Things To Do
in São Vicente

São Vicente is a coastal city in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, known for its beautiful beaches and rich history. It is one of the oldest cities in Brazil, founded in 1532, and boasts a vibrant culture influenced by its colonial past. The city is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure.

With its stunning views, lively markets, and historical landmarks, São Vicente offers a unique glimpse into Brazilian life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Historical Charm
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Museu das Conquistas to learn about the city's history. Grab breakfast at a local bakery like Padaria São Vicente.

afternoon
:

Visit the beautiful Praia do Gonzaguinha, where you can relax on the beach or enjoy water sports. Have lunch at a beachfront restaurant.

evening
:

Take a stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy a dinner at Restaurante Aconchego, known for its seafood dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at the Parque Municipal da Cidade, where you can explore trails and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

afternoon
:

Visit the Mercado Municipal for a taste of local produce and snacks. Afterwards, explore the historic center and admire the colonial architecture.

evening
:

End your day with a visit to a local bar, such as Bar do Gordo, to enjoy live music and drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Dinner at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍺Beer$3
🚕Taxi fare (within city)$5
🥖Bakery pastry$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and coastal scenery
  • Rich historical and cultural significance
  • Vibrant local markets and delicious food
  • Higher humidity during summer months
  • Limited English-speaking locals
  • Some areas may have safety concerns
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Onde fica?" - Where is it?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in São Vicente

Visit one of these nice places.

Praia do Gonzaguinha

This beach offers picturesque views with palm trees and colorful beach umbrellas, perfect for capturing the essence of coastal life.

Historic Center

Capture the colonial architecture and charming streets that narrate the historical significance of São Vicente.

Parque Municipal da Cidade

With lush greenery and stunning city views, this park is ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in São Vicente

São Vicente offers a diverse culinary scene featuring fresh seafood, local fruits, and traditional Brazilian dishes that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.

São Vicente Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moqueca

A traditional Brazilian fish stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, and spices, often served with rice.

Must-Try!

Pastel

A popular street food, these are deep-fried pastries filled with meat, cheese or vegetables, often enjoyed with a cold drink.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and delicious street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in São Vicente is classified as tropical, with warm temperatures year-round. Summers are hot and humid, with average highs around 30°C (86°F). Winters are milder, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). Rainfall is common in the summer months, while winters are typically drier.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

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

Personal Space

Brazilians tend to stand closer than in some cultures, so don’t be alarmed by the proximity during conversation.

Dining Etiquette

It's polite to wait for the host to begin the meal before starting to eat.

Safety Guide

Safety

While São Vicente is generally safe for tourists, it is advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid displaying expensive items and be cautious when using public transportation. Keeping to well-lit areas at night and being mindful of your surroundings can enhance personal safety.

Tipping in São Vicente

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

In restaurants, a tip of 10% is common if service is not included. For bars and cafes, rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and cash is useful for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm temperatures and high humidity, ideal for beach activities, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn (March to May)

Temperatures cool down slightly, making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Winter (June to August)

Winters are mild and dry, perfect for exploring the city with fewer crowds at tourist spots.

Spring (September to November)

Spring brings warmer temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a lovely time to enjoy parks and gardens.

Nightlife Guide

São Vicente at Night

São Vicente's nightlife is vibrant and varied, offering a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The beachfront promenade is lined with establishments that host everything from samba to electronic music. Many locals enjoy gathering in bars for drinks and conversations, especially on weekends. The city also hosts occasional festivals that bring lively entertainment to the streets.

Hiking in São Vicente

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Morro da Asa Delta

A scenic trail that offers stunning views of the coastline and is suitable for moderate hikers.

Trilha do Parque da Cidade

This trail provides a variety of paths through lush greenery, ideal for both hiking and birdwatching.

Airports

How to reach São Vicente by plane.

Congonhas-São Paulo Airport (CGH)

Located about 70 km from São Vicente, this airport serves domestic flights and is the closest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

São Vicente is quite walkable, especially along the beachfront promenade, where pedestrians can enjoy scenic views and access various shops and restaurants. The city center is also pedestrian-friendly, with narrow streets that encourage exploration on foot. However, some areas may require transportation for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The local population is diverse, with a mix of cultures, primarily Brazilian, influenced by Portuguese and indigenous heritage.

Tourists

The city attracts both domestic and international tourists seeking beach vacations, cultural experiences, and historical exploration.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is immensely popular in São Vicente, with local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Surfing

The coastal location makes surfing a favored sport, with many locals participating in this activity along the beaches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in São Vicente can vary, with peak hours experiencing congestion, particularly near the beaches and city center. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, with buses being the most economical choice for getting around. Bicycles are also used by some locals for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting São Vicente.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients, as some may include meat-based broths.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are growing in popularity; however, confirmation with staff is recommended to avoid cross-contamination.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in São Vicente is relatively good, with several public and private hospitals available. Emergency services are responsive, and pharmacies are accessible throughout the city. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers health-related issues.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide