Things To Do
in Belo Horizonte
Belo Horizonte sits in the highlands of central Minas Gerais, offering sweeping city views from its surrounding hills. The city blends colonial charm with modern architecture, especially in the Pampulha district where Oscar Niemeyer left a lasting mark. It is renowned for hearty Minas Gerais cuisine, bustling markets, and a lively bar and café scene in Savassi and Lourdes.
With nearby green spaces and scenic drives, BH provides a comfortable base for exploring history, culture, and nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Praça da Liberdade, a vibrant square surrounded by stunning colonial architecture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the nearby cafes, savoring traditional Brazilian pão de queijo and fresh coffee. Take some time to explore the nearby Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil, where you can admire contemporary art exhibitions.
Stroll through the bustling Mercado Central, where the vibrant colors and aromas of local produce, spices, and snacks beckon. Sample delicious local specialties like feijão de corda or doce de leite as you meander through the stalls. Afterward, visit the beautiful Igreja São José, a stunning 19th-century church with intricate interiors.
As the sun sets, head to the trendy Savassi neighborhood for dinner at a local churrascaria, indulging in an all-you-can-eat barbecue feast. After dinner, explore the lively nightlife, perhaps stopping by a local bar to enjoy some live music or a caipirinha. End your evening with a scenic walk through the illuminated Praça da Liberdade.
Begin your day at the Pampulha Modern Ensemble, a UNESCO World Heritage site designed by Oscar Niemeyer. Explore the stunning architecture of the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi and the surrounding gardens, which offer a peaceful escape from the city. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café with views of the lake.
Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to the Museu de Arte da Pampulha, which features a diverse collection of modern art. Spend time walking around the picturesque Pampulha Lagoon, where you can rent a pedal boat for a fun and relaxing experience. Grab lunch at one of the local restaurants that offer fresh seafood and regional dishes.
As evening approaches, return to the Pampulha area for a sunset view over the lagoon. Dine at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying the local cuisine with a focus on fresh fish and tropical flavors. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the water, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 in a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $2-6 |
| 🚇Public transport pass (monthly) | $25-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming people and strong sense of regional culture
- Delicious, hearty Minas cuisine with iconic queijo Minas
- Beautiful viewpoints and architecture, especially Pampulha
- Affordable compared with many other Brazilian cities
- Easy access to nature and waterfalls in the surrounding region
- Some areas can be crowded and noisy, especially in peak times
- Language barrier can be a challenge for non-Portuguese speakers
- Traffic can be heavy around downtown and Savassi during rush hours
- Service charges may be added in some restaurants
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica…?" - Where is…?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Não falo português bem" - I don’t speak Portuguese well
- "Pode recomendar um restaurante?" - Can you recommend a restaurant?
Places to Visit in Belo Horizonte
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand central square framed by neoclassical and modern buildings, ideal for architectural photography and golden-hour shots.
Iconic blue-and-white modernist church by Niemeyer, offering striking lines and lake reflections for dramatic images.
A sculptural building set along the Pampulha lake, perfect for geometric and architectural photography.
Waterfront views with birdlife and reflections of the Niemeyer ensemble; great for sunset photography.
Overlook points and forested trails yield sweeping city vistas and nature photography opportunities.
Food in Belo Horizonte
Belo Horizonte Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A robust mix of beans, cassava flour, pork, sausage, and eggs; a Minas staple often served with rice and greens.
Must-Try!
Chewy cheese breads made with tapioca flour, best enjoyed hot and fresh.
Creamy mashed beans with cassava flour, typically served with rice, greens, and sometimes queijo Minas.
The iconic sweet-salty pairing of fresh Minas cheese with guava paste; a beloved dessert or snack.
Chicken stewed with okra and a tomato-based sauce, a comforting Minas dish often found in local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub in the city center where you can taste queijo Minas, doce de leite, pão de queijo, and other regional specialties directly from vendors.
Casual stalls and casual dining offering quick bites like pastel, coxinha, and fresh fruit juices—perfect for a relaxed afternoon snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common in formal settings; close friends may greet with a hug. Use polite phrases like 'bom dia/boa tarde' when addressing people.
Smile and maintain friendly conversation; expect direct communication and light humor. Address people with courtesy and respect local customs around dining and social interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Belo Horizonte
Ensure a smooth experience
Gratuities are not mandatory but commonly left for good service; many restaurants include a 10% service charge. It’s common to round up the bill or tip a bit more for exceptional service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash payments are also common. ATMs are plentiful in city centers and shopping areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for mornings or late afternoons.
Mild days and cooler evenings; a comfortable time for walking tours and outdoor dining.
Cool to mild with chilly nights; layering is key and evenings in cafés are popular.
Warm with occasional showers; lush greenery and great photo opportunities in parks and along lakes.
Belo Horizonte at Night
Hiking in Belo Horizonte
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A notable hiking route to one of Minas Gerais’ most spectacular waterfalls; challenging terrain with rewarding views and lush scenery.
A prominent peak offering panoramic vistas and rewarding hikes; suitable for motivated hikers and seasoned trekkers.
Airports
How to reach Belo Horizonte by plane.
Main international and domestic airport serving Belo Horizonte, located about 40-50 km from the city center; accessible by highway and taxi or rideshare.
Smaller regional airport near the city, primarily for general aviation and charter flights; less frequent commercial service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time residents of Minas Gerais and a sizable student population drawn to the city’s universities and cultural scene.
Many locals commute within the city and enjoy family-friendly parks, markets, and nightlife districts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The city embraces football; local clubs and fans rally around matches at nearby stadiums, with a lively matchday atmosphere.
Common street-level and community activities; you’ll see informal gatherings and small clubs around parks and plazas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Belo Horizonte.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many eateries; look for plant-based dishes like grilled vegetables, rice and beans, and pão de queijo (contains dairy). For vegans, ask for dishes without queijo or carne and expect some cheese-based items to be common.