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Things to Do in Joinville

Things to Do in Joinville

Joinville Santa Catarina, Brazil Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Embrace Joinville’s natural surroundings with various outdoor pursuits.

Hiking & Water Sports

Morro da Boa Vista Trails

Various trails, from easy paved paths to moderate dirt trails. Enjoy rewarding views at the summit. Choose a path that matches your fitness level, and enjoy the the views at the top.

Serra Dona Francisca Hiking

Trails for various skill levels in the Atlantic Forest. Some routes suggest local guides. Explore waterfalls and lush vegetation.

Babitonga Bay Boat Tours

Available from Joinville port or nearby São Francisco do Sul. Explore isles and enjoy sightseeing. Book boat tours.

Adventure & Cycling

  • Kayaking/Stand-up Paddleboarding: Gentle waters of Babitonga Bay or local lakes.
  • Adventure Sports: Limited extreme adventure directly in Joinville. Seek regional operators for rappelling/zip-lining.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Parque Zoobotânico for controlled viewing; birdwatching in Serra Dona Francisca.
  • Cycling: Utilize urban cycling paths; mountain biking trails in surrounding hills.

Explore Trails

  • Morro da Boa Vista offers paths for all levels.
  • Scenic views await at the summit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes.
  • Early mornings are quieter for hiking.

Water Activities

  • Enjoy tranquil kayaking in Babitonga Bay.
  • Boat tours reveal scenic islands.
  • Consider fishing excursions.
  • Check local operators for equipment rentals.

Cycling Expeditions

  • Extensive urban bike paths for casual rides.
  • Mountain biking trails in surrounding hills.
  • Rentals may be available in the city.
  • Discover scenic routes.

Safety Advisory

For more challenging trails in Serra Dona Francisca, engaging a local guide is advised for safety and navigation. Always inform someone of your route and expected return time when venturing into less-traveled areas.

Cultural Immersion

Immerse yourself in Joinville's rich cultural scene, from dance to local traditions.

Workshops & Performances

  • Casa da Cultura Fausto Rocha Jr.: Offers cultural workshops, inquire about short-term participation.
  • National Dance School of Joinville: Observe rehearsals or attend open classes during Festival de Dança.
  • Festival de Dança de Joinville (July): The world's largest dance festival, a main heritage event.
  • Local Theaters: Teatro Juarez Machado and Teatro da Liga host plays, concerts, and performances.

Community & Festivals

Estrada Bonita Rural Experience

Interact with local farming families, sample homemade products, and experience rural existence for a direct connection to traditions.

Language Learning

Some private language schools may feature Portuguese classes for foreigners. Inquire about short courses or conversation practice.

Festa das Flores Flower Festival

Held in Mid-autumn, an exhibition of flowers and ornamental plants, often with cultural performances.

Art & Craft Classes

Engage in local art and handicraft classes for a hands-on experience of Joinville's creative side.

Music & Local Gigs

Discover local music venues where Brazilian popular music and other genres fill the air, especially on weekends.

Craft Beer Tastings

Visit local breweries for tastings and tours, immersing yourself in Joinville's growing artisanal beer culture.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find opportunities to relax and rejuvenate in Joinville.

Spa & Natural Therapy

  • Spa and Wellness Centers: Some upscale hotels feature spa services; independent centers also exist.
  • Hot Springs: No natural hot springs directly in Joinville. Thermal resorts in Southern Santa Catarina require multi-day trips.
  • Yoga and Meditation: Limited formal retreats; individual studios offer classes. Inquire locally for schedules.
  • Traditional Healing: Not a prominent tourist offering in Joinville.

Leisure & Recreation

Beach & Pool Clubs

Joinville is not a beach city. Nearby coastal towns like São Francisco do Sul and Balneário Barra do Sul feature beaches.

Hotel Pools

Many hotels offer pools for guest use, providing a refreshing option for relaxation within the city.

Parks & Gardens

Parque da Cidade or Parque da Expoville offer tranquil settings for walks and picnics.

Wellness Insights

Afternoon Retreats

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at a hotel spa. It makes a perfect way to unwind following a day of sightseeing and activities.

Outdoor Serenity

Find calm in the verdant spaces of Parque Zoobotânico or Parque da Expoville for a refreshing break from urban exploration.

Coastal Escapes

Plan a day trip to nearby beaches for sun, sand, and the sea breezes, offering a different form of relaxation.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Joinville features diverse things to do at night options, from live music to dancing.

Live Music & Performances

  • Live Music Venues: Taverns and bars in Centro or América districts feature live music.
  • Music Genres: Expect Brazilian popular music (MPB), rock, and numerous local genres.
  • Theater Spaces: Teatro Juarez Machado and Teatro da Liga host theatrical productions.
  • Event Schedules: Check local schedules for plays, concerts, and other shows.

Nightclubs & Socializing

Nightclubs & Dancing

Various nightclubs and dance venues cater to different musical tastes, from electronic music to Sertanejo (Brazilian country music).

Bar Districts

Areas around the city center and specific streets feature a concentration of bars and pubs. Explore these areas for a an animated evening.

Late-Night Options

Restaurants often stay open later, especially on weekends. Nightclubs generally operate into the early hours.

Cocktail Bars

Discover establishments specializing in craft cocktails and classic drinks, often with a sophisticated atmosphere.

DJ Nights

Find venues featuring local and guest DJs spinning a range of genres, from electronic to pop hits, for a dance experience.

Brewpubs

Visit local brewpubs for a taste of artisanal beers directly from the source, coupled with casual dining and social settings.

Safety at Night

As with any urban area, be alert, especially at night. Utilize reputable ride-sharing services or taxis when moving between venues. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas after dark.

Shopping & Markets

Discover shopping opportunities in Joinville, ranging from traditional markets to modern malls and artisan crafts.

Traditional Markets & Crafts

  • Mercado Público Municipal: Visit for fresh produce, local products, crafts, and food stalls.
  • Feira Livre (Farmer's Market): Offers fresh fruits, vegetables, and regional foods on several days and sites.
  • Artisan Workshops: Local artisans may feature shops or workshops for items reflecting German heritage or local culture.
  • Crafts: Look for handcrafted wooden items or textiles, often available at markets or specialized stores.

Souvenirs & Modern Shopping

Souvenir Recommendations

Dance-related items (especially during Festival de Dança), German-influenced crafts, and local food products like Cucas or artisanal cheeses.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

Shopping Mueller and Garten Shopping are significant malls having a wide range of international and Brazilian brands, along with eatery collections.

Ethical Shopping

Support local artisans and businesses. Inquire about product origin to affirm fair trade practices.

Local Food Gifts

  • Cucas (German-Brazilian cakes)
  • Artisanal cheeses from regional farms.
  • Local Cachaça (Brazilian spirit).
  • Homemade colonial products from Estrada Bonita.

Fashion & Apparel

  • Brazilian fashion brands at malls.
  • Local boutiques for special items.
  • Sportswear and outdoor gear stores.
  • Handcrafted textiles with local designs.

Specialty Stores

  • Bookstores with local literature.
  • Music stores for regional artists.
  • Souvenir shops adjacent to major attractions.
  • Handmade jewelry and accessories.

Shipping & Customs

International Shipping
  • Major carriers (e.g., FedEx, DHL) are available for shipping large items.
  • Consider postage services for bulk purchases or fragile crafts.
  • Factor in delivery times and costs.
Customs Regulations
  • Check customs regulations for your home country regarding the import of certain goods.
  • Restrictions apply to some food items, alcohol, and animal products.
  • Declare all purchases to avoid issues.

Shopping Tip

Buy local food products like Cucas or artisanal cheeses at the Mercado Público Municipal. They make delicious souvenirs and unique gifts reflecting Joinville's culinary heritage.

Activity Planning Summary

Prioritize Your Interests

  • Festival de Dança: If visiting in July, focus on dance performances and workshops.
  • Nature Escapes: Allocate time for Boa Vista Hill, Serra Dona Francisca, or a bay boat tour.
  • Cultural Exploration: Visit museums and historical sites to understand Joinville's heritage.
  • Culinary Journey: Dedicate meals to local German-Brazilian fusion and street food.

Logistical Considerations

  • Time Management: Distances between attractions can vary. Group activities by location.
  • Transportation: Decide between walking, public transport, ride-sharing, or renting a car for day trips.
  • Weather: Pack accordingly, especially for outdoor activities. Sudden showers can occur.
  • Local Information: Check with local tourism centers for up-to-date event schedules and advice.