Rio Grande Do Sul

Cathedral de São Pedro
The oldest church in the state, this cathedral was erected by the Portuguese colonists. Even if you don't usually look at churches, this is a must see attraction.

Museu Oceanográfico
This interesting museum is the most complete of its type in South America. It has a large shell collection, and skeletons of large marine animals.

São José do Norte
Boats leave from Rio Grande and make the trip across the mouth of the Lagoa dos Patos to the fishing village of São José do Norte. This best time to take this trip is around sunset.

SERRA GAÚCHA
North of Porto Alegre, you quickly begin to climb into the Serra Gaúcha. The ride is beautiful, as are the mountain towns of Gramado and Canela. The region is as close to the Alps as Brazil gets. It's known as the Hydrangea Region. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants and prices are high by Brazilian standards. In winter there are occasional snowfalls and in spring the hills are blanketed with flowers.

Gramado
This popular mountain resort is a favourite with tourists. It has lots of small but inviting restaurants, well-groomed gardens and expensive hotels.