Things To Do
in Getúlio Vargas
Getúlio Vargas is a small, welcoming municipality in southern Brazil named after the former president. It lies in Rio Grande do Sul amid rolling farmland and pockets of Atlantic forest, offering a tranquil escape from larger cities. The town showcases gaucho hospitality, with local markets, churrasco, and a laid-back village vibe.
Visitors can enjoy rural scenery, friendly locals, and easy access to the broader Serra Gaúcha region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by strolling through the charming town center of Getúlio Vargas, where you can admire the beautiful historical architecture and vibrant local shops. Stop by local bakeries to sample traditional Brazilian pastries and coffee while soaking in the morning ambiance. Don't forget to visit the Praça Rúbio de Oliveira, a lovely park perfect for a relaxing start to your day.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Museum of Local History, where you can learn about the region's rich history and heritage. After exploring the museum, take a walk to the nearby artisan market to discover handmade crafts and souvenirs from local artists. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the nearby restaurants, savoring regional dishes made with fresh ingredients.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a popular local steakhouse, where you can indulge in delicious cuts of beef grilled to perfection. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the town, perhaps stopping for a cappuccino at a café to watch the world go by. End your evening with a visit to a local bar for some live music, embracing the vibrant nightlife of Getúlio Vargas.
Depart early to visit the stunning natural reserves surrounding Getúlio Vargas, where you can experience the breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. Start with a guided hiking tour that offers an exhilarating experience amidst lush greenery and serene waterfalls. The crisp morning air invigorates your spirit as you connect with nature.
After your hike, enjoy a packed picnic lunch surrounded by the beauty of the reserves, taking the time to relax and appreciate the scenery. Take the afternoon to explore more trails at your leisure, perhaps spotting unique flora and fauna native to the region. Capture stunning photographs that will forever remind you of this immersive experience in nature.
Return to town and unwind with a cozy dinner at a local tavern, where you can share stories of your day's adventure with fellow travelers. Experience the warmth of local hospitality as you taste traditional dishes, paired with regional wines. Conclude your night under the stars, taking in the tranquility of the Brazilian countryside.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🏨One night in a budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚆Local transport (one-way) | $0.75-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2.50 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil, friendly community and scenic countryside
- Affordably priced food and accommodations
- Gateway to Serra Gaúcha and rural gaucho culture
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Public transport can be sparse
- Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers in more remote spots
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Getúlio Vargas
Visit one of these nice places.
The heart of town with historic façades, fountains and local life; great for street photography.
A traditional church with classic architecture, often framed with soft evening light.
A hilltop viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of farmland and distant hills.
A tranquil lakeside area perfect for dawn reflections and birdlife.
Rural pathway with flowering hedges and rural farmland silhouettes.
Food in Getúlio Vargas
Getúlio Vargas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty one-pot rice dish with beef, sausages, onions and peppers; widely served in gaucho eateries and home-style restaurants.
Must-Try!
Brazilian barbecue featuring a selection of grilled meats; best enjoyed at a local parrilla or churrascaria.
Roasted pine nuts from araucaria trees, a seasonal snack popular in winter markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh produce, cheeses, sausages, and ready-to-eat bites.
Weekly street markets with local farmers selling seasonal fruit, baked goods and snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Offer a handshake and a friendly greeting; use bom dia/tarde/noite and address people as Senhor/Senhora.
Relaxed approach to time; speak politely and avoid loud or confrontational behavior in public.
Respect for rural traditions; ask before photographing people working on farms.
Safety
Tipping in Getúlio Vargas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated if service is good; many places add a service charge, otherwise 5-10% is common.
Cash (BRL) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; keep some cash for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with frequent but brief thunderstorms; pack light clothing, sunscreen and water.
Milder temperatures and harvest season; ideal for hiking and outdoor markets.
Cool to mild days; nights can be chilly, especially in the hills; layer clothing.
Wetter months with blooming flora; carry a light rain jacket and enjoy countryside trails.
Getúlio Vargas at Night
Hiking in Getúlio Vargas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic climb with panoramic valley views and forested slopes.
Rugged canyon route with viewpoints and waterfall sections.
Pleasant path along several lagoons, ideal for wildlife watching.
Airports
How to reach Getúlio Vargas by plane.
Major gateway to Rio Grande do Sul with domestic and some international flights; reachable by road or as a connection from larger hubs.
Regional gateway in Santa Catarina offering broader connections; handy for coastal trips and access to the border region.
Smaller regional airport serving the Vale dos Vinhedos and nearby towns; convenient for quick arrivals to the inland areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents with mixed European and Indigenous ancestry; traditional families are common.
Many residents are involved in agriculture or small-scale farming.
Relatively high prevalence of Catholic traditions and celebrations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport in the region, with local matches and community leagues year-round.
A nod to gaucho heritage; ranches and farms offer guided rides.
Common in schools and community centers, especially near coastal towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Getúlio Vargas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries offer veggie salads, cheese dishes and grilled vegetables; ask for plant-based options or sides.