Things To Do
in Vila Velha
Vila Velha is a coastal city in Espírito Santo, Brazil, perched along the Atlantic shore just across the bay from Vitória. It blends historic hillside charm with lively beaches, markets, and a strong seafood tradition. The Convento da Penha stands as a centerpiece, offering panoramic views and spiritual history.
Visitors enjoy relaxed, friendly vibes, great sunsets, and easy access to nearby natural and urban sights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Vila Velha's historic center. Visit the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Penha, a stunning colonial church that offers panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, soaking in the colonial architecture and vibrant local life.
Spend your afternoon exploring the Museu Ferroviário de Vila Velha, where you can learn about the region's railway history and its impact on local development. Wander through Praça Costa Pereira, the main square, and admire the colorful colonial buildings and lively atmosphere. Stop for a traditional Brazilian lunch at a local restaurant, savoring fresh seafood dishes unique to the Espírito Santo region.
As the sun sets, head to the Praia da Costa beach promenade to enjoy the cool ocean breeze and watch street performers entertain the crowds. Dine at a beachfront restaurant, sampling moqueca capixaba, a regional fish stew rich in flavors. Finish your evening with a relaxed walk along the shore, enjoying the city lights reflecting on the calm waters.
Start your morning with a refreshing swim at Praia da Costa, one of Vila Velha's most popular beaches. Feel the soft golden sand beneath your feet as you relax and soak up the tropical sun. Grab a coconut water from a beach vendor to stay hydrated and enjoy the lively beach atmosphere.
In the afternoon, try out some water sports such as paddleboarding or windsurfing, available for rent along the beach. Explore the nearby kiosks offering local snacks like acarajé and pastel, perfect for a light lunch by the sea. Take a peaceful walk along the shore, discovering hidden coves and observing local fishermen at work.
As evening approaches, join locals at the beach for a vibrant sunset celebration with music and dance. Visit a beachside bar to sample caipirinhas, Brazil’s famous cocktail made from cachaça and fresh fruits. Enjoy the lively nightlife ambiance while listening to live samba or forró bands.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $25-40 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi short ride | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and proximity to Vitória
- Friendly locals and affordable living
- Rich seafood cuisine and markets
- Good access to beaches and nature
- Traffic during peak hours
- Some areas can be touristy in peak season
- Limited English in rural areas
- Seasonal rainfall can disrupt outdoor plans
- "Oi, tudo bem?" - Hi, how are you?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado / Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Vila Velha
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic hilltop convent offering panoramic views of Vila Velha, Vitória, and the bay, especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
Long beachfront walkway ideal for golden-hour seascapes and candid street photography of surfers and vendors.
Natural vantage point with sweeping views over the coastline and distant city lights.
Colorful skies over the Atlantic along the beachfront and market areas, perfect for wide-angle coastal shots.
Food in Vila Velha
Vila Velha Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional Espírito Santo fish stew made with olive oil, annatto, onions, and peppers; served with rice and pirão.
Must-Try!
Layered seafood pie featuring fish, shrimp, tomatoes, onions, and herbs baked into a savory casserole.
Bright, comforting fish soup popular along the coast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh seafood, produce, spices, and regional snacks.
Seaside market with quick bites, handcrafted crafts, and beach-friendly snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and handshake; use polite titles such as senhor/senhora.
Portuguese is the local language; learning a few phrases goes a long way.
Social events may start later than scheduled; be flexible and courteous.
Safety
Tipping in Vila Velha
Ensure a smooth experience
A 5-10% tip is appreciated in nicer restaurants if not included; casual spots often rely on rounding up.
Brazil widely uses cash, credit/debit cards, and Pix; many places accept cards and mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; bring sunscreen and water, perfect for beach days and late-evening strolls.
Warm days with cooler evenings; humidity remains comfortable for outdoor exploration.
Milder daytime temperatures with cooler nights; pleasant for city walks and hill viewpoints.
Transitional weather with occasional rain; lush greenery and blooming landscapes around coastal trails.
Vila Velha at Night
Hiking in Vila Velha
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hill trail offering sweeping coastal views and wildlife.
Paths around the Convento da Penha with scenic overlooks and stair climbs.
Airports
How to reach Vila Velha by plane.
Main regional airport located about 15-25 km from Vila Velha; accessible by taxi or ride-share.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit on weekends; neighborhoods cater to family outings.
An increasing number of residents work in Vitória and the metro area.
Domestic and international visitors explore the coast, markets, and historic sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; many locals enjoy watching or playing in casual leagues.
Common on beaches with casual games and organized tournaments.
Occasional surf sessions when waves align on certain beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vila Velha.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available at casual eateries; request moqueca without fish or choose plant-based plates such as rice, beans, salads, and mandioca.