Things To Do
in Xanxerê
Xanxerê is a small city in western Santa Catarina, Brazil, known for its strong agricultural economy and a tight-knit community with European immigrant roots. The town blends rural charm with practical urban services, offering parks, a modest cultural scene and local festivals that celebrate German and Italian heritage. Streets in the downtown area are pedestrian-friendly and lined with cafes, bakeries and shops where locals gather.
The surrounding countryside provides easy access to farmland vistas, country roads and short nature excursions into the hills of western Santa Catarina.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Xanxerê's historic center, where you can admire the well-preserved colonial architecture. Visit the Catedral São Jorge, a beautiful church that stands as a landmark of the town, taking time to appreciate its intricate details. Stop by a local café to enjoy a traditional Brazilian breakfast, complete with fresh pão de queijo and strong coffee.
In the afternoon, explore the local artisan shops and galleries that showcase the work of regional craftspeople, offering unique souvenirs and gifts. Take a moment to relax in Praça Tiradentes, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps catch a local performance or market. As the sun begins to set, indulge in a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling regional dishes like feijão tropeiro.
As the evening sets in, engage with the local culture by attending a folk music performance or a traditional dance event in the square. Enjoy a casual dinner at a local churrascaria, where you can savor a variety of grilled meats served with sides of fresh salads and rice. Wind down your day with a stroll under the stars, soaking in the tranquil ambiance of this charming town.
Travel to the Parque Nacional de São Joaquim, where the morning light filters beautifully through the dense forests. Begin with a guided hike through the park's trails, learning about the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit this stunning national park. Take in the breathtaking views from the viewpoints, capturing memories with your camera as you enjoy the crisp mountain air.
After a packed morning, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park's designated spots, surrounded by nature's tranquility. In the afternoon, continue your exploration with a visit to the famous Vinícola Casa Venturini, where you can tour the vineyards and learn about local wine production. Sample exquisite wines paired with artisanal cheeses, immersing yourself in the region's gastronomic delights.
Return to Xanxerê as dusk descends, allowing time to freshen up before dinner. Choose a cozy, local restaurant that specializes in traditional Brazilian cuisine, enjoying dishes like moqueca or picanha. As the day comes to a close, reflect on your nature-filled adventures while enjoying a refreshing caipirinha under the evening sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry at a bakery | $1.50-3 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride (within town) | $3-8 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $35-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly, community-oriented atmosphere and strong local culture
- Easy access to rural landscapes and agrotourism experiences
- Lower costs compared with big Brazilian cities
- Good base for exploring western Santa Catarina
- Limited nightlife and cultural offerings compared with larger cities
- Fewer direct transport connections — you may need to travel via Chapecó
- Seasonal weather can be severe (storms); some services slow during holidays
- Limited availability of specialty dietary options outside larger centers
- "Olá / Oi" - Hello / Hi
- "Bom dia / Boa tarde / Boa noite" - Good morning / Good afternoon / Good evening
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado (male) / Obrigada (female)" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Você aceita cartão?" - Do you accept cards?
- "Onde fica o hospital?" - Where is the hospital?
Places to Visit in Xanxerê
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic civic square scenes, church facade and daily life—great for street and architectural photography, especially in the golden hour.
Vibrant colors, vendors, regional produce and candid portraits of everyday commerce; best shot in the morning when activity is highest.
Patchwork fields, tractors, silos and farmhouses create iconic rural compositions—sunrise or sunset provides dramatic light.
Small municipal parks and roadside viewpoints offer panoramas of the surrounding landscape and opportunities for bird and nature shots.
Food in Xanxerê
Xanxerê Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Brazilian barbecue with various cuts of beef, pork and chicken; look for local churrascarias in town for a filling experience and grilled regional sausages.
Must-Try!
Grilled young chicken served with creamy polenta or polenta frita — a local comfort-food combination often served at family restaurants.
Sweet crumb cake (cuca), strudels and other bakery items reflecting German baking traditions; available at local padarias (bakeries) and cafés.
Fresh breads, artisanal cheeses and cured meats produced in the region — perfect for a casual picnic or to sample at the municipal market.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The municipal market where you can sample regional cheese, breads, preserves and smoked meats; vendors often sell ready-to-eat snacks and coffee.
Look for pastel, salgados, espetinhos (meat skewers) and cakes at street stalls and weekend fairs — great for quick, inexpensive local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Brazilians are warm and often greet with a handshake or, among acquaintances, a cheek kiss (one on each cheek is common in southern Brazil). A friendly 'bom dia' (good morning) or 'boa tarde' (good afternoon) goes a long way.
Casual dress is typical in Xanxerê, but dress slightly more formally for nicer restaurants or events. Public displays of affection are common and acceptable; be respectful at religious sites.
Show respect for elders and local customs; using basic Portuguese phrases and polite forms will be appreciated. Avoid political or sensitive topics unless invited into a conversation.
Safety
Tipping in Xanxerê
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants often add a 10% service charge to the bill; if service is not included, a 10% tip is customary for good service. For small purchases and casual cafes, tipping is not expected but rounding up is appreciated. Porters, drivers and tour guides typically receive small tips according to the length and quality of service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; smaller vendors and street stalls may prefer cash. ATMs are available in town but bring enough cash for markets, remote spots and small purchases. Contactless payments and PIX (instant bank transfer) are common in Brazil—ask locals or businesses if they accept PIX to avoid card fees.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot temperatures with occasional heavy rain and thunderstorms; ideal for outdoor activities but pack rain gear and be aware of sudden storms. Humidity can be noticeable after long dry spells break with convective rains.
Pleasant temperatures and clearer skies make it one of the best times to visit for comfortable daytime exploring and colorful foliage on some trees. Nights can begin to cool, so pack a light jacket.
Cooler temperatures with chilly nights; frost is possible on the coldest nights in the countryside. It’s a quieter season for tourism—great for enjoying hearty regional cuisine and indoor cultural activities.
Unpredictable weather with warming temperatures and increased risk of strong storms; note that the region has experienced severe convective storms and even tornadoes in some years, so stay alert to forecasts.
Xanxerê at Night
Hiking in Xanxerê
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, accessible walking paths in town parks suitable for birdwatching, family hikes and easy nature walks.
Informal routes through rural roads and dirt tracks that offer panoramic views of farmland and are suitable for hiking or cycling; best explored with a local guide or map.
Nearby towns in western Santa Catarina offer hilltop viewpoints and conservation areas for day hikes—travel to regional parks or reserves in Chapecó and surrounding municipalities for longer trails and more varied terrain.
Airports
How to reach Xanxerê by plane.
The main regional airport serving western Santa Catarina, roughly an hour or so by road from Xanxerê; offers flights to larger Brazilian hubs and is the most convenient option for air travelers to the region.
A smaller regional airport within a couple hours' drive depending on routing; useful for select regional connections and alternatives to Chapecó.
The main international airport for the state of Santa Catarina, several hours' drive from Xanxerê; best for international arrivals or for travelers combining a visit to the state capital with the interior.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents trace ancestry to German, Italian and Polish immigrants who settled the region—this heritage shapes local cuisine, festivals and architecture.
A significant portion of the population is involved in agriculture, agribusiness and related industries, with family farms and cooperatives prevalent in the surrounding area.
The city hosts a mix of young families, small-business owners and service workers supporting local commerce and industry.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region—local amateur matches and youth leagues are common, and residents avidly follow professional teams from the state and the country.
Indoor sports like futsal and volleyball are popular in schools and community clubs, with active local competitions.
Cycling on country roads and equestrian activities in rural areas are common recreational pursuits tied to agrarian culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Xanxerê.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but can be limited in traditional restaurants; bakeries, salads, polenta, pastas and some side dishes often work. Ask for vegetable-based dishes or modify plates (many restaurants will accommodate). Municipal markets offer fruits, cheeses and breads useful for vegetarian meals.
Vegan choices are more limited outside larger cities; rely on fresh salads, rice, beans, fruits and bakery items (check for butter/eggs). Communicate needs clearly in Portuguese for best results.
Awareness of gluten-free diets is growing but cross-contamination can be a concern in traditional bakeries and shared kitchens. Pack staples and ask restaurants in advance if you require strict gluten-free preparation.