Things To Do
in Criciúma
Criciúma is a mid-sized city in Santa Catarina, Brazil, known for its industrial heritage and southern Brazilian charm. It sits inland from the coast and serves as a regional hub for commerce and culture. The city blends Italian and German immigrant influences with modern Brazilian life, yielding a welcoming atmosphere and hearty regional cuisine.
Expect a laid-back vibe, easy accessibility, and a few scenic viewpoints to punctuate your exploring.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Catedral São José, admiring its stunning architecture and the beautiful stained glass windows. After soaking in the spiritual ambiance, stroll through Praça Nereu Ramos, where you can enjoy a refreshing coffee at a local café while people-watching. As you wander the streets, take time to explore the charming shops and boutiques that showcase local crafts and products.
In the afternoon, visit the Museu Augusto Casagrande, which offers a fascinating insight into the history and culture of Criciúma and its surrounding regions. Wander through the exhibits that highlight the city’s coal mining heritage and the evolution of the local economy. After your museum visit, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, tasting traditional dishes like 'arroz com galinha' or 'feijão tropeiro'.
As evening approaches, head to the vibrant Rua Dom Jaime Câmara, known for its lively atmosphere and array of dining options. Choose a cozy restaurant where you can savor local delicacies while listening to live music. After dinner, take a relaxed stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the night vibes of Criciúma.
Kick off your beach day with a short drive to Balneário Rincão, a picturesque stretch of coastline perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Grab a light breakfast at a beachfront café as you watch the sunrise over the ocean waves. Spend the morning building sandcastles or taking a refreshing dip in the water, enjoying the warm sun on your skin.
After a morning of fun in the sun, indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at one of the local beachside restaurants, where fresh catches are the star of the menu. Post-lunch, rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the coastline from a different perspective, or simply relax under an umbrella with a good book. You can also engage in beach volleyball or join locals for a friendly game on the sandy shores.
As the sun begins to set, find a spot on the beach to witness the stunning sunset over the Atlantic Ocean, painting the sky with vibrant hues. Afterward, enjoy a casual dinner at a beach bar, where you can sample regional drinks like caipirinhas while listening to the sounds of the waves. The evening can be capped off with a beach walk, taking in the cool breeze and the sound of the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🥗Lunch in a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨Hotel (per night, budget to mid-range) | $40-70 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere
- Good value for food and accommodations compared to larger cities
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to major capitals
- Limited English in some venues; Portuguese basics help
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o/X?" - Where is the X located?
Places to Visit in Criciúma
Visit one of these nice places.
The city’s central square with historic façades, frequent activity, and pleasant light for daytime and golden-hour shots.
Old-town streets with colorful buildings and architectural contrasts ideal for street photography.
Parks and riverfront areas offering calm scenes, reflections, and people-watching opportunities.
Food in Criciúma
Criciúma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cornmeal polenta served creamy with melted cheese or browned edges; a staple in Southern Brazilian dining.
Must-Try!
Classic Brazilian barbecue served with rice and beans, a reliable option at local churrascarias.
A traditional sweet cake from Santa Catarina’s German heritage, great with coffee or tea.
Fish prepared with garlic sauce, reflecting inland coastal influence with fresh seasonal fish when available.
Sweet corn cake commonly found in bakeries and cafés, a comforting snack or dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market with fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and prepared foods; a good place to sample snacks and local flavors.
Weekly outdoor markets offering regional produce, street foods, and seasonal treats; ideal for a quick, inexpensive bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or cheek kiss is common among acquaintances; greet with a polite 'Bom dia/Boa tarde' when entering shops.
Polite, patient conversation; avoid loud behavior in public places; speak modestly and listen attentively.
Safety
Tipping in Criciúma
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, a tip of 5-10% is common if service is not included; rounding up at casual places is also accepted. In many restaurants, a service charge may be included; check the bill.
Credit or debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas; keep some cash for markets and small vendors. ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with higher humidity and occasional heavy afternoon showers; stay hydrated and plan outdoor time for mornings or late afternoons.
Mild temperatures with comfortable days and cooler evenings; a pleasant time for city walks and photography.
Cooler, with pleasant daytime highs and chilly nights; layers recommended, rain is possible but less frequent than in summer.
Gradually warming with blooming flora; great for outdoor activities and markets with fresh produce.
Criciúma at Night
Hiking in Criciúma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hiking and scenic viewpoints in the nearby Serra do Rio do Rastro area; a day trip from Criciúma with rewarding panoramas.
Forest trails and waterfalls near Orleans, suitable for a half- or full-day hike from Criciúma.
Airports
How to reach Criciúma by plane.
Florianópolis, the main regional international gateway; about a few hours’ drive from Criciúma.
Airport serving Itajaí and surrounding areas; convenient for domestic and regional flights.
Nearby air travel option for connections to major Brazilian hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local families and professionals; strong historical roots from Italian and German heritage reflected in culture and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; fans follow local teams and enjoy weekend matches.
Common in community centers and schools; recreational leagues are accessible to visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Criciúma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer salads, grilled vegetables, rice and beans, polenta, and cheese-based dishes; ask for meat-free options or happy to modify plates.