12 Cities to visit in São Paulo

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a vacation, you’re in the right place. The capital of São Paulo is famous for its hustle and bustle, but did you know that the state of São Paulo has many tourist cities with varied activities?

Discover in our post today, some options for destinations just a few hours from the capital that offer a lot of adventure, contact with nature, beautiful landscapes, historical points and good cuisine!

1. City of Embu das Artes

About 30 kilometers from the capital of São Paulo, Embu das Artes is a great destination for day trips.

The main attraction to explore is the traditional craft fair, which takes place in the streets of the historic center on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. 

The product range is huge: there are decorations, costume jewelry, clothing and much more. In addition, there is the Feira do Verde, where you can find ornamental plants and flowers.

2. City of São Roque

São Roque, 50 kilometers from São Paulo, has a mountainous climate and beautiful landscapes and is known as the land of wine. 

The main attraction of the city is the Wine Route, which consists of a road lined with wineries where the visitor can learn about the production of the drink and taste the wine.

There are also wineries, restaurants, farms, fishing grounds and inns along the way. Spend at least one weekend enjoying with the family – even as a couple.

3. São Paulo – City of Paranapiacaba

This charming 19th-century English-style village in Santo André is a great day trip option. Just 50 kilometers from the capital, Paranapiacaba was built for the workers who built the first railroad in São Paulo and is considered a National Historic Landmark.

The more adventurous can enjoy trails with hidden springs, waterfalls and natural pools. Those looking for something more peaceful can visit the Museu do Castelinho and stroll through the idyllic streets of the village.

4. City of Juquitiba

With the largest Atlantic Forest Reserve in the metropolitan region and countless springs, waterfalls, rivers and streams, Juquitiba is ideal for those who enjoy adventure sports.

The city, 70 kilometers from the capital of São Paulo, is the perfect terrain for rafting. Proof of this is the descent on the Juquiá River, considered the most traditional in Brazil.

5. City of the Vineyard

What’s the first thing you think of when they mention this city? Lots of grapes and wine, right? Of course, after all, the traditional grape and wine festivals take place in the city every year, but that’s not all!

The area is also home to Hopi Hari, Latin America’s largest theme park, and Wet’n Wild, a family-friendly water park. Vinhedo is about 70 kilometers from the capital.

6. São Paulo – City of Guararema

Guararema is a small town very close to the capital, about 80 kilometers away, with a very good climate inside. It is possible to reach the city by steam locomotive and discover everything in a few hours.

Upon arrival, the train station is a trip back in time. A few minutes walk from the Igreja Matriz de Guararema and a pedestrian street with many shops. This is a highly recommended tour for families with children.

7. City of Atibaia

Book a day or a weekend to explore Atibaia’s tourist attractions. In no time you will be captivated by the stone reef, which is over 1,400 meters high. This postcard is a hit with hikers or anyone who wants to practice paragliding or hang gliding, as it has one of the largest natural hang gliding tracks in the country.

Atibaia is still known as the land of strawberries. In August and September, it hosts the Flower and Strawberry Festival, attracting tourists in search of the beauties and flavors of the region’s producers. The destination is 86 kilometers from São Paulo.

8. São Paulo – City of Itu

A city with such a small name stands in stark contrast to its reputation as a bombastic place. Praça Matriz is home to the most famous exaggerated buildings: the famous Orelhão de Itu, about 7 meters high, considered a symbol of the city, and the giant traffic light, which works perfectly for no disrespectful reason. The resort is about 100 kilometers from São Paulo.

9. City of Joanópolis

About 115 kilometers from the capital, Joanópolis is known for its waterfalls, trails and vegetation. The highlight is the highest waterfall in the state, Cachoeira dos Pretos, with 154 meters. The structure there is very good and on weekends you can enjoy and explore other tourist attractions.

10. City of Boituva

Boituva is a destination that will get you excited – literally. The city, 117 kilometers from São Paulo, is known as the skydiving capital. Professional companies offer the opportunity to free fall from an altitude of almost four thousand meters. 

However, if you prefer something more relaxing, you can take a balloon flight and take the opportunity to propose or celebrate a special date.

11. São Paulo – City of Holambra

If traveling to Europe is out of your budget, go to Holambra, 130 kilometers from São Paulo, to get a taste of a European city.  The area was once colonized by the Dutch and part of the population still lives there.

Considered the capital of flowers, the agency offers tours of plantations that captivate with their fragrance and beauty.

Another unmissable attraction is the Moinho Povos Unidos, a faithful replica of a traditional Dutch windmill, available for visitation.

12. City of Socorro

If you’re looking for news for the weekend, the city of Socorro is sure to impress. For those who like adrenaline, take the risk of rafting in the rapids of Rio de Peixe.

 At Pedra da Bela Vista, in addition to admiring the beautiful landscapes, you can also practice adventure sports such as abseiling and hiking.