Things To Do
in Petrolina

Petrolina is a vibrant city located in the northeastern region of Brazil, known for its beautiful landscapes along the banks of the São Francisco River. It serves as a critical hub for agriculture, particularly for fruit production, especially grapes and mangoes, and is often referred to as the 'Land of the Grapes.' The city boasts a rich cultural heritage influenced by both indigenous and colonial histories, making it a unique destination for travelers.

With its warm climate and friendly locals, Petrolina offers a delightful experience for those looking to explore Brazilian culture and nature.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Petrolina
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the São Francisco River waterfront, where you can enjoy a scenic walk and visit the local artisan market.

afternoon
:

Explore the Museu do Sertão to learn about the history and culture of the Sertão region, followed by lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional dishes.

evening
:

End your day with a sunset cruise on the São Francisco River for stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the beautiful Vinícola do Vale, a local vineyard, for a morning of wine tasting and exploring the vineyard.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby town of Juazeiro to visit the Mercado do Produtor for an authentic experience of local produce and crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a popular local pizzeria, followed by live music at a nearby bar to immerse yourself in the local nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🏨Hotel per Night$40
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1
🍺Local Beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine and fresh produce.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Hot summers can be uncomfortable for some.
  • Limited English-speaking locals may pose communication challenges.
  • Some areas may require caution after dark.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica...? " - Where is...?

Places to Visit in Petrolina

Visit one of these nice places.

São Francisco River

Capture stunning sunsets and the vibrant life along the riverbanks, especially during the golden hour.

Petrolina's Cathedral

The striking architecture of the cathedral provides a beautiful backdrop for photography.

Vineyards of Vale do São Francisco

The picturesque vineyards set against the backdrop of rolling hills are perfect for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Petrolina

Petrolina's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Brazilian flavors and local agricultural produce, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Petrolina Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Carne de Sol

A traditional sun-dried beef dish, often served with sides of beans and rice.

Must-Try!

Baião de Dois

A hearty dish made from rice and beans, typically flavored with herbs and cheese.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado do Produtor

A vibrant market featuring fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal goods, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Street Vendors

Throughout the city, you'll find vendors selling delicious snacks like pastéis (savory pastries) and acarajé (black-eyed pea fritters).

Climate Guide

Weather

Petrolina experiences a semi-arid climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The summers (December to February) are hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters (June to August) are milder, averaging around 20°C (68°F). Rainfall mainly occurs from March to May, bringing refreshing showers that can cool the temperatures. Overall, the city enjoys plenty of sunshine throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek is common when greeting locals.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is important in Brazilian culture; address them politely.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start, and always say 'bom apetite' before meals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Petrolina is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuables in public, and be cautious in less populated areas at night. It's advisable to use taxis or rideshare apps for transportation, especially after dark.

Tipping in Petrolina

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; however, check if service is already included in the bill.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect hot temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities but remember to stay hydrated.

Rainy Season (March to May)

This period sees occasional heavy rains, making it lush and green; however, some outdoor plans may need adjustments.

Winter (June to August)

Temperatures are milder, making it a pleasant time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Spring (September to November)

Enjoy blooming flowers and a gradual rise in temperatures, a great time for photography and local festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Petrolina at Night

Petrolina boasts a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars and clubs offering live music, dancing, and local drinks. The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, with many venues featuring traditional Brazilian music such as forró and samba. Popular areas for nightlife include the waterfront and the city center, where you can find both casual and upscale options to suit your taste.

Hiking in Petrolina

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Caminho da Fé

This trail runs through beautiful landscapes, ideal for hiking and experiencing nature up close.

Serra da Canastra National Park Trails

Offering various hiking options, this national park features stunning vistas, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Petrolina by plane.

Senador Nilo Coelho Airport (PNZ)

Located about 10 km from Petrolina, this airport offers regional flights and connects to major cities in Brazil.

Getting Around

Walkability

Petrolina is fairly walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may have uneven surfaces. It's advisable to be cautious while walking near busy streets and to stay aware of your surroundings.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

The region is home to several indigenous groups, contributing to the city's cultural diversity.

Migrant Populations

Petrolina has seen an influx of migrants from other parts of Brazil, enriching the local culture and economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Petrolina, with local teams and matches attracting enthusiastic crowds.

Volleyball

Beach volleyball is also popular, with many locals playing in parks and along the riverfront.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Petrolina is generally manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, which are affordable and widely used. Rideshare services are also available for convenient travel around the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Petrolina.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including salads and vegetable-based meals.

Gluten-Free Choices

With traditional rice and bean dishes, gluten-free options are commonly available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Petrolina is accessible, with several public and private hospitals and clinics available. The public healthcare system may have longer waiting times, but private facilities typically offer quicker service and higher quality care. It's recommended for travelers to have health insurance for any potential medical needs.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide