Things To Do
in São Marcos
São Marcos is a tranquil municipality in southern Brazil, nestled among rolling hills and rivers. The town center blends historic churches, plazas, and cafes with a friendly, laid-back vibe. It’s a walkable place that rewards slow exploration on foot or by bicycle.
Nearby landscapes invite scenic hikes, vineyard visits, and river-side getaways.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Mercado Municipal, where you can wander through stalls brimming with fresh produce, artisan crafts, and local delicacies. Engage with friendly vendors who can share the history of their products while you sample traditional treats like queijo coalho. This vibrant atmosphere offers a genuine insight into the community’s daily life.
After lunch at a nearby café, dedicate the afternoon to exploring the nearby Museu de Arte de São Marcos, which showcases contemporary art from Brazilian artists. Spend some time admiring the diverse exhibits and participating in workshops if available. This artistic experience will deepen your appreciation for the local culture.
As the sun sets, head to one of the local churrascarias for an authentic Brazilian barbecue dinner. Enjoy a feast of grilled meats served with fresh salads and traditional sides while soaking in the lively atmosphere filled with laughter and music. Cap off the evening with a stroll along the riverside, enjoying the night views of the illuminated city.
Begin with a hearty breakfast at your hotel and prepare for a day in the great outdoors at Parque Nacional da Serra do Cipó. Experience a guided hike through the lush trails, where you can encounter various wildlife and magnificent waterfalls. The fresh air and stunning landscapes will invigorate your spirit.
After a picnic lunch amid nature, engage in activities like rock climbing or horseback riding in the park. The thrilling experiences and breathtaking scenery create perfect photographic opportunities. Make sure to take time to relax by one of the natural pools found along the trails.
Return to the town where you can enjoy dinner at a rustic restaurant known for its local cuisine. Savor dishes made from ingredients sourced from the surrounding area, offering an authentic taste of the region. End the night with a cozy bonfire at your accommodation, sharing stories and stargazing.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🧃Local beer or drink | $2-4 |
| 🚌Public transit 1-2 rides | $0.75-1.50 per ride |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range) per night | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-city atmosphere with scenic hills and rivers
- Warm, welcoming locals and strong gaucho culture
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some services may be sparse in outlying areas
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica?" - Where is...?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in São Marcos
Visit one of these nice places.
A charming central church with traditional architecture, ideal for sunrise or dusk shots with the town square.
A lively square framed by trees, benches, and colonial facades—great for candid street photography.
A hill overlook offering panoramic views of the hills, river valleys, and city below.
A historic bridge over a gentle stream, perfect for reflective photography and night shots with warm lighting.
Food in São Marcos
São Marcos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Succulent grills and mixed cuts, best enjoyed at a churrascaria or asado-style meal.
Must-Try!
Grilled young chicken served with creamy polenta, a classic RS comfort dish.
Rice cooked with dried beef and seasonings, a staple in rural RS cooking.
Savory cheese bread paired with traditional mate drink; widely available in bakeries and cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where locals buy produce, cheeses, and regional snacks.
Weekly farmers’ market offering fresh produce, jams, and street-food bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a handshake or a kiss on the cheek among friends; use polite forms like senhor/senhora and say por favor/obrigado.
Local culture values politeness and tangential conversation; maintain polite distances and avoid rushing hosts.
Chimarrão (mate) is a social ritual; sharing is common; wait to be offered if you want to drink.
Safety
Tipping in São Marcos
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, rounding up or leaving 5-10% as a service tip in restaurants is common if service is not included; rounding up taxi fares is appreciated.
Cards are widely accepted in towns; carry some cash for small vendors and street food; Brazilian reais is preferred, but some places may accept popular cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summers are warm and humid with afternoon thunderstorms possible; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities early in the day.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage and less rainfall; ideal for walking tours and photography.
Cool to chilly, with average lows in the 10–15°C range; dress in layers and enjoy indoor cafes and cultural events.
Moderate temperatures with showers; perfect for outdoor markets, gardens, and scenic hikes.
São Marcos at Night
Hiking in São Marcos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail through rolling hills with water springs and viewpoints.
A small waterfall hike in the surrounding countryside.
Airports
How to reach São Marcos by plane.
Located in Caxias do Sul, about a 1–2 hour drive from São Marcos, offering domestic flights and connections.
Main international gateway for the region; about 1.5–2.5 hours by car depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population has Italian, German, or Portuguese heritage; this shapes culture, cuisine, and festivals.
Many residents commute to nearby larger towns for work and education.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal games are common in parks and schools.
Indoor/small-sided football played in community gyms and clubs.
Traditions around rodeos and gaucho demonstrations in surrounding towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting São Marcos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include salads, polenta, pasta, rice with beans, grilled veggies, and cheese dishes; ask for vegetable-based dishes or modifications.