Written by Alexander Kopp, Maria Gaulto, Maria Vajello
02/12/2025
Malcoln Oliveira, Pexels
Belo Horizonte offers a rich tapestry of Brazilian culture and gastronomy, inviting visitors to explore its modernist architecture, savor distinctive local cuisine, and experience a vibrant urban atmosphere. It stands as a compelling destination for those interested in authentic Brazilian experiences beyond traditional tourist routes.
The Savassi district is the heart of Belo Horizonte's social scene, bustling with nightlife, diverse restaurants, and cultural events, making it a primary spot for socializing. Lourdes and Santa Tereza also offer vibrant nightlife and a bohemian atmosphere. Additionally, the Mercado Central and Mercado Novo serve as dynamic hubs for food, drinks, and cultural interaction.
Top 7 Things to do in Belo Horizonte
Experiences in Belo Horizonte typically involve exploring modernist architecture, indulging in local culinary delights, discovering vibrant markets, and enjoying urban green spaces.
1. Pampulha Modern Ensemble
The Pampulha Modern Ensemble is a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing the architectural genius of Oscar Niemeyer and the landscape design of Roberto Burle Marx. Visitors can explore the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, known for its unique curved lines and murals by Candido Portinari, along with the Casa do Baile (House of Dance), the Pampulha Art Museum, and the Iate Tênis Clube, all gracefully situated around the tranquil Pampulha Lagoon. This area is ideal for appreciating modernist art, architecture, and serene natural surroundings.
Cost: Exploring the area around the lagoon is free. There may be individual entrance fees for some buildings, such as the Pampulha Art Museum. Bicycle rentals are available for those wishing to cycle the lakeside pathways.
Transport: Located approximately 11 kilometers north of the Savassi district, an Uber or ride-sharing service typically takes 30-40 minutes. Public buses also connect to the Pampulha area.
2. Mercado Central
The Mercado Central is a vibrant, bustling marketplace that offers an authentic immersion into Minas Gerais culture and gastronomy. Visitors can navigate a maze of stalls selling a vast array of local foods, artisanal cheeses, spices, fresh produce, crafts, and even live animals. It is an excellent place to sample traditional regional delicacies, enjoy a local beer, and purchase unique souvenirs.
Cost: Entry to the market is free. Costs are incurred based on purchases of food, drinks, and goods.
Transport: Centrally located in Belo Horizonte, the Mercado Central is often within walking distance from many downtown accommodations. It is also easily accessible by numerous public bus lines and ride-sharing services.
3. Mercado Novo
Mercado Novo is a revitalized historic market building transformed into a trendy hub for contemporary culture, gastronomy, and local design. It features a diverse selection of craft breweries, gourmet food stalls offering Mineiro tapas, and unique boutiques selling modern fashion, art, and handcrafted goods. The market provides a cool and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for socializing and experiencing a modern take on local life.
Cost: Entry to Mercado Novo is free. The cost depends on food, drink, and retail purchases, with some items potentially being on the higher end.
Transport: Conveniently situated in the city center, Mercado Novo is a short 10-minute walk from Mercado Central. It is well-served by public transport and ride-sharing applications.
4. Praça da Liberdade Cultural Circuit
Praça da Liberdade, or Liberty Square, stands as a grand cultural heart of the city. This expansive square is adorned with gardens inspired by the Palace of Versailles and surrounded by impressive neoclassical buildings. Many of these historical structures have been transformed into museums and cultural institutions, forming the Circuito Cultural Praça da Liberdade (Cultural Circuit of Liberty Square), including the Memorial Minas Gerais Vale and the Bank of Brazil Cultural Center. It is an ideal location for a leisurely stroll while delving into local history, art, and intellectual pursuits.
Cost: Exploring the square and its gardens is free. Individual museums and cultural centers within the circuit may have entrance fees.
Transport: Located in the city center, the square is easily accessible by walking, especially from nearby neighborhoods like Savassi. Public buses also service the area extensively.
5. Parque Estadual da Serra do Curral
The Serra do Curral State Park offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of Belo Horizonte and the expansive mountain ranges that embrace the city. The park features a network of walking trails varying in difficulty, providing opportunities for outdoor activity and connecting with nature. An accessible trail leads to an observation deck, offering stunning vistas of the cityscape.
Cost: Entry to the state park is free.
Transport: Access to the park can be achieved by car, with parking available, or via a combination of public buses and walking. Ride-sharing services are also a convenient way to reach the entrance.
6. Parque Municipal Américo Renné Giannetti
Situated in the core of Belo Horizonte, the Parque Municipal Américo Renné Giannetti is a verdant urban oasis. This expansive municipal park provides a tranquil escape with its lush tropical flora, mature trees, and a serene lake. It is a favored spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and enjoying a peaceful environment amidst the city's hustle and bustle. Visitors can also enjoy boat rides on the lake.
Cost: Entry to the park is free. A small fee may apply for boat rides on the lake.
Transport: Being centrally located on Avenida Afonso Pena, the park is easily reachable by numerous public bus lines that traverse the city center.
7. Inhotim Institute (Day Trip)
Located approximately an hour's drive from Belo Horizonte in Brumadinho, Inhotim is one of the world's largest open-air contemporary art museums and botanical gardens. This unique destination seamlessly blends impressive modern art installations with stunning, expansive landscaped gardens, offering a truly immersive experience of art and nature. It is recommended to dedicate a full day to explore its vast grounds and diverse exhibits.
Cost: The entrance fee is typically R$50 (approximately $10 USD) on most days, with free admission offered on Wednesdays.
Transport: Inhotim is about an hour's drive from Belo Horizonte. Visitors can take a regular public bus from Belo Horizonte's main terminal, utilize a shuttle service provided by the museum, or arrange for a car rental or guided tour.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
