Weekend in Belo Horizonte

Historic church from the late 19th century with a modest neoclassical facade and a richly decorated interior – painted ceiling, azulejo tiles, and wooden altars. It’s one of the ol

Tip: Mass times are the best chance to see the interior with lights on; weekday mornings around 08:00 are quiet. The church is a 5-minute walk from Praça Sete.

Museum housed in a restored train station, dedicated to the tools and crafts of Brazilian workers from the 18th to 20th centuries. Exhibits include carpentry, metalwork, and textil

Tip: Check the museum’s website – free entry days sometimes extend to Saturdays. The café in the old station hall serves decent coffee and pastries.

A lively market building with three floors of food stalls, artisan shops, and bars. The ground floor sells fresh produce and spices; the upper floors are for eating and drinking. Entry is free, but br

Tip: Head to the rooftop terrace on the third floor for a cheap beer and views of the city centre. Best visited on a weekday to avoid crowds.

Central square surrounded by historic government buildings and cultural centres. The gardens are designed by Burle Marx. Walk the circuit of museums around the square, including the Memorial Minas Ger

Tip: Visit on Sunday morning when the street is closed to traffic and the square fills with families, cyclists, and food stalls.

Large urban park at the foot of the Serra do Curral mountains, with native Atlantic Forest, walking trails, and viewpoints over the city. There’s a small lake, playgrounds, and plenty of shaded picnic

Tip: Take the trail to the Mirante das Mangabeiras viewpoint – it’s a 20-minute uphill walk but gives you the best panorama of Belo Horizonte. Go early morning to avoid heat.