Belo Horizonte
A bar-loving city, modernist landmarks and a huge central market
Browse Belo Horizonte
Belo Horizonte is a friendly, hilly city in the Minas Gerais highlands, famous for having more bars per head than anywhere in Brazil and for a beloved food culture centred on its enormous Mercado Central. Nearby Pampulha shows off early Oscar Niemeyer architecture. Our local picks run from botecos to pao de queijo and cachaca. More hand-picked recommendations are on the way – filter by category and budget below.
Belo Horizonte at a glance
- Ideal stay: 1 to 2 days
- Best time to visit: April to September
- Highlights: the Mercado Central, Pampulha and the boteco bars
- Where to stay: the central Savassi or Lourdes districts
- Local picks: a growing set of hand-chosen tips
- Getting around: buses and ride-hailing, with a walkable centre
Where to stay in Belo Horizonte
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Find hotels in Belo HorizonteBook tours and experiencesBelo Horizonte travel FAQ
How many days do you need in Belo Horizonte?
One to two days covers the market, the Pampulha landmarks and the bar scene, and the colonial town of Ouro Preto is a fine day trip.
Where is the best area to stay in Belo Horizonte?
Savassi and Lourdes are central and full of bars and restaurants, within easy reach of the sights.
What are the best things to do in Belo Horizonte?
Browse the local picks above, from the Mercado Central and the Pampulha complex to the boteco bars and a day trip to Ouro Preto.
What is the best time to visit Belo Horizonte?
The drier months from April to September bring pleasant, mild weather; the wet summer is warm with afternoon storms.