9 destinations in the interior of São Paulo perfect to enjoy a different weekend

Cities in the middle of the mountain, places for fans of ecotourism, caves and gastronomic tours.

The must-see destinations to visit in the interior of São Paulo are ideal for quick trips, such as a weekend trip. The itinerary, very eclectic, has options for all audiences, from the quietest to those passionate about extreme sports and trails.

Read also: Check out our coverage on Brazil

To spend little time on the road and enjoy a weekend close to the capital, choose your next trip:

CUNHA

Just over 2 hours from São Paulo is the city of Cunha, one of the Brazilian romantic destinations that always surprises couples who like a calm and beautiful place to relax.

The region owns waterfalls, trails, and stunning scenery, in addition to being famous for its Lavandário (Lavender Center).

When visiting the lavender plantation, tourists can learn a little more about the planting, and manufacturing process and enjoy an amazing sunset.

BROTAS

Those who love ecotourism need to visit Brotas at least once in their lives – and it’s even enough to want to come back.

The city is 250 km from the capital of São Paulo and has a program focused on nature and sports such as trails, rafting, zip lining, and abseiling.

Among the must-see attractions, tourists cannot fail to visit Areia que Canta, a spring with crystalline waters and white sand, the place is famous for the noise that forms from the contact of grains with water.

CAMPOS DO JORDÃO

Known for being a point during the São Paulo winter, Campos do Jordão is located in the interior of the state of São Paulo and receives many visitors between the months of June and August, in addition to the holidays.

With great options for tours, from the most popular to the most romantic, the place is a full plate for those who like to enjoy a more “international” atmosphere – the city was even named “Brazilian Switzerland”.

The itinerary of unmissable places in Campos do Jordão is vast, and when visiting the city, it is worth visiting the Caras de Malte brewery.

SERRA NEGRA

Tourism in Serra Negra brings together relaxed and peaceful walks for those who want to rest.

It is possible to take a ride on the city’s cable car, enjoy the mountain climate, enjoy the wool, leather, and wooden artifacts trade, and visit the Municipal Balneário, a space that offers immersion baths, saunas, showers, and massage services.

The rural part of the city is known for its coffee plantations, organic produce, and cheese and winemaking.

SÃO FRANCISCO XAVIER

The city of São Francisco Xavier is less than 2 hours from São Paulo.

The destination with easy access and great contact with nature is one of the favorites for those who want peace and harmony with the fauna and flora.

The farm hotels in the region are among the most attractive types of accommodation for tourists.

It is possible to explore waterfalls and trails, as well as visit the small center of the place.

SOCORRO

The city of Socorro, located in the state of São Paulo, is one of the country’s references for ecotourism.

The itinerary goes from a walk to Gruta do Anjo, an artificial cave formed in the 60s, to parks that offer ecological trails, tree climbing circuits, tractor rides, abseiling, caving, boiacross, and the famous flying zip line.

For night tours, the fair that takes place on Wednesdays at the old bus station is one of the events that move the place.

SÃO ROQUE

The city of São Roque is famous for being on the wine route, but the region also has other tourist attractions that encompass its rich historical and ecological heritage.

It is worth visiting Morro do Cruzeiro to see the city from above. For trail lovers, the tip is to climb up to Morro do Saboó – the path is considered medium level and the view is surprising.

Ski fans can have fun skating at Ski Mountain Park, while those who want to connect with nature need to visit Recanto da Cascata.

HOLAMBRA

The Brazilian Netherlands is located in the interior of São Paulo, precisely 135km from the capital of São Paulo.

The city of Holambra is an artistic corner that has a happy and relaxed aura that enchants tourists. Everywhere you can marvel at the city’s colorful and friendly buildings.

Still, within the tourist itinerary, Moinho Povos Unidos is one of the must-see attractions, as well as its flowery fields.

PETAR – CAVES PARK

PETAR, Parque Estadual Turistico do Alto Ribeira, is located in the south of the state of São Paulo and is a tourist paradise hidden among the mountains.

There are more than 350 caves in the park, in addition to waterfalls, trails, and archaeological sites.

On-site, you can practice cascading, bike, rappel and even train your photographic eye. Tourists can observe the rich fauna and flora of the space in the company of one of the local monitors.