Campinas Travel Guide (Campinas Region/São Paulo (state)/Southeast/Brazil/South America)

Introduction to Campinas
List of Places to Visit in Campinas
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of Campinas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of Campinas
Best Things to Do in Campinas: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Campinas
Food and Drink Scene of Campinas
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in Campinas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in Campinas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of Campinas
Best Time to Visit Campinas
Do’s and Don’ts of Campinas
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in Campinas
- Health in Campinas
Getting to Campinas: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in Campinas
Where to Go Next from Campinas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to Campinas

Campinas, located in the state of São Paulo in Brazil, is a bustling city known for its cultural and natural attractions. Its strategic location as the gateway to São Paulo makes it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. With a population of over one million people, Campinas is a melting pot of cultures, history, and tradition. This guide takes you on a journey through the best things to see and do in Campinas, as well as tips on where to stay, eat, and how to get around.

List of Places to Visit in Campinas

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Campinas boasts a rich history and heritage, which is reflected in its impressive collection of art and museums. Here are some of the most popular cultural attractions in the city:

Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Campinas - the Museum of Contemporary Art is known for its extensive collection of modern art and sculptures from Brazilian and international artists.
Museu Campos Sales - a museum dedicated to the former President of Brazil, Campos Sales, showcasing his life and work.
Basílica de Nossa Senhora do Carmo - a stunning 18th-century church with beautiful frescoes and architecture.
Museu Historico de Campinas - a museum dedicated to the history of Campinas, featuring exhibits on the city’s cultural, economic, and social development.

Natural Attractions of Campinas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Campinas is not just about art and culture; it also boasts a range of natural attractions that are perfect for outdoor lovers. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Campinas:

Lagoa do Taquaral - a beautiful lagoon surrounded by parks, sports clubs, and restaurants. You can rent paddleboats or bikes to explore the area.
Parque Portugal - a popular park with multiple playgrounds, green spaces, gardens, and a lake.
Bosque dos Jequitibás - a natural park with an open-air museum, zoo, and playgrounds.
Hopi Hari - a massive amusement park with a variety of thrill rides, water attractions, and shows.
Parque das Aguas - a water park with a wave pool and a variety of slides.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Campinas

Campinas is surrounded by lush, rolling hills, making it a paradise for hikers and bikers. Some of the top hiking and biking routes include:

Pedra Grande - a popular hiking trail with stunning views and a challenging climb.
Serra da Cantareira - a mountain range famous for its beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife.
Trilha do Pico das Agulhas Negras - a challenging trek up the highest peak in the nearby Itatiaia National Park.

Best Things to Do in Campinas: Activities and Tours

There is always something to see and do in Campinas. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, the city has plenty to offer. Here are some of the top activities and tours to check out:

Campinas City Tour - a guided tour that takes you to some of the city’s most popular attractions, including the contemporary art museum, historic district, and cultural centers.
Horseback Riding Tour - a guided horseback riding tour that takes you through the stunning countryside surrounding Campinas.
Paragliding Adventure - a thrilling paragliding trip that soars over the beautiful hills and valleys around Campinas.
Boat Tour on Lagoa do Taquaral - a relaxing boat ride that takes you around the picturesque lagoon in the heart of the city.
Craft Beer Tour - a guided tour of the local craft beer scene, where you’ll learn about the brewing process and enjoy some of the best beers in the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Campinas

If you’re planning a visit to Campinas and want to make the most of your time, here’s a suggested itinerary that will take you to some of the city’s top attractions:

Day	Activity
Day 1	Explore the historic center of Campinas, including the cathedral, central market, and the Norte-Sul Plaza.
Day 2	Visit the Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Campinas and Lagoa do Taquaral.
Day 3	Take a horseback riding tour through the countryside or go paragliding for an adrenaline rush.
Day 4	Spend the day at Hopi Hari amusement park.
Day 5	Hike the Pedra Grande trail or take a boat tour on Lagoa do Taquaral.
Day 6	Visit the Museu Campos Sales and Parque Portugal.
Day 7	Take a craft beer tour and enjoy the local food scene before departing Campinas.

Food and Drink Scene of Campinas

Campinas has a rich culinary scene, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to choose from. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Feijão Tropeiro - a traditional Brazilian dish made with beans, rice, and pork.
Pão de Queijo - a cheesy bread that is a popular snack in Brazil.
Coxinha - a deep-fried pastry filled with shredded chicken.
Pastel - a savory pastry filled with meat or cheese.

Local Beverages

Caipirinha - Brazil’s national cocktail made with cachaça (a distilled spirit made from sugarcane juice), lime, and sugar.
Cerveja - Brazilian beer is a popular choice for locals and visitors.
Café - Brazil is known for its coffee, and Campinas has some of the best coffee shops in the country.

Where to Stay in Campinas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Campinas has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the top-rated hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the city:

Royal Palm Plaza Resort - a luxurious resort with multiple pools, restaurants, and sports facilities.
Radisson Red Campinas - a modern hotel located in the heart of the city with great amenities and excellent service.
Hostel Central Brasil - a clean, comfortable hostel that is perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
Hotel Vila Rica Campinas - a centrally located hotel with spacious rooms and excellent service.
Hotel ibis Campinas - a budget-friendly hotel with comfortable rooms and a central location.

What to Buy in Campinas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Campinas is known for its high-quality, locally produced goods. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home:

Cachaça - a distilled spirit made from sugarcane juice, which is one of the most popular beverages in Brazil.
Handmade crafts - Campinas is home to a range of artisans, and you’ll find beautiful handmade crafts and souvenirs at local markets.
Coffee - Brazil is known for its coffee, and Campinas has some of the best coffee shops and roasters in the country.
Cheeses and meats - artisanal cheeses and meats are a specialty of Campinas, and you’ll find a range of high-quality products at local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Campinas

Campinas is a multicultural city with a proud history and tradition. Here are a few things to keep in mind when visiting:

Brazilians are known for their warm and welcoming nature, so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with locals.
Portuguese is the official language of Brazil, but many people in Campinas also speak English, especially in tourist areas.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Campinas

The best time to visit Campinas is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. This is the peak tourist season, so prices may be higher and crowds may be larger. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, consider visiting during the shoulder season in April or October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Campinas

Do:

Do try the local cuisine and drinks, including cachaça, coffee, and traditional Brazilian dishes.
Do dress for the weather - Campinas can get quite hot and humid in the summer months, so be sure to bring light clothing and sunscreen.
Do take the time to learn about the local culture and history.

Don’t:

Don’t use drugs - drug use is illegal in Brazil, and penalties are severe.
Don’t give money to beggars - while it is always important to help those in need, giving money to beggars can sometimes fuel organized crime and other problems.
Don’t leave valuables unattended - like any big city, Campinas has its share of pickpockets and thieves, so be sure to keep your belongings safe.

Safety and Health

Safety in Campinas

Campinas, like any big city, has its share of crime and safety concerns. Here are some tips to keep you safe:

Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas.
Keep your valuables close and avoid flashing cash or expensive items in public.
Use taxis or ride-sharing services when traveling at night or in unfamiliar areas.

Health in Campinas

Brazil is known for its high-quality healthcare system, but visitors should still take steps to ensure good health during their stay. Here are some tips:

Drink bottled water to avoid gastrointestinal problems.
Wear sunscreen and insect repellent to avoid sunburn and mosquito bites.
Get a yellow fever vaccination if you plan to travel to the Amazon region.

Getting to Campinas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Campinas is located just 90 kilometers from São Paulo, making it easily accessible by a range of transportation options. Here are some of your options:

Airports Near Campinas

Campinas is served by Viracopos International Airport, which is located just 18 kilometers from the city center. This airport offers direct flights to many major cities in Brazil and other international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Campinas

Campinas has two main bus terminals: Terminal Barão Geraldo and Terminal Rodoviário Ramos de Azevedo. These bus stations offer connections to other major cities in the region, as well as other parts of Brazil.

Other Options

Renting a car is a popular option for visitors who want to explore the surrounding countryside or other nearby cities.
Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available, making it easy to get around the city and surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Campinas

Campinas has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains. The city also has a well-developed bike-sharing program, as well as taxis and ride-sharing services. Here are some tips for getting around Campinas:

Use Google Maps or a similar app to plan your route and get real-time transit information.
Buy a rechargeable bus/train card (known as a Bilhete Único) to save money on fares.
Consider using a ride-sharing service or renting a car if you need to travel outside the city center.

Where to Go Next from Campinas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Campinas is located in a beautiful region of Brazil, with plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to explore. Here are some suggestions:

São Paulo - just a short drive from Campinas, São Paulo is the largest city in Brazil and a hub for culture, cuisine, and nightlife.
Monte Verde - a charming mountain town known for its chilly temperatures and beautiful scenery.
Holambra - a Dutch-inspired town known for its beautiful flowers and gardens.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for cultural attractions, natural wonders, or adrenaline-pumping adventures, Campinas has something for everyone. We hope this guide has given you some inspiration for your next trip to this vibrant, dynamic city. With its warm hospitality and rich tradition, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Campinas.