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There are an array of things to do in Brazil, with São João del Rei sharing quite a few of those!
Welcome to the charming city of São João del Rei, where history and culture dance together in perfect harmony.
Steeped in tradition, this Brazilian gem beckons travelers to explore its cobblestone streets, adorned with colonial architecture and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of art and music, or simply seeking an enriching experience, São João del Rei promises to captivate your senses and spark your imagination.
So come, embark on a journey through time and immerse yourself in the wonders of this enchanting city.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in São João del Rei:
1. Igreja de São Francisco de Assis
The Igreja de São Francisco de Assis is a historic church located in the city of São João del Rei in Brazil.
It is a remarkable example of colonial architecture and a popular tourist attraction in the region.
What to see or do: – Marvel at the exquisite Baroque architecture of the church, including its ornate façade and intricate interiors.
Don’t miss: – The iconic ceiling painted by Manuel da Costa Ataíde, an eminent Brazilian artist known for his masterpieces in religious art.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the church during a religious ceremony or Mass to experience the spiritual side of this historical place.
2. Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Pilar
Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Pilar is a historic church located in the city of São João del Rei, Brazil.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful baroque architecture of the church, including its ornate interior and detailed wooden carvings. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of the church and its artwork.
Don’t miss: The stunning interior decorations, such as the intricate wooden altarpiece and the exquisite paintings on the ceiling. Also, don’t forget to visit the church’s museum, which houses a collection of religious artifacts and artwork.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit during a time when the church is open for visitors, as it may be closed for religious services.
3. Museu Regional de São João del Rei
Museu Regional de São João del Rei is a regional museum located in the city of São João del Rei, in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil.
What to see or do: The museum showcases the history and culture of the region, with exhibits on art, architecture, folklore, and traditional crafts. Visitors can explore various galleries displaying historical artifacts, artworks, and interactive displays.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of baroque religious art, featuring sculptures and paintings from the colonial period.
Also, make sure to visit the section dedicated to the local musical tradition of the region, known as “Congado.
Insider travel tips: Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the baroque art pieces. The museum offers guided tours that provide valuable insights into the history and significance of the exhibits.
Plan your visit in advance, as the museum may have limited hours, especially during holidays or special events.
4. Maria Fumaça
Maria Fumaça is a historic steam train that runs between São João del Rei and Tiradentes in Brazil.
What to see or do: Enjoy a scenic ride on the Maria Fumaça and take in the beautiful landscapes of Minas Gerais. Explore the charming towns of São João del Rei and Tiradentes, filled with colonial architecture, churches, and narrow cobblestone streets.
Don’t miss: Experience the nostalgic atmosphere of the train journey, the sound of the whistle, and the steam billowing from the locomotive. In Tiradentes, visit the Matriz de Santo Antônio church, the main square, and the local crafts market.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets in advance, especially during holidays and weekends when the train is more crowded. Arrive early to secure a good seat, preferably near a window for the best views.
Don’t forget your camera to capture the picturesque landscapes along the way.
5. Igreja de Santo Antônio
The Igreja de Santo Antônio is a stunning baroque church located in São João del Rei, Brazil.
What to see or do: Take in the beautiful architecture and design of this historic church. Marvel at the intricate details of the altars and statues, and admire the richly decorated interior.
Don’t miss: The magnificent gold leaf-covered wooden altarpiece, considered one of the finest examples of Brazilian baroque art. Also, make sure to visit the sacristy, which houses a collection of sacred art and historical artifacts.
Insider travel tips: Visit the church during a religious ceremony or a concert to experience the space in its full glory. Try to catch one of the procession events that take place during the city’s annual religious festivals.
Additionally, take a stroll around the church’s surrounding area and explore the charming colonial streets of São João del Rei.
6. Museu do Automóvel de São João del Rei
Museu do Automóvel de São João del Rei is a museum dedicated to showcasing vintage cars and the history of automotive.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a vast collection of classic cars, ranging from early 1900s models to more recent ones. The museum provides a comprehensive display that highlights the evolution of automobile technology and design.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see rare and iconic automobiles up close, such as vintage Fords, Cadillacs, and Chevrolets. The museum also houses a variety of accessories and memorabilia related to the automotive industry.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to check the museum’s website or call in advance to confirm the opening hours and any special exhibitions or events.
Additionally, taking a guided tour can offer deeper insights into the history and significance of the exhibited cars.
7. Teatro Municipal de São João del Rei
The Teatro Municipal de São João del Rei is a historic theater located in the city of São João del Rei, Brazil.
What to see or do: Visitors can attend various live performances, including plays, concerts, and dance shows. The theater is renowned for its stunning architecture and acoustics, providing an immersive experience for art and culture lovers.
Don’t miss: Be sure to explore the theater’s beautifully adorned interior, with its ornate decorations and grand chandeliers. The main hall is particularly impressive, with its richly adorned ceiling and luxurious seating.
Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to check the theater’s schedule in advance to catch a performance during your visit. Arrive early to fully appreciate the architecture and ambiance of the theater.
Photography may be restricted during performances, so it’s best to confirm the rules beforehand.
8. Rua Direita
Rua Direita is a historic street in São João del Rei, a city in Brazil’s state of Minas Gerais.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll along Rua Direita and admire the well-preserved colonial architecture. Visit the numerous shops, boutiques, and art galleries that line the street.
Don’t miss: The Igreja de São Francisco de Assis, a beautiful church located on Rua Direita. This iconic landmark has stunning baroque architecture and is a must-see for visitors.
Insider travel tips: – Visit Rua Direita during the day to fully appreciate the details of the colonial buildings.
9. Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Rosário
Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Rosário is a stunning church located in São João del Rei, Brazil.
What to see or do: Explore the beautiful architecture and intricate interior decorations of the church. Admire the impressive altarpieces and artistic details.
Don’t miss: Take a closer look at the majestic Baroque style facade and the remarkable ceiling paintings. Don’t forget to visit the museum inside the church, which exhibits religious artwork and artifacts.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit to attend one of the church’s religious ceremonies or concerts to experience the spirituality and musical talent that the church is known for.
Take some time to wander around the charming streets of São João del Rei and discover more historical sites and architectural gems in the city.
10. Solar dos Neves
Solar dos Neves is a historical mansion located in São João del Rei, Brazil.
What to see or do: Explore the beautiful architecture and interiors of the mansion, including the elegant rooms, furniture, and decorations. Admire the preserved colonial atmosphere and get a glimpse into the rich history of the region.
Don’t miss: The exquisite chapel inside Solar dos Neves, which showcases stunning religious art and intricate details. Take a walk in the charming gardens surrounding the mansion and enjoy the tranquil ambiance.
Insider travel tips: Visit Solar dos Neves during the weekdays to avoid crowds. Engage with the knowledgeable guides who can provide interesting insights about the mansion and its history.
Combine your visit with a tour of other historic sites in São João del Rei to make the most of your trip.
11. Ponte do Rosário
Ponte do Rosário is a historic bridge located in São João del Rei, Brazil.
What to see or do: Take a walk or drive across the bridge and admire its beautiful architectural design. Enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to take incredible photos of the bridge and the river below. The bridge is particularly stunning during sunset and sunrise.
Insider travel tips: Visit Ponte do Rosário during weekdays to avoid crowds.
Combine your visit with a stroll through the charming streets of São João del Rei and explore other nearby attractions such as churches and historic buildings.
12. Museu Ferroviário da Estrada de Ferro Oeste de Minas
The Museu Ferroviário da Estrada de Ferro Oeste de Minas is a railway museum located in São João del Rei, Brazil.
It is dedicated to preserving the history of the Estrada de Ferro Oeste de Minas, a historic railway line in the state of Minas Gerais.
What to see or do: Visitors to the museum can explore a collection of antique locomotives, carriages, and other railway artifacts. They can also learn about the history of the railway line and its impact on the region.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take a ride on a historic steam locomotive. The museum offers scenic train rides that allow visitors to experience the charm of a bygone era.
Insider travel tips: – Check the museum’s website or contact them in advance to find out the schedule of train rides.
13. Memorial Tancredo Neves
Memorial Tancredo Neves is a memorial dedicated to the former Brazilian president, Tancredo Neves, located in São João del Rei.
What to see or do: The memorial offers a glimpse into the life and accomplishments of Tancredo Neves through various exhibits and displays.
Visitors can learn about his political career, his role in Brazil’s transition to democracy, and his important contributions to the country.
Don’t miss: Make sure to explore the interactive exhibits that showcase key moments in Tancredo Neves’ life, including his appointment as the first civilian president after military rule.
Also, take some time to wander around the beautiful gardens surrounding the memorial.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit during the weekdays for a quieter and more relaxed experience.
14. Chafariz São José
Chafariz São José is a beautiful 18th-century fountain located in São João del Rei, Brazil.
What to see or do: Visit Chafariz São José to admire its intricate design and architectural details. The fountain features a central pillar with ornate carvings and various spouts that distribute water to multiple basins.
Don’t miss: Take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship involved in creating the intricate carvings on the fountain. Notice the attention to detail and the historical significance of this well-preserved piece of art.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the fountain during the day to fully appreciate its beauty, as it is well-lit and surrounded by a picturesque square.
15. Parque da Cachoeira São José
Parque da Cachoeira São José is a natural park located in São João del Rei, Brazil.
What to see or do: The park is known for its beautiful waterfall, hiking trails, and scenic views. Visitors can go swimming and enjoy picnics by the waterfall, explore the surrounding nature trails, and admire the lush vegetation.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the waterfall. The park also offers opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Insider travel tips: It is recommended to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes for hiking. It is also advisable to visit during weekdays to avoid crowds.
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning natural beauty of the park.