São Carlos

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with São Carlos's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Adventure in So Carlos
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Culture & Art Day
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

Explore the cultural center for local performances and exhibits. Grab lunch at a nearby bistro to experience local flavors.

evening
:

Attend a live music event in the city, enjoying the sounds of local musicians. Conclude with dessert at a popular ice cream parlor.

day 3
Nature & Sports Day
morning
:

Rent a bike and ride along the scenic trails of the João Carrão Park, soaking in the beautiful landscapes. Have a picnic breakfast in the park to embrace nature.

afternoon
:

Visit the local sports complex to watch or participate in a football game. Join a fitness class or workshop for some active fun.

evening
:

Enjoy a casual dinner at a sports bar, cheering for local teams. Gather with friends for board games or trivia night to wind down.

day 4
Explore Education & Innovation
morning
:

Tour the prestigious University of São Carlos, appreciating its architecture and research facilities. Dive into educational exhibitions that showcase technological advancements.

afternoon
:

Visit a nearby tech startup for insights into innovation in Brazil. Enjoy lunch at a trendy café that caters to students and innovators alike.

evening
:

Attend a public lecture or seminar at the university for an enriching experience. Finish with dinner at a local restaurant offering a variety of student favorites.

day 5
Day in Nature
morning
:

Head to the nearby waterfalls for an exhilarating hike and enjoy the serene environment. Take your camera for stunning nature shots along the way.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy by the water and soak in the beauty of the natural surroundings. Explore the forest trails and keep an eye out for local wildlife.

evening
:

As the sun sets, return to the city and visit a cozy restaurant for dinner. Share stories of your adventures with friends over a good meal.

day 6
Culinary Tour
morning
:

Start your culinary journey with a local cooking class to learn how to make traditional Brazilian dishes. Savor the fruits of your labor for lunch.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market for fresh ingredients and specialties unique to the region. Engage with vendors and learn about local cuisine.

evening
:

Dine at a renowned restaurant known for its innovative takes on traditional dishes. End the night with a food tasting experience in a vibrant food market.

day 7
Shopping & Leisure
morning
:

Begin your day at the local artisan fair, browsing unique handmade crafts and local goods. Enjoy breakfast from a stall serving delicious regional pastries.

afternoon
:

Head to the city center to explore shops and boutiques, finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Stop for a casual lunch at a café with sidewalk seating.

evening
:

Wrap up your shopping day with dinner at a trendy eatery across from a popular shopping area. Unwind with a drink at a nearby rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.

day 8
Stargazing Night
morning
:

Visit an astronomy center to learn about the universe and engage in interactive exhibits. Enjoy breakfast at a themed café focusing on space and science.

afternoon
:

Participate in a guided hike to a viewpoint, perfect for afternoon photography against the backdrop of the setting sun. Relax at a picnic spot while enjoying a snack.

evening
:

Join an evening stargazing event and explore the night sky with expert astronomers. Finish with a late-night coffee at a cozy café sharing your favorite celestial discoveries.

day 9
Mystery & Exploration
morning
:

Kick off your adventure by visiting an escape room with friends, solving puzzles in a themed environment. Grab breakfast at a nearby diner afterward to rehash your experience.

afternoon
:

Explore hidden gems around the city through a scavenger hunt organized by a local guide. Enjoy lunch in a quirky café filled with local art.

evening
:

Embark on a ghost tour that uncovers the city’s mysterious past. Conclude your day by sharing spooky stories over dinner at a haunted restaurant.

Discover São Carlos

Read more in our São Carlos 2024 Travel Guide.

São Carlos Travel Guide