What to do in Santa Maria, Cabo Verde? Your Atractions Guide in Santa Maria

Discover Santa Maria: A Hidden Gem in South Brazil

Santa Maria is a vibrant city located in the southern region of Brazil. Known for its beautiful parks, art galleries, and charming historic center, Santa Maria is still a little off the beaten track for tourists, making it a perfect destination for those looking for an authentic Brazilian experience. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the top 10 places to visit in Santa Maria, as well as a few to avoid.

Places to Visit in Santa Maria

1 – Parque da Medianeira

Parque da Medianeira is a stunning park located in the heart of Santa Maria. It has beautiful gardens, lakes, and walking paths, as well as a playground for kids. It’s a perfect place to spend a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature.

2 – Memorial Mallet

Memorial Mallet is a museum dedicated to the life and work of the Brazilian writer, Sergio Mallet. The museum is located inside a beautifully restored colonial house and is a must-visit for book lovers and those interested in Brazilian literature.

3 – Coracao de Maria

Coracao de Maria is an impressive neo-gothic church located in Santa Maria’s historic center. The church’s striking architecture and beautiful stained glass make it one of the most beautiful in the region, and a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.

4 – Praca Saldanha Marinho

Praca Saldanha Marinho is an elegant square situated in the center of Santa Maria. It’s surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings, including the famous Hotel Imigrantes, and is an excellent place to sit and relax with a coffee or ice cream.

5 – Museu Arte de Santa Maria

Museu Arte de Santa Maria is a small but charming art gallery located in the historic center of the city. It has a collection of paintings and sculptures by local artists and is a great place to learn about the local art scene.

6 – Pico do Itaimbezinho

Pico do Itaimbezinho is a stunning natural park located just outside of Santa Maria. It has beautiful hiking trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys – a perfect day trip for those looking to escape the city.

7 – Catedral Basílica da Nossa Senhora da Assunção

Catedral Basílica da Nossa Senhora da Assunção is the main church in Santa Maria, and its most significant religious landmark. The church is a stunning example of Brazilian Gothic architecture and is a must-visit for those interested in religious icons and architecture.

8 – Casa de Cultura de Santa Maria

Casa de Cultura de Santa Maria is an art and cultural center located in the heart of the historic district. It offers a variety of exhibitions, workshops, and events about the local culture, making it a great place to learn about the city’s history and people.

9 – Parque Ecologico Municipal

Parque Ecologico Municipal is a vast green space located on the outskirts of Santa Maria. It has beautiful walking trails, lakes, and a rich wildlife reserve, which makes it a perfect place for bird watching and nature lovers.

10 – Mercado Publico Municipal

Mercado Publico Municipal is a bustling market located in the heart of Santa Maria. It offers a variety of local products, including fruits, vegetables, meat, and handmade crafts. The market is an excellent way to learn about local gastronomy and to try new local flavors.

Places to Avoid in Santa Maria

1 – Shopping Praça Nova

Shopping Praça Nova is a large shopping center located in Santa Maria’s outskirts. It’s overcrowded on weekends, and most of the stores are big international chains, making it an uninteresting place for tourists looking for a local experience.

2 – Rodoviaria de Santa Maria

Rodoviaria de Santa Maria is the city’s main bus station. It’s crowded and chaotic, and it can be challenging for tourists to navigate, especially if they don’t speak Portuguese.

3 – Bar do Novato

Bar do Novato is a touristic bar located on a beach in Santa Maria. The place is crowded, overpriced, and the food and drinks are not memorable, making it an uninteresting place for tourists looking for a unique experience in Brazil.

4 – Colina do Castelo

Colina do Castelo is an artificial hill located in the center of Santa Maria. It’s a popular spot for locals to hang out, but there’s nothing particularly interesting about it, making it an unnecessary stop for tourists.

5 – Farroupilha Park

Farroupilha Park is a large park located on the outskirts of Santa Maria. It’s a popular spot for families, but it lacks the charm and beauty of other parks in the city, making it an uninteresting place for tourists.

Overview of Santa Maria