Vast, diverse and multicultural, as well as having dozens of things to do in the city, the largest Brazilian metropolis also offers various options in terms of short day trips away from the city – many of them so good in fact that they are worthy of a lengthier stay.
With this in mind, BBMaq has prepared a list of for the most interesting nearby destinations:
Holambra
About 100 minutes northeast of the city by car you will find the quaint city of Holambra, South America’s most “Dutch” city.
Starting out as a farm, the village was founded in 1948 and was populated by immigrants sent by Dutch authorities after an agreement with the Brazilian government offering a new start to families afflicted by World War II.
Bringing with them their traditions and working mostly with agriculture, they built a pleasant town with typical Dutch architecture and a special appreciation for beautiful and colourful gardens.
This skill in horticulture earned the city the prize of hosting the country’s most important fair in the sector: Expoflora, an annual event that takes place in September and attracts tourists and enthusiasts to the small town.
Amongst the main attractions are restaurants serving typical Dutch cuisine, the local museum that tells the story of how the Dutch came to settle in the area, a huge decorated windmill – the biggest in South America – shops selling flowers and local crafts, and finally a delicious sweet shop on the banks of a lovely lake.
Makes you feel like going there, doesn’t it?
Campos do Jordão
About a 2-hour drive northeast of the capital is the city of Campos do Jordão, a traditional winter retreat amongst Paulistas and interstate visitors.
Set high in the mountains, it is the highest city in Brazil, and it is known, due to the low temperatures and typically European architecture, as the “Switzerland of Brazil “.
Campos do Jordão is a seasoned tourist destination, with sophisticated hotels and plenty of restaurants serving wine and fondue, a perfect setting for a romantic getaway or a family break. Furthermore, every July – mid-Winter in Brazil – the city hosts its Winter Festival, an event that celebrates gastronomy and classical music. Next winter, you know what to do: grab your coat and have fun!
Guarujá
Very close to the capital – about 90 minutes by car – Guarujá is the most popular summer destination in the State of São Paulo.
Known as the “Pérola do Atlântico” (Pearl of the Atlantic), it is part of the Santos region and accessible by ferry. Guarujá offers a variety of options, from urban beaches – like Pitangueiras and Tombo – to the more deserted and hidden – like St. Peter and Camburi – good for surfing and ecotourism.
Predominantly seasonal, the peak time is December and January, when the beaches are filled with tourists from all corners of the country. And no wonder: in the heat of the Brazilian summer, no one wants to be too far to the ocean. Just don’t forget to book your accommodation in advance!
About 4 hours east of the capital is the charming Ilhabela, which is reachable by ferry. Off the northern coast of São Paulo, the “beautiful island”, a direct translation, is home to natural beauty in abundance and a decent infrastructure for tourism.
There is accommodation ranging from cosy to the more sophisticated, and a wide range of restaurants and bars to help you enjoy the island’s good vibes in complete tranquillity.
Those who like the sea, boats and water sports will love Ilhabela as it is also recognised as the capital of sailing.
Besides the busy boating life, it is a place known for its musical side. Every year, the island plays host to renowned jazz festivals that feature both Brazilian and international acts. The most famous is the Ilhabela In Jazz, held every October.
Despite being busier during the festivals, the island tends to welcome tourists throughout the year – especially in the summer, when the island’s charms attract boats and cruises filled with both Brazilian and international holidaymakers.
How about joining them?
For more information about Brazil, travelling to Brazil, Holidays in Brazil and Brazilian tourism, please also visit VBRATA Visit Brazil Travel Association, a London-based travel organisation specialised in Brazil.
Visit the BBMAG Business Directory to find Brazilian and South American service suppliers and classifieds in London and internationally.