Things To Do
in Pôrto União
Porto União is a border city in southern Brazil where Santa Catarina meets Paraná, offering a blend of Brazilian regional culture and European heritage. The town sits along scenic river valleys and verdant hills, inviting relaxed exploration and easy border-town excursions. It’s known for hearty southern Brazilian cuisine, friendly locals, and affordable travel experiences.
Visitors can base themselves here to explore both the local urban charm and nearby natural landscapes at a comfortable pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Pôrto União's historic center, admiring the well-preserved colonial architecture. Visit the Igreja Matriz de São João Batista, a beautiful church that showcases the city's rich history and religious significance. Don’t forget to stop by the local artisan shops to pick up unique crafts and souvenirs.
After lunch at a quaint café, delve deeper into the city's history at the Museu Histórico de Pôrto União, which offers fascinating exhibits on regional culture and heritage. Enjoy a walk along the banks of the União River, where you can take in scenic views and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Wind down your afternoon with a visit to the Praça dos Três Poderes, a lovely park where locals gather.
As dusk falls, enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood dishes unique to the region. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the river promenade, soaking in the serene atmosphere and beautiful sunset views. Cap off your evening with a drink at a local bar, mingling with residents and experiencing the vibrant nightlife.
Begin your day early with a guided tour of the nearby Parque Nacional de São Joaquim, a stunning area known for its diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Immerse yourself in nature as you hike through lush trails, where you may encounter various bird species and native flora. The fresh air and beautiful landscapes will invigorate your spirit for the day ahead.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the sounds of the forest. Continue your adventure with a visit to the Parque Nacional de São Joaquim's scenic viewpoints, where you can take breathtaking photographs of the sprawling valleys below. The afternoon can also include a dip in a nearby natural pool, perfect for cooling off after a hike.
Return to Pôrto União and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a local churrascaria, where you can indulge in a traditional Brazilian barbecue experience. Share stories of your day's adventures with fellow diners while enjoying live music that frequently accompanies the meal. After dinner, take a stroll through the illuminated streets, appreciating the peaceful ambiance of the town at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-5 |
| 🚌Local transit pass (daily) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Border-region culture with a mix of Brazilian traditions
- Affordable compared to major tourist hubs
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Good base for exploring Southern Brazil’s natural beauty
- Smaller tourism infrastructure in some areas
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale entertainment options
- Public transport can be less frequent outside city centers
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Pôrto União
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views with natural light during sunrise and sunset, ideal for landscape and reflection shots.
Colorful colonial-inspired storefronts and stone-paved streets provide charm for street photography.
Elevated vantage points offering sweeping panoramas over forests and river valleys, especially during golden hour.
Food in Pôrto União
Pôrto União Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crisped polenta cooked with melty cheese, a common rustic dish often served as a side or snack.
Must-Try!
Traditional Brazilian barbecue featuring various cuts of meat grilled to order, typically served with rice, beans, and farofa.
Skillet-roasted or grilled river fish with rice and seasonal vegetables, reflecting the region’s access to freshwater fish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market hall where you can sample fresh produce, regional cheeses, baked goods, and street snacks.
Weekend street fairs offering ready-to-eat bites like coxinha, pastéis, and breads, plus fresh fruit and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake or a friendly nod works in formal and casual settings. Use polite forms like senhor/senhora when addressing elders or strangers.
Portuguese is the primary language; learning a few basic phrases helps. English is less common in smaller towns.
Be respectful when crossing between Santa Catarina and Paraná; carry valid ID and be mindful of local customs and currency.
Safety
Tipping in Pôrto União
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. If service is not included, consider 5-10% for good service at restaurants; small tips for taxi drivers or service staff are appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops in town; cash (BRL) is useful for markets and smaller vendors; mobile payment apps are increasingly common in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with afternoon showers common. Pack light clothes, sunscreen, and a light rain layer; mornings can be pleasant for outdoor strolls.
Mild to cool temperatures, especially at night. Layered clothing is useful; rain is less frequent but possible.
Pleasant and green, with comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities and photography.
Cooler days with clear skies; great time for scenic drives and light hikes.
Pôrto União at Night
Hiking in Pôrto União
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate day hikes with forest scenery and valley viewpoints, accessible from nearby towns.
Forest paths and river views offering a peaceful outdoor experience near the border region.
Airports
How to reach Pôrto União by plane.
Major hub with domestic and international connections; useful for multi-city itineraries and connections to other parts of Brazil.
Regional airport in Santa Catarina; convenient for domestic trips and quick connections to Porto União.
Coastal gateway near Itajaí; good for accessing the Santa Catarina coast and domestic routes.
Regional airport in western Santa Catarina; limited flights but useful for northern access to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and workers in local commerce and cross-border trade; a heritage influenced by Italian and German communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Brazil; local clubs and informal games are common.
Widely played in schools and community centers; recreational leagues are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pôrto União.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Opt for bean-and-rice plates, salads, polenta, and vegetarian-friendly stews; ask about cheese or meat-based broths in soups.
Many dishes can be adapted; request rice, tempeh or meat-based mains without bread or fried batters; check polenta preparation if fried.