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If you’re planning a trip to the Amazon region of Brazil, Belém is the perfect starting point.

Known as the gateway to the Amazon, this vibrant city combines tropical nature, colonial history, rich cuisine, and unique local traditions, and in 2025, it will gain even more international attention as the host city of COP 30, one of the world’s most important climate conferences.

Belém offers an authentic experience of northern Brazil: colorful markets, river islands, exotic flavors, and the warmth of the Amazonian people. Whether you’re visiting for business, tourism, or sustainability events, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Belém. Vamos lá?

Where is Belém, Brazil?

Belém is the capital of the state of Pará, located in northern Brazil, near the mouth of the Amazon River. The city sits on the Guajará Bay, where the Amazon’s waters meet the Atlantic Ocean, creating a landscape of islands, mangroves, and endless waterways.

It’s a strategic destination, halfway between the jungle and the ocean, and an important hub connecting travelers to the Amazon rainforest and nearby destinations like Alter do Chão and Marajó Island.

Climate of Belém and best time to visit

Belém has a tropical rainforest climate, hot, humid, and with frequent rain, especially from December to May.

Temperatures stay between 24°C and 33°C (75°F–91°F) year-round.

From July to November, when rainfall decreases and outdoor activities are easier to enjoy.

If you’re planning to attend COP 30 in November 2025, expect warm, humid weather and some afternoon rain showers.

How to get to Belém

The city’s main airport, Val-de-Cans International Airport (BEL), is modern and efficient, located just 20 minutes from the city center. From the airport, you can easily reach most hotels by taxi, Uber, or private transfer.

You’ll find direct flights from major Brazilian cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Brasília, and Manaus. Distances from major cities:

• São Paulo → 2,900 km (approx. 3.5–4h flight)
• Rio de Janeiro → 3,000 km (approx. 4h flight)
• Brasília → 2,000 km (approx. 2.5h flight)
• Manaus → 1,200 km (approx. 1.5h flight

Belém also receives direct domestic flights from Brasília, Fortaleza, Recife and others destinations, making it easy to include in a multi-destination itinerary across Brazil.

For travelers coming from abroad, there are seasonal international routes and easy connections through São Paulo (GRU) and Brasília (BSB). Some travelers also choose to fly via Lisbon, Miami, or Panama City, connecting to Belém through LATAM, Azul, or TAP Air Portugal.

• From Lisbon (Portugal) with TAP Air Portugal
• From Miami (USA) with LATAM or GOL (connecting via São Paulo)
• From Panama City with Copa Airlines

When searching for tickets, it’s worth checking if your itinerary allows for a stopover in São Paulo or Rio to explore these iconic cities before heading north to the Amazon.

If you enjoy adventure and slow travel, there are also riverboat routes connecting Belém to Manaus and Santarém. These multi-day journeys offer an authentic experience through the Amazon, but they’re best for seasoned travelers with flexible itineraries rather than first-time visitors.

Getting around the city

Getting around Belém is quite straightforward once you understand its rhythm. The city has a compact urban layout, with most attractions located near the central neighborhoods of Nazaré, Umarizal, and Batista Campos. However, as a tropical city with intense traffic and occasional heavy rain, choosing the right transport option can make your trip much smoother.

The safest and most convenient way to move around is by using app-based rides such as Uber or 99, which are widely available and reasonably priced. Drivers are generally polite and accustomed to tourists. Always check that the license plate matches the one on your app before entering the car, just as you would anywhere in the world.

If you prefer traditional taxis, you’ll find official ones near airports, hotels, and main attractions. They usually operate with meters, and most accept credit cards or PIX (Brazil’s instant payment system). It’s a good idea to confirm the payment method before the ride begins.

Public buses are another option, covering all parts of the city, but they can be confusing for travelers who don’t speak Portuguese. They’re best for locals or those with plenty of time to explore. If you decide to use them, keep small cash available, as buses in Belém don’t accept cards.

Walking is possible and pleasant in some areas, especially around Estação das Docas, Theatro da Paz, and Basílica de Nazaré, but sidewalks can be uneven and the tropical heat intense, always carry water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. After dark, it’s best to take a car instead of walking, even for short distances.

Check out our article on what to pack for Brazil!

Because Belém is surrounded by rivers and islands, boats are also part of daily life. You can take short river crossings to visit local islands such as Ilha do Combu or Ilha de Mosqueiro, which depart from small docks along the Guajará Bay. These trips are safe, scenic, and offer a unique view of the city from the water.

If you’re staying for COP 30 or another major event, expect heavier traffic in central areas and near the Hangar Convention Center. Allow extra travel time and consider booking accommodation close to where most activities will take place.

Here are a few additional tips to make your transportation experience stress-free:

• Keep your hotel’s address saved in your phone in both English and Portuguese, it helps when showing it to drivers.
• Download Google Maps or Moovit, which work well in Belém for real-time directions.
• Avoid accepting unofficial rides from people approaching you directly at the airport.
• When using ride apps, wait in designated pickup areas to avoid confusion.
• If you’re planning day trips to the islands or nature tours, always use licensed tour operators for safety and reliability.

Belém may not have the same transport infrastructure as Brazil’s largest cities, but it compensates with friendly locals and manageable distances. With a little preparation, getting around is easy, and every ride reveals a new corner of the Amazon to discover.

What to do in Belém, Brazil

Belém is one of those cities where every corner seems to tell a story, from the rhythm of the markets to the smell of Amazonian spices in the air. It’s a destination that blends history, culture, and nature unlike anywhere else in Brazil. Whether you’re visiting for COP 30 or simply exploring the Amazon gateway, here are the must-see attractions and experiences you shouldn’t miss.

Top tourist attractions in Belém

1. Ver-o-Peso Market

No trip to Belém is complete without visiting Ver-o-Peso Market, one of the largest open-air markets in Latin America. Founded in the 17th century, it’s a maze of colors, aromas, and sounds where you’ll find everything from exotic fruits and medicinal herbs to handcrafted goods and freshly caught fish.

This is the best place to experience the flavors of the Amazon, try a cup of açaí in its original, unsweetened form, or sample regional dishes like tacacá and peixe frito (fried fish). Mornings are the most vibrant time to go, and it’s worth hiring a guide or going with a local to help you navigate the endless stalls and learn about traditional herbs used in Amazonian medicine.

2. Estação das Docas

Located by the Guajará Bay, Estação das Docas is a beautifully restored port area transformed into a cultural and gastronomic complex. Once a set of industrial warehouses, it now houses restaurants, cafés, artisan shops, and a theater.

It’s one of the safest and most pleasant places in Belém to walk, dine, and watch the sunset over the river while enjoying a local craft beer or a scoop of cupuaçu ice cream. Many travelers end their evenings here, especially on weekends, when live music and open-air events add to the lively atmosphere.

3. Mangal das Garças

If you love nature, Mangal das Garças is a must-see. This ecological park brings a slice of the Amazon into the heart of the city, with lagoons, tropical birds, and lush vegetation. You can climb the Belvedere Tower for panoramic views of Belém, visit the butterfly house, and see native species like iguanas and scarlet ibises up close.

The park also has a small café and a restaurant with one of the best views in the city. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to visit, the light is beautiful, and the heat is more manageable.

4. Theatro da Paz

Built in 1878, Theatro da Paz is one of Brazil’s most impressive historical theaters and a symbol of the region’s golden age during the rubber boom. Inspired by European architecture, its interior features marble columns, chandeliers, and delicate frescoes.

Visitors can take guided tours in Portuguese and sometimes in English, learning about the city’s Belle Époque era and its cultural evolution. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a concert or local performance during your visit.

5. Basílica de Nazaré

The Basílica de Nazaré is one of Belém’s most important landmarks and the spiritual heart of the Círio de Nazaré, a massive religious festival held every October that attracts millions of pilgrims (read more below). Even outside the event, the basilica is worth visiting for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful stained glass windows, and deep cultural significance.

It’s located in the Nazaré district, one of the city’s nicest areas to walk around, with tree-lined streets and small cafés nearby.

Book a guided tour of Belém to see the city’s main attractions!

Cultural and gastronomic experiences

Museums and cultural centers

Belém has several excellent museums that help travelers understand the region’s complex history and connection to the Amazon. The Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi is one of Brazil’s oldest research institutions and combines science, culture, and biodiversity. It’s part museum, part open-air park, you’ll find giant trees, tropical birds, and exhibits about Amazonian tribes and wildlife.

For contemporary art lovers, the Museu de Arte Sacra and the Casa das Onze Janelas (House of Eleven Windows) are also worth a visit, both located in beautiful colonial buildings overlooking the river.

Amazonian Cuisine

Belém is recognized as one of Brazil’s gastronomic capitals, especially for its creative use of local ingredients from the rainforest. Here, food isn’t just sustenance, it’s identity. You’ll find dishes prepared with tucupi (a yellow sauce made from wild cassava), jambu (an herb that tingles your tongue), and maniçoba (a slow-cooked stew traditionally served during the Círio festival).

Don’t leave without trying:

• Tacacá: a hot soup made with tucupi, jambu, shrimp, and tapioca gum.
• Maniçoba – a dish that takes a full week to prepare, often compared to feijoada but with an Amazonian twist.
• Pato no tucupi: duck simmered in a tangy tucupi sauce.
• Açaí: served pure, without sugar or granola, and often eaten with fried fish.
• Cupuaçu and taperebá juices: sweet, refreshing Amazonian fruits you’ll find in nearly every juice bar.

For an authentic experience, stop by Ver-o-Peso for local street food or dine at Lá em Casa, one of Belém’s most famous restaurants serving refined Amazonian cuisine. If you prefer something modern and creative, check out Remanso do Bosque, led by award-winning chef Thiago Castanho, who brings traditional ingredients into contemporary dishes.

Local flavors to bring home

Before leaving, visit one of Belém’s artisan markets or gourmet shops to buy tucupi, jambu cachaça, or Brazil nut sweets (castanha-do-pará). These make unique and meaningful souvenirs, literal tastes of the Amazon to take home.

Amazon nature and day trips from Belém

One of the best things about visiting Belém is how close you are to the wild beauty of the Amazon. Just a short boat ride away, you can explore islands, river beaches, and communities that live in harmony with the forest. These day trips reveal the true soul of the region, where the river dictates the rhythm of life and nature is part of everyday routine.

Ilha do Combu

A visit to Ilha do Combu is one of the most authentic and memorable experiences you can have near Belém. Located just across the Guajará Bay, a 15-minute boat ride from the city’s waterfront, the island feels like a different world. Wooden houses on stilts, dense green vegetation, and the sound of birds create a serene atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the bustle of downtown Belém.

The island is famous for its artisanal chocolate producers, who make organic cocoa products straight from the plantation. You can visit small family farms such as Filha do Combu, where local women lead visitors through the cocoa-growing process and offer delicious tastings.

There are also several riverfront restaurants that serve fresh fish, shrimp, and açai straight from the source. Enjoy a meal with your feet in the sand while boats pass by on the river, it’s a perfect escape for a half-day trip.

How to get there: Boats leave regularly from the docks at Estação das Docas or the Ver-o-Peso Market. Make sure to hire licensed boatmen and bring cash for food and entrance fees.

Book your guided tour to Combu Island!

Ilha de Mosqueiro

If you have more time, Ilha de Mosqueiro is a wonderful getaway about 80 km (50 mi) from Belém. Unlike Combu, Mosqueiro is connected to the mainland by a bridge, making it easy to reach by car or bus. The island is famous for its river beaches with surprisingly strong waves, locals affectionately call them “sweet-water beaches.”

There are more than 20 different beaches to explore, from the lively Praia do Farol and Praia do Paraíso to the quieter Praia do Murubira, lined with coconut trees and family-run restaurants serving fried fish and tapioca.

Mosqueiro is especially popular on weekends and holidays, so go early if you want to find a good spot to relax. It’s an excellent place to spend a full day or even an overnight stay if you want to enjoy the Amazonian sunrise by the river.

Reserve your guided trip to Mosqueiro Island!

Day trips and eco tours

Marajó Island

For a truly unique Amazonian experience, consider a trip to Marajó Island, the world’s largest fluvial-maritime island. It’s famous for its water buffalo herds, colorful villages, and vibrant artisanal traditions.

The island’s main town, Soure, offers a mix of rustic charm and cultural richness, here you can visit ceramic workshops, watch local cowboys (“vaqueiros”) ride buffaloes through the fields, and try buffalo cheese, one of Marajó’s culinary highlights.

Although it’s possible to visit Marajó in one day, most travelers prefer staying at least one night to make the most of the long boat trip and slow-paced atmosphere.

How to get there: Regular ferries and fast boats depart from Belém’s port early in the morning and take about 3 to 4 hours to reach Soure. Book your tickets in advance, especially during weekends or holidays.

Amazon river tours and eco adventures

Belém is also a fantastic base for exploring the Amazon through boat tours and ecological excursions. Many local agencies offer half-day or full-day trips that navigate through mangroves, flooded forests, and small riverside communities. You’ll likely see birds, pink river dolphins, and lush vegetation, all while learning about how local families coexist sustainably with nature.

Popular tours include:

• Guajará Bay Boat Tour: a scenic cruise offering views of Belém’s skyline and the islands nearby.
• Amazon Rainforest Park Tour: for those looking for an immersive nature walk and a chance to see wildlife.
• Cultural river community tours: where visitors can meet local artisans, taste regional fruits, and learn about traditional Amazonian livelihoods.

Most of these excursions depart from downtown Belém or Estação das Docas, and can be easily booked through trusted operators like Civitatis.

Belém’s greatest treasure lies just beyond its urban limits. Whether you’re tasting cocoa on Combu, sunbathing on Mosqueiro’s river beaches, or sailing through the calm waters of Marajó, every experience connects you a little more deeply to the heart of the Amazon.

Where to stay in Belém

Belém offers a variety of accommodation options for every traveler, from business hotels and boutique stays to riverfront lodges surrounded by nature. Choosing where to stay can make a big difference, especially since the city’s neighborhoods each have their own personality. Whether you’re visiting for COP 30, a trip through the Amazon, or a cultural getaway, here’s how to pick the best area for your stay.

Best neighborhoods to stay in

Nazaré: Central and peaceful

If you want convenience and tranquility, Nazaré is one of the best areas to stay in Belém. It’s a safe, well-located neighborhood close to major attractions like Basílica de Nazaré and Theatro da Paz. The streets are shaded by mango trees, and cafés, bakeries, and restaurants are within walking distance.

It’s a great option for first-time visitors and business travelers, offering mid-range and upscale hotels such as Hotel Regente and Atrium Quinta de Pedras.

Batista Campos: Elegant and local

Batista Campos combines local charm with comfort. Known for its leafy squares and quiet atmosphere, it’s perfect for those who enjoy peaceful surroundings while staying near the city center.

You’ll find a mix of cozy inns and modern hotels here, along with easy access to shopping malls and traditional restaurants. It’s a great base for exploring Belém’s cultural side without being too far from the main attractions.

Umarizal: Modern and well-structured

For travelers looking for modern comfort, Umarizal is one of Belém’s most developed and upscale neighborhoods. It’s home to newer hotels, offices, and trendy cafés, and it’s also one of the safest areas in the city.

Here, you’ll find well-known chains like Radisson Hotel Maiorana Belém and Golden Tulip Belém, which offer international standards of comfort and service. This is also a good area for long-term stays, as it has plenty of amenities and transportation options.

Belém Waterfront: Scenic and convenient

If you want to wake up to river views, the waterfront area near Estação das Docas is ideal. You’ll be close to restaurants, bars, and the departure points for Amazon tours and boat trips. It’s especially convenient for short stays and evening walks along the bay.

Just be mindful that the area can get lively at night,  great for those who love a bit of energy, but less ideal if you’re looking for absolute quiet.

Here are the top-rated hotels in Belém on Booking.com:

• Flat in Hotel Radisson
• Hotel Riviera D Amazonia Belem Ananindeua
• Vila Galé Collection Amazônia
• Ecopousada Miriti
• Casa e Suíte Brisa do Bosque

Accommodation tips for COP 30

With COP 30 taking place in November 2025, Belém is expecting one of the largest international events in its history. This means hotels and guesthouses will book up months in advance, especially those near the Hangar Convention Center and downtown.

Here are some essential tips to plan your stay:

• Book early as possible to guarantee availability and reasonable prices.
• Check for sustainable accommodations: several local hotels are implementing eco-friendly initiatives such as solar energy, waste reduction, and partnerships with local communities.
• Stay near your main destinations: if you’re attending COP 30, look for options in Nazaré, Umarizal, or near the waterfront for easier transportation.
• Consider apartments or boutique hotels: platforms like Booking and Airbnb offer comfortable stays with more flexibility, great for longer visits.
• The Brazilian government has made available on its website tips and partner accommodations for COP30.

Belém is also expanding its hotel infrastructure ahead of the event, with new projects and renovations planned to welcome international visitors. Whether you prefer a cozy inn, a business hotel, or a sustainable eco-lodge, you’ll find warm hospitality, a hallmark of northern Brazil.

COP 30 in Belém: what to Know

In November 2025, the eyes of the world will turn to Belém as the city hosts COP 30, one of the most important climate conferences on the planet. This edition is historic not only because it takes place in Brazil, but because, for the first time, the Amazon rainforest will serve as the stage for global climate discussions.

For travelers, journalists, and sustainability professionals, COP 30 will be a unique opportunity to witness history in one of the most culturally rich and ecologically significant places on Earth.

When and where will COP 30 take place

COP 30 is scheduled for November 2025, with the main venue being the Hangar Convention and Fair Center of the Amazon, located just a few kilometers from downtown Belém.

The Hangar is a modern, multi-purpose complex that frequently hosts international conferences and fairs. For COP 30, the site will be expanded and adapted to welcome thousands of delegates, researchers, and world leaders.

In addition to the official conference area, the event will feature side events and exhibitions throughout the city, including cultural shows, environmental forums, and sustainability workshops in public spaces and universities. Visitors can expect a lively atmosphere across Belém, as the city embraces its global role.

Why Belém was chosen

Belém was chosen to host COP 30 for its symbolic and strategic importance. As the gateway to the Amazon, the city represents the intersection between urban life and the world’s most vital ecosystem.

By bringing the conference to Belém, the United Nations and the Brazilian government aim to highlight the central role of the Amazon in the global climate balance. The region holds immense biodiversity, stores billions of tons of carbon, and influences rainfall patterns across South America.

Hosting the event here also reinforces Brazil’s commitment to sustainability and regional development. The government has pledged to reduce deforestation, promote renewable energy, and invest in eco-tourism and sustainable industries in the Amazon.

For many, COP 30 in Belém is a call to action for the planet. It symbolizes the need to listen to local communities, respect indigenous knowledge, and rethink how humanity coexists with nature.

Impact on tourism and the city

The arrival of COP 30 is already transforming Belém. The city is undergoing a wave of urban renovations and infrastructure improvements, including better roads, expanded public transportation, and enhanced accessibility around major tourist areas.

Hotels, restaurants, and cultural centers are preparing to receive thousands of visitors from around the world. Many local businesses are adopting sustainable practices, from reducing plastic waste to offering eco-friendly tours and community-based experiences.

For travelers, this moment brings a special opportunity: to explore the Amazon responsibly. Whether through river tours, visits to ecological parks, or culinary experiences that support local producers, visitors can directly contribute to a more sustainable tourism model.

After COP 30, Belém is expected to emerge as one of Brazil’s most prominent eco-destinations, combining environmental awareness with authentic cultural immersion. The legacy of the conference will go beyond politics, it will reshape how the world sees the Amazon and the people who call it home.

Check out our full guide to COP 30 in Belém.

Is Belém safe to visit?

Like most large cities in Brazil, Belém has areas that are perfectly fine for tourists and others where it’s best to stay alert. The key is to combine awareness with common sense, just as you would in any big Latin American city.

The central districts, Nazaré, Batista Campos, Umarizal, and the waterfront near Estação das Docas, are considered the safest for visitors. These areas are well-patrolled, well-lit at night, and close to major attractions, restaurants, and hotels.

If you’re exploring local markets like Ver-o-Peso, go during the morning when it’s busiest and full of life. Avoid flashing jewelry, large cameras, or counting money in public. Keep your phone and valuables in a secure, zippered bag, and use crossbody bags instead of backpacks in crowded places.

When it comes to transportation, rely on Uber, 99, or official taxis instead of hailing cars from the street, especially at night. These app-based services are widely used in Belém and generally safe.

At ATMs, choose machines located inside banks or shopping centers, and if you’re exchanging money, do it at official exchange bureaus rather than on the street. Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it’s smart to carry a bit of cash in Brazilian reais (BRL) for smaller purchases or remote areas.

English is not widely spoken, so having Google Translate on your phone will make communication much easier. Locals are friendly and helpful, and most will go out of their way to assist you if you approach them politely, a few words in Portuguese like “obrigado” (thank you) or “por favor” (please) go a long way.

Overall, Belém is a welcoming and authentic city. By following a few precautions, you’ll be able to enjoy its culture, food, and nature safely and confidently.

What to eat in Belém

If there’s one thing that defines Belém, it’s flavor. The city is a true gastronomic capital of the Amazon, where every dish tells a story about the rainforest, the rivers, and the people who live there. The cuisine combines indigenous traditions, Portuguese influences, and local creativity, making it one of Brazil’s most unique food destinations.

Typical Amazonian dishes and ingredients

Belém’s cuisine is built around ingredients found nowhere else in the world. Here are some must-try dishes and flavors that define the local experience:

• Tacacá: A warm soup made with tucupi (a yellow sauce extracted from wild cassava), jambu (a herb that causes a mild tingling sensation on your tongue), shrimp, and tapioca gum. You’ll often see locals sipping it from a bowl on the street in the late afternoon.
• Maniçoba: A traditional dish that takes seven days to prepare, made with cassava leaves cooked until safe to eat, mixed with smoked meats. It’s typically served during the Círio de Nazaré festival in October.
• Pato no tucupi (duck in tucupi sauce): A festive dish that combines duck, tucupi, and jambu, rich, aromatic, and deeply symbolic in Amazonian culture.
• Fried river fish: Fresh fish such as tambaqui or pirarucu are often served grilled or fried, usually accompanied by rice and farinha d’água (a crunchy cassava flour).
• Açaí: Forget the smoothie bowls, in Belém, açaí is served pure, unsweetened, and slightly bitter, often paired with fried fish or tapioca flour. It’s a completely different (and authentic) experience.
• Amazonian fruits: Try juices made from cupuaçu, taperebá (also called yellow mombin), and bacuri. These fruits are intense, fragrant, and unforgettable.

Food in Belém is not just about taste, it’s about connection to the land and tradition. You’ll find locals proud to share their recipes and stories, often passed down through generations.

Where to eat in Belém

To truly understand the local cuisine, you have to experience it in its natural setting, the markets, the riverside restaurants, and the family-run eateries that make this city special.

Start at the Ver-o-Peso Market, where dozens of food stalls serve fresh juices, açaí, and Amazonian snacks. Then visit Estação das Docas, a beautiful waterfront complex that offers a mix of gourmet restaurants and casual spots with incredible river views.

If you’re looking for fine dining, Remanso do Bosque is a standout, run by chef Thiago Castanho, it’s internationally recognized for reimagining Amazonian ingredients with modern techniques. 

For a more traditional experience, Lá em Casa Restaurant is an institution in Belém, serving regional classics like maniçoba and pato no tucupi in a cozy, local setting.

Vegetarians and vegans will also find creative options in Belém. Many restaurants now offer plant-based interpretations of classic dishes, replacing meat with grilled vegetables or heart of palm, and highlighting native ingredients like cassava, plantains, and Amazonian nuts.

Don’t leave without trying the local desserts, cupuaçu mousse, tapioca pudding, or castanha-do-pará sweets, and make sure to pair your meal with a fresh fruit juice or a cold Amazonian craft beer.

Here are the top-rated restaurants in Belém on TripAdvisor:

• Restaurante Ver O Açaí – Umarizal
• Point do Açaí
• Amazônia Na Cuia
• Remanso do Peixe
• Santa Grelha Belém

Nightlife and cultural events

Belém might be best known for its food and connection to the Amazon, but when the sun goes down, the city reveals another side, lively, musical, and full of soul. Whether you want to dance to local rhythms, listen to live music, or simply enjoy a cold drink by the river, Belém’s nightlife has something for everyone.

Bars and nightlife

The rhythm of Belém is deeply tied to its people. Locals love gathering with friends to share stories, music, and laughter. You’ll find bars and music venues spread across the city, especially around Estação das Docas, Umarizal, and Nazaré.

For a casual night out, start with a drink by the waterfront at Estação das Docas, where you can sample local craft beers and enjoy live performances while watching boats glide along the river. If you want to dive into authentic local culture, look for venues that play carimbó, a traditional Amazonian rhythm that mixes Indigenous, African, and Portuguese influences. It’s impossible not to move your feet once the drums start.

Samba and forró nights are also common, especially on weekends, when locals gather in open-air bars or cultural centers. Some of the best spots for live music include Amazon Beer (at Estação das Docas), Açaí Biruta, and Bar Palafita, which combine local cuisine with good music and friendly crowds.

Círio de Nazaré

If you’re lucky enough to visit Belém in October, you’ll witness one of the most incredible cultural and spiritual events in Brazil, the Círio de Nazaré.

Held annually on the second Sunday of October (in 2026, it will take place on October 11), this massive religious festival attracts millions of pilgrims from all over the country. The event celebrates Our Lady of Nazareth (Nossa Senhora de Nazaré), the patron saint of Pará, and fills the city with emotion, faith, and color.

The main procession follows a 3.6 km route from the Sé Cathedral in the historic center to the Basílica de Nazaré, where thousands walk side by side, many holding candles, flowers, or images of the Virgin. The atmosphere is deeply moving, even non-religious visitors describe it as one of the most powerful experiences of their lives.

In the days surrounding the main procession, the entire city celebrates with music, food fairs, and cultural shows. Local dishes like maniçoba and tacacá are everywhere, and traditional crafts fill the streets.

Because it’s one of the largest religious events in the Americas, accommodations fill up quickly. If you plan to visit during Círio, book your stay months in advance.

Practical tips for visiting Belém

Visiting Belém is an unforgettable experience, but being prepared will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s everything you need to know before you go.

Currency

The local currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s good to carry small amounts of cash for markets, taxis, or smaller towns. ATMs are available throughout the city, especially inside shopping centers and banks.

Language

The official language is Portuguese, and English is not widely spoken outside hotels or tourist areas. Don’t worry, locals are friendly and patient. Download Google Translate or similar apps to help with simple phrases, menus, and directions. Even a few words in Portuguese will go a long way in connecting with people.

Climate

Belém has a hot and humid tropical climate year-round, with frequent rain showers. Temperatures average between 25°C and 32°C (77°F to 90°F). The rainy season runs from January to May, while the dry season (June to November) is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Always carry light clothing, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Best time to visit

The best months to visit are from July to November, when rainfall is lower and major cultural events take place. If you’re visiting during COP 30 (November 2025) or Círio de Nazaré (October 2026), plan your trip well in advance.

Health and safety

It’s recommended to get the yellow fever vaccine before traveling to the Amazon region. Bring mosquito repellent and drink bottled or filtered water. If you need medical assistance, Belém has public hospitals and several private clinics.

And, as always when traveling abroad, travel insurance is essential. It covers emergencies, flight delays, and medical needs, offering peace of mind while you explore. 

You can order our travel insurance with our partner link to support Do in Brazil at no extra cost to you.

Is Belém, Brazil worth visiting?

Absolutely — Belém is one of those destinations that leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve returned home. It’s not only the gateway to the Amazon, but also a place where culture, history, and nature blend seamlessly into everyday life.

Here, the rainforest isn’t a distant concept, it’s part of the rhythm of the city. You’ll see it in the colors of the markets, taste it in the food, and feel it in the warmth of the people. Belém invites travelers to slow down, listen, and experience Brazil in its most authentic form.

The gastronomy alone is worth the trip. From a bowl of tacacá shared with locals at a street stall to a fine dining meal at an award-winning restaurant, every bite tells a story about the Amazon and its people. Add to that the colonial architecture, vibrant festivals, and genuine hospitality, and you’ll understand why Belém is becoming one of Brazil’s most fascinating destinations.

As the host city for COP 30, Belém is stepping into the global spotlight, not as a tourist hotspot, but as a symbol of sustainability and cultural identity. The city’s transformation reflects a broader movement to value the Amazon not just for its resources, but for its people and traditions.

Whether you’re here to explore the river islands, discover Amazonian cuisine, or take part in a historic environmental summit, Belém offers something rare: a deep connection to nature and humanity at the same time.

So yes, Belém is absolutely worth visiting. Come with curiosity, respect, and an open heart, and you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and a new understanding of Brazil’s most vital region.