10 Amazing Things to Do in Chapecó Brazil All Year That Locals Secretly Love

Key Takeaways:

• Chapecó is a southern Brazilian gem with strong Italian and German roots, surrounded by rivers, valleys, and cultural richness.

• The city offers year-round access to outdoor adventures, regional cuisine, museums, and iconic landmarks.

• Whether you’re into trails, food, football, or festivals, Chapecó serves up authentic experiences without the tourist crowds.

Located in the state of Santa Catarina, Chapecó is a vibrant city in southern Brazil known for its agro-industry, deep cultural heritage, and strong community spirit. Founded in the early 20th century, it has grown into one of the region’s economic and cultural hubs. With strong Italian and German influences, Chapecó blends rural charm with modern energy.

It’s a city that thrives all year long, offering scenic lookouts, food markets, football matches, and outdoor adventures. Many visitors know Chapecó because of the beloved Chapecoense football club, but there’s much more to explore here—from waterfalls and trails to art galleries and artisan food scenes. It’s an underrated destination with a lot of soul.

Table of Contents

1. Take in the View at Mirante da Ferradura

2. Explore the Ecoparque Chapecó Trails

3. Visit the Catedral Santo Antônio and Praça Coronel Bertaso

4. Watch a Match at Arena Condá

5. Taste Regional Flavors at the Feira do Agricultor

6. Discover the Municipal Museum of Chapecó

7. Hike and Picnic at Vale do Rio Uruguai

8. Visit the Monumento o Desbravador

9. Enjoy the Chapecó Arts and Culture Center

10. Experience the Festitalia Cultural Festival

1. Take in the View at Mirante da Ferradura

Start your visit with a scenic stop at Mirante da Ferradura, one of the best viewpoints in Chapecó. Located just outside the urban area, it offers sweeping views of the Uruguai River’s horseshoe bend, surrounded by green hills and forests.

You can visit this lookout any time of year, though sunrise and sunset are especially beautiful. The area is well-maintained, has a parking lot, and is a great place for photos or a peaceful moment to take in nature. It’s also near several small eateries and rest areas, making it ideal for a quick picnic or break from city sightseeing.

2. Explore the Ecoparque Chapecó Trails

Right in the heart of the city, Ecoparque Chapecó offers a slice of nature with walking trails, fitness equipment, native flora, and quiet picnic spots. Locals love it for jogging, yoga, or simply breathing fresh air away from traffic.

It’s open daily and free to access, making it perfect for year-round visits. The park also serves as a hub for small weekend events, from community runs to eco-themed workshops. Keep an eye out for native birds and butterflies as you explore the loop paths. It’s an easy way to reconnect with nature without leaving the city limits.

3. Visit the Catedral Santo Antônio and Praça Coronel Bertaso

One of the most iconic landmarks in Chapecó is the Catedral Santo Antônio, a modern architectural wonder with angular lines and a massive bell tower. It faces Praça Coronel Bertaso, a lively plaza filled with gardens, fountains, and cultural monuments.

The cathedral is open to the public year-round and offers quiet reflection as well as guided visits. The surrounding square is ideal for people-watching, photography, or joining locals at evening food stalls. In December, the whole area lights up with Christmas decorations and music, turning it into a festive winter village. It’s the heart of Chapecó’s civic pride.

4. Watch a Match at Arena Condá

For football lovers, catching a live game at Arena Condá, the home of Chapecoense FC, is a must. The stadium holds a special place in the hearts of Brazilians, especially after the team’s emotional recovery following the 2016 plane crash.

Games are held throughout the year and the atmosphere is electric, especially when local fans pack the stands in green and white. Even if you’re not a diehard sports fan, it’s worth attending just for the energy, food vendors, and community spirit. You can also tour the stadium on non-game days for a look at the locker rooms and team museum. It’s a moving and exciting experience.

5. Taste Regional Flavors at the Feira do Agricultor

Every weekend, Chapecó hosts the Feira do Agricultor, a farmers’ market filled with fresh produce, homemade cheese, cured meats, breads, and artisan honey. It’s a local favorite for both grocery shopping and casual snacking.

The fair operates year-round and is a great way to support small farmers and food makers. You can chat with vendors, try samples, and even grab a warm pastel or chimarrão tea. The market also occasionally features live folk music and small crafts. It’s where Chapecó’s farm-to-table culture comes to life.

6. Discover the Municipal Museum of Chapecó

Located in a historic train station, the Museu Municipal Antônio Selistre de Campos showcases Chapecó’s cultural roots and development. Inside, you’ll find artifacts from the indigenous Kaingang people, colonial tools, photos, and documents tracing the city’s founding and expansion.

The museum is open year-round with free or low-cost entry. It’s a small but impactful stop that gives context to the German and Italian immigrant influence that shaped the region. Guided tours are sometimes available, and the building itself is part of the attraction. For history buffs or anyone wanting to understand Chapecó beyond the surface, this is a meaningful visit.

7. Hike and Picnic at Vale do Rio Uruguai

The Vale do Rio Uruguai, or Uruguay River Valley, is a nature-lover’s escape just outside the city. It offers short trails, lookout points, river views, and wide-open picnic spots perfect for families or solo explorers.

This area is great in any season, though spring and summer are especially green and full of life. Locals come here for barbecues, weekend strolls, or quiet reading time by the water. Some trails lead to small waterfalls or scenic bluffs overlooking the valley. It’s a peaceful spot to disconnect and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding Chapecó.

8. Visit the Monumento o Desbravador

Standing tall near the entrance of the city is Monumento o Desbravador, a massive bronze sculpture honoring the pioneering spirit of early settlers. The statue depicts a man with an axe and his son, symbolizing the courage and labor that built Chapecó.

It’s one of the most photographed landmarks in the region and can be visited year-round. There’s a well-kept plaza surrounding it, with benches, gardens, and walking paths. Interpretive signs provide historical context, making it more than just a photo op. It’s a strong symbol of Chapecó’s identity and resilience.

9. Enjoy the Chapecó Arts and Culture Center

The Centro de Cultura e Arte de Chapecó (CEU) is where local creativity thrives. Here, you can attend art exhibits, dance performances, workshops, film screenings, and music shows, with events happening throughout the year.

The center also offers community-led classes in painting, crafts, capoeira, and more. Check their schedule in advance or drop in for surprise performances on weekends. It’s a great way to meet local artists and get inspired. Whether you’re looking for culture or conversation, the CEU is a vibrant spot to plug into the creative pulse of the city.

10. Experience the Festitalia Cultural Festival

Each October, Chapecó hosts Festitalia, a colorful celebration of its Italian heritage. This multi-day festival includes folk dancing, traditional music, grape-stomping contests, homemade pasta tastings, and artisan markets.

It’s a family-friendly event filled with laughter, flavor, and pride — and draws thousands from around the state. Even if you’re visiting another time of year, you’ll see murals and community projects left behind from past editions. The event embodies Chapecó’s deep cultural roots and its commitment to celebrating them publicly. If your trip lines up, don’t miss this experience.

What to do if you have kids?

Chapecó is a great place to travel with kids. Local parks like Ecoparque and Praça Coronel Bertaso offer safe spaces to run and play. You’ll also find weekend puppet shows, kid-friendly food at the markets, and the Museu Municipal offers engaging exhibits for young learners. If you’re visiting in summer, splash pads and riverside picnic spots make it easy to keep little ones entertained. Just be sure to pack sunscreen, snacks, and a light jacket — southern Brazil’s weather can surprise you.

Where can I find free events in Chapecó Brazil taking place this weekend?

To discover free concerts, cultural fairs, community classes, or weekend events in Chapecó, head over to PlanMyWeekend.ai. This AI-powered tool helps you find local, real-time events happening near you — from open-air yoga sessions to public performances and farmers markets. Simply search “Chapecó” to see what’s going on this week, and you’ll uncover hidden gems locals love but tourists often miss. Best of all? It’s totally free to use.

Final Thoughts on Planning a Trip to Chapecó

Chapecó might not be on every travel list — and that’s exactly what makes it special. This southern Brazilian city is packed with culture, comfort, and authenticity, from its football legacy and forests to its immigrant heritage and hearty cuisine.

Whether you’re hiking through river valleys, dancing at Festitalia, or cheering at Arena Condá, you’ll feel the local pride in everything. It’s a destination for travelers who want connection over crowds. If you’re ready to see a new side of Brazil, Chapecó offers year-round reasons to stay awhile.