Things To Do
in Ubá
Ubá is a mid-sized city in Minas Gerais known for its welcoming locals and growing manufacturing scene. Nestled in the Zona da Mata region, it blends traditional Brazilian charm with a developing cultural and craft economy. The historic core offers colonial architecture, markets, and a relaxed pace perfect for exploring on foot.
Visitors can savor hearty Minas Gerais cuisine and use Ubá as a base to explore the surrounding countryside and waterfalls.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Ubá's historic center, where colonial architecture and vibrant street art blend seamlessly. Visit the Museu de História da Cidade to learn about Ubá's rich past and the influence of coffee cultivation on its development. Enjoy a fresh breakfast at one of the local bakeries, savoring traditional Brazilian pastries alongside a cup of strong coffee.
In the afternoon, venture to the Praça São Januário, a lively square where locals gather, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant serving delicious regional dishes. After lunch, explore the local shops for handmade crafts and artisan goods, perfect for souvenirs. Don't forget to visit the Igreja Matriz de São João Batista, a stunning church that showcases beautiful baroque architecture.
As the sun sets, head to a local bar to experience the vibrant nightlife of Ubá, where you can mingle with friendly locals over drinks. Indulge in some traditional Brazilian appetizers, known as petiscos, while enjoying live music that showcases the region's culture. End your evening with a peaceful walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the charm and warmth of this delightful town.
Start your day with a visit to one of Ubá's famous coffee plantations to discover the intricacies of coffee production. Take a guided tour of the lush coffee fields, learning about the cultivation and harvesting processes from local farmers. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee right from the source while soaking up the picturesque scenery.
After a hearty lunch at the plantation, participate in a tasting session where you can sample various coffee blends and learn about their unique flavors and aromas. Spend some time exploring the plantation's grounds, taking in the beauty of the surrounding hills and valleys. This immersive experience will deepen your appreciation for Brazil's coffee culture.
Return to Ubá and enjoy a relaxing evening at a cozy café, reflecting on your day's experiences. Treat yourself to a slice of bolo de rolo, a traditional Brazilian cake, as you sip on another cup of local coffee. Engage in conversation with locals who frequent the café, sharing stories and insights about life in Ubá.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee or café drink | $1-3 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket (one-way) | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🏨Basic hotel room per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm pace and friendly locals
- Strong local cuisine and regional crafts
- Good base for exploring Zona da Mata countryside
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Some attractions require car travel and planning
- "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?
Places to Visit in Ubá
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobblestone streets and colonial façades provide atmospheric street photography and a sense of the town’s history.
Architectural details and local exhibits offer texture and storytelling opportunities for photos.
Sunset shots from elevated viewpoints offer sweeping views of the countryside and city lights.
Food in Ubá
Ubá Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty mix of beans, cassava flour, sausage or bacon, and eggs; a quintessential MG dish served in taverns and family kitchens.
Must-Try!
Cheese bread served warm, a perfect snack for mornings or afternoons in bakeries and cafés.
Creamy bean paste often served with rice and cheese; a comforting regional favorite.
Juicy chicken stewed with okra, a common, home-style dish in traditional restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh produce, local cheeses, pão de queijo, and quick bites to taste on the spot.
Open-air street fairs where you can sample pastéis, queijo coalho, coxinha, and other local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm greeting such as Bom dia/Boa tarde is appreciated; use polite phrases like por favor and obrigado/obrigada.
Ask before photographing people in private spaces; a friendly request is typically well received.
Be mindful of social norms and family-centric etiquette common in Minas Gerais communities.
Safety
Tipping in Ubá
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If service is not included, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants and cafés.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in shops and cafés. Pix and other instant transfers are increasingly used for peer-to-peer payments and some vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures rise gradually; flowers bloom and outdoor activities are pleasant, with occasional showers.
Hot and humid with higher rainfall; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated.
Milder and comfortable for hiking and city exploration; rainfall decreases and visibility improves.
Cooler days with comfortable temperatures; evenings can get chilly, making indoor cultural venues appealing.
Ubá at Night
Hiking in Ubá
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hillside path offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley and city at the summit.
A nearby waterfall trail with a natural pool and shaded breaks along the route.
Airports
How to reach Ubá by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; located about 250-300 km from Ubá, typically a 3.5–4.5 hour drive depending on road conditions.
Regional airport serving Juiz de Fora; closer than Confins, with more limited international connections.
Smaller domestic airport offering convenient access for some domestic routes; often used for shorter trips within Brazil.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Ubá and frequent the central parks, markets, and schools; family-friendly services are common.
A growing number of residents work in manufacturing and services, contributing to a steady local economy.
Universities and vocational programs draw young people who contribute to a lively cultural scene around cafés and music venues.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local amateur clubs and informal matches common in parks and school fields.
Common in schools and community centers; you’ll find pickup games and local leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ubá.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted without meat; opt for pão de queijo, arroz com legumes, feijão tropeiro without bacon, and fresh vegetable sides. When in doubt, ask for a veggie-friendly plate or a cheese-forward option.