Caxias do Sul

Caxias do Sul can be explored from many different perspectives: museums tell the stories of nature and the city’s history, historic sites preserve memories, and several parks offer green spaces to enjoy. There are also tours with clearly described routes and timings. If you’re looking for a holiday rental in Caxias do Sul, you might first consider whether culture, activity or relaxation in green surroundings should shape your stay.

Museums and city history

The Museu de Ciências Naturais at the Universidade de Caxias do Sul combines biological sciences with academic, scientific and cultural activities, as well as the communication of knowledge. Its permanent exhibitions and the UCS Aquarium are open to visitors Tuesday to Friday from 8:00 to 11:30 and from 13:30 to 18:00, and Saturday and Sunday from 14:00 to 17:00. This weekly schedule is useful when planning a museum visit: on weekdays there are two visiting periods, while on weekends there is one in the afternoon.

The Museu Municipal de Caxias do Sul offers a different view of the city’s history. It was established by municipal law No. 02 of 3 October 1947 and is now one of the city’s most representative places of remembrance. The Museu do Imigrante is located by the Monumento Nacional ao Imigrante. Its exhibition on the work of women in Caxias and their contribution to the city’s development places particular emphasis on the history of women’s lives and work.

Historic sites and art

The Museu Ambiência Casa de Pedra, also known as Casa de Pedra, is an authentic domestic setting from the late 19th century. A glimpse into a historic home complements the perspective offered by museums focusing on natural sciences or the memory of the city. The Réplicas de Caxias do Sul de 1885 complex has also been located within the grounds of Parque de Eventos Festa Nacional da Uva since 1978.

At Igreja São Pelegrino, visitors can see works by Aldo Locatelli. In the atrium stands a replica of Michelangelo’s Pietà, donated by Pope Paul VI on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Italian immigration. There are also bronze doors featuring high-relief sculptures by Augusto Murer. Those interested in art and memorials associated with the history of immigration will find several specific works here, along with their creators and the contexts in which they were made.

Green spaces and city views

Parque Mário Bernardino Ramos is also known as Parque de Eventos da Festa Nacional da Uva. It is located on elevated ground, surrounded by extensive green space, and offers panoramic views of Caxias do Sul. Here, the focus is on the view across the city. Parque Getúlio Vargas, also known as Parque dos Macaquinhos, is one of the most important public recreation areas in Caxias do Sul. Its facilities include extensive green space, a cycle path, a skate park, and a stage for shows and events. The two parks therefore offer different things: views and open green spaces at one, and a cycle path, skate park and event stage at the other.

Tours for active days

On the Cicloturismo da Ponte, the route follows an old Tropeiro trail to Ponte do Korff, a symbol of an economic activity from the early 20th century. The cycling tour is 21 km long, takes 4 hours and has a moderate difficulty level. These details help you assess the tour as a standalone activity and take its duration and distance into account when planning your day.

The Caminhada na Gruta da 3º Légua is a historical and cultural hiking trail rated Level I; it takes 3 hours. The Cachoeirismo at Cascata da Rosa includes a 35-metre positive descent on a rope using abseiling techniques. The activity takes one shift, and the safety technique used can be learned ten minutes beforehand. This makes it easy to distinguish between very different excursions: a hike lasting several hours, a cycling tour of moderate difficulty, or a rope descent that requires its own technique.

Beyond the city limits, Caxias do Sul is also a municipality on the Passo do Vinho tourist route. The route also includes Flores da Cunha, Nova Pádua and Nova Roma do Sul. When choosing a holiday rental or holiday home, it may therefore be worth considering not only the museums and parks, but also which of the activities described will shape your stay.

More destinations to explore: Não-Me-Toque, Itati, São José do Norte, Arroio dos Ratos, Rodeio Bonito, Cambará do Sul, Santa Vitória do Palmar and São Jerônimo.

See the broader travel overview: Rio Grande Do Sul.