Things To Do
in Nova Venécia

Nova Venécia is a small city in the northeast of Espírito Santo, Brazil, set in a green valley shaped by rivers and countryside. It blends agricultural livelihoods with a growing urban center, giving visitors a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. The town serves as a gateway to nearby natural attractions, farms, and waterfalls, inviting outdoor exploration.

Local markets, colorful street life, and hospitable residents make for an authentic, easygoing Brazilian experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore the City Center
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading to the vibrant city center of Nova Venécia. Stroll along the picturesque streets, admiring the colonial architecture and stopping by local shops and markets. Engage with friendly locals to learn more about the city's history and culture.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Praça do Espírito Santo, a central square that hosts various community events and live music. Take some time to relax on a bench, people-watch, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Explore nearby businesses and artisan shops where you can find unique handmade goods.

evening
:

As evening falls, dine at a traditional Brazilian restaurant, savoring local dishes such as feijoada or moqueca. Afterwards, consider joining a cultural event or music performance often held in the city center. Wind down your day with a peaceful walk under the stars.

day 2
Visit Parque Estadual de Forno Grande
morning
:

Set out early for a day trip to Parque Estadual de Forno Grande, where you can immerse yourself in nature. Hike through lush greenery, enjoying the diverse wildlife and stunning views this national park offers. Don’t forget your camera for capturing the breathtaking landscapes.

afternoon
:

After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the designated areas within the park. Spend the afternoon hiking to scenic viewpoints or perhaps opt for some birdwatching to appreciate the park's rich avian diversity. Participate in guided tours if available for a deeper understanding of the local ecology.

evening
:

Return to Nova Venécia for a relaxing evening at your accommodation where you can reflect on your day’s adventures. Alternatively, find a cozy spot for dinner and try regional specialties cooked with local ingredients. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance, unwinding with a good book or conversation.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🧃Coffee and snack$2-5
🚌Public transportation fare$0.50-1.5
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$40-70
🛍️Groceries for a week$25-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Calm, friendly small city experience
  • Access to rural nature and local culture
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
  • Limited international flight options nearby
  • "Olá, tudo bem?" - Hello, how are you?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Onde fica o mercado?" - Where is the market?
  • "Pode me indicar um bom restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
  • "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you

Places to Visit in Nova Venécia

Visit one of these nice places.

Praça Central ao Amanhecer

A quiet square bathed in soft morning light with colonial facades and trees framing the scene.

Cais do Rio Novo

Riverside promenade offering reflections and golden-hour sunsets over calm water.

Mirantes Rurais

Hilltop viewpoints over patchwork fields and distant hills, ideal for wide-angle shots.

Villacentro Sunset Street

Colorful street life and warm light during the sunset, capturing locals going about their evening routines.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nova Venécia

Nova Venécia’s cuisine reflects Espírito Santo’s rural flavors, with cassava, beans, corn, fresh fish from rivers, and hearty stews. Expect simple, comforting dishes made with seasonal produce and seafood when available from nearby waters.

Nova Venécia Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moqueca Capixaba

A fragrant seafood stew cooked in a clay pot or banana leaves, typically featuring fish, onions, peppers, and coconut milk.

Must-Try!

Mandioca frita com queijo

Crispy fried cassava served with local cheese, a popular street snack and side dish.

Caldo de cana com queijo

Sweet sugarcane juice topped with a hint of cheese; a refreshing street treat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

Vibrant morning market with fresh produce, beans, cassava, cheeses, and regional snacks.

Street Food by the Riverfront

Casual stalls offering grilled meats, corn on the cob, and other local bites along the water.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nova Venécia has a tropical humid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The interior region experiences distinct wet and dry periods, with most rainfall from October through March and drier spells in winter. Average temperatures range from roughly 20-28°C year-round, with higher humidity in the rainy season. Microclimates can occur due to elevation and river valleys.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite greeting in Portuguese (Olá or bom dia/tarde) goes a long way.

Punctuality and boundaries

Be punctual for meetings; a friendly, informal approach is common; avoid loud behavior in religious sites.

Dress and modesty

Dress modestly for religious spaces and markets; comfortable shoes for walking are advised.

Safety Guide

Safety

As in many small Brazilian towns, petty crime can occur in crowded areas and at night in less busy neighborhoods. Stay aware of belongings in markets and public transport, use reputable taxis, and avoid isolated rural roads after dark. Emergency numbers in Brazil start with 190 (police) and 192 (SAMU).

Tipping in Nova Venécia

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not required; 10% is common in sit-down restaurants if a service charge is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash in BRL is widely accepted; cards are common at larger establishments; Pix is popular for fast transfers.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (Dec-Feb)

Hot and humid with frequent rain showers; carry water, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket.

Autumn (Mar-May)

Warm days with cooler nights; humidity decreases somewhat; great for outdoor walking and photography.

Winter (Jun-Aug)

Milder daytime temperatures with cooler mornings; occasional rain; layer clothing for comfort.

Spring (Sep-Nov)

Warming conditions with occasional showers; ideal for hiking and market visits.

Nightlife Guide

Nova Venécia at Night

Nova Venécia’s nightlife is relaxed and community-centered, with casual bars and small live music venues often featuring forró, sertanejo, and samba. Expect friendly gatherings in central neighborhoods, especially on weekends, with local foods and drinks. Large clubs are rare; the scene focuses on socializing and regional culture.

Hiking in Nova Venécia

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Riverside trails near the countryside

Easy to moderate trails along river banks with scenic views.

Hill approach routes for viewpoints

Short to mid-length hikes offering panoramic countryside vistas.

Airports

How to reach Nova Venécia by plane.

Vitória–Eurico de Aguiar Salles International Airport (VIX)

The closest major airport serving the region; drive around 3-4 hours to Nova Venécia depending on traffic.

Getting Around

Walkability

The city center is pedestrian-friendly with grid-like streets and compact blocks, making it easy to explore on foot. Some outlying areas require a car or taxi; hills and river valleys create elevation changes in parts of town.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Rural families

A large portion of residents engage in agriculture and small-scale farming.

Commuters and students

People traveling to work or school in nearby towns and urban centers.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (futebol)

The most popular sport; local leagues and pickup games are common.

Volleyball

Played in schools and community centers; beach volleyball in some parks.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads are generally straightforward but can get busy near market days and in peak travel periods. Public buses serve the town and surrounding municipalities; taxis are common for short trips. For longer trips, consider a private car or a ride-sharing option where available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nova Venécia.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available; rely on beans, rice, cassava, and fresh vegetables; ask for no seafood or meat in stews.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Nova Venécia includes public SUS facilities and private clinics. For emergencies, major hospitals in larger cities like Vitória are accessible by road; private hospitals offer faster service for those with insurance.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide