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Things to Do in Ribeirao Preto

Things to Do in Ribeirao Preto

Ribeirao Preto Sao Paulo, Brazil Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Ribeirão Preto gives opportunities for outdoor enjoyment inside its parks and nearby natural areas.

Hiking & Water Sports

Hiking and Trekking

City parks (Parque Maurílio Biagi, Raya Park) offer easy walking/running trails. For challenging routes, travel to nearby nature preserves like Parque Estadual de Serra Azul (1-2 hours drive).

Water Sports and Activities

Ribeirão Preto lacks natural bodies of water for sports within the city. Private clubs or resorts may offer pools. Significant water sports require travel to coastal areas or larger lakes in São Paulo state.

Adventure Sports

Limited within the city proper. Opportunities for zip-lining or rappelling exist in outdoor adventure parks in the broader area surrounding Ribeirão Preto.

Wildlife & Cycling

  • Wildlife Encounters: Jardim Botânico and city parks offer birdwatching and small urban wildlife observation.
  • Cycling Routes: Mainly recreational within urban parks. Dedicated bicycle lanes on the streets of the city are limited.
  • Urban Traffic: Cycling is not recommended as a main mode of transport for most tourists due to heavy urban traffic.
  • Mountain Biking: Trails found outside the city in more rural or hilly areas, requiring specific planning and transport.

Regional Day Trips

  • Explore Parque Estadual de Serra Azul for more challenging hikes.
  • Discover adventure parks in the wider Ribeirão Preto region.
  • Consider traveling to other regions for water sports.
  • Plan for specific transport for out-of-city excursions.

Urban Green Spaces

  • Enjoy walking and running in Parque Maurílio Biagi.
  • Relax by the artificial waterfalls at Raya Park.
  • Explore native flora at Jardim Botânico.
  • Look for bird spotting opportunities within city parks.

Recreational Cycling

  • Utilize exclusive pathways within city parks.
  • Exercise caution due to limited bike lanes on city streets.
  • Consider mountain biking outside the urban environment.
  • A good way to sightsee within specific park areas.

Safety Advisory for Cycling

Due to heavy urban traffic and limited dedicated lanes, cycling on Ribeirão Preto's the streets of the city is not recommended for tourists. Prioritize safety by sticking to parks or designated recreational areas.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Ribeirão Preto's cultural fabric through workshops, performances, and regional events.

Learning & Performances

  • Workshops & Classes: SESC Ribeirão Preto frequently offers art, craft, music, or dance workshops.
  • Cultural Performances: Theatro Pedro II for classical music, ballet, theater. Local cultural centers for intimate shows.
  • Community-Based Tourism: Not as prevalent for international tourists; informal exchanges may arise.
  • Language Learning: Private tutors or language schools for Portuguese lessons, mainly for long-term visitors.

Major Cultural Events

Ribeirão Rodeio Music

Major annual rodeo and music festival (April/May) featuring popular Brazilian country music (sertanejo) artists.

Agrishow

One of the largest agricultural technology trade fairs globally, held annually in May. Mainly a business event, it draws international visitors.

Festa Junina

June festivals with traditional food, music, and dance, celebrated in community centers and schools. Offers a festive, family-friendly atmosphere.

Live Music & Dance

Experience diverse music genres and traditional Brazilian dances at local venues and festivals.

Theater & Arts

Enjoy high-quality theatrical performances and art exhibitions at Theatro Pedro II and other cultural centers.

Seasonal Festivities

Time your visit with major events like Ribeirão Rodeio Music or Festa Junina for lively cultural experiences.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation within Ribeirão Preto.

Spa & Fitness

  • Spa Services: High-end hotels (JP Hotel, Wyndham Garden) offer spa services and gyms.
  • Day Spas & Salons: Independent day spas and beauty salons throughout the city provide various treatments.
  • Pool Clubs: Large hotels or private clubs often have extensive pool facilities, some with day-use options.
  • Hot Springs: Ribeirão Preto does not have natural hot springs. Travel to specific regions known for warm mineral waters is necessary.

Mind & Body

Yoga & Meditation

Local studios offer regular yoga and meditation classes. Dedicated multi-day retreats are typically outside the city in serene, rural settings.

Traditional Healing

Traditional healing practices are not a prominent tourist offering in Ribeirão Preto.

Outdoor Serenity

Public parks like Raya Park offer tranquil settings for peaceful strolls and moments of relaxation amidst nature.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music Venues

Bars and pubs in Zona Sul feature genres from sertanejo to rock and jazz. Check local listings.

Theater & Performances

Theatro Pedro II is the main venue for theatrical performances, classical concerts, and ballets.

Nightclubs & Bars

Lively nightlife in Zona Sul with nightclubs for dancing. Avenida João Fiusa is a popular bar district.

Shopping & Markets

Explore Ribeirão Preto's shopping scene, ranging from traditional markets to modern malls.

Traditional & Artisan

  • Traditional Markets: Mercado Municipal offers fresh produce, regional products, and local snacks.
  • Workshops And CRAFTS By artisans: Local craft fairs occur seasonally. Ask locally about current markets.
  • Souvenir Recommendations: Coffee-related products, locally produced cachaça, Pão de Queijo mix, regional sweets.
  • Ethical Shopping: Support local artisans and small businesses. Look for sustainable materials.

Modern & Logistics

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

RibeirãoShopping (upscale, national/global brands), Shopping Santa Úrsula (centrally located), Novo Shopping (outskirts) offer diverse retail options.

Shipping & Customs

Post offices (Correios) for international shipping. Be aware of customs regulations and duties in your home country. Keep receipts for valuable items.

Currency Exchange

Banks and authorized exchange offices available for currency conversion. Major credit cards are widely accepted.

Modern Malls

Enjoy retail therapy at RibeirãoShopping, Shopping Santa Úrsula, and Novo Shopping, featuring an extensive array of brands.

Local Markets

Immerse yourself in the Mercado Municipal for local produce, spices, and unique finds.

Unique Souvenirs

Find coffee, cachaça, pão de queijo mixes, and local crafts as authentic mementos of your trip.

Affiliate Shopping Resources

Experiences that Include Shopping
  • Look for tours on GetYourGuide that visit local markets or artisanal shops.
  • Some regional excursions may pause at estates that grow coffee or cachaça distilleries with gift shops.
  • Consider tours to nearby towns that have unique craft traditions.
Planning Your Purchases
  • If buying many items, inquire about luggage allowances or shipping options early.
  • Keep all receipts for customs declarations, especially for increased value goods.
  • Compare prices between large malls and smaller local shops for the best deals.

Alert: Restricted Items

Be aware of international customs restrictions on certain agricultural products, alcohol, or animal-derived goods when planning to take souvenirs home.

Activity Planning Summary

What to Do

  • Explore urban parks and gardens.
  • Attend cultural workshops or performances.
  • Indulge in spa treatments or relaxation.
  • Experience the nightlife.

What to See

  • Theatro Pedro II and Metropolitan Cathedral.
  • Coffee Museum and MARP.
  • Raya Green space waterfalls.
  • Mercado Municipal and modern shopping malls.
Things to Do in Ribeirao Preto. Activities, Experiences, Adventures