14 Best Things to Do in Gramado Brazil: Explore the Christmas Village Magic

Already visited Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo? Well then, it’s time to check out the cozy mountain resort town of Gramado Brazil, in Southern Brazil.

If you’re the adventurous type, you will love this place. Gramado seems to have it all — scenic lakes, mountain adventures, chocolate factories, Alpine chalets, and beautiful gardens. For an extra touch of magic, Gramado turns into a Christmas village between October and early January, with the dates slightly varying every year.

If you’re planning to visit Gramado, I would recommend bringing that camera for nonstop snaps of breathtaking views. And if you’re a Christmas enthusiast, like me, I would highly recommend staying between October and early January. 

14 Best Things To Do in Gramado, Brazil

There are a lot of things to do in Gramado, I’ve stayed a full week and haven’t been bored once. So here are the activities you absolutely shouldn’t miss. Whether you’re already planning for your itinerary or just daydreaming, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared to make sure your trip is nothing but unforgettable.

1. Visit Snowland Park

Are you into skiing, snowboarding, and tubing? Well, you’re lucky because Snowland Park offers these activities no matter what time of the year. With its artificial snow, it’s the first park in South America to provide you with snow throughout the year.

The ticket price depends on your age, ranging from $20 to $60. Prices may vary depending on when you plan to visit the park, with tickets more expensive in high season.

Snowland Park is so huge that there is even a map provided on the park’s webpage. You won’t get bored during your visit here, there are plenty of attractions for you and your family to try out and have fun with. It is cold inside the theme park so it’s recommended to bring warm clothes to keep you warm.

2. Walk On Rua Coberta 

One of the prettiest streets you can walk through in the entire Gramado is Rua Coberta, which means “covered street.” The entire street has trees and small restaurants on the sides where you can stop and have snacks or food. 

Although the street itself is considered a major attraction due to its beautiful construction, the street becomes even more alive during major events. Events like the Gastronomy Festival and Film Festival are held here. So, I recommend visiting the place when there’s an event going to fully enjoy the experience. I visited it during the Men’s FIFA World Cup, and the atmosphere was absolutely electrifying.

3. Paddle-boating at Lago Negro Park

Lago Negro, or Black Lake Park, is one of the best places to spend time in Gramado. But, if you see the park in person, you won’t ever think that it was built after a massive fire that destroyed the region’s vegetation. 

You may have wondered why is the park’s name similar to the Black Forest in Germany. Oh well, it’s because most of the trees that you can see in this park were imported from Germany’s Black Forest, hence the name Lago Negro or Black Lake in English.

You can enter the park at any time of the day for free to either sit or stroll around while enjoying the weather. But if you want to join the swan-boats paddling on the lake, be sure to be there early. We were there in December and there was quite a line with families who wanted to be on the water.

4. Visit Igreja Matriz São Pedro Apostolo

Igreja Matriz São Pedro Apostolo, also known as The Church of St. Peter the Apostle, holds a historical value in Gramado as the church’s architectural design was built back in 1942. The church has attractive wood carvings on the ceiling and a 150-foot-tall (46-meter) bell tower. 

If you’re a fan of historic sites, then this place is definitely a must-see for you, especially during the Christmas season, when it hosts some big and enjoyable events.

And when you’ve worked up your appetite from all that sightseeing, there are plenty of eateries nearby, which range from fast foods to expensive restaurants — including Restaurante e Café São Pedro, which is named in honor of the church itself.

5. Witness Cascata do Caracol

Cascata do Caracol is around a 430-foot-long (131 m) waterfall in Caracol State Park. The waterfall comes from the Caracol River, which flows between mountains. The waterfall is so beautiful that it is a major tourist attraction in Brazil. 

You can view the waterfall from three points: through the front viewpoint at the top, from the ecological observatory, and by the staircase that leads to the lower part of the park.

An experience with this fantastic waterfall will cost you around 63 BRL ($11.05) per person. It may sound like a lot for a ticket, but the waterfall you will get to see will make your ticket worth it.

6. Visit World Chocolate Lugano

One of the best places you can visit in Gramado is the World Chocolate Lugano. The museum has around 200 sculpted pieces built in chocolate, including the famous Eiffel Tower. Here is where you see how creative one can get with chocolates.

7. Experience Traditional Gaucho Dinner and Dance 

For a true taste of Brazilian culture, you can experience the best Brazilian cultural dance in Gramado hotels. You’ll get the front-row experience of Brazil’s best traditions. Not only that, but all you have to do is sit back and watch as everything else is already taken care of.

They’ll pick you up from your hotel, treat you to a full dinner during the performance, and drop you off once the whole show and experience is over. Don’t worry, all of these are already included in the ticket’s cost. Awesome, right?

8. Explore Nicoletti Square

Nicoletti Square is a plaza built in the mountainous area of Gramado, Brazil where you can roam around with maps and discover things by yourself. 

It is definitely a chic place to visit, with lots of fountains to see, and if you want a romantic date, this place is also for couples, as the abundant flowers in bloom can add to that romantic atmosphere.

9. Enjoy Florybal Magic Park Land

For a family fun day, Florybal Magic Park Land is where you should visit. This place has it all: winding paths through themed areas with lakes, sculptures, and exciting, life-sized moving dinosaurs.

Take the dinosaur bus to explore everything — from a goblin mine and medieval castle to a mini chocolate factory with samples, plus kid-friendly rollercoasters and an amazing 7D cinema. And don’t miss the chocolate fountain. 

There is a lot to do in this park and I can assure you that you and your kids will enjoy the experience in this fun-filled place.

10. Discover Itaimbezinho, the Largest Canyon in Brazil

If you love exploring and adventure, this activity is for you. There are two different border trails (Track Apex and Trail Elbow Lookout) where you can see the massive Itaimbezinho, the largest canyon in Brazil. You go there as part of a group, and after reaching the canyon, you will see a beautiful waterfall and breathtaking viewpoints.

Traveling there can be a bumpy ride, as the road is unpaved and full of potholes, so taking travel medications beforehand is a good idea. Once there, you can tackle a trail through the middle of Itaimbezinho Canyon, complete with river crossings. This hard-level hike is perfect for those looking to push their limits.

11. Tour To Gran Reserva

You can experience a full-day trip to the Valley of Vineyards (Vale dos Vinhedos), where most of Brazil’s wines are produced. The area is known for its stunning green landscapes. You can opt for a private tour through Vale dos Vinhedos, departing from Bento Gonçalves, with an exclusive car for up to 4 people. The tour lasts between 4 and 8 hours, giving you the chance to learn all about the vineyards and enjoy wine tastings along the way.

12. Dinner at the Lago Joaquina Rita Bier

If you’re looking for a place to visit for free, you can head on to Lago Joaquina Rita Bier. It is a beautiful place with a small lake where you can walk around and chill. 

And do you know the best part? When night falls, fountains light up the lake, turning it into a mini light show. You get to see something beautiful, take pretty photos, and chill with nature, all for free.

13. Spend a Day at Mini Mundo

Located 15 minutes from the central town of Gramado, Mini Mundo is famous amongst travelers because of a “Mini Brazil” built here, where you can roam around and see miniature Brazilian and international landmarks.

There are also restaurants, such as Mini Mundo Comedoria & Boteco, a famous restaurant within the Mini Mundo. The restaurant provides an immersive experience with a menu that includes traditional dishes, like feijoada and pão de queijo, as well as international dishes.

14. Visit the Hollywood Dream Cars – Automobile Museum

If you are someone who loves cars and Hollywood, then this is the best place for you. The museum has cars from the 1900s. The museum has over 30 cars to showcase, all from famous brands.

And if you’re a fan of Cadillacs, oh boy then you’ll have one more reason to visit this place. Actually, this museum has the largest collection of Cadillacs in Latin America.  

Gramado Brazil – Transportation

Gramado, Brazil, is a city with many tourist spots, and if you are someone traveling here, having multiple means of transport within the city is nothing short of a blessing. 

We’ve been taking Ubers around Gramado, as it’s quite a good value for your money. Besides that, I’m a big fan of taking the bus whenever you can. With bus tickets being available from 5 BRL ($1) in most cases, you’ve got really good value for your money in that aspect.

Where To Stay in Gramado, Brazil

The city has plenty of hotels where you can stay, from expensive to mid-range to budget options. So, if you are traveling to Gramado, make sure you go through the list of hotels and their pricing to plan your trip accordingly.

Budget: Sky Palace Hotel

Nestled in the charming town of Gramado, Sky Palace Hotel is situated 2 mi (2.7 km) from Gramado Bus Station. This 3-star hotel provides guests with comfortable accommodations with mountain views, and it includes a shared lounge, free private parking, and an on-site restaurant. Guests can also take advantage of the indoor pool. 

Mid-Range: Sky Serra

The Sky Serra Hotel is just 3,000 ft (900 m) from Black Lake Gramado and a 12-minute walk from Mini Mundo. You can also reach Gramado Bus Station with a 16-minute walk. The hotel provides complimentary WiFi and features a 24-hour front desk for guests and tour organizing services.

Luxury: Wyndham Gramado Termas Resort & Spa

Wyndham Gramado Termas Resort & Spa is 4 mi (7 km) from Black Lake Gramado. This resort offers comfortable accommodations with a bar and private parking. Guests can dine at the on-site restaurant and enjoy their fitness center, indoor pool, and sauna. The hotel also features a hot tub, a kids’ club, and complimentary WiFi.

For more accommodation options, you may click on the map.

Essential Things To Remember When Traveling to Gramado, Brazil

The things you need to pack for Gramado depend on the time of year. From January to March, the weather is warm, with average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F), so light clothing like dresses and comfortable shoes are ideal. 

However, between April and September, the temperatures drop, ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), so it’s best to pack warmer clothes. Don’t forget sweatpants, as the city has many parks and hiking trails to explore

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Gramado Brazil 

Is Gramado, Brazil Safe?

Gramado, Brazil, is a secure tourist destination. The city has low crime rates compared to other Brazilian cities. While it’s generally safe to stroll the streets alone at night, exercise common sense and avoid isolated areas after dark, keep your valuables secure, and stay aware of your surroundings.

For added peace of mind, consider protecting yourself with travel insurance such as SafetyWing, which can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen incidents during your stay. Use the widget below to snag the perfect policy for your needs and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got your back covered, no matter what adventures come your way!

Where Is Gramado, Brazil Located?

Gramado is located in the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul, in the scenic Serra Gaúcha region. It lies southeast of Caxias do Sul and east of Nova Petrópolis. Located 64.3 mi (103 km) from Porto Alegre, Gramado is easily accessible by car or bus from Porto Alegre. The bus takes a couple of hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

What Is the Weather Like in Gramado, Brazil?

With a warm and temperate climate, Gramado has mild summers, cool winters with occasional snowfall, and considerable rainfall even during the hottest months. The city’s average temperature is around 62.1 degrees Fahrenheit (16.7 degrees Celsius).

Conclusion – Gramado Brazil 

Being the biggest country in South America, Brazil has cities that can be as singular as its large land area and varied geography. Gramado is a case in point with its unique Bavarian influence that’s blended with its Brazilian heritage, making it a great destination to visit.

But as this article bears out, history and culture are just two of the main attractions of Gramado. See for yourself and choose your travel adventures when you come and check this charming Brazilian destination off your bucket list.

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