Check out this list of the best cold places to travel in Brazil. Tips for destinations to enjoy low temperatures on vacation, long holidays or even weekends!
When we talk about destinations to travel in the cold, we usually think of places outside of Brazil. Whether it's skiing near Santiago de Chile or Bariloche in Argentina or just seeing a snowy Christmas in the northern hemisphere, it's undeniable that other countries have a lot to offer in times of lower temperatures.
Which doesn't mean, however, that there aren't great cold places to travel in Brazil. Although we associate our country a lot with the beach, summer and that one heat of 40ºC, in the middle of the year there are several cities with milder weather. In some of them, especially those in the mountains, it is even possible to experience negative temperatures and snow!
If you're looking to take advantage of winter to go on a trip, then you don't need to save up to spend in euros or set aside weeks for a longer trip! You can find great cost-benefit options right here in Brazil, and most of them are easily accessible by car, plane or bus.
Here in this post, I've gathered some of the best cold places to travel in Brazil, with tips on what to do in each of them. I also indicated resorts and larger hotels with heated pools, colonial cafes and other activities, so if you don't want to face the cold you can stay in the accommodation but still enjoy the trip.
Best cold places to travel in Brazil
In addition to selecting the best cities to travel to in winter in Brazil, I also selected ideal destinations for those who want to travel as a couple (or even spend their honeymoon).
At the end I also gave tips on cold places close to big cities like São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, so if you're not going on vacation, you can at least use these tips to take a short trip on a weekend or long holiday.
Places to travel in winter in Brazil
Curitiba (PR)
Probably the most popular option on the list, especially after the expression “but in Curitiba” It became a joke when talking about the cold. Even though it is a cliché destination, there are several reasons to visit the city in the winter months: interesting attractions, quality public transport, vibrant nightlife and accommodation for all budgets.
What to do in Curitiba? I recommend the Botanical Garden, Rua das Flores, Oscar Niemeyer Museum, Bosque Alemão, Parque Tanguá and enjoy the bars in the Batel region.
Where to stay in Curitiba?
Curitiba doesn't have many options for resort, after all it is a big city and the capital of the state. Therefore, I recommend staying at Grand Hotel Rayon, a five-star hotel in the center and close to everything, including the Novo Batel shopping mall, in a super quiet area.
The property has parking, bar, restaurant and even a gym and spa, that way if you don't want to go out in the cold you can just enjoy the accommodation. The rooms have cable TV, a minibar and, depending on the category, even a hot tub (is there anything better in the cold?). Booking rating: 9,1 Fantastic.
Looking for a more affordable option? I suggest the Intercity Curitiba or the Curitiba Casa Hostel (one of the best hostels I've seen in Brazil).
Blumenau (SC)
The city of German origin is not worth visiting only during Oktoberfest. With unique architecture, Germanic cuisine and beautiful views, this destination has everything to take your breath away and make your trip an unforgettable experience.
What to do in Blumenau? My suggestion is to visit Parque Vila Germânica (where Oktober takes place, the rest of the year the restaurants are open and are great), visit the breweries and the beer museum, stroll along Rua XV de Novembro and visit the Spitzkopf hill, which makes part of the Serra do Itajaí National Park and has an incredible view!
Where to stay in Blumenau?
To make the most of your vacation, my suggestion is to stay in Villa do Vale Boutique Hotel & Bistro. Firstly because there are two restaurants on the property, and the food was praised by most Booking guests, who were full of praise.
In addition, the place also has a sauna, gym, heated pool, games room and even a spa. The rooms have a flat-screen television, wifi and even a hot tub, everything for you to relax when you don't want to face the cold! Booking rating: 9,8 Exceptional.
Looking for a more economical option? take a look at Himmelblau Palace Hotel, super well located and with sensational reviews.
Urubici (SC)
In Serra Catarinense, this is one of the destinations where you are most likely to see snow on the coldest days. It is not uncommon for temperatures to reach negative numbers, so only choose this destination if you really want to experience the winter in southern Brazil.
What to do in Urubici: Most of the attractions are far from the city, so I recommend go by car or rent one to make this trip. During the day, the normal thing is to walk along the road to admire the views of places such as Morro da Igreja and Pedra Furada or Morro do Campestre. Also nearby is the Véu de Noiva Waterfall and the Urubici Viewpoint.
Where to stay in Urubici?
If you want a unique, Instagram-worthy experience, my suggestion is Refugio do Invernador Inn. The chalets are all covered in wood and, in addition to wifi and super comfortable beds, they also have hot tubs with a sensational view.
Breakfast is included in the room rate, and parking is also free. The property also accepts animals, so it's a good choice if you want to travel with your pet. The rating on Booking is 9,5 Exceptional.
Looking for more affordable accommodation? O Urubici Park Hotel It is one of the most recommended in the region, and has free parking and internet, as well as family-sized rooms.
Caldas Novas (GO)
A slightly different destination, as its main attractions are the thermal baths. There aren't many tourism options outside this category in the region, but if you just want to enjoy a vacation or a weekend to relax, it's definitely a good choice!
What to do in Caldas Novas: The biggest attraction in the region is Hot Park, a water park with access to thermal waters (it's open even in winter, and at most you'll get a little cold going from one pool to another). You can also take the opportunity to visit the Serra de Caldas Novas State Park and the Japanese Garden.
Where to stay in Caldas Novas?
There are countless options for staying in Caldas Novas, but for a relaxing trip my suggestion is Ecologic Ville Spa & Resort. As you can imagine from the name, the place has a vast spa service, with countless types of massages and other treatments, as well as a gym, sauna and numerous swimming pools, including a heated one.
Furthermore, the property has five restaurants, with Brazilian, French and Italian cuisine, as well as a bar with cocktails and wines. All rooms have a balcony, television and wifi, and some also have a hot tub. Booking score: 8,2 Very good.
Caldas da Imperatriz (SC)
Another option for those who want to enjoy thermal baths, but this time in the south of Brazil. The region of the city of Santo Amaro da Imperatriz is close to Florianópolis, enough for you to enjoy the island of magic for a day or two and then relax for the rest of the trip. It's a great option for anyone who lives in the state and wants to take a quick weekend trip!
What to do in Caldas da Imperatriz: You can either visit Florianópolis (here on the blog there is a two-day itinerary around the city), as well as discovering other attractions in the region. If you like adventure activities, visit Morro Queimado, where you can go skydiving, or Serra do Tabuleiro State Park, where you can have fun trekking, canoeing, rappelling and ziplining.
Where to stay in Caldas da Imperatriz?
One of the resorts I stayed at when I was younger and was enchanted was the Plaza Caldas da Imperatriz Resort & Spa. The place operates on a full board basis, meaning breakfast, lunch and dinner are included in the rate, and the meals are excellent. The resort is still located in the middle of the Atlantic Forest, meaning it has an unforgettable view and offers various activities in contact with nature.
The rooms have a hot tub, and the site also has a children's pool, an outdoor pool and an indoor pool, as well as a thermal pool and spa service. For those with a family, the recreation team is highly praised in reviews and activities take place throughout the day. Booking score: 8,4 Very good.
Cool places to travel in Brazil as a couple (and even on your honeymoon)
The next cities have a great climate for those who want to enjoy winter, and their attractions make them great places to enjoy as a couple and even for a honeymoon.
Gramado and Canela (RS)
Despite being two different destinations, the proximity and similarity between the two cities was what made me combine them into one topic. Gramado is one of the most popular places when it comes to traveling in the cold in Brazil, and is even known as the “Brazilian Europe”. Its neighbor Canela also leaves nothing to be desired, and, as it is not as famous, it has slightly better prices.
What to do in Gramado: Discover Lago Negro, visit Mini Mundo and don't forget to go to Snowland, an indoor ski park. Do you like sweets? Then don't miss the Chocolate Kingdom.
What to do in Canela: Alpen Park (amusement park), Mundo a Vapor and Stone Cathedral. On the way between the cities, also visit the Dreamland wax museum.
Where to stay in Gramado?
Because it is so touristy, the region has accommodation options in various price ranges. For a special trip, I suggest the Hotel Casa da Montanha, a well-known and well-located five-star stay. The property has a year-round indoor pool, as well as a jacuzzi and sauna. It is also possible to hire massage services, and the wifi is free and works in all environments.
Breakfast is included in the daily rate and guests rated the meal as exceptional, in addition to there being a Brazilian restaurant on site. The rooms have a flat-screen TV, minibar and even heating on colder days, as well as L'occitane amenities. Booking rating: 9,3 Fantastic.
Looking for a more economical option? So take a look at Hotel Fioreze Centro, with an exceptional score of 9,7.
Bento Gonçalves (RS)
A different destination to visit if you have already visited Gramado and Canela or, if you have several days to travel, to include in your itinerary through Rio Grande do Sul. The city is known as the Brazilian wine capital, and has numerous wineries and pleasant inns.
What to do in Bento Gonçalves: Get to know a little about Gaucho culture by riding a train on the Maria Fumaça, a steam locomotive. Also be sure to visit the wineries in Vale dos Vinhedos – the most famous are Miolo and Casa Valduga.
Where to stay in Bento Gonçalves?
There can't be a lack of wine in the Brazilian capital of this drink, right? That's why, my recommendation is to stay at the Hotel & Spa do Vinho, which is surrounded by vineyards in a breathtaking setting. The place offers spa services from the Caudalie chain, as well as a heated pool, sauna, gym and even a tennis court.
There is a Brazilian restaurant on site, and its regional food dishes are luxurious and pair perfectly with the wines available. The rooms have a minibar, flat-screen TV and free wifi, and some have a hot tub. Booking rating: 8,8 Fabulous.
Monte Verde (MG)
In Serra da Mantiqueira, Monte Verde is a great destination for those who want to enjoy a chill without having to travel far, as the city is just 166 km from São Paulo, the capital.. The city is very reminiscent of Gramado due to its more European architecture, and it is super cozy due to its proximity to nature.
What to do in Monte Verde: Visit the famous Chocolate Factory, see the view from Pedra Redonda or take another trail, get to know the historic cities in the region and, if you like adventure activities, enjoy the Radical Circuit, with ziplines, climbing and more.
Where to stay in Monte Verde?
The tip to make the most of it – especially if you want a super romantic trip – is to stay at Pousada Spa Mirante da Colyna. In addition to the spa, the place also has a heated pool and some chalets with bathtubs overlooking nature (the photos are sensational). To make it even more cozy, all rooms have a fireplace, as well as a television and minibar.
There is an on-site restaurant with views, and dishes range from contemporary cuisine to even fondue – perfect for cold weather! Internet and parking are free, and breakfast is included in the rate. Booking rating: 9,1 Fantastic.
Places to go in the cold near São Paulo
If you don't have much time to travel, there are perfect destinations to enjoy on a long holiday or even a weekend. In addition to Monte Verde, which I just mentioned in the previous topic, here are some more ideas if you don't want to go too far from São Paulo:
Serra Negra (SP)
Just three hours by car separate the state capital from Serra Negra, another city located in Serra da Mantiqueira. The place is known as the “City of Health” due to its mineral water springs with therapeutic powers, and offers a good combination of activities, shopping and contact with nature.
What to do in Serra Negra: ride Maria Fumaça and take the 8km route around the city, visit Disneylândia dos Robôs, ride the cable car to reach the Christ the Redeemer monument and visit the top of the mountain, where it is possible to see 10 cities in the region.
Where to stay in Serra Negra?
Among the cool places to travel in Brazil, this is the one where you want to choose a cozy inn to stay. My recommendation is to Pousada Santa Thereza, super charming and well located. The site has a temperature-controlled outdoor pool that can be used all year round, as well as a sauna and spa with massage services.
The property also has an à la carte Brazilian restaurant, and an exceptional breakfast that is included in the rate. It is surrounded by nature, with a peaceful and pleasant atmosphere, and you also have free parking and internet. Booking rating: 9,7 Exceptional.
Campos do Jordão
Campos do Jordão is one of those cliché destinations when talking about cold places to travel in Brazil, but there are countless reasons why this city is so popular. Its wide variety of shops, restaurants and attractions, as well as being just over two hours away from São Paulo, make it a place visited not only in winter, but also throughout the rest of the year.
What to do in Campos do Jordão? Visit Parque do Capivari, in the heart of the city, and ride the first cable car in Brazil to Morro do Elefante, where the view is incredible. Also visit the gardens of Amantikir Park, Pico do Itapeva and Palácio Boa Vista.
For those who want to take a different trip while in the region, it is also worth driving a little further and visiting Gonçalves, in Minas Gerais. The Trilhas e Encantos blog has a super complete post with tips for what to do in Gonçalves.
Where to stay in Campos do Jordão?
As it is a super tourist destination, there is no shortage of accommodation options in Campos do Jordão. If you want a place to enjoy and relax after a day of sightseeing, my suggestion is the Boutique Quebra-Noz, a five-star hotel that is close to Capivari. With a sauna and a heated infinity pool, this property will undoubtedly be the highlight of your trip. Breakfast is included in the rate and most guests found the meal excellent.
All rooms have a flat-screen television, air conditioning, soundproofing and internet access, and some even have a bathtub. The place also has heating and free parking. Booking rating: 9,6 Exceptional.
Another super popular option in the region is the We Hotel. As it is often sold out, I recommend booking in advance to guarantee your stay.
Poços de Caldas (MG)
Another hot spring destination but this time close to São Paulo, just over three hours away from the state capital. Initially popular as a destination for couples, the city now also has a lively nightlife on weekends, attracting young people from the region.
What to do in Poços de Caldas? Discover the Véu das Noivas Waterfall and the old casinos at the Palace Hotel. Take the opportunity to ride the cable car to Serra de São Domingos, where you can observe the city from above, and also visit the statue of Christ. If you want to shop, the city has numerous crystal stores. If you prefer to enjoy the delights of Minas Gerais, delight yourself at the Municipal Market.
Where to stay in Poços de Caldas?
A hot springs destination, for me, calls for a resort where you can relax and even spend the day if you don't want to go for a walk. That's why, my accommodation suggestion is the famous Thermas Resort All Inclusive, inside the Water World theme park. As it is an all-inclusive service, you can enjoy all meals (with drinks) in the on-site restaurants, which makes this option a great value for money.
In addition to the water park, the site also has a sauna, gym and heated pool, as well as indoor pools that are open all year round. All rooms have a flat-screen television, air conditioning and internet access, and guests also do not need to pay for parking. Booking rating: 8,5 Very good.
Cool places to travel in Rio de Janeiro
It's not just people from the south who can take advantage of traveling to cold places without going too far, you know? In addition to São Paulo, the state of Rio de Janeiro also has several destinations to enjoy in winter. Here are some of the best:
Viscount of Mauá (RJ)
Another destination in Serra da Mantiqueira, but this time in Rio de Janeiro. A The city of Visconde de Mauá has countless adventure attractions, making it the perfect place for those who want to travel with friends or even family. It is also a great place to visit as a couple, given the romantic atmosphere created by its numerous villas and renowned restaurants.
What to do in Visconde de Mauá? Visit some of the waterfalls in the region – the most famous are Poção da Maromba and Cachoeira do Escorrega – and enjoy the phenomenal views from Mirante Zé Manuela. Also visit Pedra Selada (you can just observe from afar or take the trail there) and the villages in the region, called Visconde de Mauá, Maromba and Maringá.
Where to stay in Visconde de Mauá?
To enjoy the mountains, there is nothing better than a stay in the middle of nature. That's why, my suggestion in the city is to stay in Realli Cottage, with its numerous chalets with gardens and even an outdoor swimming pool, which is open all year round. Breakfast is included in the rate and was considered fantastic and even good gourmet food, with different options every day.
As they are chalets, all rooms have a view of the garden, as well as cable television with more than 200 channels and internet access, as well as a fireplace to enjoy in winter. Booking rating: 9,5 Exceptional.
Teresópolis (RJ)
Also in the mountain region, Teresópolis offers a wide range of activities for all types of tourists. From couples out to enjoy the cold on a weekend or holiday, to even more adventurous travelers who want to take advantage of ecotourism tours, such as Serra dos Órgãos National Park.
What to do in Teresópolis? The city is known as the national capital of mountaineering, so my suggestion is to enjoy contact with nature. The postcard trail in Parnaso Park, for example, can be done by beginners and has a great view. Also visit Granja Comary, where the Brazilian football team trains, and don't forget to stop by the region's lake. Stop by Mirante do Soberbo and, if you like beer, visit Vila St. Gallen to try some artisanal production.
Where to stay in Teresópolis?
If you want to take the opportunity to relax as well as get to know the region, my suggestion is Village Le Canton, hotel surrounded by nature and with numerous attractions, such as a heated pool and wellness center. Guests can also take advantage of the gym and activities throughout the day, such as bowling, mini golf and trails in areas close to the property. Rates include breakfast, lunch and dinner, and the food is highly praised by those who have stayed there.
For those with a family, there is a recreation team that carries out activities throughout the day, so that everyone can have fun. The rooms have air conditioning, flat-screen television and wifi, and it is possible to bring your pets. Booking rating: Very good 8,4.
And these were the suggestions for cool places to travel in Brazil! Several destinations in the south, but also some in Minas Gerais, São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, great for those who live in large capitals and want to enjoy a weekend or long holiday.
And do you know another destination to enjoy in winter? Have you ever visited one of these places? Tell me your experience in the comments! 🙂
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