Things To Do
in Feliz
Feliz is a small city in Rio Grande do Sul known for its warm community and agrarian surroundings. Nestled among rolling hills and farmland, it offers a calm pace, scenic drives, and engaging rural culture. The town blends Gaucho traditions with German and Italian heritage reflected in its architecture and cuisine.
Visitors can explore a charming city center, historic churches, markets, and nearby nature trails within a short drive of Porto Alegre.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Feliz and settle into your accommodation, taking in the serene atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Brazilian coffee and pastries. Spend some time exploring the nearby parks and gardens, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
Visit the charming local shops and markets, where you can find unique crafts and souvenirs. Engage with friendly locals who can share insights about the culture and history of Feliz. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes that showcase the flavors of Brazil.
As night falls, head to the town square where you can experience live music and dance performances. Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant, trying out more of the delicious Brazilian cuisine. Conclude your first day with a stroll under the stars, absorbing the peaceful ambiance of Feliz.
Embark on an early morning hiking trip through the lush trails surrounding Feliz. Listen to the sounds of nature as you walk, keeping an eye out for local wildlife and stunning views. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst the beauty of the outdoors.
Return to town for a refreshing lunch before spending the afternoon kayaking on nearby rivers or lakes. The tranquil waters offer a perfect backdrop for relaxation and exploration. Keep your camera handy to capture the picturesque scenery.
After a day filled with adventure, enjoy a quiet dinner at a riverside restaurant. Relish the sunset views as the sky transforms into vibrant hues. End your day with a bonfire, sharing stories and laughter with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee or beverage | $2-5 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $4-8 |
| 🧺Groceries for a day | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, friendly town with strong local culture
- Excellent access to rural scenery and fresh cuisine
- Limited big-city amenities and nightlife
- Longer drives to airports and major hospitals
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode recomendar um bom restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "A conta, por favor" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Feliz
Visit one of these nice places.
A vibrant central square with colonial façades, benches, and the warm glow of sunset reflecting off the town’s colors.
Historic church with a characteristic façade and stained glass; ideal for architectural and detail shots.
A riverside viewpoint offering long, tranquil horizons and golden hour reflections on the water.
Colorful market building with banners and morning activity; great for street photography and candid portraits.
Food in Feliz
Feliz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Regional gaucho barbecue featuring a variety of grilled meats and a simple sides spread; best enjoyed at local churrascarias.
Must-Try!
Roasted or grilled young chicken served with polenta or potatoes, a beloved staple in many Feliz eateries.
Rice cooked with dried meat (typically carne seca) and aromatics, a hearty dish reflecting traditional peasant cooking.
Roasted or boiled pine cone seeds that are a seasonal local snack or accompaniment in cooler months.
A German-influenced cake, often banana or fruit-filled, enjoyed with coffee or tea after meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for regional cheeses, breads, wines, and fresh produce; great for tasting and grabbing picnic supplies.
Casual bites such as pastéis, mandioca frita, and sweet treats that capture local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; greet people with a friendly 'bom dia/boa tarde.' Use 'senhor' or 'senhora' in formal settings and address elders with respect.
Wait to be seated in most restaurants; keep voices moderate in public spaces and avoid loud behavior in church or sacred sites.
Safety
Tipping in Feliz
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, tips are appreciated but not mandatory. A 5-10% tip at restaurants is common if service charges are not included. Small tips for hotel staff and taxi drivers are appreciated but not expected.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in town; cash is handy for markets and smaller eateries. PIX, Brazil’s instant payment system, is increasingly used for quick transactions and small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with afternoon thunderstorms common; stay hydrated, seek shade, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild temperatures and turning foliage create pleasant conditions for outdoor exploring and photography; layers recommended.
Cooler, crisp days with possible chilly evenings; pack a light jacket and enjoy clear, bright skies suitable for long walks.
Fresh air and blooming countryside, ideal for scenic drives and hikes; expect variable showers and comfortable daytime temperatures.
Feliz at Night
Hiking in Feliz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike through rolling hills with valley views and photo opportunities.
Forest-lined river path offering birdwatching and a gentle stroll along the water.
Airports
How to reach Feliz by plane.
Salgado Filho International Airport serves major domestic routes and some international connections; typically a 1.5-2 hour drive from Feliz depending on traffic.
Regional airport serving the Serra Gaúcha with domestic connections; useful as a secondary option to POA.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The core population with diverse family histories across generations.
A notable heritage influence visible in architecture, cuisine, and family names.
Agriculture remains a central economic and cultural activity in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport with local clubs and pickup games in parks and squares.
Regional cultural sports and demonstrations tied to cattle ranching and gaucho heritage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Feliz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on cheese, breads, salads, roasted vegetables, and bean dishes; ask for fragrant herb sides and avoid meat broths in soups. Many spots offer cheese-focused plates and hot vegetable sides. If needed, request simple preparations such as grilled vegetables and fresh fruit for meals.