São Francisco,
São Francisco is a beautiful city located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Known for its charming colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage, São Francisco attracts visitors with its historic churches and museums. The city is also famous for its traditional handicrafts, especially the exquisite ceramic art produced by local artisans.
São Francisco is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the São Francisco River and nearby Serra da Canastra National Park.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Até logo" - See you later
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Historic So Francisco
morning:Start your day with a visit to the São Francisco Colonial Church, an architectural gem built in the 18th century. Then, take a leisurely stroll along the historic streets, admiring the colorful colonial buildings. Be sure to stop by Café Colonial for a delicious breakfast featuring local pastries and freshly brewed coffee.
afternoon:Spend the afternoon at the Museu de Arte Antiga, which houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts from the colonial period. Afterward, head to Restaurante do Porto for a traditional Brazilian lunch featuring fresh seafood and regional specialties.
evening:For a vibrant night out, head to Rua do Taboléu for live music and dancing in the streets, where you can experience the lively local nightlife scene.
Nature and Relaxation in So Francisco
morning:Embark on a boat tour of the São Francisco River, taking in the stunning natural scenery and spotting native wildlife along the way. Stop off at Ilha dos Marinheiros for a refreshing swim and some relaxation on the sandy beaches. Enjoy a casual brunch at Quilombo Restaurante, known for its scenic riverfront views and fresh tropical fruits.
afternoon:After the boat tour, visit the Parque Eólico de São Francisco to see the impressive wind turbines and learn about sustainable energy. Then, take a leisurely walk through Parque Municipal das Ondas, a tranquil park surrounded by lush greenery.
evening:For a peaceful evening, head to Pôr do Sol Praia Bar to witness a breathtaking sunset over the São Francisco River, while enjoying a refreshing caipirinha and local snacks.
Cultural Immersion in So Francisco
morning:Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the Casa da Cultura, a historic building that hosts art exhibitions, workshops, and live performances. Then, wander through the vibrant Feira de Artesanato to browse handmade crafts and artisanal products while enjoying a traditional tapioca breakfast at Tapiocaria da Praça.
afternoon:Explore the Museu do Sertão to learn about the region's history, folklore, and traditions through fascinating exhibits and interactive displays. Afterwards, savor a hearty lunch at Comida Sertaneja, known for its authentic sertanejo cuisine and warm hospitality.
evening:Experience the local arts scene by attending a live forró performance at Casa de Forró, where you can dance the night away to traditional Brazilian music in a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Culinary Delights of So Francisco
morning:Embark on a guided food tour of São Francisco, sampling a variety of local delicacies, from exotic fruits at the Mercado Municipal to savory snacks at street food stalls. Don't miss the chance to indulge in a traditional açai bowl or tapioca pancake for breakfast at Tapiocaria do Mercado.
afternoon:Participate in a cooking class at Escola de Gastronomia, where you can learn to prepare authentic Brazilian dishes using fresh local ingredients. Afterwards, enjoy the delicious creations you've cooked for lunch and savor the flavors of the region.
evening:Indulge in a gourmet dining experience at Restaurante Estrela do Mar, known for its creative seafood dishes and elegant waterfront setting. After dinner, savor a nightcap at Bar Cachaçaria, where you can sample a variety of local cachaças and cocktails.
São Francisco Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Feijoada
A hearty stew of black beans, beef, and pork, typically served with rice, farofa, and orange slices. Try this iconic dish at Restaurante Bolinha or A Casa do Porco.
Must-Try!
Pão de Queijo
These delicious cheese bread balls are a popular snack and breakfast item. Head to Casa Mathilde for a delectable pão de queijo experience.
Moqueca
A flavorful fish stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, and coriander. For an authentic taste, visit Dona Mariquita.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Mercado Municipal de São Francisco
This bustling market is a paradise for food lovers, offering a variety of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food. Don't miss the pastel de bacalhau (codfish pastry) and acarajé (black-eyed pea fritters) from the street vendors.
Feira de São Joaquim
A vibrant street market where you can sample an array of traditional Brazilian street foods such as tapioca crepes, grilled meats, and refreshing coconut water.
Things to do in São Francisco
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in São Francisco
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!