24 hours in Porto Alegre
Introduction
Porto Alegre is the capital of the southernmost state in Brazil, Rio Grande do Sul. It’s the geographic center of MERCOSUL. The Guaiba lake outlines the city from north to south, with a shoreline of 72 km. It was the entrance point for the Portuguese couples that colonized the city. Porto Alegre is home to approximately 1.5 million people. Being the cultural center of the state, there is plenty to do and see. But do not forget, if you’re close to the month of May, June, July and August the temperatures can reach 4 degrees Celsius, so bring a coat!
12 pm — Friday
Arriving in Porto Alegre at midday, go straight to the hotel. You can take a cab (about R$40,00 reais) to the Sheraton (http://www.sheraton-poa.com.br/), or if you prefer a cheaper option you can stay at Casa Azul Hostel (www.casaazulhostel.com.br) in down town (Cidade Baixa), this place is amazing, there is a bar downstairs, so you can meet some local people.
3 pm
In the afternoon, head on down to the historic district, and check out the timeless public market, take a walk on Rua da Praia street, and stop to grab a coffee at Casa de Cultura Mario Quintana, a cultural center that pays homage to one of the most famous Brazilian poets. There you can check out some art exhibits or even catch a movie.
7 pm
In the evening you should back to downtown, Cidade Baixa, neighbourhood filled with bars and restaurants. You must go to a hole in the wall, Pampa Burger(http://www.pampaburger.com.br/), and try theirs delicious rib burger made the traditional Gaucho way.
11pm
If you want to go out to dance head down to Joao Alfredo street. The place is teeming with night life. Pick one of many samba rock clubs. You won’t be disappointed. If you just wanna chill out and have a drink, meet some new people go to A virgem bar( 251, Olavo Bilac street). But don’t forget, you are in Brazil, keep your eyes peeled on your belongings.
9 am —Saturday
You must go to the Farroupilha Park, the most traditional park in the city. You can check out flea market(Brique) between a “chimarrão” and another you can see many street performers. Find a spot in the packed grass area and enjoy the sun.
12 pm
Walk to the nearby “Bom Fim” neighbourhood and pick from the many restaurants in the area and enjoy a delicious meal.
2 pm
Rent a bike and ride to the south of the city through the Guaiba shoreline, stop at Ibere Camargo Museum Of Modern Art, on the opposite side of the lake, and there is no entrance fee. After that, you can have some coffee and enjoy the most famous sunset in Brazil, it’s a must!
