Things To Do
in Varginha

Cheese bread made from tapioca flour and local queijo minas; found in every bakery and café, ideal for breakfast or a snack.

Must-Try!

A rich Minas staple of beans, manioc flour, eggs and pork; common at lunch buffets and traditional restaurants.

Mashed beans with manioc flour, often served with cassava, sausage and kale; very typical of regional home-style cooking.

Local sweets and fresh cheese sold at markets, bakeries and specialty stores—perfect for gifts or tasting.

The municipal market and regular farmers’ stalls sell fresh cheeses, coffee, fruits and sweets; try local cachaça, pão de queijo and fresh-squeezed juices.

Small bars and street vendors offer pastéis (fried pastries), porções (shared plates) and cold beer—great for casual evening snacks.

A handshake is common in formal situations; friends and acquaintances often greet with a light cheek kiss (one side) or two, depending on familiarity—use a friendly 'Olá' or 'Bom dia'.

Portuguese is the local language—attempting basic phrases is appreciated. Use polite forms like 'por favor' and 'obrigado/obrigada.'

Meals are social and often leisurely—it's polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting and to compliment the host or cook.

Respect for elders, modest attire in churches and restraint when discussing politics or sensitive topics with new acquaintances are advisable.

Tipping is appreciated but modest: restaurants often add a 10% service charge; if not included, a 10% tip is typical for good service. For taxis, rounding up or a small extra (10%) is customary; tip hotel staff a small amount for porterage and housekeeping.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants in Varginha, but smaller vendors, markets and street stalls may prefer cash. ATMs are available in town—notify your bank before travel and carry some Brazilian reais (BRL) for small purchases.

(December–February) Warm to hot temperatures, frequent afternoon thunderstorms and high humidity; pack light clothing, rain protection and plan outdoor activities for mornings when possible.

March–May brings milder temperatures and gradually drier weather; pleasant for hiking and photography with fewer heavy rains.

June–August is cooler and drier—nights can be noticeably chilly; ideal for coffee tastings and clear-sky photography but bring layers for evenings.

September–November sees warming temperatures and the start of the rainy season; wildflowers and lush landscapes appear, but expect occasional showers.

Vegetarian options are available but less ubiquitous—look for restaurants offering salads, cheese-based dishes and veggie-friendly sides; ask for 'opções vegetarianas' and specify no meat in sauces or broths.

Vegan choices can be limited in traditional restaurants; seek out cafés or newer eateries in town, and explain restrictions (sem carne, sem leite, sem ovo) when ordering.

Many bakeries use tapioca-based pão de queijo which is naturally gluten-free, but cross-contamination is common; ask about ingredients and prefer simple dishes like grilled meats and salads.

Dedicated halal or kosher options are rare—plan ahead and look for larger cities nearby or self-cater; always ask how meat is prepared.