Things To Do
in Taubaté

Taubaté is a vibrant city located in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Nestled in the Paraíba Valley, it offers a mix of urban life and natural beauty, making it a great destination for both locals and tourists. The city is famous for its historical architecture and as the birthplace of the renowned Brazilian writer Monteiro Lobato.

With a population that enjoys various cultural events and festivities, Taubaté is a city that beautifully reflects the essence of Brazilian life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Taubaté
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Museu Monteiro Lobato, where you can explore the life and works of the famous author. Afterward, stroll through the Praça Dom Epaminondas, a lovely square perfect for people-watching.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery near the Mercado Municipal, then head to the Museu de História Natural to learn about the region's biodiversity and history.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner at a popular restaurant in the city center, followed by a relaxing walk along the Avenida do Povo.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a café, then visit the Parque Municipal de Taubaté for a morning of relaxation amidst nature.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby restaurant, followed by a visit to the Igreja São Francisco das Chagas, an iconic church with stunning architecture.

evening
:

Wrap up your stay with a local cultural event or live music performance in one of the city's vibrant bars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚌Public transport fare$1
🏨Hotel per night$50
🍕Pizza$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Delicious local cuisine
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited English-speaking services
  • Occasional traffic congestion
  • Public transport can be unreliable
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry

Places to Visit in Taubaté

Visit one of these nice places.

Igreja Matriz de Taubaté

This historical church features stunning architecture and beautiful interiors, perfect for capturing timeless moments.

Praça Dom Epaminondas

A picturesque square surrounded by trees and historical buildings, ideal for vibrant street photography.

Parque Municipal de Taubaté

A scenic park with lush greenery, walking paths, and a serene lake, offering great nature shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Taubaté

Taubaté's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Brazilian flavors and local specialties. You can find a variety of dishes that reflect the rich agricultural heritage of the region.

Taubaté Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pão de Queijo

A popular cheese bread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Must-Try!

Feijão Tropeiro

A hearty dish made with beans, eggs, and various seasonings, often served with rice.

Lámen

A Brazilian take on ramen, blending Japanese influences with local ingredients.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Taubaté

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

Feira Livre

Weekly open-air markets featuring a variety of street foods and local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Taubaté has a tropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. The average temperature ranges from 18°C (64°F) in winter to 28°C (82°F) in summer. Rainfall is common during the summer months, while winters are drier. Humidity levels can be high, especially during the summer, making it feel warmer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common, but friends often greet with a kiss on the cheek.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; casual wear is acceptable elsewhere.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating and avoid discussing politics at the table.

Safety Guide

Safety

Taubaté is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's essential to take precautions. Avoid displaying valuables in public and stay vigilant in crowded areas. It's advisable to use registered taxis or rideshare apps rather than public transport late at night.

Tipping in Taubaté

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% at restaurants and cafes.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect hot and humid weather, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the local parks.

Autumn (March to May)

Milder temperatures make this a great time for exploration and cultural events.

Winter (June to August)

Cooler weather, ideal for indoor activities and enjoying warm Brazilian dishes.

Spring (September to November)

A pleasant season with blooming flowers, great for photography and outdoor dining.

Nightlife Guide

Taubaté at Night

Taubaté's nightlife offers a vibrant mix of bars, live music venues, and dance clubs. The atmosphere is lively, especially on weekends, with many places featuring local bands playing Brazilian music. The city is known for its friendly locals who enjoy socializing, making it easy to strike up conversations. Popular areas include the Bar do Gordo and several pubs along Avenida do Povo, where you can experience the local nightlife scene.

Hiking in Taubaté

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Ouro

A scenic hiking trail leading through lush forests and offering panoramic views of the region.

Caminho dos Anjos

This trail features moderate difficulty, leading to beautiful waterfalls and diverse flora.

Airports

How to reach Taubaté by plane.

São José dos Campos Airport

Approximately 30 km from Taubaté, this airport offers domestic flights and is the closest major airport to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Taubaté is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are concentrated. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available. However, be cautious of traffic when crossing streets, and consider using public transport for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Many young families reside in Taubaté, benefiting from the city's educational institutions and parks.

Students

The presence of several universities attracts a vibrant student population, contributing to the local culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Taubaté, with local teams competing at various levels.

Volleyball

Volleyball enjoys popularity, with many locals participating in recreational leagues and tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Taubaté can be moderate, especially during rush hours. The city is well-connected by a network of roads, but congestion can occur. Public transportation includes buses that serve the city and surrounding areas, though services may vary in reliability.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Taubaté.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advised to inquire about ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

While not widely available, some places do cater to gluten-free diets; ask for specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Taubaté is accessible with several public and private hospitals available. The public health system provides free services, but wait times can be long. Private healthcare facilities offer quicker services and are recommended for tourists seeking immediate care. Pharmacies are also widely available for purchasing over-the-counter medications.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide