Discover Sorocaba: A Charming City in São Paulo

Sorocaba is one of the largest cities in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. It is known for its cultural heritage, beautiful parks, and lively nightlife. Whether you are traveling alone or with your family, Sorocaba has plenty of attractions to offer. In this article, we have compiled a list of ten places to visit and five places to avoid in Sorocaba to help you plan your trip accordingly.

10 Places to Visit

1. Municipal Market

The Municipal Market is the perfect place to experience the local culture and taste delicious food. You can sample traditional dishes such as coxinhas, pão de queijo, and Brigadeiros, which are Brazilian sweets. The market also sells handicrafts and other souvenirs.

2. Sorocaba Historical Center

If you are interested in architecture and history, Sorocaba’s Historical Center is a must-visit. You can see well-preserved buildings from the colonial period, such as the Sorocaba Palace and the House of Culture.

3. Ecological Park of Sorocaba

The Ecological Park of Sorocaba is a great place to enjoy nature and outdoor activities. It offers trails for hiking, picnic areas, and a playground for children. You can also see a variety of animals, including capuchin monkeys, alligators, and toucans.

4. Contemporary Art Museum

The Contemporary Art Museum of Sorocaba showcases works of local and international artists. It has a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and photographs.

5. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral

The Mary of the Assumption Cathedral is the main Catholic church in Sorocaba. It has an impressive neogothic architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows. The church dates back to the 19th century and is a landmark of the city.

6. Dr. Afonso Vergueiro Square

Dr. Afonso Vergueiro Square is a central point of Sorocaba’s social life. It is a great place to relax and people-watch. The square has a fountain and gardens that make it a peaceful oasis in the midst of the city.

7. Clube de Campo de Sorocaba

Clube de Campo de Sorocaba is a private club that offers various sports and leisure activities. It has swimming pools, tennis courts, golf courses, and a restaurant. If you are looking for a fun day out with your family, this is a great option.

8. Municipal Theater

The Municipal Theater of Sorocaba is a beautiful building that hosts cultural events such as plays, concerts, and ballet performances. It was inaugurated in 1968 and has become one of the main attractions of the city.

9. Villaggio Shopping Mall

The Villaggio Shopping Mall is a modern mall that offers various stores, restaurants, and cinemas. It is a good option for shopping and entertainment.

10. Brigadeiro Tobias Waterfall

The Brigadeiro Tobias Waterfall is a hidden gem that is worth visiting. It is located in the countryside of Sorocaba and offers a beautiful view of the landscape. It is a great place to relax and connect with nature.

5 Places to Avoid

1. Vila Barcelona

Vila Barcelona is known for being unsafe, especially at night. It is not recommended for tourists to visit this area.

2. Central Market

The Central Market of Sorocaba is not as lively and interesting as the Municipal Market. It is better to skip this place and head straight to the Municipal Market instead.

3. Parada do Alto

Parada do Alto is a neighborhood that is known for being dangerous. It is best to avoid this area, especially if you are not familiar with the city.

4. Industrial District

The Industrial District of Sorocaba is not a tourist attraction. It is an area that is mainly dedicated to factories and industries.

5. Waterfall of Quilombo Trail

The Waterfall of Quilombo Trail is difficult to access and not well maintained. It is better to choose other waterfalls or trails to explore in Sorocaba.

Overview of the City