bigtravelbuzzBelo Horizonte is the capital city of the state of Minas Gerais in southeastern Brazil. It is the sixth-largest city in the country and is known for its modern architecture, vibrant culture, and rich culinary scene. Here are some key highlights and information about Belo Horizonte:
Pampulha Architectural Complex: One of Belo Horizonte’s most famous landmarks, the Pampulha Architectural Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It includes the Pampulha Church (Igreja São Francisco de Assis), the Mineirão Stadium, and the Casa do Baile, all designed by renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer.
Central Market (Mercado Central): The Central Market is a bustling marketplace offering a wide variety of local products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, crafts, and traditional Brazilian snacks. It’s a great place to experience the flavors and culture of Minas Gerais.
Praça da Liberdade: This historic square is surrounded by beautiful gardens and historical buildings, including the Governor’s Palace. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists to stroll and enjoy the outdoors.
Savassi: Savassi is a trendy neighborhood known for its lively atmosphere, with numerous bars, restaurants, and shops. It’s a great place to experience Belo Horizonte’s nightlife and cultural events.
Mangabeiras Park: This large city park offers stunning views of Belo Horizonte and is an ideal spot for outdoor activities, picnics, and hiking.
Inhotim Contemporary Art Museum: While not located directly in Belo Horizonte (about an hour’s drive away), Inhotim is a world-renowned contemporary art museum set amidst beautiful gardens and natural surroundings. It’s a must-visit for art lovers.
Local Cuisine: Belo Horizonte is known for its delicious food, and you should definitely try some traditional Minas Gerais dishes while in the city. Don’t miss the chance to taste the famous pão de queijo (cheese bread), feijão tropeiro, and the local version of feijoada.
Cultural Scene: Belo Horizonte has a vibrant cultural scene with theaters, art galleries, music venues, and festivals. Check out the city’s cultural calendar to catch local performances and events.
Football: Like the rest of Brazil, football (soccer) is a significant part of Belo Horizonte’s culture. If there’s a match happening at the Mineirão Stadium, consider attending to experience the passion and excitement of Brazilian football.
Safety: While Belo Horizonte is generally safe, it’s essential to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Use the same caution you would in any major city.
Belo Horizonte offers a mix of modernity and tradition, making it a fascinating destination to explore in Minas Gerais. It’s a city where you can experience the contemporary art scene, enjoy the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the friendly and welcoming Brazilian culture.
Places to Visit in Belo Horizonte
Belo Horizonte, the capital city of Minas Gerais, offers a mix of modern attractions, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. Here are some top places to visit in Belo Horizonte:
Pampulha Architectural Complex: Explore the Pampulha Lake area and visit the iconic Pampulha Church (Igreja São Francisco de Assis), designed by Oscar Niemeyer. Don’t miss other architectural gems like Casa do Baile and the Mineirão Stadium.
Central Market (Mercado Central): Wander through the bustling Central Market, where you can find a wide variety of local products, handicrafts, fresh produce, and traditional Brazilian snacks.
Praça da Liberdade: This historic square is surrounded by beautiful gardens and important buildings, including the Governor’s Palace. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the city’s green spaces.
Savassi: Spend time in the trendy Savassi neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants, bars, and shops.
Mangabeiras Park: Enjoy nature at this large city park, which offers scenic viewpoints with stunning views of Belo Horizonte. It’s a perfect spot for hiking, picnicking, and outdoor activities.
Inhotim Contemporary Art Museum: While not located directly in Belo Horizonte (about an hour’s drive away), Inhotim is a unique contemporary art museum set amidst beautiful gardens and natural landscapes. It’s worth the trip for art lovers.
MM Gerdau – Museum of Mines and Metal: Learn about the history of mining and metallurgy in the region at this informative museum.
Abílio Barreto Historical Museum: Immerse yourself in the history of Belo Horizonte and Minas Gerais through exhibits and artifacts at this local history museum.
Liberty Square (Parque Municipal Américo Renné Giannetti): Take a leisurely stroll in this large park, which offers a lake, walking paths, and recreational areas.
Feira Hippie: On Sundays, visit the famous Feira Hippie, a large open-air market selling handicrafts, art, clothing, and souvenirs.
Palácio das Artes: This cultural center hosts art exhibitions, concerts, theater performances, and other cultural events throughout the year.
Japanese Garden (Jardim Japonês): Experience a tranquil escape at the Japanese Garden, featuring traditional Japanese landscaping and architecture.
Pope’s Square (Praça do Papa): Enjoy panoramic views of the city from this square, named in honor of Pope John Paul II’s visit to Belo Horizonte.
Casa Fiat de Cultura: Visit this cultural center housed in a beautifully restored building, featuring rotating art exhibitions and cultural events.
These are just some of the highlights in Belo Horizonte. The city offers a mix of cultural experiences, architectural wonders, and natural beauty that will surely make your visit to Minas Gerais a memorable one.
Best Time To Visit Belo Horizonte
The best time to visit Belo Horizonte is during the dry season, which typically lasts from April to September. This period is considered the city’s “winter” when temperatures are more moderate and pleasant. Here are some reasons why the dry season is an excellent time to visit:
Weather: During the dry season, the weather in Belo Horizonte is cooler and less humid than during the wet season. Days are generally sunny with comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Festivals and Events: Several cultural festivals and events take place during the dry season, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and local celebrations. You can immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of the city.
Sightseeing: Exploring the city’s landmarks and architectural gems, such as the Pampulha Architectural Complex, is more enjoyable in milder weather.
Outdoor Activities: Belo Horizonte has beautiful parks and natural attractions, such as Mangabeiras Park and the Japanese Garden, which are perfect for outdoor activities during the dry season.
Inhotim: If you plan to visit the Inhotim Contemporary Art Museum, the dry season is an excellent time to do so. The pleasant weather allows for a more comfortable and enjoyable visit to the outdoor art exhibits and extensive gardens.
Keep in mind that the dry season is also the high tourist season in Belo Horizonte, so you can expect more crowds and potentially higher accommodation prices. To avoid the peak tourist crowds and still enjoy good weather, consider visiting during the shoulder months of April, May, or September.
On the other hand, the wet season in Belo Horizonte lasts from October to March, with January and February being the rainiest months. While the wet season can bring occasional heavy rain, it also offers lush green landscapes and is an excellent time for water-based activities in nearby regions, such as waterfalls and nature reserves.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Belo Horizonte depends on your preferences and the type of experience you want. Whether you choose the dry or wet season, Belo Horizonte has a lot to offer in terms of culture, history, and natural beauty throughout the year.
Things to Do in Belo Horizonte
Belo Horizonte, the capital city of Minas Gerais, offers a mix of cultural, historical, and outdoor activities. Here are some things to do in Belo Horizonte:
Visit the Pampulha Architectural Complex: Explore the iconic Pampulha Lake area, which includes the Pampulha Church (Igreja São Francisco de Assis), Casa do Baile, and the Mineirão Stadium. Admire the modernist architecture designed by Oscar Niemeyer.
Explore the Central Market (Mercado Central): Wander through the bustling Central Market and experience the vibrant atmosphere. Sample local foods, buy fresh produce, and browse handicrafts and souvenirs.
Discover Historical Landmarks: Visit Liberty Square (Parque Municipal Américo Renné Giannetti) and the Abílio Barreto Historical Museum to learn about the city’s history and heritage.
Experience Savassi: Spend time in the trendy Savassi neighborhood, known for its lively nightlife, restaurants, bars, and shops.
Relax in Mangabeiras Park: Enjoy nature at Mangabeiras Park, a large city park offering hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and recreational areas.
Inhotim Contemporary Art Museum: Take a day trip to Inhotim, an extraordinary contemporary art museum with extensive gardens and outdoor exhibits.
Attend Cultural Events: Check out the cultural calendar for concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions at places like Palácio das Artes and Casa Fiat de Cultura.
Visit the Japanese Garden (Jardim Japonês): Experience tranquility at the Japanese Garden, featuring traditional Japanese landscaping and architecture.
Explore the Belo Horizonte Zoo: Spend a family-friendly day at the Belo Horizonte Zoo, home to a diverse collection of animals.
Taste Local Cuisine: Delight in Minas Gerais’ gastronomy by trying traditional dishes like pão de queijo, feijão tropeiro, and doce de leite. Visit local restaurants and street food stalls for an authentic experience.
Go on a Street Art Tour: Belo Horizonte has a vibrant street art scene. Join a street art tour to discover colorful murals and urban art throughout the city.
Visit the Mining Museum (MM Gerdau – Museum of Mines and Metal): Learn about the history of mining and metallurgy in the region at this informative museum.
Enjoy the Nightlife: Experience the city’s nightlife in various bars, pubs, and clubs, especially in the lively Savassi neighborhood.
Hike in Nearby Natural Areas: Venture out to nearby natural attractions such as Serra do Cipó and Lapinha Cave for hiking and outdoor adventures.
These are just a few of the many activities and attractions that Belo Horizonte has to offer. Whether you’re interested in culture, history, nature, or cuisine, the city has something to suit every traveler’s preferences.
How to get around in Belo Horizonte
Getting around in Belo Horizonte is relatively easy, thanks to its well-developed public transportation system and various other transport options. Here are the main ways to get around the city:
Public Buses: The most common mode of public transportation in Belo Horizonte is the bus network. The city has an extensive bus system that covers most areas, including neighborhoods, tourist attractions, and suburbs. Bus fares can be paid in cash or by using a rechargeable card known as “BHBUS Card.”
Metro: Belo Horizonte has a metro system that connects several important points in the city, including the central area, Savassi, and the Pampulha region. The metro is efficient and a faster option during peak hours when road traffic can be congested.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis are widely available in Belo Horizonte, and you can find them at taxi stands or hail one on the street. Additionally, ride-sharing services like Uber and 99 are popular and offer a convenient and safe way to get around the city.
Bike Sharing: The city has a bike-sharing program called “Bike BH,” with bike stations scattered across the city. Renting a bike is a great option for short trips or exploring neighborhoods at a leisurely pace.
Walking: Belo Horizonte is relatively pedestrian-friendly, especially in the central areas and neighborhoods like Savassi. Walking is a great way to explore the city’s streets, parks, and landmarks.
Car Rental: If you prefer more flexibility and convenience, you can rent a car from various rental agencies in the city. However, keep in mind that traffic congestion can be common during peak hours.
App-Based Scooters: Some cities in Brazil have app-based scooter rental services. Check if Belo Horizonte has such services available during your visit as they can be a fun and convenient way to explore short distances.
When planning your transportation in Belo Horizonte, consider the distance between attractions, traffic conditions, and the best mode of transportation based on your comfort and budget. For longer distances or trips outside the city, consider using intercity buses or private tours, especially if you want to visit nearby attractions like Inhotim or other cities in Minas Gerais.
Where to eat in Belo Horizonte
Belo Horizonte is known for its rich culinary scene, offering a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls. The city is famous for its delicious Minas Gerais cuisine, as well as international and contemporary dining options. Here are some popular places to eat in Belo Horizonte:
Mercado Central (Central Market): The Central Market is a food lover’s paradise, with numerous stalls offering traditional Minas Gerais dishes, including pão de queijo, feijoada, and doce de leite. It’s a great place to experience local flavors and culinary specialties.
Pampulha: The Pampulha region has several restaurants and bars with scenic views of the Pampulha Lake. You can enjoy a meal while admiring the iconic Pampulha Church and other architectural landmarks.
Savassi: The trendy Savassi neighborhood offers a variety of dining options, from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife and great dining choices.
Rua Sapucaí: This street is famous for its many food trucks and stalls, offering a diverse selection of street food and international cuisine. It’s a popular spot to grab a quick and delicious bite.
Restaurante Xapuri: Located in the Pampulha region, Restaurante Xapuri is renowned for its traditional Minas Gerais cuisine. It’s a must-visit for feijoada and other regional dishes.
Fogo de Chão: For those craving a classic Brazilian churrascaria experience, Fogo de Chão is a popular choice. Indulge in a variety of grilled meats served tableside.
Rua do Amendoim (Peanut Street): This street in Belo Horizonte is known for its unique gravitational anomaly, where cars appear to roll uphill. It has become a popular spot to enjoy snacks like peanuts and coconut candies from local vendors.
Bravo Catering Restaurante: Offering contemporary Brazilian cuisine, Bravo Catering is known for its creative and high-quality dishes.
Restaurante Dona Lucinha: This restaurant specializes in traditional Minas Gerais cuisine, serving a variety of regional dishes in a charming setting.
Fany Bombons: A must-visit for those with a sweet tooth, Fany Bombons offers a wide range of chocolates and confectionery treats.
These are just a few of the many dining options available in Belo Horizonte. Whether you’re looking for traditional Minas Gerais dishes, international cuisine, or street food delights, you’ll find a wide array of choices to satisfy your taste buds in this vibrant Brazilian city.
Famous street stalls in Belo Horizonte
Belo Horizonte has a lively street food scene, and you can find numerous famous street stalls and vendors offering delicious snacks and traditional Minas Gerais dishes. Here are some popular street stalls in Belo Horizonte:
Central Market (Mercado Central): The Central Market is a bustling marketplace with many food stalls offering a wide variety of traditional Minas Gerais snacks and dishes. Don’t miss trying the famous pão de queijo (cheese bread), pastéis (savory pastries), and doce de leite (caramelized milk).
Rua Sapucaí Food Trucks: Rua Sapucaí is known for its food trucks and stalls, offering a diverse selection of street food from various cuisines. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists to grab quick and tasty bites.
Praça da Liberdade: On Sundays, the area around Praça da Liberdade comes alive with food vendors offering traditional snacks and treats, including tapioca crepes, acarajé, and homemade sweets.
Praça Raul Soares: This square often hosts food fairs and events, where you can find stalls selling typical Brazilian street food like coxinhas (deep-fried chicken croquettes), espetinhos (grilled skewers), and churros.
Lourdes Night Market: On Thursday nights, the Lourdes neighborhood hosts a night market where you can find various food stalls and vendors selling regional delicacies and international dishes.
Belo Horizonte Zoo: The zoo in Belo Horizonte has several food kiosks and stalls offering snacks and refreshments. It’s a convenient place to enjoy a meal while exploring the zoo.
Praça da Estação: Located near the central train station, this square often hosts food trucks and vendors selling a range of street food items, making it a great spot for a quick bite.
Peanut Street (Rua do Amendoim): While not exclusively a food stall, Peanut Street is famous for its gravitational anomaly where cars appear to roll uphill. Local vendors sell peanuts, coconut candies, and other snacks to visitors intrigued by the phenomenon.
These street stalls and food vendors offer a glimpse into the vibrant street food culture of Belo Horizonte. You can experience a wide array of flavors and traditional dishes while enjoying the lively atmosphere of these popular street food spots.
Where to stay in Belo Horizonte
Luxury accommodation
Belo Horizonte offers a selection of luxury accommodations, including upscale hotels and boutique properties. Here are some of the best areas and hotels to consider for a luxury stay in the city:
Savassi: Savassi is a trendy and upscale neighborhood in Belo Horizonte, known for its stylish shops, fine dining restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Staying in Savassi allows you to be close to many upscale amenities and attractions.
Royal Savassi Boutique Hotel: This luxury boutique hotel offers elegant rooms, personalized service, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the city.
Radisson Blu Belo Horizonte Savassi: A modern and upscale hotel with comfortable rooms and excellent amenities, including a rooftop pool and fitness center.
Lourdes: Lourdes is another upscale neighborhood in Belo Horizonte, known for its high-end restaurants, art galleries, and designer boutiques.
Mercure BH Lourdes Hotel: This stylish hotel offers spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and a prime location in the Lourdes neighborhood.
Hilton Garden Inn Belo Horizonte: A luxury hotel with modern amenities, including a rooftop pool and fitness center, located in the heart of Lourdes.
Pampulha: The Pampulha region offers a more tranquil and scenic setting, with beautiful views of the Pampulha Lake and its architectural landmarks.
Bourbon Belo Horizonte Convention Hotel: A luxury hotel with comfortable rooms and a lakeside location near the Pampulha Church and other attractions.
Belo Horizonte Downtown: If you prefer to stay closer to the city’s central attractions and business district, there are luxury hotels available in the downtown area as well.
Othon Palace Belo Horizonte: This iconic hotel offers luxurious rooms and stunning views of the city from its rooftop pool and restaurant.
Fasano Belo Horizonte: An elegant and sophisticated hotel with top-notch amenities, located in the downtown area.
Praça da Liberdade: The Praça da Liberdade area is home to several luxury hotels and is known for its historic buildings and cultural attractions.
Palácio Tangará: A high-end hotel with luxurious rooms and excellent facilities, located in the heart of the Praça da Liberdade area.
These luxury accommodations offer top-notch service, elegant decor, and convenient locations to explore the best of Belo Horizonte in style and comfort. When booking, consider your preferences for neighborhood, amenities, and proximity to the attractions you wish to visit.
Where to stay in Belo Horizonte
Budget accommodation
Belo Horizonte offers a range of budget accommodation options, including hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels. Here are some areas and establishments to consider for budget stays in the city:
Santo Antônio: The Santo Antônio neighborhood is located close to the city center and offers several budget-friendly accommodation choices.
Cheverly Hostel: A budget hostel with dormitory-style and private rooms, located near the city center and public transportation.
Hotel Serras: A budget hotel with basic amenities, located in Santo Antônio and within walking distance of several attractions.
Santa Tereza: Santa Tereza is a charming and bohemian neighborhood with a variety of budget accommodations.
Santa Tereza Hostel: A cozy hostel with a relaxed atmosphere, offering dormitory-style and private rooms.
Hotel Único: A budget hotel with comfortable rooms, located in Santa Tereza and within walking distance of the city center.
Savassi: While Savassi is known for its upscale offerings, you can still find some budget-friendly options in the area.
Hostel Savassi: A budget hostel with a social atmosphere, offering dormitory-style and private rooms.
Economic Hotel Savassi: A budget hotel with simple rooms, located in the heart of Savassi.
Lourdes: Lourdes is another upscale neighborhood, but you may find some more affordable guesthouses and smaller hotels in this area.
OYO Gmatos Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel with basic amenities, located in Lourdes.
Central Market Area: The area around the Central Market (Mercado Central) has several budget accommodations catering to travelers on a budget.
Ibis Budget Belo Horizonte Afonso Pena: A budget hotel from the Ibis chain, offering simple and affordable rooms.
Hotel Nacional Inn Belo Horizonte: A budget hotel with straightforward rooms, located near the Central Market.
When booking budget accommodation in Belo Horizonte, consider the location’s proximity to the attractions you want to visit, access to public transportation, and reviews from previous guests. Some budget hotels may offer basic amenities, while hostels can provide a more social atmosphere for budget travelers.
Travel Tips Belo Horizonte
Traveling to Belo Horizonte can be a wonderful experience, and here are some travel tips to make your trip more enjoyable and hassle-free:
Learn Basic Portuguese: While some people in tourist areas may speak English, knowing a few basic Portuguese phrases will be helpful for communication, especially in local markets and less touristy areas.
Weather Considerations: Belo Horizonte has a subtropical climate, and temperatures can vary. Pack clothing suitable for both warm and cooler weather, and consider bringing an umbrella or rain jacket, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season.
Safety Precautions: Like any major city, be cautious with your belongings and personal safety. Avoid displaying valuable items and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places and public transportation.
Public Transportation: Consider using the city’s public transportation system, including buses and the metro, as they are reliable and cost-effective ways to get around the city. Purchase a rechargeable BHBUS card for easier and discounted fare payments.
Street Food and Cuisine: Belo Horizonte is known for its delicious food. Don’t miss the chance to try traditional Minas Gerais dishes like pão de queijo, feijão tropeiro, and doce de leite from street vendors and local eateries.
Tap Water: While tap water is generally safe to drink in Belo Horizonte, if you prefer bottled water, you can find it readily available in supermarkets and convenience stores.
Cash and Cards: Carry both cash and cards, as credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, but some smaller shops and street vendors might prefer cash.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Brazil, but it’s customary to leave a small tip (around 10%) in restaurants and for services like taxis if you are satisfied with the service.
Time Management: Brazilians tend to have a more relaxed attitude toward time, so be prepared for events and activities to start a little later than scheduled.
Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and culture. Brazilians are generally friendly and welcoming, but it’s essential to be mindful of cultural differences.
Emergency Numbers: Keep a list of emergency numbers, including the local police (190) and medical services, handy in case of any unforeseen situations.
Stay Informed: Stay updated on local news and any travel advisories before and during your trip.
By following these travel tips, you can make the most of your visit to Belo Horizonte and have a memorable and enjoyable experience in this vibrant Brazilian city.