 40-50 km north of Belo Horizonte; major international and domestic flights; accessible by highway and airport shuttle from the BH metro area.
A smaller airport serving domestic flights; closer to central Belo Horizonte; handy for quick trips and private flights; taxis or rideshare connect to Contagem via BH roads.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many neighborhoods are residential and family-oriented, with schools and parks nearby.
Proximity to Belo Horizonte makes Contagem a practical base for work and study.
Several colleges and technical institutes in the metro area attract students who commute to BH for classes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with fans following local teams and matches across the metro area.
Common in schools and clubs; community leagues and recreational centers offer opportunities to play.
Indoor soccer widely played in neighborhoods and gyms, especially in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Contagem.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes feature cheese and legumes; look for prato vegetariano options or ask for egg-free dishes. Bakeries offer pão de queijo and fresh fruit or salads.