Things To Do
in Campinas

Situated in the southeastern part of Brazil, this city is renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and significant role in the country's economy, especially in technology and research sectors. It boasts a variety of parks, museums, and theaters, offering a lively cultural scene alongside its bustling urban atmosphere.

With its blend of modernity and tradition, it serves as an important hub for education and innovation, housing several prestigious universities and research institutes.

  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $80
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
  • Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.80 - $1.50
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Campinas City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Parque Portugal, also known as Lagoa do Taquaral. Enjoy a morning stroll around the lake and appreciate the lush greenery.

afternoon
:

Head to the中心区 for lunch, where you can enjoy local Brazilian cuisine. Afterward, explore the walled colonial buildings and unique shops.

evening
:

Wind down at the vibrant Praça Campinas. Enjoy live music or grab a bite at one of the food trucks or nearby restaurants.

day 2
Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit Parque Nacional da Serra do Japi for a refreshing hike amidst nature. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and stunning views.

afternoon
:

Catch some lunch at a nearby café before heading to the Museu de História Natural. Gain insights into local history and ecosystem.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Brazilian steakhouse. Relish the local flavors and indulge in a variety of grilled meats.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Strong economy with a diverse industrial base
  • Good quality of life with access to healthcare and education
  • Strategic location near major cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro
  • Vibrant cultural scene with festivals, museums, and parks
  • Strong university presence, including UNICAMP, fostering innovation and research
  • Traffic congestion can be a significant issue
  • Higher cost of living compared to other cities in the region
  • Limited public transportation options compared to larger metropolitan areas
  • Urban crime rates can be a concern in certain neighborhoods
  • Seasonal climate can be quite humid and hot during summer months

Best Activities in Campinas

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Parque Portugal (Taquaral)

This large and picturesque park offers walking paths, cycling trails, paddle boating, and various sports facilities.

Botanical Garden

Explore a wide variety of native and exotic plants, beautiful landscapes, and tranquil walking paths.

Pedreira do Chapadão

Visit this scenic quarry area for outdoor events, open-air concerts, and perfect spots for picnics.

Tours

Uncover the best of Campinas with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Campinas

Visit one of these nice places.

Pedreira do Chapadão

A popular viewpoint with a panoramic view of the city of Campinas, including a lake and greenery.

Parque Portugal (Lagoa do Taquaral)

A recreational area with a lake, gardens, and lookout points offering beautiful views for photography.

Morro do São Benedito

A hill with a chapel and a scenic overlook, providing stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape.

Food in Campinas

Campinas, Brazil offers a diverse and vibrant food scene that showcases the rich flavors of Brazilian cuisine. Known for its mix of indigenous, African, and Portuguese influences, Campinas' food is a delightful fusion of ingredients and traditions.

Campinas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Virado à Paulista

A traditional dish featuring rice, tutu de feijão (bean paste), sautéed kale, farofa, and a choice of protein, commonly bisteca (pork chops) or linguiça (sausage). Recommended at Bar e Choperia Giovannetti.

Must-Try!

Pão de Queijo

These cheese bread balls, made of cassava flour and cheese, are a popular snack. Try them at Casa de Pão de Queijo or in local bakeries.

Feijoada

A hearty stew of black beans, pork, and sausage, best enjoyed at traditional Brazilian restaurants like Bar do Marcelino.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Campinas better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercadão de Campinas

A bustling food market offering a wide array of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and regional delicacies. Must-tries include pastel (crispy pastry filled with various savory fillings) and fresh fruit juices.

Rua Álvares Machado

This street is renowned for its food stalls selling coxinha (chicken croquettes) and other Brazilian street snacks, perfect for an authentic street food experience.

Weather

Located in the southeastern region of Brazil, the climate is classified as a humid subtropical climate (Cwa) according to the Köppen climate classification. This area experiences a well-defined seasonal pattern, with wet summers and dry winters. Summers, typically from December to February, are characterized by warm temperatures, often reaching into the high 20s to low 30s degrees Celsius (around 80-90°F). This season also sees the majority of the annual rainfall, often accompanied by thunderstorms. Winters, occurring from June to August, tend to be cooler and drier, with average temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50-68°F). Despite being the driest season, some rain may still occur, but it is significantly less than in the summer months. Overall, the climate is influenced by both tropical and subtropical weather patterns, providing a generally mild year-round temperature with a noticeable wet and dry season. The region's climate supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, contributing to its ecological richness.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting with a kiss on the cheek

In Campinas, it is customary to greet friends and acquaintances with a kiss on the cheek, usually starting with the right cheek. This is a sign of warmth and friendliness.

Respect for personal space

It is important to be mindful of personal space and not stand too close to others, especially when having conversations or interacting in social settings.

Observing mealtime customs

When dining in Campinas, it is polite to wait for the host to begin eating before starting your own meal. It is also common to express appreciation for the food and hospitality.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Campinas with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in any urban area involves various factors, including crime rates, law enforcement effectiveness, community programs, and socioeconomic conditions. In the case of this Brazilian city, it experiences a mix of challenges and improvements concerning public safety. Crime rates in the area can vary, with common issues related to theft and robbery. However, violent crime rates, while present, may not reach the alarming levels observed in other larger cities. Local law enforcement has made efforts to enhance security, and there are community initiatives aimed at improving neighborhood safety and fostering relationships between police and residents. Public transportation and certain areas, especially at night, might require caution, as petty crimes can occur. Engaging in best practices such as staying alert, avoiding displaying valuables, and being aware of surroundings is advisable. Overall, while there are some safety concerns as in many urban centers, there are also ongoing efforts by authorities and the community to promote a safer environment. Visitors and residents alike can benefit from being informed and taking necessary precautions.

Tipping in Campinas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not a common practice in Campinas, Brazil. In restaurants, a service charge is often included in the bill, so tipping is usually not expected. However, if you receive exceptional service, it is appreciated to leave a small tip as a token of appreciation.

Payment

In Campinas, Brazil, cash is still widely used for smaller transactions, but credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case you encounter a place that does not accept cards.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Campinas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December - February)

This is the peak tourist season in Campinas due to the warm weather and numerous outdoor events and festivals. Expect crowded tourist attractions and higher prices for accommodations.

Autumn (March - May)

Autumn brings mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a great time to visit if you prefer a quieter experience. The weather is pleasant, and it's an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the city.

Winter (June - August)

Winter in Campinas is relatively mild, with cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy cultural events and indoor attractions. The city's parks and gardens showcase a different kind of beauty during this season.

Spring (September - November)

Spring brings lush greenery and blooming flowers to Campinas. The weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are popular during this time. It's a great season for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Campinas at Night

The nightlife in Campinas offers a vibrant and diverse array of options catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. The city boasts an impressive selection of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors looking to unwind after dark. For those who enjoy dancing, nightclubs such as Royal Palm Plaza and Club 88 are well-known spots, providing pulsating beats from electronic to Brazilian funk. These clubs often feature live DJs, themed parties, and a high-energy atmosphere that keeps the dance floor packed all night long. If live music is more your style, the city's many live music venues and pubs frequently host performances ranging from rock and samba to jazz and sertanejo. Highly regarded venues such as Almanaque Café and Grainne’s Pub are local favorites, offering a cozy environment where you can enjoy both the music and a wide selection of beverages. For a more laid-back evening, the many bars scattered around the city offer a perfect setting. You can find everything from sophisticated cocktail bars and stylish wine bars to casual beer pubs. Taquaral and Cambuí neighborhoods are particularly popular, featuring establishments like Seo Rosa and Bar do Carioca, where patrons can sip on expertly crafted drinks in a relaxed setting. In addition to traditional nightlife options, Campinas also has various cultural activities during the evening. Theaters and cultural centers often host late-night shows, movies, and performances, providing an alternative for those looking to experience the city's cultural scene. Overall, Campinas offers a bustling and varied nightlife, ensuring that whether you want to dance the night away, enjoy live music, or simply relax with a drink, there's always something exciting happening after dark.

Hiking in Campinas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parque Estadual da Serra do Mar

A beautiful state park with trails that offer stunning views of the Serra do Mar mountain range and lush Atlantic rainforest.

Bairro dos Ares

A popular hiking destination with trails leading through scenic landscapes and opportunities to explore nature.

Caminho das Pedras

A picturesque walking route featuring historical stone paths, surrounded by greenery and local fauna.

Pico do Gavião

A challenging hiking spot that rewards climbers with breathtaking panoramic views of the region.

Parque Municipal Mestre Pagu

A city park offering accessible trails, perfect for leisurely hikes and enjoying the local flora and fauna.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Campinas through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Campinas by plane.

Viracopos International Airport (VCP)

Located approximately 15 km from Campinas, this airport serves as a key hub for domestic and international flights.

São Paulo/Guarulhos–Governador André Franco Montoro International Airport (GRU)

About 100 km from Campinas, this is the largest airport in Brazil, serving numerous international destinations.

São Paulo/Congonhas Airport (CGH)

Located roughly 90 km from Campinas, this airport primarily handles domestic flights but is close to several international connections.

Rio de Janeiro/Galeão International Airport (GIG)

Approximately 400 km from Campinas, serving international and domestic flights, this airport is a major terminal in Brazil.

Belo Horizonte/Confins International Airport (CNF)

Located about 500 km from Campinas, this airport services both domestic and international routes.

Walkability

Walkability refers to how friendly an area is to walking, which includes factors such as the quality of sidewalks, the presence of pedestrian crossings, sidewalk maintenance, and the overall urban layout. In many cities, including Campinas, various aspects contribute to its walkability, including population density, land use mix, and the availability of public spaces. In Campinas, the downtown area features a higher walkability score due to its compact layout, offering amenities such as shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions within a short distance. The presence of parks and squares also encourages pedestrian activity. However, outside the urban core, suburban areas may present challenges, such as limited sidewalks, sprawling land use, and intersections that prioritize vehicle traffic over pedestrians. Moreover, the city's efforts to improve infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists can enhance walkability, making it safer and more pleasant for residents and visitors alike. Public transportation options are also vital, as they can encourage walking by connecting neighborhoods and reducing reliance on cars. Overall, while certain areas in Campinas may support a walking lifestyle, others may require further development to enhance walkability and promote a more pedestrian-friendly environment.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White

Predominantly European descent, including immigrants and their descendants.

Brown

Mixed race individuals, primarily of European, African, and Indigenous ancestry.

Black

Individuals of African descent, including those with diverse cultural backgrounds.

Asian

Includes individuals of East Asian and South Asian descent, such as Japanese and Chinese.

Indigenous

The original inhabitants of the region, representing diverse ethnic groups.

The Soul of Campinas

Discover the essence of Campinas through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Campinas, with a rich history and passionate fans supporting local teams such as Guarani FC and Ponte Preta.

Volleyball

Campinas has a strong volleyball culture, with numerous clubs and a competitive league that attracts many players and fans.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys popularity in Campinas, with local teams participating in regional competitions and a growing interest at the grassroots level.

Athletics

With various athletic clubs and events throughout the year, athletics is a celebrated sport in Campinas, promoting fitness and competition.

Handball

Campinas has a vibrant handball community, hosting tournaments and encouraging participation among youth and adults alike.

Traffic

The city is known for its heavy traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. A combination of factors contributes to this situation, including a high number of vehicles on the road, ongoing urbanization, and a layout that can make commuting challenging. The main avenues and roads often experience bottlenecks, leading to delays and frustration for drivers. Public transportation options, such as buses and some metro lines, exist to alleviate traffic, but they can also become overcrowded during rush hours. The city has been making efforts to improve its infrastructure and expand public transit systems, yet the demand often outstrips the available solutions. Additionally, roadworks and construction projects are common, which can further exacerbate traffic issues. Overall, navigating the streets can be time-consuming, making effective planning essential for residents and visitors alike.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Campinas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Campinas offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options ranging from tasty salads to creative plant-based entrees, ensuring those with dietary restrictions are well catered for.

Gluten-Free Options

Several establishments provide gluten-free menu items, including pasta dishes made with alternative flours and gluten-free bread choices, ensuring a hassle-free dining experience for individuals with gluten sensitivities.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Campinas with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

This vibrant city in the state of São Paulo is known for its advanced healthcare facilities and diverse medical services. The healthcare system comprises both public and private sectors, providing a range of options for residents and visitors. In the public healthcare system, services are primarily offered through the Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), which provides free access to essential medical care for the population. This includes hospitals, clinics, and specialized health services. SUS is designed to ensure equity in healthcare access, although challenges such as overcrowding and resource limitations can affect service quality at times. On the other hand, the private healthcare sector is well-developed, featuring numerous hospitals, clinics, and health plans that cater to those who can afford private insurance. Private facilities often offer shorter wait times and more personalized care, leading many residents to opt for these services. The city is also home to several hospitals recognized for their quality, including specialized centers that focus on areas such as cardiology, orthopedics, and oncology. Additionally, Campinas has a robust network of primary care units that aim to provide preventive healthcare and manage chronic diseases effectively. With a mix of both public and private services, the healthcare system in the city strives to meet the diverse needs of its population, with ongoing efforts to improve accessibility, efficiency, and overall health outcomes.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2024 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide