Campinas Travel Guide

Campinas is a city located in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Known for its technology and commerce, it is also a great destination for tourism. In this travel guide, we will show you the top 10 places to visit in Campinas, as well as 5 places to avoid.

1. Lagoa do Taquaral

Lagoa do Taquaral is a large urban park with a beautiful lake and many leisure options. You can go for a walk, go cycling, have a picnic, or even rent a pedal boat to sail on the lake. It’s a perfect place to spend the day with family and friends.

2. Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Campinas

The Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Campinas is a museum that exhibits contemporary art from Brazilian and international artists. The museum has a wide collection of paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations. The museum also organizes temporary exhibitions and cultural events.

3. Bosque dos Jequitibás

Bosque dos Jequitibás is a large park with an area of over 80,000 square meters. The park has a variety of animals, such as monkeys, birds, and turtles, and also has a playground, sports courts, and a mini zoo. It’s a great place for children to get closer to nature.

4. Mercado Municipal

Mercado Municipal is a historic market that has been operating in Campinas since 1908. The market has many stores that sell food, drinks, handicrafts, and souvenirs. You can also taste the famous “pastel de bacalhau” (codfish pastry) and have a cup of coffee at the market.

5. Grupo Ginástico de Campinas

The Grupo Ginástico de Campinas is a cultural and sports center that offers gymnastics, martial arts, dance, and yoga classes. The center is also known for its impressive architecture, with a ceiling made of wood and glass that allows natural light to enter the space.

6. Praça Carlos Gomes

Praça Carlos Gomes is a historic square that is surrounded by important buildings, such as the Teatro Municipal and the Catedral Metropolitana. The square is a popular spot for events and shows, and also a great place to admire the architecture and sculptures.

7. Campinas State University Museum

The Campinas State University Museum is a museum that traces the history of the university and the city of Campinas. The museum has exhibitions of equipment, instruments, and documents related to the university’s research and teaching activities. The museum also has a beautiful garden.

8. Torre do Castelo

Torre do Castelo is a lookout tower located in the city center. The tower is 35 meters high and offers a panoramic view of the city. You can also visit the museum that tells the story of the tower and the city’s development.

9. Museu de História Natural

The Museu de História Natural is a museum that exhibits the diversity of Brazilian fauna and flora. The museum has a collection of stuffed animals, insects, and plants. The museum also organizes activities and workshops for children and adults.

10. Casa de Cultura Tainã

The Casa de Cultura Tainã is a cultural center that promotes the culture and traditions of the indigenous people of Brazil. The center has exhibitions, workshops, and shows that showcase the knowledge and customs of the indigenous people.

Places to Avoid

• 1. Praça da Concórdia: a small square that is known for being unsafe at night.
• 2. Terminal Central: a bus station that is crowded and chaotic, with frequent pickpocketing incidents.
• 3. Shopping Parque Das Bandeiras: a shopping mall that is known for being expensive and not having many options.
• 4. Estação Cultura: a cultural center that is not well maintained and has few options for visitors.
• 5. Parque das Águas: a water park that is outdated and not well maintained.

Conclusion

Campinas is a city full of culture, history, and natural beauty. With many parks, museums, and cultural centers, it’s a perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers. Just make sure to avoid the places we’ve mentioned above to have a safe and pleasant trip.