Explore the charm of the interior of São Paulo! Discover enchanting destinations, famous for their ecotourism, culture, and hospitality.
Get ready for a journey of discovery through the most enchanting destinations in the interior of São Paulo.
From ecotourism to cultural richness, and including extreme adventures, the cities in the interior of São Paulo offer a diversity of experiences capable of pleasing all tastes and interests.
If you’re looking for the perfect weekend getaway, this guide will be your best friend. Check out the destinations I’ve selected, with their main features and attractions, and of course, tips to transform your trip into a unique experience.
Interior of São Paulo: 18 cities to visit
1. Holambra (132 km from São Paulo)
Holambra is a charming city in the interior of São Paulo, known as the largest flower producer in Brazil. Its name is a combination of the words Holland, America, and Brazil, reflecting its strong Dutch influence.
Visitors can explore the beautiful flower fields, especially during Expoflora, the largest flower exhibition in Latin America, held annually in September. Windmills, typical of Dutch architecture, dot the landscape and make for beautiful photos.
Furthermore, the local cuisine, with Dutch influences, is an attraction in itself, featuring delicious dishes such as traditional stroopwafels and croquettes.
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2. São Roque (60 km from São Paulo)
São Roque is a must-see destination for wine and gastronomy lovers. The city is home to several wineries that offer tours and tastings of award-winning wines.
The famous Wine Route is a unique experience where visitors can explore the vineyards and learn about the wine production process.
In addition, São Roque offers leisure activities, such as Ski Mountain Park, a winter amusement park with artificial ski slopes and snow toboggans.
3. Botucatu (237 km from São Paulo)
Botucatu is a city surrounded by lush nature, offering a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can explore trails in the Atlantic Forest, which lead to waterfalls, such as the refreshing Pavuna Waterfall.
The Pedra Branca Municipal Park is another highlight, offering panoramic views of the region and opportunities for wildlife observation. The city is also known for its rich agricultural production, especially oranges and coffee, which can be enjoyed at local farms.
4. Brotas (250 km from São Paulo)
Brotas is known as the adventure capital of the interior of São Paulo. The city offers a variety of outdoor adventure activities, such as rafting, zip-lining, rappelling, and canyoning, perfect for those seeking adrenaline.
In addition to adventure activities, visitors can enjoy Brotas’ beautiful natural landscapes, with waterfalls, trails, and viewpoints. The city also has a well-developed tourist infrastructure, with accommodation options, restaurants, and tourism agencies specializing in ecotourism.
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5. Socorro (130 km from São Paulo)
Continuing with the options for adventure destinations in the interior of São Paulo, Socorro is an ideal destination for those seeking contact with nature.
The city offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as rafting, tree climbing, hiking, and horseback riding, providing unique experiences amidst the region’s lush landscape.
Besides adventure activities, Socorro is known for its knitwear shops, where visitors can find quality products at affordable prices, and for its homemade sweets, which are a true delight for the palate.
6. Campos do Jordão (180 km from São Paulo)
Campos do Jordão is one of the most charming destinations in the interior of São Paulo, known as the “Brazilian Switzerland”. The city enchants visitors with its European architecture, mild climate, and beautiful natural landscapes.
During the winter, Campos do Jordão transforms into a romantic retreat, with fireplaces lit, fondue, and mulled wine. Furthermore, the city is famous for its Winter Festival, which attracts musicians and artists from all over the country for outdoor performances and in cultural spaces.
7. Atibaia (65 km from São Paulo)
Atibaia is a diverse destination, offering options for those seeking adventure as well as those who prefer to relax amidst nature. The city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and waterfalls, ideal for hiking and ecotourism excursions.
Edmundo Zanoni Park is a highlight, with trails, lakes, and picnic areas. In addition to outdoor activities, Atibaia is known for its annual Flower and Strawberry Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors with exhibitions, shows, and typical cuisine.
8. Embu das Artes (40 km from São Paulo)
Embu das Artes is a charming city that combines history, culture, and art. Its cobblestone streets and colonial mansions create a picturesque setting, perfect for exploring art galleries, studios, and craft fairs.
The highlight of the week is the Arts and Crafts Fair, held on weekends, where visitors can find a variety of handcrafted products, from wood sculptures to ceramic pieces. In addition, Embu das Artes offers a diverse gastronomy, with restaurants serving typical regional dishes and international cuisine.
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9. Boituva (120 km from São Paulo)
Boituva is a popular destination for extreme sports enthusiasts, especially skydiving. The city attracts people from all over the world seeking the thrill of skydiving over the beautiful landscapes of the interior of São Paulo state.
Besides skydiving, Boituva offers other adventure activities such as hot air ballooning and paragliding. For those who prefer more tranquil activities, the city has beautiful green areas, ideal for walks and picnics, as well as accommodation and gastronomic options to suit all tastes.
10. Serra Negra (152 km from São Paulo)
Serra Negra is known for its thermal waters and as a shopping and leisure destination. The city has several mineral water springs, known for their therapeutic and medicinal properties, providing relaxation and well-being to visitors.
In addition to its thermal waters, Serra Negra offers a variety of shops and malls where you can find leather goods, knitwear, handicrafts, and homemade sweets.
11. Eldorado (29 km from São Paulo)
Eldorado is a true paradise for lovers of ecotourism and adventure. The city is surrounded by lush Atlantic Forest vegetation, which is home to a variety of trails, waterfalls, and caves.
Visitors can explore the Devil’s Cave, one of the largest caves in Brazil, or cool off in the crystal-clear waters of the region’s many waterfalls. In addition to outdoor activities, Eldorado offers a rich Quilombola culture, with traditional festivals, typical cuisine, and local crafts.
12. Cunha (230 km from São Paulo)
Cunha is a charming and peaceful city, known as the “City of Ceramics”. The city is home to several ceramic studios and workshops, where visitors can learn about the production process and purchase unique pieces directly from the artists.
Besides its ceramics, Cunha offers beautiful mountain landscapes, with mountains, waterfalls, and trails that provide opportunities to connect with nature. The city is also known for its gastronomy, with restaurants serving typical regional dishes, such as the famous smoked trout.
13. Santo Antônio do Pinhal (170 km from São Paulo)
Santo Antônio do Pinhal is a romantic and welcoming destination, ideal for those seeking tranquility and contact with nature. The city offers beautiful mountain landscapes, with mountains, valleys, and preserved forests, perfect for hiking and cycling.
Visitors can also enjoy panoramic viewpoints, from where it is possible to contemplate the sunset and the stars at night. Santo Antônio do Pinhal also boasts a rich gastronomy, with cozy restaurants serving typical regional dishes such as fondues and fresh trout.
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14. Monte Alegre do Sul (130 km from São Paulo)
Monte Alegre do Sul is a charming destination for lovers of rural tourism. The city has a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere, with beautiful natural landscapes such as waterfalls, trails, and viewpoints.
Visitors can explore the region’s historic farms, which preserve the traditional rural culture and offer ecological tours, cheese production, and homemade sweets. Monte Alegre do Sul is also known for its artisanal cachaça production, with several distilleries where it’s possible to taste and buy the drink.
15. São Luís do Paraitinga (170 km from São Paulo)
São Luís do Paraitinga is a historical and cultural gem in the interior of São Paulo. The city preserves its colonial historical center, with colorful mansions, baroque churches, and cobblestone streets, which enchant visitors with their beauty and charm.
The city is famous for its traditional festivals, especially Carnival, considered one of the most authentic in the country, with street parades, carnival songs, and performances of local folklore.
In addition to the festivals, the city offers ecological trails, waterfalls, and viewpoints, providing opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy panoramic views of the region.
16. Águas de Lindoia (160 km from São Paulo)
Águas de Lindoia is a tourist destination known for its thermal waters and its tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. The city offers various leisure and wellness options, such as therapeutic baths, massages, and spa treatments, ideal for those seeking relaxation.
In addition to its thermal waters, Águas de Lindoia boasts beautiful squares, parks, and gardens where visitors can enjoy walks, picnics, and outdoor activities. The city is also known for its cultural and sporting events, such as music festivals, art exhibitions, and sporting competitions.
17. Paranapiacaba (60 km from São Paulo)
Paranapiacaba is a charming village that preserves its charm and history as a former railway center. Located in the Serra do Mar mountain range, the village is surrounded by lush Atlantic rainforest, offering various options for ecological trails and nature walks.
Visitors can explore the old train stations, museums, and preserved houses, which tell the story of the golden age of railroads in Brazil.
The city is also known for its bucolic atmosphere, with cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and a small-town feel, perfect for those seeking tranquility and contact with nature.
18. Joanópolis (117 km from São Paulo)
Joanópolis, also known as the Werewolf City, is an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation and adventure amidst the natural beauty of the interior of São Paulo. The city boasts numerous waterfalls, trails, and opportunities for water sports, and is also very close to Minas Gerais.
Visitors can also visit farms that produce cheeses and homemade sweets, where they can taste and buy local products.
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Itineraries through the interior of São Paulo
Here are some suggested itineraries through the interior of São Paulo state, each highlighting different attributes of the region:
Ecotourism and adventure itinerary
Day 1: Brotas
Morning: Enjoy adventure activities such as rafting, zip-lining, or rappelling.
Afternoon: Explore the region’s waterfalls, such as Cascata da Marta.
Evening: Dine at one of the local restaurants and relax after an adrenaline-filled day.
Day 2: Help
Morning: Take a quad bike tour along the region’s trails.
Afternoon: Venture into a treetop adventure course or a long zip line.
Evening: Take the opportunity to relax at one of the city’s spas.
Cultural and historical itinerary
Day 1: Holambra
Morning: Visit the flower fields and the characteristic windmills of the region.
Afternoon: Explore the Dutch Immigration Museum and learn more about the local culture.
Evening: Sample typical Dutch dishes at one of the city’s restaurants.
Day 2: Paranapiacaba
Morning: Discover the history of the railway village and take a walk along the region’s trails.
Afternoon: Visit the Railway Museum and the Visitor Center.
Evening: Dine at one of the village’s cozy restaurants.
Relaxation and wellness itinerary
Day 1: Águas de Lindoia
Morning: Experience a therapeutic bath at one of the region’s spas.
Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and parks of the area.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxing meal at a restaurant overlooking the mountains.
Day 2: Águas de São Pedro
Morning: Enjoy the benefits of the city’s thermal waters.
Afternoon: Take a paddleboat ride on the lake.
Evening: Relax with a soothing massage at one of the local spas.
Gastronomic Itinerary
Day 1: Saint Roch
Morning: Visit a local winery and enjoy a wine tasting.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants along the Wine Route.
Evening: Sample local cuisine at one of the city’s bistros.
Day 2: Embu das Artes
Morning: Explore the city’s craft fairs and art galleries.
Afternoon: Enjoy the treats from the food stalls selling traditional dishes.
Evening: Enjoy a gourmet dinner at one of the area’s restaurants.
These are just a few examples of itineraries through the interior of São Paulo. You can customize your own itinerary according to your interests and preferences.
Volunteering in the interior of São Paulo
Worldpackers is a platform that connects travelers with hosts around the world, offering unique opportunities for volunteering, skills exchange, and cultural experiences.
By becoming a member of the Worldpackers community, travelers gain access to a variety of volunteer opportunities in diverse areas such as hospitality, ecotourism, sustainability, and more.
Benefits of becoming a Worldpacker
- Authentic experiences: Have the opportunity to experience the local culture and get involved in community projects.
- Free accommodation: As a volunteer, you receive free accommodation in exchange for your skills and work.
- Learning: Develop new skills and knowledge by participating in educational and hands-on projects.
- Networking: Meet people from different parts of the world and build meaningful connections with hosts and other travelers.
- Positive impact: Contribute to social, environmental, and community causes, making a real difference wherever you go.
Volunteer opportunities in the interior of São Paulo.
- Cunha: How about contributing your skills to a holistic center? At Espaço Flor das Águas, volunteers can explore the city while developing self-awareness within a spiritual community.
- Juquitiba: Be part of a sustainability project! At Munay Vale Encantado , volunteers can contribute to cultivating the land, planting crops, and tending the medicinal garden.
- São Luiz do Paraitinga: Collaborate with an intentional community at Sítio Flor da Rainha, and learn to live according to the principles of permaculture and agroecology.
Did you like the idea of volunteering in the interior of São Paulo? See all the opportunities in São Paulo and the surrounding region.
