Things To Do
in São Carlos
São Carlos is a vibrant university town in the interior of São Paulo state, renowned for its green spaces and scientific culture. The city sits amid lakes and rolling hills, offering a relaxed atmosphere with a youthful energy from students and researchers. It hosts two major universities—USP São Carlos and the Federal University of São Carlos—fostering innovation, arts, and tech startups.
Visitors can enjoy a friendly downtown, good dining, and easy access to nearby nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Praça Coronel Salles, the heart of São Carlos, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of the surrounding colonial buildings. Take a stroll to the São Carlos Cathedral, known for its stunning neo-Gothic design, and capture some memorable photos. Enjoy a traditional Brazilian breakfast at a nearby café, sampling fresh pão de queijo and strong coffee.
After lunch, delve into the rich history of the city at the Museu Histórico de São Carlos, where you can explore artifacts that tell the story of the region. Next, visit the charming Mercado Municipal, where you can browse local produce, crafts, and try some delicious street food. As you wander, keep an eye out for local artisans and their unique creations.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant specializing in Brazilian cuisine for a delightful dinner. Try specialties like feijoada or grilled meats while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. End your evening with a leisurely walk around the plaza, where you can often find live music or cultural performances.
Start your day at Parque Ecológico, an expansive natural park perfect for morning walks and birdwatching. The fresh air and lush surroundings provide a serene backdrop as you explore the various trails. Bring a picnic breakfast to enjoy by the lake while observing the local wildlife.
In the afternoon, engage in a guided eco-tour to learn about the diverse flora and fauna of the area. Participate in activities such as kayaking or paddle boating on the calm waters, immersing yourself in the beautiful natural scenery. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views.
As dusk falls, find a peaceful spot to watch the sunset over the lake, painting the sky in vibrant hues. Return to the park's entrance where food stalls often offer local snacks and refreshments. Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby restaurant, reflecting on the day's adventures surrounded by nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $25-40 |
| 🚌One-way local transport ticket | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant university culture with affordable dining
- Great access to parks, lakes, and nature
- Friendly locals and a relaxed, safe vibe for travelers
- Limited high-end nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Smaller selection of international dining in some neighborhoods
- Public transit can be less extensive outside central areas
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado / Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in São Carlos
Visit one of these nice places.
Charming streets, colorful façades, and daily city life provide authentic urban photography moments.
Piers, reflections, and calm water offer serene sunrise and sunset shots.
A mix of modern and historic buildings, courtyards, and sculptures ideal for architectural photography.
Facade shots and interior spaces with local art, offering interest for composition and light.
Food in São Carlos
São Carlos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional Brazilian cheese bread, soft and savory; widely available in bakeries and cafés throughout the city.
Must-Try!
A classic São Paulo state dish with rice, beans, pork, and side greens; satisfyingly hearty and commonly found in local eateries.
Hearty black bean stew with pork, rice, and oranges; often served in Brazilian-style restaurants and bars.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market offering fresh produce, regional snacks, and prepared foods you can try on site.
Roving street markets and seasonal stalls where you can sample fruit, snacks, and quick bites around town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings in Portuguese (Olá, Bom dia/Boa tarde) go a long way; address people with respect and use basic courtesy when asking for help.
Casual conversations are common; arrive on time for meetings but expect a relaxed schedule in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in São Carlos
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included in larger restaurants, but tipping 5-10% for good service is appreciated in casual spots; rounding up a taxi fare is common.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still useful in markets and smaller eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; carry water, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket. Outdoor activities are best early or late in the day.
Mild days and cool evenings; pleasant for walking tours and photography with softer light.
Cool to mild daytime temperatures; nights can be chilly. Layered clothing is recommended for comfort outdoors.
Balanced temperatures and blooming greenery; great for outdoor exploration and park visits.
São Carlos at Night
Hiking in São Carlos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several short hikes and forested trails accessible within a short drive, suitable for a half-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach São Carlos by plane.
Regional airport with limited domestic service; common gateway for longer trips elsewhere in the state.
Major international hub with extensive domestic routes; typical gateway for international travelers to São Carlos.
One of Brazil’s largest international airports; convenient for connections worldwide.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of the population centers around the USP São Carlos and UFSCar campuses, driving a lively, budget-conscious local scene.
Residents in quieter neighborhoods; many parks and schools support family-friendly living.
A growing community connected to science, engineering, and technology sectors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The predominant sport in schools and community leagues; watch or join a pickup game in parks.
Common in schools, clubs, and beacheside venues during warmer months.
Popular in gymnasiums and public courts; many youth and college programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting São Carlos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available. Look for rice and beans, salads, grilled vegetables, and cheese or egg dishes; most places can adapt menus on request.