10 Must-Do Year-Round Activities in Caxias do Sul Brazil That Mix Nature and Culture

Key Takeaways:

• Caxias do Sul is a charming city in Brazil’s wine country known for its Italian heritage, vineyards, and scenic landscapes.

• This guide explores 10 activities you can enjoy year-round—from hiking and cultural festivals to art museums and countryside escapes.

• Whether you love outdoor adventures or historic towns, Caxias do Sul has something unforgettable in every season.

Caxias do Sul, located in the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul, is a cultural and natural gem rooted in Italian immigrant traditions. Known for its vineyards, hilly landscapes, and festive spirit, this city offers a beautiful blend of history, gastronomy, and outdoor charm. Founded by Italian settlers in the 19th century, its European influence remains strong—from stone chapels and vineyards to artisan food and architecture. Today, Caxias is one of Brazil’s most important wine-producing regions and a favorite destination for both nature lovers and cultural explorers.

Whether you’re wandering through historic districts, tasting local wines, or hiking forested trails, Caxias do Sul offers a fulfilling experience throughout the year. The weather is mild with distinct seasons, making it ideal for slow travel, day trips, and festival hopping. This list features 10 year-round experiences that showcase the city’s best features—whether you’re visiting in high season or on a spontaneous weekend getaway.

Table of Contents

1. Hike the Trails of Parque da Festa da Uva

2. Explore the Historic Immigrant Route in Ana Rech

3. Visit the Stone Houses and Vineyards of the Vale Trentino

4. Discover Art and Culture at the Museu Municipal

5. Attend a Live Show at Teatro São Carlos

6. Relax at Parque Cinquentenário

7. Taste Wines Along the Caminhos de Pedra Route

8. Explore Cascata do Véu de Noiva Waterfall

9. Join a Local Cooking Workshop or Cheese Tasting

10. Enjoy Seasonal Events at Festa da Uva

1. Hike the Trails of Parque da Festa da Uva

Parque da Festa da Uva isn’t just a fairground—it’s a scenic hillside park with hiking trails, panoramic viewpoints, and shaded picnic areas that attract visitors all year. Best known as the site of Caxias’ famous grape festival every two years, the park is accessible even outside the event dates. You’ll find paved walkways winding through eucalyptus groves, gardens, and open-air amphitheaters perfect for a quiet stroll or weekend jog. The views from the top overlook both the city and the Serra Gaúcha mountains.

Benches and gazebos make it easy to relax and enjoy the fresh air, while interpretive signs share tidbits about the region’s history. On weekends, you might stumble upon pop-up food stands or musical performances that bring the space to life. Families often come for picnics and photo ops, especially around the grape sculpture and traditional pavilions. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or people-watching, this park is a local favorite that’s worth a visit any time of year.

2. Explore the Historic Immigrant Route in Ana Rech

Ana Rech, a district just outside Caxias do Sul, is home to the Rota dos Imigrantes, a self-guided walking or driving tour through the city’s Italian colonial roots. Along this route, you’ll pass century-old stone houses, roadside chapels, vineyards, and artisan shops that preserve the legacy of early settlers. The neighborhoods are quiet and picturesque, making the area perfect for slow exploration and cultural immersion. It feels like a living museum where history meets everyday life.

Stop by family-run cafes or bakeries that serve traditional dishes like grostoli and fortaia, passed down through generations. Several local wineries also welcome visitors for tastings or casual tours of their cellars and grape fields. It’s a peaceful contrast to the busy city center and provides a more intimate look at what makes this region unique. No matter the season, the charm of Ana Rech never fades.

3. Visit the Stone Houses and Vineyards of the Vale Trentino

The Vale Trentino region on the outskirts of Caxias do Sul is a beautiful blend of wine country and architectural history. Characterized by its iconic stone houses, rolling hills, and neatly aligned grapevines, it offers one of the most scenic drives in southern Brazil. Many of the properties here are family-owned wineries or restaurants with panoramic views and traditional Italian-style hospitality. It’s the perfect area to enjoy a glass of local Moscato Giallo or Merlot paired with cured meats and cheeses.

You can also visit small museums, rustic chapels, and artisan studios where local crafts are still made by hand. Guided tours are available, but exploring by car or bicycle on your own allows for spontaneous detours and photo stops. In autumn, the vineyards burst into color, while spring brings fresh blossoms and vineyard tours. The beauty and tranquility of Vale Trentino make it a can’t-miss destination, no matter when you visit.

4. Discover Art and Culture at the Museu Municipal

Located in a neoclassical building downtown, the Museu Municipal de Caxias do Sul offers a compelling journey through local history, art, and culture. The museum features permanent exhibits on the city’s founding, immigrant life, and industrial development, along with rotating contemporary art installations. It’s a quiet but rich stop that helps contextualize the places, people, and architecture you’ll see around the city. Admission is free or very affordable, making it a budget-friendly cultural experience.

Exhibits are well-labeled in Portuguese, and staff are friendly and knowledgeable if you have questions. The museum often partners with local artists, schools, and historians, so it feels current while honoring the past. It’s also a great rainy-day activity, especially for travelers looking to go beyond wine and nature. If you enjoy architecture, don’t forget to admire the building’s preserved interiors and stained-glass windows.

5. Attend a Live Show at Teatro São Carlos

Teatro São Carlos is one of Caxias do Sul’s cultural gems, hosting concerts, plays, dance performances, and community events throughout the year. The venue itself is a blend of classic and modern design, with an intimate atmosphere that enhances every performance. Whether you’re into Brazilian folk, classical music, or modern dance, you’ll find something on the calendar worth attending. The ticket prices are reasonable, and the experience offers a unique glimpse into the local arts scene.

The theater is located near several cafes and restaurants, making it easy to pair a performance with a pre- or post-show dinner. Shows are typically in Portuguese, but the expressive performances are enjoyable regardless of language. Keep an eye out for seasonal showcases or cultural festivals that use the theater as a central venue. It’s a wonderful way to engage with the city’s vibrant creative spirit.

6. Relax at Parque Cinquentenário

Parque Cinquentenário is one of the largest and most accessible green spaces in Caxias do Sul, making it a go-to spot for relaxation, exercise, and community events. The park features wide walking paths, shaded benches, sports courts, and a playground, offering something for all ages and energy levels. Locals come here to jog, meditate, or simply enjoy a quiet moment away from the busy city streets. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a great place to start your morning or wind down in the evening.

Seasonal flowerbeds brighten the landscape, and local families often gather here for picnics on weekends. You’ll also find food trucks and street performers depending on the day, especially near the main entrance. It’s a safe, family-friendly park that’s open year-round and popular among residents of all generations. If you want to experience Caxias do Sul like a local, an afternoon in Parque Cinquentenário is time well spent.

7. Taste Wines Along the Caminhos de Pedra Route

The Caminhos de Pedra (Paths of Stone) is a cultural and gastronomic route that weaves through the countryside just outside Caxias do Sul. This scenic drive showcases restored stone houses that now function as wineries, artisanal shops, and traditional restaurants. The route is not just about wine—it’s a deep dive into Italian-Brazilian heritage, where each stop feels like a storybook chapter. You can sample locally made cheeses, salami, colonial sweets, and of course, award-winning wines.

Many of the properties offer guided tastings and tours where you can learn about traditional winemaking methods passed down through generations. The landscapes here are photogenic year-round, whether you’re surrounded by green vineyards in summer or golden foliage in fall. Renting a car is the best way to enjoy the flexibility of the route. Plan to spend a half or full day soaking up the countryside, flavors, and culture at your own pace.

8. Explore Cascata do Véu de Noiva Waterfall

Nature lovers won’t want to miss Cascata do Véu de Noiva, a beautiful waterfall located about 15 minutes from the city center. Surrounded by native forest, the waterfall plunges over 40 meters and creates a serene, misty environment ideal for reflection and nature photography. A short hiking trail leads from the parking area to a wooden viewing platform, offering an up-close experience without needing advanced hiking skills. It’s a peaceful place to connect with nature and escape the urban buzz.

The site is accessible year-round and often uncrowded on weekdays. During the rainy season, the waterfall is especially powerful and dramatic, while drier months reveal interesting rock formations and surrounding flora. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes, as the path can be slippery in places. Whether you’re visiting solo or with friends, the peaceful sound of rushing water and birdsong make this spot unforgettable.

9. Join a Local Cooking Workshop or Cheese Tasting

For a hands-on cultural experience, consider joining a cooking class or cheese tasting at one of Caxias do Sul’s rural inns or community centers. These workshops often focus on traditional dishes such as polenta, galeto al primo canto, or house-made pastas, taught by locals who’ve inherited recipes through generations. It’s a fun way to deepen your appreciation for the region’s Italian-Brazilian fusion cuisine. Plus, you get to eat what you make—so everyone wins.

Many cheese farms in the surrounding countryside also offer guided tastings, where you’ll learn about aging processes and sample varieties made with regional flair. These experiences are offered year-round and can be booked individually or as part of larger food-and-wine tours. You don’t need to be a foodie to enjoy them—just come hungry and curious. It’s an authentic, interactive way to connect with Caxias’ rich culinary heritage.

10. Enjoy Seasonal Events at Festa da Uva

The Festa da Uva (Grape Festival) is the crown jewel of Caxias do Sul’s cultural calendar, held biennially—but the festival grounds and spirit are alive throughout the year. During the main event, the city transforms with parades, grape-stomping competitions, live music, and food stands offering traditional Italian-Brazilian fare. Visitors can watch the crowning of the festival queen and explore exhibits showcasing the region’s agricultural and cultural evolution. It’s a lively, family-friendly celebration that draws people from across the country.

Even when the main event isn’t taking place, smaller seasonal celebrations and exhibitions happen at the Festa da Uva grounds. You might stumble upon a wine tasting, food fair, or artisan market depending on the time of year. The park and its pavilions remain open for walking and sightseeing. It’s a place where the community’s identity and hospitality shine—making it well worth a visit, no matter the season.

What to do if you have kids?

Caxias do Sul is an excellent destination for families with children, thanks to its parks, open-air museums, and hands-on attractions. Places like Parque Cinquentenário offer safe playgrounds and plenty of space to run around, while nearby farms and wineries often have petting zoos and interactive tours. Museums like the Museu Municipal can spark curiosity with their historical exhibits, and workshops offer fun activities like pasta-making or grape-stomping. The city’s manageable size, welcoming locals, and peaceful pace make it easy for families to explore without stress.

Where can I find free events in Caxias do Sul Brazil taking place this weekend?

To find free concerts, cultural festivals, family activities, and local gatherings happening in Caxias do Sul this weekend, visit https://planmyweekend.ai. Our tool makes it easy to discover events that match your interests, from outdoor performances and local markets to workshops and museum nights. No need to scroll through social media or complicated calendars—just choose your city and let the platform do the rest. Whether you’re traveling or living locally, it’s the fastest way to plan a fun, budget-friendly weekend.

Final Thoughts

Caxias do Sul is a city where history, culture, and nature flow together beautifully across every season. Whether you’re wandering through vineyards, hiking to waterfalls, or celebrating at a local festival, the experiences feel grounded, genuine, and full of heart. It’s a destination that rewards curiosity, slow travel, and deep appreciation for tradition. From stone houses to street performances, every corner tells a story.

So whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, make room for the unexpected—Caxias do Sul will likely surprise you with its warmth, flavors, and unforgettable views.