Should you Visit Gramado and Canela in Brazil?

A visit to the picturesque town of Gramado is definitely something to put on your travel bucket list.

However, while you’re in the area, also visit Canela with its beautiful parks.

These two towns have a lot on offer for the tourists and are both definitely worth a visit.

Let’s explore Gramado and Canela with a view of planning your next trip.

Let's start with...

I would describe Gramado as a “Bavarian Dream World in Brazil”. This beautiful but busy mountain resort town in Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul, was influenced by 19th-century German settlers and you can see it everywhere. The ‘Alpine-style buildings are beautiful.

What to do and expect in Gramado

The town has a lovely ‘covered street / mall” (Rua Coberta Gramado) with shops and restaurants with a German atmosphere. Like the Rasen Platz where you can enjoy an ice-cold beer. This is also the place to stop during Christmas time for their beautiful annual Christmas market. Gramado is famous for the beautiful Christmas decorations in its streets. It is a real treat to stop here during the December months.

There are lots of beautiful shops everywhere in town and you might enjoy walking down the streets more, than trying to spot the cute places from a moving car. So park your car and do a walking tour of the town. A visit to a chocolatier is a must. The beautiful Sao Pedro Church opposite the main square in town is also worth a visit.

I would suggest doing the bus tours on offer in Gramado and Canela or booking with a tour group. This will ensure you see all the beautiful places and not miss out on something really special.

Springtime in Gramado is simply beautiful with its massive hydrangea blooms. Combine that with a tranquil swan-boat ride on the beautiful Lago Negro – The ‘Black Lake’ (an artificial lake decorated with trees from Germany’s black forest) as well as some lovely mountain hikes in the Serra Gaúcha Mountains. Lago Negro is a popular tourist attraction and definitely worth a visit.

Things to do in Gramado

Santa’s Village

Santa’s theme park (Papai Noel) is located in Gramado and is open all year round. With a toy factory, Santa’s house, artificial snow, and fun rides like the flying sleigh and the monorail, this is the place to take the children (both young and old).

They also have a viewpoint that has beautiful views over the Quilombo Valley, which lies between the towns of Gramado and Canela.

Snowland

Just outside of Gramado you will find Snowland with Snow Mountain. Have a fun day in the snow with tubing, figure skating, ice gliding, and more. This indoor venue also offers good ski instructors to help you join in the fun.

Mini Mundo

This beautiful outdoor miniature park in Gramado is a fantastic place to visit. With great attention to detail, this park offers replicas of international buildings and places around the world. They also have a wonderful café and a spectacular gift shop.

Address: R. Horácio Cardoso, 291 – Planalto, Gramado – RS, 95670-000, Brazil

Where to stay in Gramado

Just 14 minutes (9.2 km) away from Gramado, is the resort town of Canela (Canella). In my opinion, the town is not quite as picturesque as Gramado, but the Gothic Cathedral of Stone with its 12 bronze bells in the main square (Praça Matriz) will definitely draw your attention. This is a beautiful photo stop in Canela. Furthermore just on the outskirts of Canela you will find the most beautiful parks to visit:

Parque do Caracol is a beautiful park 7 km from the city center where you can explore with walkways and hiking trails and enjoy the beautiful views of the Caracol waterfall. The park offers stunning viewpoints and beautiful vistas.
Ride in the Air cable cars at Da Serra Parks and enjoy the beautiful views from the colorful aerial trams with views over the waterfall.

Bus Tour Photos: Viator

Things to do in Canela

You can book wonderful bus sight-seeing tours in both Canela and Gramado. Check out their link below for what they have on offer.

Visit the Dreamland Wax Museum.

Mundo a Vapor

Steamworld in the town of Canela, is a “steam museum” with steam power exhibits, mini train replicas, riverboats and more. Come meet Peppe the guardian of Steam World.

Address: Av. Don Luiz Guanella, 1247 – Carniel, Canela – RS, 95680-000, Brazil

Florybal Magic Park Land

A wonderful amusement park featuring a 7D theater and themes such as dinosaurs, which the kids will really love.

Address: Rodovia RS-466, 1630 – Jardim dos Pinheiros II, Canela – RS, 95680-000, Brazil

Where to stay in Canela

More THINGS TO DO at your favorite destination

You can book the Gramado and Cinnamon exclusive Photo Tour with Viator, for a tour with your own professional photographer ensuring you’ll have beautiful photos of the trip.

Photo: Viator

Plan a trip to your favorite destination

Also read our article on Rio de Janeiro, the most beautiful city in Brazil.

International airport

The Porto Alegre, Brazil (POA / SBPA) Salgado Filho International Airport

By, Jo-Anne Naude

Your Go-To Guide for Seamless Travel

Jo-Anne believes that a well-prepared traveler is a happy traveler. With a focus on providing practical, detailed guides, Jo-Anne’s articles are packed with all the essential information you need before embarking on your next adventure, making your travels smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a long-haul journey, her insights will help you make the most of every trip.