Things To Do
in Nova Trento
Nova Trento is a small mountain town in Santa Catarina known for its Italian-Swiss heritage and hillside vistas. Nestled in the Itajaí Valley, it offers a blend of colonial architecture, lush forests, and serene rural charm. The town is renowned for its warm hospitality, rural gastronomy, and nearby nature trails.
Visitors come to slow down, enjoy panoramic viewpoints, and experience a quiet, family-friendly environment.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through Nova Trento's historic center, where you can admire the beautiful colonial architecture. Visit the charming Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Bom Sucesso, soaking in its intricate details and history. Stop by a local café for a traditional breakfast of pão de queijo and fresh Brazilian coffee.
After lunch, head to the Museu da Imigração to learn about the fascinating history of Italian immigrants in the region. Explore the exhibits showcasing artifacts and photographs that narrate the story of these early settlers. Take a leisurely walk through the park nearby, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful gardens.
As the sun sets, make your way to a local trattoria that serves authentic Italian cuisine, a nod to the town's heritage. Enjoy a delicious meal of homemade pasta while reminiscing about the day’s explorations. After dinner, take a stroll through the illuminated streets, enjoying the ambiance and perhaps stopping for gelato.
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Sanctuary of Santa Paulina, an important pilgrimage site for many. Attend a morning mass if you're interested, or simply take in the serene environment and beautiful architecture of the sanctuary. Enjoy the peaceful gardens that surround the area, perfect for quiet reflection.
After your spiritual experience, have lunch at a nearby restaurant that specializes in traditional Italian dishes. Spend the afternoon exploring the sanctuary's museum, which offers insights into the life of Santa Paulina and the significance of her work. Don't forget to take some time to relax in the tranquil gardens before heading back.
In the evening, return to the town to experience a local cultural event or festival if one is taking place. Enjoy the lively atmosphere filled with music, dance, and local cuisine. Wrap up your day with a visit to a local bar for some refreshing caipirinhas while mingling with the locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🍝Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🚍One-way ticket on local transport | $1-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel or hostel per night | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Italian-Swiss heritage and warm hospitality
- Scenic landscapes and quiet, safe environment
- Delicious regional cuisine and family-owned eateries
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure outside peak season
- Hilly terrain means some areas are less walkable without a car
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Nova Trento
Visit one of these nice places.
A Baroque-influenced church with a picturesque façade and central square.
Colorful colonial buildings lined around the town square, ideal for street photography.
A hillside viewpoint overlooking the valley and surrounding hills at sunset.
A charming street with traditional façades and local life scenes.
Food in Nova Trento
Nova Trento Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy polenta served with braised beef ragout, a comforting staple in the region.
Must-Try!
Grilled or roasted chicken served with polenta, a common festa dish.
Cheese bread with regional cheeses often found at markets.
Banana cake with cinnamon and brown sugar, a dessert popular in the Serra Gaúcha influence.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering seasonal produce, dairy, bread, and small bites from nearby farms.
Weekend stalls with cheeses, honey, breads, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or light kiss on the cheek is common among friends; greet locals with a friendly 'Bom dia' or 'Boa tarde'.
Safety
Tipping in Nova Trento
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not mandatory; 5-10% in many restaurants if service is not included. In casual places, rounding up the bill is appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with humidity; expect occasional showers and afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated and seek shade.
Mild temperatures and colorful foliage; great for scenic hikes and outdoor dining.
Cool to mild, with cool evenings and cool mornings; versatile layering recommended.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming flora; rains can occur, so bring a light rain jacket.
Nova Trento at Night
Hiking in Nova Trento
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trail with several viewpoints over the Itajaí valley; suitable for half-day hikes.
A short trail to a waterfall with a pool for a refreshing dip.
Panoramic overlook featuring pine and lush green valley views.
Airports
How to reach Nova Trento by plane.
Located in Navegantes, 60-70 km from Nova Trento; major regional gateway with domestic flights and some international routes.
Florianópolis International, about 90 km away; regional hub with national and international flights.
Joinville airport, about 120-140 km away; serves the northern Santa Catarina region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents are native Portuguese speakers with families rooted in local agriculture and heritage.
A significant portion of the population traces its roots to Italian and Swiss communities, influencing local culture, cuisine, and festivals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region with local leagues and informal games.
Rural roads and hills attract cyclists for recreational routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nova Trento.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places can prepare vegetarian options by using legumes, polenta, vegetables, and cheese; ask for no meat or chicken stock and request olive oil instead of butter.