Things to Do in Sorocaba

Neo-Gothic cathedral from 1924 with stained glass windows and a modest bell tower. Free to enter for self-guided visits.

🕐 Mon–Fri, 07:00–18:00; Sat, 08:00–17:00; Sun, 07:00–12:00

💡 Climb the bell tower for 10 reais (cash only) for a good view of the main square. The stairs are steep and narrow – not for claustrophobic visitors. Mass times are 7am and 6pm daily if you want quiet.

Historic covered market built in the 1920s. Browse stalls of fresh fruit, local ceramics, and cheap snacks like pastel de feira. No entry fee to walk around.

🕐 Mon–Sat, 06:00–18:00; Sun, 06:00–12:00

💡 Buy a bag of fresh-roasted coffee beans from the stall near the south entrance (R$8). Go before 10am when the meat section gets busy and queues form at the caldo-de-cana stand.

Modern and contemporary art collection in a converted mansion. Rotating exhibitions focus on Brazilian artists, plus a small sculpture garden.

🕐 Wed–Sun, 09:00–17:00; closed Mon–Tue

💡 Check their Instagram for free guided tours (Portuguese only, but the guide can point out highlights in English if you ask nicely). Limit your visit to 45 minutes.

One of Brazil’s best urban zoos, housing over 200 species of animals in spacious, shaded enclosures. Free on Tuesdays.

🕐 Tue–Sun, 08:00–17:00; closed Mondays

💡 Go on a weekday morning to avoid crowds (free entry applies only on Tuesdays; other days cost R$10). Bring your ID for free entry.

Large public park with jogging and cycling paths, a boating lake (bring R$20 per person for pedal boats), and dense mature trees. No entry fee.

🕐 Daily, 06:00–18:00 (gates close at 17:30)

💡 Rent a bike from the kiosk at the main entrance (R$15/hour) to cover the 3km loop. The best wildlife spotting is near the lake in late afternoon. Avoid Sundays if you dislike crowds.