Things To Do
in Santa Maria
Santa Maria is a vibrant university city in central Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, anchored by UFSM and a welcoming mix of students, locals, and rural communities. Its compact downtown blends historic churches and market streets with modern cafés and cultural venues, making it easy to explore on foot. The city centers on Praça Saldanha Marinho, a hub for markets, music, and social life, reflecting the gaucho hospitality of the region.
Expect a friendly, laid-back southern Brazilian vibe where chimarrão and churrasco are central to everyday life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Praça Saldanha Marinho, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Stroll through the streets lined with colonial buildings, taking in the history and culture of Santa Maria. Don’t forget to stop by local cafes for a taste of traditional Brazilian breakfast items like pão de queijo and fresh fruit juice.
After lunch, visit the Museu de Arte de Santa Maria to explore local art exhibitions that showcase both contemporary and traditional works. Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the exhibits and learn about the local artists. As the afternoon winds down, head to the nearby Parque Itaimbé for a peaceful walk amid lush greenery.
As night falls, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a traditional Brazilian steakhouse, where you can savor the flavors of the region. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the city center, where street performers often showcase their talents. End your day with a refreshing caipirinha at a local bar, soaking in the lively nightlife.
Begin your morning at the Mercado Público, a vibrant market filled with fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional snacks. Engage with local vendors, sampling delicious treats like cachaça and regional cheeses as you wander through the bustling stalls. Take in the colorful atmosphere and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs to bring back home.
After exploring the market, head to the nearby Casa de Cultura, a cultural center that often hosts workshops and exhibitions. Participate in a local craft workshop, learning traditional techniques from skilled artisans. As you create your own piece of art, enjoy the camaraderie of fellow travelers and locals.
In the evening, attend a cultural performance at the Teatro Treze de Maio, where you can witness local theater or music acts. The ambiance of the historic theater adds to the charm of the experience. After the show, dine at a nearby restaurant known for its regional dishes, indulging in flavors that reflect the local culinary scene.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee at a local cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚎Public transport ticket (one ride) | $0.80-1.50 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🍺Local beer/glass of wine | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant university culture and friendly locals
- Compact, walkable center with tasty regional cuisine
- Strong Gaucho heritage and warm hospitality
- Reasonable costs and good access to nature nearby
- Limited direct international flight connections from Santa Maria
- Some venues may have English service limited to certain staff
- Smaller scale compared to larger capitals, so options can feel limited at times
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "A conta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Gostaria de um vegetariano" - I would like vegetarian options
Places to Visit in Santa Maria
Visit one of these nice places.
The city’s central square with mature trees, historic façades, and the ambience of daily life—ideal for street and portrait photography.
A mix of modern and traditional buildings with green courtyards, perfect for architectural and campus-life photography.
A striking church that provides a classic backdrop for daytime and evening photography with its detailed façades.
Riverside paths and open spaces offering scenic sunset shots and nature photography near the city.
Historic streets with colonial and early modern façades, good for moody street photography.
Food in Santa Maria
Santa Maria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional gaucho barbecue, sliced beef and other meats grilled over open flames; best enjoyed at a churrascaria with farofa, salad, and rice.
Must-Try!
A hearty rice dish cooked with dried beef and sausage, a regional staple that pairs well with beans and salad.
Beans mixed with cassava flour, eggs, and sausage; a comforting, protein-rich dish commonly found in local restaurants.
Traditional yerba mate infusion served in a gourd with a metal straw; a social drink often shared among friends and visitors.
A sweet cake (often with banana or apple) popular for dessert, typically enjoyed with coffee at local cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market hall where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and regional snacks.
Open-air market offering street food, handmade crafts, and local specialties—great for a quick bite and people-watching.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite when greeting; a handshake is typical in formal settings, with warm conversations in social contexts. Address people respectfully and avoid loud conversations in quiet venues.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Maria
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, a service charge is sometimes included in restaurants (about 10%). If not included, leaving a 5–10% tip or rounding up is common and appreciated.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful in smaller shops. Pix, a popular instant payment method, is increasingly common for smaller transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with higher humidity and frequent thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for mornings or late afternoons.
Mild and pleasant temperatures with cooler evenings. Ideal for outdoor exploration and photography with softer light.
Cool but generally mild; daytime temperatures commonly range from 8–18°C (46–64°F). Layered clothing is recommended, especially for early mornings and evenings.
Comfortable conditions with blooming flora and moderate rainfall. A great time for long walks, park visits, and outdoor dining.
Santa Maria at Night
Hiking in Santa Maria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate ascent with city views and surrounding countryside; best done in dry season and with proper footwear.
Flat to gentle loops around wetlands and wooded areas; suitable for all ages and families.
Airports
How to reach Santa Maria by plane.
Local air gateway with domestic flights; convenient for arrivals from Porto Alegre and other regional hubs.
Major international and domestic gateway for the region; connects to national routes and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
UFSM contributes a large student population, bringing energy, events, and youthful culture to the city.
Long-standing residents and neighborhood communities maintain traditional markets and social ties.
Professors, researchers, and staff provide a diverse, educated presence in cultural and academic activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region loves soccer at all levels; local matches and grassroots leagues are common.
Rodeo-style events and traditional games are part of the northern RS culture and can be experienced at rural fairs.
Indoor team sports are active in schools and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Maria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer salads, cheese dishes, pasta, and veggie sides. Ask for dishes without meat drippings or lard, and opt for beans, rice, salads, and pão de queijo as protein sources.