Poços de Caldas is one of the most charming destinations in the countryside of Minas Gerais. Known for its thermal waters, natural landscapes, and excellent tourist infrastructure, the city attracts visitors looking for relaxation, adventure, and quality gastronomy.
I visited in February 2025 and was enchanted during the three days I spent there. That’s why I’ve gathered in this article all the tips I used to plan my trip and what I learned about Poços while I was there.
Come discover where to stay, what to do, the best time to visit, and fun facts about this historic city!
Where is Poços de Caldas and how to get there
Poços de Caldas is located in the southwest of Minas Gerais and borders the state of São Paulo.
The city is approximately:
- 260 km from São Paulo (SP) – about 3.5 hours
- 450 km from Belo Horizonte (MG) – about 6 hours
- 480 km from Rio de Janeiro (RJ) – about 8 hours
Discover other amazing destinations in Minas Gerais!
You can reach Poços by:
- Car: The city is accessible via BR-146, MG-267, and SP-342. From São Paulo, the best option is to take Rodovia dos Bandeirantes or Anhanguera, then follow SP-340 to SP-342.
- Bus: Companies like Cometa and Santa Cruz operate regular routes to Poços de Caldas.
- Plane: The closest airport is in Campinas (Viracopos), about 180 km away, with transfer and bus options.
I left from Campinas, in the interior of São Paulo, and took a bus! The trip was very smooth and lasted about 3.5 hours each way.
Love Minas Gerais? Check out Ouro Preto and Mariana too!
Weather in Poços de Caldas and best time to visit
Poços de Caldas has a high-altitude tropical climate, with mild summers and cold winters. When I visited in February, it was scorching hot in Campinas, and I was surprised by the temperature in Poços. At night and early in the morning, it even got a bit chilly, and although it warmed up during the day, there was always a fresh breeze.
- Best time to visit: From April to September, when rainfall is less frequent and the weather is drier and more pleasant.
- To enjoy the chilly weather: From June to August, temperatures can drop to 5°C, perfect if you want to experience the charm of the Minas Gerais winter.
- If you prefer warmer days: Summer (rainy season) runs from December to March. But we didn’t get a single rainy day during our February trip!
Where to stay in Poços de Caldas?
The city offers accommodations for all tastes and budgets. Since I have a SESC membership card (an institution for workers in Brazil’s commerce sector), I took the opportunity to stay at Hotel SESC Poços de Caldas and it’s amazing! They offer half board from Thursday to Sunday and breakfast from Monday to Thursday. You can book even without the membership, directly on their website.
The rooms are super comfortable and you can see the Cristo (Christ statue), one of the city’s top attractions, right from the hotel. It features four pools (two heated, two unheated), a playground, a very attentive staff, and it’s located right in the city center, just steps away from the main square. It’s worth noting that because of the city’s terrain, the hotel has many stairs, so it might not be ideal for people with reduced mobility, even though they do offer accessible rooms.
Other accommodation options in Poços de Caldas include:
Luxury and All-Inclusive Hotels:
- Palace Hotel (Historic and charming)
- Hotel Golden Park (All-Inclusive)
- Hotel Vilage Inn (All-Inclusive)
Mid-range Hotels and Cozy Guesthouses:
- Hotel Carlton Plaza
- Minas Garden Hotel
- Hotel Minas Gerais
- ibis Styles Poços de Caldas
- Pousada Trem Chic
If you’re looking for a more exclusive experience, there are also chalets and vacation rental homes available.
History and curiosities about Poços de Caldas
Poços de Caldas has a history that dates back to the 19th century. The city was officially founded in 1872, but its fame had already been growing thanks to its thermal waters with therapeutic properties, which attracted visitors seeking health and well-being. Over time, Poços de Caldas became a luxurious destination, frequented by prominent figures of Brazilian society.
One of the most fascinating facts about the city is that it sits atop an ancient volcanic caldera, extinct for millions of years. This unique geological formation is what gives the region its natural hot springs and mineral waters, which are rich in medicinal properties.
During the 20th century, Poços de Caldas rose to prominence as one of Brazil’s top tourist destinations. Its casinos drew the elite of the time, including figures like Emperor Dom Pedro II and Princess Isabel, who visited the city to enjoy the healing waters. When gambling was banned in Brazil in 1946, the casinos were shut down, but the city continued to reinvent itself as a tourism hub, focusing on its natural beauty and leisure infrastructure.
Today, Poços de Caldas retains its historical charm and offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Its historic buildings, such as the Palace Hotel and the Thermas Antonio Carlos, stand harmoniously alongside parks, restaurants, and cultural attractions that keep the spirit of the city alive.
What I loved most about my time there was the small-town atmosphere, with beautiful squares crossed by the Lambari River, charming little bridges, well-preserved historic buildings, and of course, the Minas Gerais cuisine — which I personally think is one of the most delicious in the country!
Discover other historical gems of Minas Gerais like São João del-Rei and Tiradentes!
What to do in Poços de Caldas, Minas Gerais
Although it’s a small city, Poços has plenty of attractions! I spent 3 days there and didn’t even manage to see half of them (which just gives me an excuse to go back!).
What to do during the day in Poços
Poços de Caldas Cable Car
The Poços de Caldas cable car is one of the longest in Brazil, with a 1,500-meter route connecting Dr. José Afonso Junqueira Square (we’ll talk a lot about this square!) to the top of São Domingos Hill. The ride offers a stunning panoramic view of the city and is a must-do experience for visitors.
I’ll admit that João and I were a little nervous at first, but it was manageable! The view from the top is worth it, and the way down felt easier than the way up. If heights are too much for you, you can also reach Cristo Park by hiking or by minibus as part of the city tours.
- Address: Praça Dr. José Afonso Junqueira, Centro, Poços de Caldas – MG
- Opening hours: Every day except Tuesdays, from 9 AM to 6 PM
- Price: R$ 60 full / R$ 30 half. Tickets available on the official website.
Cristo Park (Parque do Cristo)
This is where you’ll find one of Poços’ main attractions — the Christ the Redeemer monument, inspired by the one in Rio de Janeiro. Inaugurated in 1958, it stands 30 meters tall and is visible from various parts of the city.
You can get to the park via the cable car, hiking trail, private car, or by minibus with pre-booked tours.
Tip: Bring a jacket! It’s windy up there, and we felt cold going in the morning. Wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the beautiful viewpoints.
If you arrive by cable car, you’ll walk straight into the Mercado do Cristo, filled with shops and restaurants. Outside, there’s also a kids’ reading area (Espaço Leiturinha), a giant swing, a café by the base of the Christ, and extreme sports like zip-lining, paragliding, canopy walk, mountain biking, downhill, and ATV tours.
- Address: Estrada Pedra Balão – Centro, Poços de Caldas – MG
- Opening hours: Daily, from 9 AM to 6 PM
- Price: If using the cable car, access is included in the R$ 60 (full) / R$ 30 (half) price. If you’re driving, parking at the park costs R$ 15. Check the prices of the park’s activities separately.
Thermas Antônio Carlos
Built in the 1930s, Thermas Antônio Carlos is one of Poços de Caldas’ most iconic buildings. It offers thermal baths with therapeutic properties, as well as spa and wellness services. It’s a perfect spot for relaxing and enjoying the benefits of the region’s sulfur-rich waters.
There are over 50 wellness services using thermal and sulfurous waters, which reach the surface at up to 45.5ºC. These waters have decongestant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, healing, detoxifying, anti-allergenic, and expectorant properties.
They also have a specialty coffee shop, Casa do Colono, offering different brewing styles (Arabic, Belgian, Chemex, Hario V60, French press, siphon, Vietnamese, and more), plus delicious snacks. I had an Arabic-style coffee (Turkish) and one of the best pão de queijo I’ve ever eaten. João went for a brownie — also excellent. There’s also a store selling coffee, sweets, and other local treats to take home. (Check out the menu!)
- Address: Rua Junqueiras, 343, Centro, Poços de Caldas – MG
- Thermal spa hours: Wednesday to Saturday and holidays, 9 AM to 7 PM; Sundays, 9 AM to 2 PM
- Casa do Colono café hours: Monday to Sunday, 9 AM to 8 PM (when the spa is closed, there’s a back entrance to the café)
- Price: Varies depending on the service, but entry is free. (Don’t forget to look up — the stained glass ceiling is incredible!)
Tip: The building is a historical landmark and worth visiting even just to admire its beautiful architecture.
Balneário Dr. Mário Mourão
Another great option for those seeking relaxation through thermal sulfurous waters, Balneário Dr. Mário Mourão offers immersion baths, therapeutic showers, and hydromassage. Founded in 1896, it’s one of the oldest thermal spa establishments in Brazil.
- Address: Praça Dom Pedro II, Centro
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 7 AM to 7 PM; Sunday: 7 AM to 12 PM
- Price: Baths start at R$ 20.00
Palace Casino at José Afonso Junqueira Park
José Afonso Junqueira Park is one of the main highlights of Poços de Caldas and is home to several attractions, including Thermas Antônio Carlos, the Lighted Fountain, the Floral Clock (more on that below), and it’s right next to the cable car station. It also houses the Palace Casino.
The casino was part of a government project in the late 1920s aimed at promoting tourism in Poços. It formed a leisure complex along with the Thermas and the luxurious Palace Hotel & Casino, which still operates next door.
Unfortunately, the casino building is not open for tours, as it is currently rented out for private events. Still, it’s worth admiring from the outside and strolling through the surrounding park gardens.
Floral Clock and Floral Calendar
The Floral Clock is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Its face is decorated with vibrant flowers that change according to the season. Located in Praça Getúlio Vargas, right next to José Afonso Junqueira Park, the clock was inaugurated in 1972 to celebrate the centennial of Poços de Caldas.
Just beside Thermas, also within José Afonso Junqueira Park, you’ll find the Floral Calendar, which displays the current date and season with flower arrangements.
- Address: Praça Getúlio Vargas and Parque José Afonso Junqueira, Centro
- Opening hours: Open 24/7
- Admission: Free
Lighted Fountain (Fonte Luminosa)
Another gem in José Afonso Junqueira Park, the Lighted Fountain is beautiful during the day but becomes even more magical at night when the lights come on and the display is illuminated.
Praça Dr. Pedro Sanches
Located next to José Afonso Junqueira Park, Praça Dr. Pedro Sanches is full of charm and attractions. It features a traditional bandstand used for live music and cultural performances, along with monuments such as one honoring Luiz Antônio Ribeiro, a renowned sacred art sculptor, and the Monument to Youth, symbolizing the vitality of Poços de Caldas’ younger generations.
This square is also the main stage for the city’s festivities. If you’re visiting during Carnival, Christmas, or food festivals, be sure to stop by and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Urca Cultural Center
Located in the heart of Poços de Caldas, the Urca Cultural Center is an important venue for events, exhibitions, and artistic performances. The historic building once housed the Urca Casino, which was even visited by Emperor Dom Pedro II. Today, it hosts a variety of cultural activities, including plays, concerts, fairs, and art shows. Its preserved architecture adds a charming touch to any visit.
- Address: Praça Getúlio Vargas, s/n, Centro (next to José Afonso Junqueira Park and the Historical and Geographical Museum)
- Hours: Vary depending on the event schedule
- Admission: Free for exhibitions (events may charge admission)
Tip: Check the calendar in advance to catch performances, festivals, and cultural fairs that are regularly held at the venue.
Historical and Geographical Museum
For those wanting to dive into the city’s past, the Historical and Geographical Museum houses a rich collection of photos, documents, furniture, and historical objects.
Located in a pink mansion from 1898 known as “Villa Junqueira,” the museum features paintings, historical item collections, currency and coin exhibits, photo archives, and antique objects. There’s also a permanent exhibition of rocks and minerals from the Poços de Caldas Plateau, helping visitors understand the region’s geography and the role of thermal waters in the city’s development.
- Address: Rua Padre Henry Mothon, Centro (next to the Urca Cultural Center)
- Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM; Saturday, 1 PM to 5 PM; Sunday, 9 AM to 1 PM
- Admission: Free
Fountain of Lovers (Fonte dos Amores)
The Fonte dos Amores is one of Poços de Caldas’ most romantic landmarks. The site features a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, and a famous Carrara marble sculpture by Italian artist Giulio Starace depicting two lovers embracing.
Created in 1929, the fountain is located at the base of Serra de São Domingos.
- Address: Rua Piauí, s/n, Poços de Caldas – MG
- Hours: Daily from 8 AM to 5 PM
- Admission: R$ 30 (full) / R$ 15 (half-price), tickets can be purchased online
Municipal Market
The Poços de Caldas Municipal Market is the perfect place to shop for local delicacies such as cheese, sweets, artisanal cachaça, fruits, herbs, and more.
This was one of my favorite spots to visit, after all, who doesn’t love a good doce de leite and queijo canastra? The vendors are friendly and don’t pressure you to buy, unlike some larger markets elsewhere. There are also great little restaurants and cafés inside and around the market worth checking out.
- Address: Rua Pernambuco, 280, Centro
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 7 AM to 6 PM; Sunday, 7 AM to 12 PM
Japanese Garden (Recanto Japonês)
Inspired by traditional Japanese gardens, the Recanto Japonês is a peaceful and tranquil space featuring ponds, bridges, bonsai trees, and a tea house. It’s an ideal setting to relax and reconnect with nature.
Unfortunately, the garden is currently closed for renovations — but for a good reason! It is undergoing revitalization and is expected to reopen in April 2025. I hope to visit it on my next trip to Poços.
- Address: Rua Amapá, 300, Poços de Caldas – MG
- Hours: Temporarily closed
- Admission: Pricing has not yet been confirmed, but it will likely follow the city’s standard: R$ 30 (full) / R$ 15 (half-price)
Bird Zoo (Zoo das Aves)
For animal lovers, the Bird Zoo is a must-visit in Poços de Caldas. The zoo is home to a wide variety of birds from different parts of the world, providing a rich experience for learning and connecting with nature. The walking path inside the zoo stretches about 1.5 km — perfect for a slow, scenic stroll while observing the animals.
There are over 2,000 birds from 200 species, and what stood out to me the most were the aviaries! They’re organized by biome — like the Atlantic Forest, Amazon, and Pantanal — and are large enclosed spaces where you can walk among the birds. The macaw aviary was especially impressive! A tip: avoid visiting during peak midday heat. We went just after lunch and struggled a bit with the sun, as some parts of the trail offer little shade. At the end of the route, there’s Quero Quero Café, where we grabbed an ice cream to cool down, and a picnic area for relaxing.
- Address: Rua Antônio Bortolan, 910, Poços de Caldas – MG
- Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 5 PM
- Admission: R$ 60 (full), R$ 30 (half)
Véu das Noivas Waterfall
One of the most beautiful natural attractions in Poços de Caldas, the Véu das Noivas Waterfall is formed by three 10-meter-high falls on the Ribeirão das Antas. The park includes scenic viewpoints and peaceful spaces for contemplation, making it a top pick for nature lovers.
The site also features a small tourist train that loops around the park, as well as a handicraft fair located in the former restaurant building.
Besides enjoying the waterfall, you can take advantage of other activities at the Véu das Noivas Park, such as a game room, playground, and even accommodation or camping options!
- Pousada rates: R$ 500 to R$ 680 per night
- Camping: R$ 45 per person (weekdays), R$ 60 (holidays)
- Address: Estrada para Águas da Prata (Av. João Pinheiro), Km 5, Poços de Caldas – MG
- Hours: Daily from 8 AM to 5:30 PM
- Admission: R$ 30 (full), R$ 15 (half) — online purchase available
Cascata das Antas
Located in the mountains of Poços, the Cascata das Antas is a powerful waterfall that played a historical role in the city. In 1898, it was used to launch the first hydroelectric plant in Poços de Caldas — Empresa Força e Luz — making it one of the first cities in Brazil to generate its own electricity.
- Address: Rua Silvio Monteiro dos Santos, near Poços de Caldas Shopping, on the way to Palmeiral
- Hours: Daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Admission: R$ 30 (full), R$ 15 (half) — tickets can be purchased online
Bortolan Dam (Represa Bortolan)
Covering 3.45 km² with a volume of 6.6 million m³, the Bortolan Dam is a favorite spot for water sports and leisure. It was inaugurated in May 1956 on the Rio do Peixe, a key tributary of the Rio Grande.
You can enjoy boat rides, jet skis, pedal boats, and sport fishing. The area also features restaurants and bars equipped to serve tourists.
- Address: Av. João Pinheiro, s/n – Bortolan
- Hours: Open daily
- Admission: Free entry — activity prices vary by provider
Pedra Balão (Balloon Rock)
Pedra Balão, or “Balloon Rock,” is a fascinating rock formation that resembles a giant balloon balanced on other stones. It’s located in the Serra de São Domingos Municipal Park, near the Christ the Redeemer monument and the Free Flight Ramp. It’s a popular spot for hiking, climbing, and panoramic city photos.
- Address: Serra de São Domingos Municipal Park, Poços de Caldas – MG
- Hours: Open on Saturdays and Sundays only
- Admission: R$ 10
What to do at Night in Poços de Caldas
Whew, there really is no shortage of things to do! And don’t think Poços goes quiet after sunset — make sure to save some energy to enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife as well:
Pedro Sanches Square – Cultural events and live music
This is the main spot for city events, from Carnival and Christmas celebrations to food fairs and festivals. It’s a lively meeting point and a great place to feel the local atmosphere in the evening.
💡 Tip: Keep an eye on the city hall’s website or Instagram pages like the local Department of Culture for updated events and shows during your trip.
Bars and restaurants
One of Poços de Caldas’ highlights is its culinary scene, and the evening is the perfect time to explore the many bars and restaurants. A bit further down this guide, I’ll share detailed tips on where I ate — and some places still on my list for next time!
See the city from a new perspective
Remember the Luminous Fountain? Head back there at night to see it fully lit up — it’s even more magical after dark. Take advantage of your walk to restaurants or cultural spots to enjoy Poços de Caldas’ gardens and squares beautifully illuminated.
Urca Cultural Center
Check the schedule at Teatro da Urca! The venue regularly hosts theater plays, concerts, and cultural performances — a great way to end the day with a local experience.
What to do in Poços de Caldas with kids
If you think Poços de Caldas is only for adults, think again! Bring the kids to explore this city full of history, culture — and lots of fun.
Zoo das Aves – A must for little explorers
This is the top family attraction in Poços! The chance to walk inside the large bird enclosures is what sets this zoo apart — and kids absolutely love it. It’s a great way for children to learn about animals in an immersive and interactive way.
Walter World – A themed amusement and water park
Did you know Poços has its own amusement and water park? Walter World is located a bit outside the city center, on the road to Andradas, and is currently only accessible to guests staying at the Thermas All Inclusive Resort — which makes it an excellent option for a family vacation on its own!
The park includes thrilling rides, water slides, a mini zoo, a military museum, a kids’ area at the resort, and organized recreation with staff monitors. Visit the resort’s official website to check availability and pricing.
Darcy Vargas Children’s Park – Free, central, and fun
This is a free, well-equipped, and centrally located option! When your little ones are tired of museums and spas and just want to play — this is the place. The park was designed specifically for children, with plenty of playground equipment and, like many places in Poços, a drinking fountain with cool, fresh mineral water.
It’s located inside Parque José Affonso Junqueira, near Rua Junqueiras.
What to do in Poços de Caldas in 3 days?
Let me start by saying that three days isn’t enough to see everything Poços de Caldas has to offer — but it’s more than enough to fall in love with the city and leave wanting more! I spent three days there, and it was the perfect amount of time to explore the highlights, get a feel for the city, and relax a bit.
Here’s how we spent our 3-day trip in Poços de Caldas:
Day 01: Arrival and getting to know the city
We left Campinas at 10:00 AM and arrived in Poços around 1:30 PM. We went straight to the Hotel Sesc, checked in, dropped our bags, and went out for lunch.
We chose Uai de Minas, which is on the same street as the hotel. I ordered a traditional feijão tropeiro, and it was delicious and very generous in portion! After lunch, we walked around the city center and explored Parque José Affonso Junqueira. Right away we noticed that many of the attractions we wanted to visit were within walking distance — but a heads-up: on Tuesdays, the cable car and Thermas are closed!
João enjoyed the Darcy Vargas Children’s Park, and we returned to the hotel to enjoy the pool and rest. For dinner, we went to Scalata Gastronomia, where I had Galinhada, a traditional Minas dish I really wanted to try.
Day 02: Municipal Market, Cable Car, Cristo Park, and Bird Zoo
On Wednesday, we got an early start and went straight to the Municipal Market after breakfast. I was pleasantly surprised — everyone was super friendly and the variety of local products was amazing. We left with a full bag of cheeses and sweets!
Then we headed to the cable car, and after getting over a bit of fear, we made it to the Cristo Park and loved the experience. On the way back down, we went back to Scalata for lunch — the service and food were both excellent again. This time I ordered their signature dish, Spaghetti à La Scalata, and honestly, it was the best meal of the trip.
In the afternoon, we visited the Zoo das Aves. Here’s a tip: go in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Although it was a hot day, it didn’t ruin our visit — we learned a lot and had a great time.
In the evening, we had dinner at Delícias da Vó Divina to try the famous filé à parmegiana.
Day 03: Thermas Antônio Carlos and Historical Museum
On our last day, we already woke up feeling nostalgic! After breakfast and checking out, we headed to Thermas Antônio Carlos, which was very close to our hotel. That’s when we discovered Casa do Colono, a lovely café inside the building — and of course, we had to stop for another coffee. The service, food, and drinks were all fantastic.
Next, we walked over to the Historical and Geographic Museum and also passed by the Urca Cultural Center. The museum really surprised us! I was amazed by how rich the collection was, and I had been worried João might get bored — but I was completely wrong!
After that, we just went back to the hotel to pick up our bags and headed to the bus terminal. There’s a shopping mall right across from the terminal, which made lunch logistics very easy before heading back to Campinas — already wishing we could stay longer.
Oh, and if you’re wondering what dishes João picked during the trip — you’ll be surprised to hear he ordered the same thing at every restaurant! João is autistic and has food selectivity, so when planning the trip, I chose restaurants with menu options that matched what he’s used to eating.
Also, every restaurant we visited was super accommodating and made small changes to the dishes with no issues at all.
What cities are near Poços de Caldas?
If you have a few extra days in Poços de Caldas, consider exploring nearby towns! Southern Minas Gerais is full of charming small cities known for their amazing food and unique attractions. Here are some excellent options:
Andradas (30 km) – Famous for wine
Andradas is a delightful destination for those seeking nature, rural tourism, and a strong winemaking tradition. Nicknamed the “Land of Wine,” it offers artisan wine production that draws visitors from all over. You can visit local wineries, learn about the production process, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy beautiful vineyard landscapes. Another culinary highlight is the regional Queijo do Reino, a must-try cheese.
For adventure and ecotourism lovers, Andradas has scenic trails and viewpoints. The Pico do Gavião is a top attraction — one of the best paragliding spots in Brazil. Even if you don’t fly, the views of the Serra da Mantiqueira are breathtaking. Other natural highlights include waterfalls and the striking Pedra do Elefante.
The town also values history and culture. In the center, visit the São Sebastião Church and the Casa da Cultura, which hosts exhibitions and events. Traditional festivals like the Festa do Vinho (Wine Festival) take place in July.
Did you know Andradas is part of the “Caminho da Fé” (Path of Faith)? Inspired by the Camino de Santiago in Spain, the Brazilian route covers 415 kilometers starting in Tambaú and passing through many towns — with Andradas being the first city in Minas Gerais to join the trail.
Cycling enthusiasts can take part in the “Rota das Vinícolas” (Winery Route), a scenic bike tour in May that visits all local vineyards.
Águas da Prata (40 km) – Mineral springs and nature trails
Still in the state of São Paulo, Águas da Prata is perfect for travelers looking for nature, wellness, and adventure. The town is famous for its mineral springs, especially the Fonte Vilela, which is believed to have therapeutic properties.
Ecotourism lovers can hike the Caminho da Fé, explore the Sete Quedas Waterfall, and the Cascatinha Trail, all located within the lush Serra da Mantiqueira. The area is filled with scenic trails, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints.
São João da Boa Vista (50 km) – Historic architecture and local food
São João da Boa Vista, known as the “City of Beautiful Sunsets,” is just a short drive away. It combines history, culture, and great food. The charming historic center is home to landmarks like the Municipal Theater, one of the most beautiful in the region, and the São João Batista Cathedral, known for its impressive neo-Gothic architecture.
Foodies will enjoy exploring the town’s artisanal cheeses and sweets. The city also hosts cultural and music events — most notably, the Winter Festival, making it a vibrant destination in the São Paulo countryside.
What to eat and where to eat in Poços de Caldas
Poços de Caldas offers a culinary scene that’s an attraction in itself, blending the best of traditional Minas Gerais cuisine with international influences brought by immigrants over the years. The city features classic restaurants, cozy cafés, and charming bakeries that are all part of the local experience.
Local dishes and where to find them
Stuffed cheese bread (Pão de Queijo Recheado): One of the city’s most iconic snacks, the stuffed cheese bread at Café Concerto is a must-try. The café also serves great coffee and has a cozy setting inside José Afonso Junqueira Park.
- Minas cheese and sweets: At the Municipal Market, you’ll find a wide variety of artisanal cheeses, doce de leite, goiabada cascão (thick guava paste), and other regional treats. It’s also a great spot to pick up souvenirs and edible gifts.
- Tutu de Feijão: This hearty Minas Gerais classic made with mashed beans is typically served with rice, sautéed collard greens, pork cracklings, and a fried egg. I had it at Uai de Minas and loved it!
- Parmesan-style steak (Filé à Parmegiana): One of the most popular dishes in the city, usually served with rice and fries. You’ll find it in many local restaurants.
Popular restaurants and gastronomic experiences
- Cantina do Araújo: A great choice for Italian food lovers. Known for handmade pasta and their famous baked rondelli.
- Ollivia Gastronomia: A more upscale restaurant offering contemporary dishes in a refined setting. Highlights include risottos and prime meat dishes made with high-quality ingredients.
- Uai de Minas: A traditional restaurant serving a full mineiro buffet. Expect dishes like chicken with okra, feijão tropeiro, and crispy pork cracklings in a rustic and welcoming atmosphere.
- Scalata Gastronomia: Located inside Hotel Minas Gerais, Scalata offers a wide-ranging menu that blends contemporary and classic flavors.
- Delícias da Vó Divina: A home-style restaurant that highlights comfort food and regional recipes. It’s located inside the Paço das Águas mall near José Afonso Junqueira Park.
- Becco Gastronomia & Cultura: One of the most refined dining options in Poços de Caldas. Becco offers high-end cuisine in an elegant space, with creative dishes like Canastra cheese risotto that fuse contemporary and regional flavors.
- Doce da Roça: Perfect for a traditional Minas Gerais afternoon coffee. Enjoy homemade cakes, breads, and sweets, along with fresh-brewed coffee made over a wood-burning stove — just like on a countryside farm.
With so many delicious options, Poços de Caldas is truly a food lover’s destination. Whether you’re craving a simple cheese bread and coffee, a hearty traditional lunch, or a fine-dining experience, the city has something for every taste.
Poços de Caldas is a charming destination that combines natural beauty, thermal waters, culture, and rich gastronomy. Whether you’re exploring scenic parks and mountains, relaxing in thermal spas, or indulging in local cuisine, the city caters to all travel styles and preferences.
For a romantic weekend, a peaceful retreat, or a fun family trip, Poços de Caldas will surprise and delight you. Start planning your journey and experience all the charm this beautiful city has to offer!
