If you’re looking for a trip that combines nature, culture, and cuisine, now is the time to discover what to do in Serra Negra. Located 150 kilometers from São Paulo, the city is known as “Brazilian Italy” and is home to a variety of attractions that make tourists feel like they’re in Europe without ever leaving the interior of São Paulo.
The region’s development dates back to the early 19th century, with the arrival of plantations and cattle ranches. Starting in the 1880s, however, hundreds of Italian immigrants arrived in what was then known as Vila Nossa Senhora do Rosário de Serra Negra to work in the coffee plantations.
In addition to labor, the Europeans brought with them centuries-old recipes, customs, and traditional celebrations that have shaped the culture of Serra Negra. It’s no coincidence that the city now boasts a replica of one of Rome’s most famous monuments !
“Brazilian Italy” in the interior of São Paulo
Anyone wondering what to do in Serra Negra should start by visiting the replica of the Trevi Fountain. The 11-meter-tall monument is slightly smaller than the one in Rome, but it maintains all the proportions and details faithful to the original.
Italian culture is also on display at Cantina e Ristorante Famiglia Schiavo, a family-run restaurant serving traditional pasta, wines, and desserts. In addition, the wineries of Serra Negra preserve the techniques and traditions of the early immigrants. The most famous is Vinícola Família Silotto, where visitors can enjoy picnics and sample artisanal wines.
Other things to do in Serra Negra: shopping, scenic overlooks, and relaxation
Another traditional attraction of “Brazilian Italy” is the cable car ride, which takes visitors to Pico da Fonseca and the famous statue of Christ the Redeemer. The Alto da Serra observation deck, meanwhile, stands at an altitude of 1,310 meters and is ideal for watching the sunset, having picnics, and taking in the beauty of the Mantiqueira Mountains.
The municipality is also part of the São Paulo Water Circuit, home to several mineral and thermal springs! The Serra Negra Spa, for example, offers relaxing baths and a variety of treatments. At Parques das Fontes, you can explore the “warm water” springs amid the preserved landscape of the Atlantic Forest.
Finally, anyone looking to update their wardrobe needs to check out the knitwear shops in Serra Negra. There are more than 400 scattered throughout the city, offering excellent value on knitwear, wool, and leather items .
