3 day itinerary for Belo Horizonte

Itinerary

Belo Horizonte is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of things to see and do. Here's an ideal itinerary for 3 days in Belo Horizonte:

Day 1:

Start your day with a visit to the Pampulha Modern Ensemble, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes several iconic buildings designed by the famous Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. You can take a guided tour or explore the area on your own. After that, head to the Mercado Central, a bustling market where you can find everything from fresh produce to handicrafts. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many food stalls and try some local specialties like pão de queijo (cheese bread) and feijão tropeiro (bean stew). In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Arts and Crafts, which showcases the work of local artisans and has a beautiful collection of ceramics, textiles, and woodcarvings.

Day 2:

Today, explore the historic center of Belo Horizonte. Start at Praça da Liberdade, a beautiful square surrounded by historic buildings and museums. Visit the Palácio da Liberdade, the former seat of the state government, and the Museum of Mineralogy, which has an impressive collection of minerals and gemstones. From there, walk to the São José Church, a stunning example of baroque architecture. After that, head to the Central Market, another bustling market where you can find souvenirs, spices, and more. In the evening, catch a show at the Palácio das Artes, a cultural center that hosts concerts, plays, and dance performances.

Day 3:

On your last day in Belo Horizonte, take a day trip to the nearby Serra do Curral, a mountain range that offers stunning views of the city. You can hike to the top of the mountain or take a cable car for a more leisurely ride. After that, head to the Inhotim Institute, a unique museum that combines contemporary art with botanical gardens. The museum has over 500 works of art by artists from around the world, as well as a vast collection of exotic plants. In the evening, head to Savassi, a trendy neighborhood known for its bars and restaurants. Grab a drink and enjoy the lively atmosphere before heading back to your hotel.

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your time in Belo Horizonte!