10 Unique Activities That Make Embu Brazil a Must-Visit All Year

Key Takeaways:

• Embu is a vibrant arts-and-crafts town full of cultural charm just outside São Paulo.

• Visitors can explore artisan markets, nature parks, colonial architecture, and year-round festivals.

• It’s the perfect mix of creative expression, small-town warmth, and natural beauty.

Located just 30 kilometers from São Paulo, Embu das Artes—often called simply Embu—is one of Brazil’s most charming small towns. Known for its bohemian energy, colonial architecture, and rich artisan culture, Embu attracts artists, travelers, and weekend explorers year-round. Founded in the 16th century, the town’s historical roots run deep, yet it thrives today as a lively destination where creativity meets tradition. The cobbled streets, colorful galleries, open-air fairs, and peaceful green spaces create a welcoming atmosphere for all types of visitors. Whether you’re coming for a day trip or a longer stay, Embu offers something inspiring in every season.

Table of Contents

1. Explore the Feira de Artes e Artesanato

2. Visit the Museu de Arte Sacra dos Jesuítas

3. Stroll Through Parque do Lago Francisco Rizzo

4. Check Out the Street Murals and Art Studios

5. Attend the Winter Festival of Embu das Artes

1. Explore the Feira de Artes e Artesanato

The Feira de Artes e Artesanato (Art and Handicraft Fair) is Embu’s most iconic attraction, transforming the town center every weekend into a colorful maze of stalls and creativity. Dozens of artisans showcase handmade jewelry, furniture, paintings, sculptures, textiles, and gourmet treats. The fair reflects Brazil’s diverse cultural influences and offers something for every taste—from rustic woodwork to vibrant Afro-Brazilian art. It’s the heart and soul of Embu, pulsing with music, laughter, and the scent of roasted nuts and regional snacks.

Held year-round, the fair is busiest on weekends and holidays, when live music and street performers add even more energy. You can spend hours browsing stalls, chatting with artists, or relaxing at nearby cafés. Many vendors accept credit cards, and it’s the perfect place to pick up a meaningful souvenir. Even if you don’t buy anything, the fair is a feast for the senses.

2. Visit the Museu de Arte Sacra dos Jesuítas

Housed in a beautifully preserved 17th-century Jesuit building, the Museu de Arte Sacra offers a glimpse into Brazil’s colonial past and religious artistry. Inside, you’ll find a collection of sacred art, wood carvings, historical documents, and liturgical objects. The structure itself is as impressive as the exhibits, with stone walls, wooden ceilings, and a peaceful courtyard that evokes the spiritual stillness of centuries past. It’s one of the best-preserved examples of baroque religious architecture in the state of São Paulo.

Open year-round, the museum is a quiet, reflective space—ideal for those seeking a deeper connection to Embu’s history. Guided tours are often available in Portuguese, and many exhibits include English translations. If you’re a fan of history, architecture, or religious art, this stop will not disappoint. It offers a serene contrast to the bustling artisan fair just steps away.

3. Stroll Through Parque do Lago Francisco Rizzo

Parque do Lago Francisco Rizzo is Embu’s main urban park—a lush retreat where locals go to walk, picnic, jog, and unwind. The park centers around a tranquil lake surrounded by native trees, walking paths, playgrounds, and sports courts. It’s home to ducks, turtles, and birds, making it a favorite for kids and nature lovers alike. There are also fitness stations and shaded rest areas ideal for a mid-day break.

Open daily and free to enter, the park is a favorite spot for both exercise and relaxation throughout the year. Weekends often bring community yoga classes, cultural events, or live music performances. It’s also a great place to enjoy a traditional Brazilian snack like pastel or açaí from nearby food stalls. If you’re craving nature without leaving town, this park is your green escape.

4. Check Out the Street Murals and Art Studios

Embu’s art scene doesn’t stop at the fair—it spills onto its walls, alleys, and workshops. All around the city, you’ll find colorful murals, graffiti pieces, and hand-painted signage that transform everyday streets into outdoor galleries. Many of these works celebrate Afro-Brazilian heritage, indigenous motifs, and contemporary social themes. Artists often work in their studios with open doors, inviting visitors to watch them paint, sculpt, or mold ceramics in real time.

This living art experience happens year-round and evolves constantly as new pieces pop up or change. If you’re lucky, you may even stumble into a spontaneous art demonstration or community painting event. Art lovers and photographers will be in heaven, especially in the quieter backstreets beyond the fair. It’s proof that Embu isn’t just about buying art—it’s about living in it.

5. Attend the Winter Festival of Embu das Artes

Each July, Embu hosts the Festival de Inverno (Winter Festival), a city-wide celebration of music, food, art, and tradition. The event features multiple stages with performances ranging from samba and MPB to jazz and classical, along with artisan workshops and food stalls selling seasonal favorites. The entire historic center comes alive with lights, performances, and cultural exchange. It’s a great way to see the town at its most festive and creative.

While winter in Embu is mild, the festival creates a cozy vibe with hot drinks, warm dishes, and outdoor fireplaces. Events are free or low-cost and attract visitors from across São Paulo. Plan to arrive early to catch the best shows and avoid parking hassles. For a taste of local pride and rhythm, the Winter Festival is one of the town’s top highlights.

6. Take a Pottery or Painting Workshop

Embu isn’t just a place to see art—it’s a place to make it. Several local studios offer workshops where visitors can try their hand at pottery, painting, or traditional Brazilian crafts. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned creator, these hands-on sessions are a great way to connect with Embu’s artistic spirit. Many classes are held in charming open-air ateliers with all materials included.

Workshops are offered year-round and often tailored for tourists, with instructors who speak basic English or Spanish. You can find sessions for adults, kids, and even private group options. Most participants leave with a finished piece to take home—your own handmade souvenir. It’s an enriching, interactive experience that lets you tap into the town’s creative soul.

7. Taste Traditional Cuisine at Local Restaurants

From hearty Brazilian stews to regional specialties with indigenous and Portuguese influences, Embu’s food scene is full of flavor and tradition. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating and rustic decor, serving dishes like feijoada, moqueca, and wood-fired meats. You’ll also find artisanal desserts, homemade jams, and locally brewed cachaça. A few spots even pair meals with live music on weekends.

These restaurants operate year-round, but weekends are livelier, especially when paired with the artisan fair. Don’t miss trying a pastel de feira from a street vendor or sipping fresh caldo de cana (sugarcane juice). Food in Embu isn’t just nourishment—it’s a cultural celebration. Every meal becomes part of the town’s warm and welcoming identity.

8. Visit the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário

This historic church, located in the heart of Embu, dates back to the 17th century and showcases classic colonial Brazilian architecture. Inside, you’ll find modest yet beautiful religious art and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for quiet reflection. The church is also a focal point for religious festivals, community gatherings, and public celebrations throughout the year. Its white façade and stone steps make it one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks.

Open daily and free to enter, the church adds a spiritual dimension to your visit. Whether you’re religious or not, the building’s history and serenity offer a unique glimpse into Embu’s cultural roots. Visiting during Mass or a festival day offers an even deeper connection to local traditions. It’s a meaningful stop that anchors the old-town charm of Embu.

9. Browse the Antique and Vintage Shops

Embu is a treasure trove for antique lovers. Scattered throughout the historic center are shops filled with vintage furniture, vinyl records, religious relics, ceramics, and quirky collectibles. Many pieces tell stories of Brazil’s colonial and mid-century past, from baroque mirrors to art deco chandeliers. Prices vary widely, but browsing is half the fun.

These shops are open all year and often run by passionate collectors who love to chat about their finds. You never know what you’ll stumble upon—an old samba record, a rare religious statue, or a handmade toy from the 1960s. Even if you’re not buying, the nostalgia and craftsmanship are captivating. For vintage hunters, it’s one of Embu’s most charming surprises.

10. Relax at a Cozy Bed and Breakfast or Eco-Lodge

To truly soak up Embu’s calm atmosphere, consider staying overnight at one of its boutique inns or eco-lodges. These charming accommodations often feature garden courtyards, handmade decor, hammocks, and regional breakfasts with fresh fruit and baked goods. Some even offer forest views or are tucked just outside the town center for extra tranquility. Staying overnight allows you to enjoy Embu after the day crowds leave, when the cobbled streets glow under soft lighting and the town takes on a magical stillness.

These stays are available year-round and range from budget-friendly to boutique luxury. Many are run by local families who can offer personalized tips and hidden gems to explore. It’s the perfect way to turn a quick visit into a relaxing getaway. Wake up to birdsong, sip coffee under the trees, and experience Embu’s slower side in full.

What to do if you have kids?

Embu is a wonderful destination for families with children, offering plenty of creative and outdoor fun. The artisan fair has face painting, mini puppet shows, and musical performances that kids love. Parks like Francisco Rizzo have wide open spaces for running, playgrounds, and duck ponds. Many restaurants are kid-friendly and some workshops even cater to younger ages with clay modeling or drawing sessions. It’s an easygoing town where families can relax, explore, and create new memories together.

Where can i find free events in Embu Brazil taking place this weekend?

To find free concerts, cultural festivals, food fairs, workshops, and community events in Embu happening this weekend, head over to PlanMyWeekend.ai. Our AI-powered tool curates the best free experiences based on your location, time, and interests. Whether you’re into live music, art demos, outdoor fitness, or food tastings, we’ll help you discover what’s happening nearby. Just search “Embu, Brazil” and unlock your weekend plans—no tickets, no hassle.

Final thoughts

Embu Brazil isn’t just a destination—it’s a vibe. From cobbled streets filled with color to peaceful parks and soulful traditions, the town invites you to slow down and savor the moment. Whether you’re browsing art, meeting local makers, tasting homemade food, or simply watching the world go by, Embu’s charm lies in its authenticity. It’s a weekend getaway that turns into a lifelong memory. Come for the art, stay for the magic—you might just fall in love with the spirit of Embu das Artes.