Visit Porto Alegre

Situated on the banks of South America’s largest barrier lagoon, Porto Alegre is the capital of Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul state. Its buzzing downtown is filled with neoclassical architecture and plenty of things to do during your visit.

One of the best ways to soak up the sights in Porto Alegre is by using the Linha Turismo, an open-top bus line that navigates past most of the city’s main attractions. Some of these include the Açorianos monument, the wonderful church of Santuário Mãe de Deus and the old Gasômetro powerplant where you can catch spectacular sunsets over the Guaíba River. You can also take in the sights from the water on board the Cisne Branco Boat. The hour-long cruise takes in Pintada Island, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and much more, all while providing an insightful guided commentary. The city’s historic Praça da Alfândega is the focal point for much of Porto Alegre’s museums, shops and stalls selling local produce and handicrafts.

Several intriguing museums can be found throughout Porto Alegre, offering insight into the city’s artistic heritage and cultural history. At the Iberê Camargo Foundation, you can explore three floors devoted to the Brazilian painter, Camargo – one of the country’s most celebrated expressionist artists. Other key museums include the PUCRS Museum of Science and Technology, the Rio Grande do Sul Museum of Art and the Military Command Museum.