Campos dos Goytacazes: A Brief Overview

Campos dos Goytacazes is a charming city in the northern part of Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. It is known for its natural beauty, colonial architecture, and vibrant culture. The city attracts many visitors every year due to its proximity to attractive destinations such as the stunning beaches of Cabo Frio and Búzios, the ecological reserve of Ilha do Cardoso, and the national park of Serra dos Órgãos.

10 Places to Visit

1. Parque Estadual do Desengano

Parque Estadual do Desengano is a beautiful park with a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. It is ideal for hiking, bird watching, and camping. Visitors can explore the park’s mountains, waterfalls, and forests while learning about the region’s history.

2. Catedral de São Salvador

The Catedral de São Salvador is a remarkable landmark of the city. Its neo-gothic architecture and magnificent stained-glass windows will leave you breathless. The cathedral is also home to valuable art collections and religious artifacts.

3. Museu Histórico de Campos

The Museu Histórico de Campos is a fascinating museum that tells the story of Campos dos Goytacazes, from prehistoric times to the modern era. The museum’s collection includes archaeological artifacts, photographs, documents, and furniture.

4. Praça do Santíssimo Salvador

The Praça do Santíssimo Salvador is a lovely square in the heart of the city. It is surrounded by traditional colonial buildings, such as the Casa de Cultura Villa Maria, and the Municipal Theatre Trianon. The square is an excellent place to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.

5. Praia do Farol de São Thomé

Praia do Farol de São Thomé is a beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and golden sand. It is an ideal place to swim, sunbathe, and practice water sports. The beach is also famous for its lively nightlife, with many bars and restaurants.

6. Mercado Municipal

The Mercado Municipal is a public market that showcases the region’s culinary delights. Visitors can taste delicious fruits, vegetables, seafood, and cheeses while interacting with friendly locals. The market is also an excellent place to buy souvenirs.

7. Horto Municipal

The Horto Municipal is a botanical garden with a vast collection of plant species from all over Brazil. Visitors can admire exotic flowers, trees, and herbs while learning about the garden’s conservation and educational projects.

8. Casa de Cultura José Cândido de Carvalho

The Casa de Cultura José Cândido de Carvalho is a cultural center that promotes the arts in the city. It is an excellent place to attend concerts, exhibitions, and workshops. The center also hosts many festivals throughout the year.

9. Parque Zoobotânico

The Parque Zoobotânico is a zoo and botanical park that shelters many endangered species. Visitors can see animals such as jaguars, monkeys, and toucans while appreciating the surrounding nature. The park also has a playground and picnic area.

10. Caminho Niemeyer

The Caminho Niemeyer is an architectural complex designed by the famous Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. It includes several buildings such as the Teatro Popular, the Memorial Roberto Silveira, and the Museu de Arte Contemporânea. The complex is an ideal place to appreciate Niemeyer’s modernist style.

5 Places to Avoid

1. Praça São Salvador at night

The Praça São Salvador can be unsafe at night due to high crime rates. Visitors should avoid the area after sunset unless accompanied by locals or police officers.

2. Vila Nova

Vila Nova is a slum area that can be dangerous for tourists. It is best to avoid this neighborhood unless you are on a guided tour.

3. Rua João Pessoa

Rua João Pessoa is a busy commercial street that can be overwhelming for visitors. It is advisable to be vigilant and avoid pickpockets or scams.

4. Rodoviária

The Rodoviária is the central bus station of the city, and it can be crowded and chaotic. Visitors should be cautious with their belongings and avoid engaging with suspicious characters.

5. Ilha do Japonês at peak times

Ilha do Japonês is a beautiful island with a lagoon and a beach. However, it can get very crowded during holidays or weekends, making it hard to enjoy the natural beauty. It is better to visit the island during off-peak hours.

Overview About the City