Things To Do
in Três Coroas

Três Coroas is a small spa town in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, nestled in the Serra Gaúcha mountains. It is anchored by Termas de Três Coroas, a renowned thermal spa complex that draws visitors from across the region. The town serves as a tranquil base for exploring nearby Canela and Gramado’s forests, waterfalls, and European-influenced culture.

Hospitality here blends gaucho warmth with a family-friendly, nature-forward vibe that suits relaxed getaways.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the charming historic center of Três Coroas, where you can stroll through cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings. Stop by local shops to discover handmade crafts and souvenirs that reflect the culture of the region. Don’t forget to grab a traditional breakfast of pão de queijo and coffee at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Casa de Cultura to learn about the city’s history and heritage through engaging exhibits. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the Praça do Imigrante, soaking in the local atmosphere and perhaps catching a glimpse of community events or performances. As the afternoon sun sets, consider visiting the local artisan market for unique handmade goods.

evening
:

As night falls, dine at a local restaurant known for its traditional Brazilian cuisine, such as feijoada and grilled meats. After dinner, take a stroll along the riverbank to enjoy the peaceful ambiance and views of the illuminated city. End your evening with a cup of local cachaça, savoring the flavors of Brazil in a cozy setting.

day 2
Adventure at Parque Estadual do Caracol
morning
:

Kick off your adventure with an early drive to Parque Estadual do Caracol, known for its stunning natural beauty and the iconic Caracol Waterfall. Upon arrival, take a scenic hike along the well-marked trails, immersing yourself in the lush greenery and vibrant wildlife. Don’t miss the chance to capture breathtaking photographs of the waterfall from various viewpoints.

afternoon
:

After exploring the trails, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the sounds of the forest. Spend the afternoon visiting the park's observation tower for panoramic views of the landscape, providing a perfect backdrop for more photos. If you're feeling adventurous, try the zip-line experience that offers a thrilling rush while overlooking the park.

evening
:

Return to Três Coroas in the evening and relax at your accommodations, perhaps enjoying a refreshing drink on the terrace. For dinner, indulge in a hearty meal at a local steakhouse, sampling the region’s renowned barbecue. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk, reflecting on the stunning sights you've experienced.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant$25-40
🏨Mid-range hotel room (per night)$70-150
Coffee or tea at a café$2-5
🚌Local transportation day pass$5-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning Serra Gaúcha scenery and easy access to Canela and Gramado
  • Relaxed pace, spa culture, and family-friendly atmosphere
  • Good value for nature-based and cultural experiences
  • Nightlife is low-key compared with larger cities
  • Some attractions in the area require a car or longer drives
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado" - Thank you (male speaker)
  • "Obrigada" - Thank you (female speaker)
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Três Coroas

Visit one of these nice places.

Termas de Três Coroas – Spa Reflections

Photogenic pools and garden areas with reflections and gentle morning light ideal for tranquil wellness imagery.

Lago das Águas (nearby Serra region)

A serene water body surrounded by pines and mountains; great for sunrise or sunset reflections and landscape shots.

Caracol Viewpoint (Canela via short detour)

A classic waterfall viewpoint along the Canela route; dramatic cascades and verdant backdrop suitable for wide-angle landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Três Coroas

The local cuisine leans into hearty southern Brazilian flavors with gaucho influences, seasonal produce, and influences from Italian and German heritage common in Serra Gaúcha. Expect generous portions, wood-fired flavors, and comforting desserts paired with coffee or mate-based drinks.

Três Coroas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arroz Carreteiro

A robust rice dish cooked with beef, sausage, and spices; a staple in gaucho-inspired menus and widely available in regional eateries.

Must-Try!

Churrasco Gaúcho

Traditional Brazilian barbecue featuring a variety of grilled meats served with sides like polenta, rice, and salads.

Cuca

A southern cake often topped with cinnamon, sugar, or fruit; commonly found in bakeries and cafés around the region.

Galeto com Polenta

Roasted young chicken served with creamy polenta, a popular pairing in Serra Gaúcha restaurants.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Três Coroas Farmers Market (seasonal)

Seasonal market stalls offering fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and regional snacks near the town center.

Serra Gaúcha Street Food Corners

Casual spots along main avenues offering quick bites like sweets, pastel, and grilled distributor-style snacks reminiscent of the region.

Climate Guide

Weather

The Serra Gaúcha region has a temperate humid subtropical climate. Summers are warm but not hot, while winters can be cool to cold with occasional frost. Rainfall occurs year-round, with a tendency toward afternoon showers in warmer months. The altitude and northern latitude give the area a refreshing climate ideal for outdoor activities most of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and conversation

A handshake or warm greeting is common; address people politely and use small talk about weather or family. Manners and hospitality are valued.

Religious spaces

Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; observe local customs and norms during ceremonies.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good in the town and tourist areas. Take standard precautions against petty theft in crowded spots, keep valuables secure, and use reputable transport options. Road travel can be winding; drive cautiously in steep or wet conditions, especially in winter.

Tipping in Três Coroas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

A tip of around 5-10% is common in cafés and casual eateries if service is not included; in finer restaurants 10-15% is standard. Cash tips are appreciated but cards are widely accepted.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Carry some cash for smaller markets or rural stops where card readers may be limited.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with pleasant evenings; occasional afternoon rain showers. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a light jacket for cooler nights.

Winter

Cool to cold with crisp mornings and possible frost. Nights can be chilly; bring a warm layer, scarf, and a waterproof jacket.

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flora; a good time for outdoor walks and photography with soft light.

Autumn

Cooling days with colorful foliage in the surrounding hills; ideal for scenic drives and countryside hikes.

Nightlife Guide

Três Coroas at Night

The nightlife in Três Coroas is relaxed and family-friendly, with cafés offering live music, quiet bars, and evening strolls along well-lit streets. For more vibrant options, short trips to Gramado or Canela provide broader choices of nightlife venues, including clubs, piano bars, and themed lounges. Expect a slower pace after 9 PM, with many venues closing earlier than larger Brazilian cities.

Hiking in Três Coroas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cascata do Caracol Trail

Moderate trail leading to the Caracol waterfall viewpoint near Canela; popular for photography and forest scenery.

Lago Negro Lakeside Walk

Scenic, relatively gentle lakeside paths around Gramado’s Lago Negro with evergreen trees and tranquil water reflections.

Airports

How to reach Três Coroas by plane.

Porto Alegre International (POA)

Main regional gateway with domestic and international flights; about 2 hours by road to Três Coroas.

Caxias do Sul Airport (CXJ)

Regional airport serving the Serra Gaúcha; useful for domestic connections and shorter trips; typically a few hours by road.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is quite walkable with gentle hills; longer trips to nature areas or Canela/Gramado may require a vehicle or bike rental. Some rural roads may not have sidewalks, so exercise caution when exploring on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Predominantly Brazilian with strong Southern Gaúcho cultural ties; influences from Italian and German heritage common in the Serra Gaúcha region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A popular pastime with local clubs and pickup games in community spaces; easy to join or watch.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate; winding mountain roads can be slow on weekends or during tourism peaks. Having a car offers flexibility for exploring Canela, Gramado, and surrounding trails; public transport exists but routes can be limited in rural areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Três Coroas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer salads, arroz, feijão, polenta, and veggie-friendly sides. When in doubt, ask for veggie dishes or simple pasta options; many places can adapt grills to offer vegetarian choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare services are available locally; for more advanced care, facilities in Gramado, Canela, or Porto Alegre can be accessed by road or bus. Travel insurance with medical coverage is advisable.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide