State of Rio Grande do Sul trip planner

State of Rio Grande do Sul Holiday Planning Guide

In the southernmost section of the country, State of Rio Grande do Sul developed under a heavy influence of its sizable German and Italian immigrant communities. Most travelers know this area for its pristine national parks, cascading rivers, alpine villages, and dramatic canyons blanketed by forests, yet an increasing number of vacations in State of Rio Grande do Sul incorporate nature adventures with tours of outstanding wineries. Long known for its cattle ranches and distinct cowboy culture, the area increasingly rivals its neighbor Argentina as one of South America's top winemaking regions. Sightseeing in State of Rio Grande do Sul leads many visitors to small towns populated by hard-working and fiercely proud Gauchos (cowboys), easily recognized by their traditional dress and wide-brimmed hats.

Places to Visit in State of Rio Grande do Sul

Cities in State of Rio Grande do Sul

Porto Alegre: The modern state capital boasts a vibrant cultural scene, known for its many events and museums, accompanied by abundant nightlife and shopping opportunities.

Canela: This quaint town, known for its imposing stone cathedral, provides a pleasant base for exploring Serra Gaucha highlands on your vacation in State of Rio Grande do Sul.

Gramado: On the picturesque Romantic Route, Gramado dazzles visitors with its pleasant climate, alpine-style architecture, and streets dotted with blossoming hydrangea bushes.

Nova Petropolis: This historic town is known for its sizeable German population, charming buildings, and flower gardens.

Popular State of Rio Grande do Sul Tourist Attractions

Black Lake: Surrounded by pine trees and dotted with swan boats, the artificial pond remains one of Gramado's most popular spots for rest and recreation.

Mini Mundo: Wandering this verdant park founded by a German immigrant, you can admire miniature reproductions of landmarks, attractions, and representative buildings from all over the world.

Snowland: Head to this kid-friendly theme park for skiing, snowboarding, skating, and other fun winter activities.

Caracol State Park: One of the most visited tourist attractions in State of Rio Grande do Sul, this lush park houses scenic nature trails and an observation deck with views of the majestic Caracol Falls.

Igreja Matriz Sao Pedro Apostolo: A Gramado landmark, this statuesque stone cathedral features a 46 m (151 ft) tall tower and stained glass windows that portray the life of Saint Peter.

Catedral de Pedra: The imposing cathedral, Canela's most recognizable attraction, is notable for its Gothic style and religious paintings that adorn the interior.

Aldeia do Papai Noel: Take the kids to this scenic park sprinkled with pines trees to meet Santa Claus at his Bavarian-style home and see live reindeer imported from Europe.

Mercado Publico de Porto Alegre: Take a break from sightseeing in State of Rio Grande do Sul to browse the colorful stalls and restaurants of the public market, selling everything from aromatic spices and snacks, to affordable books and souvenirs.

Mundo a Vapor: Touring this charming theme park, you can admire replicas of steam trains, enjoy a drink in the station-inspired cafe, and learn about the history of the steam locomotive.

Farroupilha Park (Redencao): A favorite gathering place for locals in the state capital, this park boasts an auditorium, an artificial lake, and plenty of pleasant space for recreation.

Planning a State of Rio Grande do Sul Vacation with Kids

Places to Visit in State of Rio Grande do Sul with Kids

Brazil's southernmost state certainly has its share of natural and historic sights, as well as an abundance of parks and playgrounds.

Serra Gaucha and its Romantic Route are full of small towns like Gramado, which feature popular natural attractions, museums, and theme parks.

The sunny state capital boasts a pleasant riverside location, rich heritage, and plenty of family-friendly attractions.

For some seaside fun, head to Torres, a town near the border with Santa Catarina known for having the best beaches in the state.

Things to Do in State of Rio Grande do Sul with Kids

To keep the kids entertained and create memorable experiences for the whole family, you should consider some child-friendly additions to your State of Rio Grande do Sul itinerary.

Scenic picnic spots and hiking trails abound in the region's many parks, while families with older children can consider an adventure park.

For a fun and educational activity for kids, head to a science museum or enjoy a tour of Mundo a Vapor. T

The town of Torres and its pristine beaches provide plenty of opportunities for swimming and playing in the sand.

A number of theme parks can be found in Rio Grande do Sul, but if your kids are animal lovers, they might prefer a trip to a zoo.

Tips for a Family Vacation in State of Rio Grande do Sul

The state's hotels often feature childcare facilities and amenities such as swimming pools or even babysitting services, so you'll have help in keeping the kids entertained.

Always book your stay ahead of time, especially if you have special requests, such as a crib for infants or connected rooms for your family. Most hotels are equipped with showers only, so check beforehand or bring a plastic bath if you're traveling with an infant.

If you're planning to rent a car for your tour of State of Rio Grande do Sul, consider bringing your own car seat, as the rental companies usually don't supply them.

Necessities such as baby food, basic medicine, and disposable diapers can be found in most supermarkets and pharmacies.

Dining and Shopping on Holiday in State of Rio Grande do Sul

Cuisine of State of Rio Grande do Sul

Rio Grande do Sul is renowned for its traditional "churrasco" barbecue, a variety of meats grilled slowly on a "churrasqueira," a type of grill with skewers.

Red meat, especially beef, remains a staple of the local cuisine due to the longstanding Gaucho culture of raising livestock. Another popular local dish is "arroz de carreteiro," rice and dried meat seasoned with local herbs.

Popular desserts in the state include rice pudding and "sagu," tapioca pearls cooked in red wine.

On a holiday in State of Rio Grande do Sul, opt for a tour of Vale dos Vinhedos to sample the best wines in the region. Don't forget to try the traditional local drink "chimarrao," a Brazilian version of yerba mate.

Shopping in State of Rio Grande do Sul

On a trip to State of Rio Grande do Sul, you can find an abundance of traditional Gaucho items, ranging from authentic clothes and wide-brimmed hats, to local art pieces and handicrafts.

If you're visiting Porto Alegre, head to Brique da Redencao for locally sourced arts and crafts, or browse the stalls of the public market for spices and souvenirs.

The town of Bage boasts an array of specialty stores and gift shops, while Pelotas is renowned for its sweets and snacks.

Know Before You Go on a Trip to State of Rio Grande do Sul

Interesting Facts About State of Rio Grande do Sul

● Rio Grande do Sul encompasses the southernmost part of Brazil

● The state is renowned for its "churrasco" barbecue

● Inhabitants of Rio Grande do Sul are usually called Gauchos

● "Chimarrao" is the local version of herbal yerba mate, a beverage popular in many Latin American countries

Holidays & Festivals in State of Rio Grande do Sul

Besides a number of Catholic holidays and observances, visitors can enjoy a number of cultural festivals during a vacation in State of Rio Grande do Sul.

Although definitely not as vivacious and chaotic as the one in Rio, Porto Alegre's Easter Carnival also features parades and parties. The state capital also organizes a popular book fair each November, as well as a mid-September celebration of the Farroupilha Revolution in Mauricio Sirotsky Sobrinho park.

Movie fans should visit Gramado in August, when the city hosts a renowned film festival. If you prefer outdoor activities, head to Torres in April, when the town hosts a hot air balloon festival.

Useful State of Rio Grande do Sul Travel Tips

Climate of State of Rio Grande do Sul

The subtropical climate of Rio Grande do Sul is characterized by four different seasons and plenty of humidity.

Summer, from January to March, brings average temperatures of 20-30 C (68-86 F) and humid weather. Spring is similar, although drier. Fall and winter months, from April to September, are marked by changeable weather, with plenty of rainfall and average temperatures ranging from 10-19 C (50-66 F).

The winter is also known for cold winds that usually follow rainy periods and can bring temperatures down to below-average levels. Snowfall is rare, although it can occur in the mountainous Serra Gaucha.

To avoid rainy days and chilly nights, plan your holiday in State of Rio Grande do Sul for the months between November and April.

Transportation in State of Rio Grande do Sul

You can use the expansive bus lines on the state level for a comprehensive tour of State of Rio Grande do Sul, or make the drives yourself in a rental car.

Local buses also cover Porto Alegre and its surroundings, while the city's rapid transit system allows you to reach several suburbs, nearby towns, and the airport.

The city is home to a variety of taxi operators, as well as a van service called "lotacao," which lets you get off outside of designated bus stations.