Things To Do
in Novo Hamburgo

Novo Hamburgo is a vibrant city located in the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul. Known as the 'Capital of Shoes,' it has a rich industrial history and is famous for its footwear production. The city features beautiful parks, a lively cultural scene, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

With a blend of modernity and tradition, Novo Hamburgo is an ideal destination for both tourists and business travelers alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic downtown area, exploring the charming architecture and local shops. Stop by the Igreja do Evangelho Quadrangular, a beautiful church with stunning stained glass.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and then head to the Museu Nacional do Calçado to learn about the city's shoe-making industry. Take a leisurely stroll in the Parque Natural Municipal da Fenachamp.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Brazilian steakhouse, savoring the delicious cuts of meat, followed by a night walk along the riverfront.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Parque da Cidade for a morning hike and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the park's scenic spots.

afternoon
:

Explore the local art scene by visiting the Casa de Cultura, where you can see exhibitions from local artists. Have lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife by visiting bars and live music venues, enjoying the local samba and MPB (Música Popular Brasileira) performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍺Local beer$3
🚌Public transportation ticket$1
🏨Hotel night$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
  • Delicious local cuisine and diverse food scene.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor activities.
  • Limited English-speaking locals may pose communication challenges.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Some areas may not be as well maintained.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Novo Hamburgo

Visit one of these nice places.

Parque Natural Municipal da Fenachamp

A beautiful park with lush greenery and scenic views, perfect for nature photography.

Igreja do Evangelho Quadrangular

This historic church features stunning architecture and vibrant stained glass, offering great photo opportunities.

Centro Histórico

The city's downtown area is filled with charming buildings and local life, ideal for capturing the essence of Novo Hamburgo.

Culinary Guide

Food in Novo Hamburgo

Novo Hamburgo offers a delicious culinary experience that reflects its cultural diversity and rich local traditions.

Novo Hamburgo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Churrasco

A traditional Brazilian barbecue featuring various cuts of meat, often served with sides like farofa and vinaigrette.

Must-Try!

Pão de Queijo

Cheese bread rolls that are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, perfect as a snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira do Largo

A lively market held on weekends, offering local produce, handmade crafts, and delicious street food.

Caminho do Vinho

A street known for food stalls offering local delicacies, including homemade wines and cheeses.

Climate Guide

Weather

Novo Hamburgo has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The city experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, with summer being the wettest season. Average temperatures range from 5°C in winter to 30°C in summer, making it a year-round destination.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting People

A warm handshake or a hug is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dress Code

Dress is generally casual but neat; locals appreciate a well-put-together appearance.

Respect for Tradition

Be respectful of local traditions and cultural practices, especially during festivals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Novo Hamburgo is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid displaying valuables in public, especially in crowded areas, and be cautious when walking alone at night. Use registered taxis or ride-sharing services for late-night travel.

Tipping in Novo Hamburgo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants. However, check if the service charge is included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

Expect warm weather with temperatures averaging 25-30°C. Ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Autumn (March - May)

Temperatures begin to cool down, ranging from 15-25°C. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the fall foliage.

Winter (June - August)

Colder temperatures can drop to around 5-15°C. It’s the season for warm food and festive celebrations.

Spring (September - November)

Mild temperatures of 15-25°C make this a lovely time for outdoor exploration and enjoying blooming flowers.

Nightlife Guide

Novo Hamburgo at Night

Novo Hamburgo's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city comes alive after dark with samba and MPB music filling the air. Popular areas include the downtown region, where you can find a variety of establishments offering everything from casual drinks to energetic dance floors.

Hiking in Novo Hamburgo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Parque Natural Municipal da Fenachamp

A scenic trail that winds through lush forests, offering varying levels of difficulty and beautiful views.

Caminho do Vinho

A picturesque trail leading through vineyards, perfect for a leisurely hike while enjoying local wine tasting.

Airports

How to reach Novo Hamburgo by plane.

Salgado Filho International Airport (POA)

Located approximately 40 km from Novo Hamburgo, this major airport offers domestic and international flights. It serves as the primary gateway for travelers visiting the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Novo Hamburgo is a walkable city, especially in the downtown area where most attractions, shops, and eateries are located within a short distance. Sidewalks are generally well-kept, and pedestrian crossings are marked. However, be cautious of traffic in busier areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

German-Brazilians

A significant portion of Novo Hamburgo's population is of German descent, contributing to the city's cultural and culinary landscape.

Italian-Brazilians

Another prominent demographic, Italian immigrants have influenced the local cuisine and traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a major passion in Brazil, with local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Volleyball

Volleyball is widely played and enjoyed, both recreationally and competitively, in parks and sports complexes.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be congested during rush hours, particularly in the city center. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are reliable and affordable. Ride-sharing services are also popular among locals.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Novo Hamburgo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to inquire about ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options can be found, but they might be limited; always check with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Novo Hamburgo has a range of healthcare facilities, including public hospitals and private clinics. Emergency services are available, and pharmacies are widespread. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while visiting.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide