Things To Do
in Poços de Caldas
Poços de Caldas is a charming hill town in Minas Gerais, Brazil, perched on a volcanic plateau with lush parks and thermal springs. Its streets showcase colonial architecture, landscaped promenades, and a spa culture built around mineral waters. The town offers panoramic viewpoints, botanical gardens, and a relaxed pace that invites easy day trips into the surrounding countryside.
Year-round visitors enjoy cooling elevation, seasonal markets, and a blend of nature, culture, and thermal wellness.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring Brazilian coffee and fresh pastries. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Poços de Caldas, marveling at the beautiful colonial architecture. Don't miss the iconic Dona Beja Palace, where you can take in the history and stunning details of this landmark.
Continue your exploration by visiting the local market, where you can sample traditional snacks and buy unique handicrafts. Head to the Thermas Antonio Carlos for a relaxing soak in the mineral-rich hot springs, known for their healing properties. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, indulging in regional cuisine that highlights the flavors of Minas Gerais.
As the sun sets, make your way to the Praça Pedro Sanches, a lively square filled with local music and culture. Find a cozy spot at an outdoor café to enjoy a refreshing caipirinha while people-watching. Conclude your day with a stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the vibrant atmosphere of Poços de Caldas.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to the famous hot springs at the Parque José Affonso Junqueira. Spend the morning soaking in the thermal pools surrounded by beautiful gardens, allowing the natural minerals to rejuvenate your body. Take a moment to appreciate the serene environment and the sounds of nature around you.
After a refreshing dip, enjoy a leisurely lunch at the park's restaurant, sampling local dishes made with fresh ingredients. In the afternoon, explore the nearby hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Keep an eye out for native wildlife and capture the beautiful scenery with your camera.
As the day winds down, return to your accommodation to freshen up before dinner. Choose a restaurant that specializes in Minas Gerais cuisine, where you can indulge in delicious cheese dishes and hearty stews. After your meal, take a peaceful evening walk along the park's pathways, enjoying the cool night air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕️Coffee or beverage | $2-4 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket | $0.60-1.50 |
| 🏨Hotel/hostel per night | $30-70 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic highland setting with pleasant climate
- Relaxed pace and spa culture with accessible nature escapes
- Smaller nightlife and fewer high-energy entertainment options
- Limited large-scale shopping or dining compared to bigger cities
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
- "Onde fica a [lugar]?" - Where is the [place]?
Places to Visit in Poços de Caldas
Visit one of these nice places.
A statue and surrounding overlook offering sweeping views of the city and surrounding countryside, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Lush green avenues and flowering trees perfect for portrait photography and nature shots.
Colonial-era façades, charming plazas, and market activity provide colorful street photography opportunities.
Art-nouveau and early 20th-century spa buildings offer a nostalgic backdrop for architecture photography.
Food in Poços de Caldas
Poços de Caldas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cheesy baked rolls that are perfect as a snack or breakfast; best hot from a local bakery.
Must-Try!
Mild, crumbly cheese often enjoyed with tomato and bread or in regional cheeses platters.
Savory bean dish with cassava flour, sausage, and bits of pork; a hearty Minas classic.
Caramel-like sweet spread or candy made from milk and sugar, excellent with coffee or on breads.
Coconut cake or pie that showcases regional flavors and is commonly found in bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market where you can sample local produce, cheeses, and snacks; stroll through stalls for regional curiosities.
Evenings often feature street stalls offering pastel, coxinha, and other quick bites; great for a casual bite after sunset.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting like bom dia or boa tarde goes a long way; handshakes are common in formal settings and friends hug or kiss on the cheek in close circles.
Offer a friendly conversation; avoid overly loud opinions in public spaces and respect queues and personal space.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites and remove hats indoors where required.
Safety
Tipping in Poços de Caldas
Ensure a smooth experience
A 10% service charge may be included in the bill at nicer restaurants; if not included, leaving 5–10% as a tip is common. Rounding up on small purchases is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash ( Brazilian reais ) is widely accepted along with credit/debit cards. Digital payments (PIX) are increasingly common in shops and restaurants; many places display accepted methods at the entrance or on menus.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool nights; afternoon thunderstorms are common. Pack sunscreen and a light rain jacket; early mornings offer clear, crisp views from hilltop spots.
Mild and pleasant with clear skies; ideal for outdoor walks and photography of fall colors in the parks.
Cool to cool-cold nights; temperatures can dip, especially at higher elevations. Bring a light jacket and enjoy comfy indoor dining and spa experiences.
Mild and often blooming; pleasant for exploring gardens, markets, and outdoor trails.
Poços de Caldas at Night
Hiking in Poços de Caldas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A moderate hike to a prominent overlook offering expansive views of the city and surrounding landscape.
Forested hillside trails with gentle elevation gain and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
Trail to a scenic waterfall with accessible paths and photo opportunities along the cascade.
Airports
How to reach Poços de Caldas by plane.
Major international airport serving the region; about a few hours by road from Poços de Caldas; connections to major Brazilian cities and international destinations.
Regional airport with domestic and some international flights; convenient for travelers coming from São Paulo and nearby areas.
Large international hub with extensive domestic connections; often used for international travel with onward domestic flights to Minas Gerais.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding families and retirees who enjoy the spa traditions and hillside living.
Young people and tourists attracted to markets, parks, and cultural events.
Local families frequently visit parks, gardens, and thermal facilities for weekend trips.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local amateur leagues and friendly games across the city.
Public courts and clubs offer opportunities for social play and weekend matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Poços de Caldas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Minas Gerais dishes can be adapted. Look for pão de queijo without lard, cheese-based dishes, legumes, rice and beans, and fresh salads; inform kitchen staff about dairy choices and egg use.