Things To Do
in Nova Serrana

Nova Serrana is a charming city located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant community. It is renowned for its shoe production, contributing significantly to the country's footwear industry. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, offering outdoor enthusiasts various opportunities for exploration.

With its friendly locals and unique culinary offerings, Nova Serrana is a hidden gem worth visiting.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day at the central square, Praça da Matriz, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café and admire the local architecture.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museu Histórico de Nova Serrana to learn about the city's history and its significance in the shoe industry. Afterward, stroll through the local artisan market to shop for handmade crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Minas Gerais restaurant, followed by a cultural performance at a local theater showcasing regional music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Head out early to the nearby Parque Natural Municipal da Serra do Curral for a morning hike, enjoying the scenic views and local flora.

afternoon
:

After the hike, visit a local farm for a traditional lunch featuring fresh ingredients. Spend the afternoon at the nearby Cachoeira do Salto, a beautiful waterfall perfect for relaxation.

evening
:

Relax at a local bar with live music, sampling local beers and enjoying the vibrant nightlife atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍺Local Beer$3
🚍Public Transportation Ticket$1
🥖Baguette$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
  • Delicious local cuisine with diverse dishes.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Public transport may be infrequent.
  • Some attractions may have limited hours.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Nova Serrana

Visit one of these nice places.

Praça da Matriz

The central square features stunning colonial architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of the city.

Cachoeira do Salto

A picturesque waterfall offering a beautiful backdrop for nature photography.

Parque Natural Municipal da Serra do Curral

A natural park with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nova Serrana

Nova Serrana boasts a rich culinary scene that reflects the traditions of Minas Gerais. Local dishes are hearty and flavorful, often featuring regional ingredients.

Nova Serrana Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pão de Queijo

A popular cheese bread that is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, perfect for a snack.

Must-Try!

Feijão Tropeiro

A traditional dish made with beans, eggs, and sausage, often served with rice.

Tutu de Feijão

A thick paste made from beans, typically served with pork and accompanied by rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira Livre

A vibrant open-air market held weekly where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food.

Food Stalls at Praça da Matriz

Various stalls offering traditional snacks like pastéis (fried pastries) and local sweets.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Nova Serrana is classified as tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summers are warm with temperatures averaging around 28°C (82°F), while winters are mild, averaging 18°C (64°F). Rain is more common during the summer months, particularly in January and February, while dry weather prevails from May to September.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek is customary when meeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start your meal.

Dress Code

Casual attire is acceptable, but dressing up for dinner or cultural events is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nova Serrana is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to remain cautious, especially at night. Avoid displaying valuables and stick to well-lit areas. Local authorities are responsive, and emergency services can be reached easily.

Tipping in Nova Serrana

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is common to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants, although it may already be included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for street vendors and smaller shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm temperatures and occasional rain; it's a great time for outdoor activities.

Autumn (March to May)

Cooler temperatures and dry weather make this an ideal time for hiking and exploring the city.

Winter (June to August)

Mild temperatures during the day, but cool nights; perfect for enjoying local cuisine indoors.

Spring (September to November)

Temperatures begin to warm up, and the landscape becomes lush and vibrant, perfect for photography.

Nightlife Guide

Nova Serrana at Night

Nova Serrana has a lively nightlife scene with bars, live music venues, and dance clubs. Locals enjoy socializing, and you'll find a mix of traditional Brazilian music and contemporary genres. Popular spots often feature outdoor seating, allowing patrons to enjoy the pleasant weather while sipping on local drinks.

Hiking in Nova Serrana

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Morro do Aéreo

A scenic hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Caminho dos Pássaros

This trail is known for its diverse bird species and lush scenery, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Nova Serrana by plane.

Aeroporto Regional de Nova Serrana (PNV)

A small regional airport that connects travelers with major Brazilian cities, located about 15 km from the city center.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nova Serrana is fairly walkable, especially in its central areas where most shops, restaurants, and attractions are located. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some outlying neighborhoods may require a vehicle for access.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Nova Serrana, particularly in the shoe manufacturing and service industries.

Families

Many families reside in Nova Serrana, contributing to the community's cultural fabric and local events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in the region, with many local teams and passionate fans.

Volleyball

Volleyball is also widely played and enjoyed, with both beach and court variations being popular among locals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nova Serrana is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation is available, with buses connecting key areas, although they may not be frequent. It's advisable to plan travel times accordingly, especially during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nova Serrana.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes upon request.

Gluten-Free Options

Although less common, some eateries provide gluten-free alternatives, particularly in larger establishments.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Nova Serrana includes both public and private facilities. The public healthcare system is available, but private clinics and hospitals offer faster services. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide