Things To Do
in Juiz de Fora

Small, chewy cheese bread made with queijo Minas and tapioca flour; available at bakeries and cafés across the city, especially for breakfast.

Must-Try!

Hearty bean-and-cassava-flour-based dishes often served with sausage, collard greens and rice; common at traditional restaurants and family-style eateries.

Sweet milk-based desserts and local fresh cheese; great to buy at markets or specialty stores as souvenirs.

Brazilians are warm and often greet with a handshake in formal settings and a cheek kiss or two among friends. A friendly 'bom dia' (good morning) or 'boa tarde' (good afternoon) goes a long way.

Expect closer personal distance and animated conversation; arriving a few minutes late to social gatherings is common, but be punctual for business meetings.

Accepting small offers of food or coffee is polite; complimenting a host and expressing thanks is appreciated.

A variety of short to moderate trails in the Mantiqueira foothills offering waterfalls, forested paths and panoramic views — accessible as day trips from the city.

A larger national park within driving distance that offers more challenging hikes, high-altitude scenery and biodiversity; plan a full-day excursion or an overnight stay to make the most of it.

Urban and peri-urban parks around Juiz de Fora provide easy walks, birdwatching and family-friendly trails without the need for extensive travel.

There is a small regional airport serving general aviation and limited commercial routes — check current schedules as services can change seasonally.

Major international airport serving the state capital (roughly 2–3 hours by car or bus depending on traffic) with many domestic and international connections.

International airports in Rio are reachable by road in about 3–4 hours and provide many additional flight options and connections.

The Federal University of Juiz de Fora (UFJF) and other institutions create a sizable student population active in cultural and nightlife scenes.

Long-term residents include families and professionals employed in regional commerce, services and light industry, contributing to a stable urban environment.

A visible retired population values quieter neighborhoods and community groups; family-run businesses and traditional shops reflect this demographic.

The most popular sport; local amateur and youth leagues are widespread and match days bring community spirit.

Indoor variants like futsal and volleyball are common in schools and community centers, popular among students and young people.

With access to city parks and nearby hills, running and trail events attract locals who use the terrain for training and races.

Vegetarian options are increasingly available in cafés and mid-range restaurants — request vegetable sides, cheese-based dishes and salads; explain your needs in Portuguese if possible ('sou vegetariano(a)').

Vegan options are less widespread but growing. Look for health-food cafés or vegetarian restaurants in central neighborhoods; ask that dishes be prepared without dairy or eggs.

Many breads and snacks contain cassava flour (gluten-free) or wheat; mention the restriction ('sou intolerante ao glúten') and choose grilled proteins, salads and rice-based dishes when in doubt.