Things To Do
in São Carlos
São Carlos is a vibrant city located in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, known for its strong academic and technological presence due to the presence of the University of São Paulo and various research institutions. The city has a pleasant year-round climate and is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including parks and conservation areas. São Carlos offers a variety of cultural attractions, such as museums, theaters, and festivals, providing residents and visitors with many opportunities for entertainment and enrichment.
The city also has a diverse culinary scene, with an array of restaurants specializing in traditional Brazilian and international cuisines.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.80 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Botanical Gardens, where you can explore beautiful trails and diverse plant species. Enjoy a coffee at a local café nearby to energize for the day ahead.
Spend the afternoon at the São Carlos Museum, discovering the rich history and culture of the region. Take a stroll through the nearby park and appreciate the local street art.
Dine at a traditional Brazilian steakhouse, savoring delicious local dishes. End your evening with a relaxing walk at the city’s main square, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Begin with a visit to the São Carlos Art Museum to admire contemporary art. Participate in an art workshop if available for a hands-on experience.
Explore the cultural center for local performances and exhibits. Grab lunch at a nearby bistro to experience local flavors.
Attend a live music event in the city, enjoying the sounds of local musicians. Conclude with dessert at a popular ice cream parlor.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Home to prestigious educational institutions, including the University of São Paulo and Federal University of São Carlos.
- Vibrant cultural scene with various festivals, events, and art exhibitions.
- Pleasant climate with a mix of sunny days and mild temperatures.
- Strong focus on technology and innovation, attracting startups and researchers.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Brazilian cities.
- Limited nightlife options compared to bigger urban centers.
- Public transportation can be inadequate for some areas.
- Issues with traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
- Job market can be competitive, especially in specialized fields.
- Environmental concerns, including air pollution from industrial activities.
Best Activities in São Carlos
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy hiking and nature trails at this ecological park, which also features a lake and picnic areas.
Explore São Carlos on two wheels and take advantage of the city's bike-friendly infrastructure and scenic routes.
Experience eco-tourism and learn about organic farming, sustainable practices, and ecological conservation.
Places to Visit in São Carlos
Visit one of these nice places.
A park with beautiful landscapes, lakes, and diverse vegetation that provides excellent photo opportunities.
An astronomical observatory located in the city that offers panoramic views and unique photo opportunities of the night sky.
A hill offering stunning panoramic views of the city, making it a great spot for capturing photos of the urban landscape.
Food in São Carlos
São Carlos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Brazilian black bean stew with pork, sausage, and beef, often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices. Best enjoyed at Casa da Feijoada, a local restaurant known for its authentic preparation.
Must-Try!
A beloved Brazilian cheese bread made with tapioca flour and filled with gooey cheese. Found at Casa do Pão de Queijo, a popular café chain with multiple locations across the city.
A popular Brazilian snack made of shredded chicken encased in a seasoned dough, molded into a shape resembling a chicken leg, then fried to golden perfection. Try it at
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An iconic food market featuring a wide array of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food stalls offering traditional Brazilian snacks like pastel (crispy pastry filled with various savory fillings), acarajé (deep-fried black-eyed pea fritters), and tapioca crepes. Don't miss the refreshing açai bowls and tropical fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In São Carlos, it is common to greet people with a kiss on the cheek or a handshake, especially when meeting for the first time or in a formal setting.
It is important to be mindful of personal space in interactions, as Brazilians generally appreciate a comfortable distance between individuals during conversations.
When dining with others, it is polite to wait for the host or hostess to start eating before beginning your meal. Additionally, it is customary to express gratitude for the food and hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in São Carlos
Ensure a smooth experience
In São Carlos, Brazil, it is not customary to leave a tip at restaurants, as a 10% service charge is usually included in the bill.
Payment in São Carlos, Brazil is commonly made in cash or by credit/debit card. It is important to carry some cash as not all establishments accept cards, especially in more remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for warm weather and outdoor activities.
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and the chance to see traditional festivals and events.
Mild temperatures and beautiful blooming flowers, great for sightseeing and outdoor exploration.
Comfortable temperatures and vibrant fall foliage, ideal for nature walks and outdoor adventures.
São Carlos at Night
Hiking in São Carlos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A protected park that offers several hiking trails through the Atlantic Rainforest, providing a chance to see diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
A popular hiking destination known for its panoramic views of the surrounding area, including São Carlos and the nearby mountains.
This location features various trails that navigate through beautiful terrain, perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers.
A city park with designated hiking trails, picnic areas, and the opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna.
A small but notable trail that offers a unique hiking experience with challenging paths and beautiful sights, ideal for adventure seekers.
Aiports
How to reach São Carlos by plane.
The largest international airport in Brazil located in São Paulo, approximately 200 kilometers from São Carlos. It serves as a major hub for international flights.
An international airport located in Campinas, approximately 100 kilometers from São Carlos. It serves both domestic and international flights.
A domestic airport that also handles some international flights, located closer to central São Paulo, around 200 kilometers from São Carlos.
Located in Presidente Prudente, around 400 kilometers from São Carlos. It handles regional connections often linking to larger international airports.
An airport located in Campo Grande, approximately 600 kilometers from São Carlos that serves as a gateway to various international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group, predominantly of European descent.
Individuals of mixed ethnic backgrounds, commonly a combination of European, African, and Indigenous ancestries.
Individuals of African descent, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
A smaller demographic group, including individuals of Japanese, Chinese, and other Asian descents.
The original inhabitants of the region, representing a small but significant part of the cultural heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in São Carlos, with many local clubs and a strong community following. The city often participates in regional leagues and tournaments.
Volleyball enjoys significant popularity in São Carlos, with numerous teams at both amateur and professional levels, as well as active participation in schools and universities.
Basketball is widely played and supported in São Carlos, featuring local leagues and youth programs that encourage the sport among young athletes.
Athletics, including track and field events, is popular in São Carlos, with several clubs and schools focusing on training athletes for competitions.
Handball has been growing in popularity in São Carlos, particularly in schools, leading to the establishment of teams that compete in local tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting São Carlos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Brazilian cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants and cafés in São Carlos offer vegetarian and vegan menu items. Notable places to explore include Leve Sabor, a health-oriented eatery with a range of plant-based dishes, and Empório Sabor e Vida, a natural foods store and café.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable choices at Casa Verde, a restaurant recognized for its gluten-free versions of Brazilian classics like coxinha and pão de queijo, as well as at Empório Nutrição, a health-conscious café offering gluten-free desserts and snacks.