Where to Stay in Campinas
Brazil
|Pop. 1.0M
|3 neighborhoods covered
Campinas at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Campinas
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Visit the Mercado Municipal for an authentic taste of local produce and snacks; it's less touristy than many other markets and offers great value.
Getting Around
Purchase a 'Bilhete Único' card if you plan to use buses frequently; it offers discounted fares and easier transfers.
Watch Out For
Distraction theft: Thieves may bump into you or spill something on you to distract you while an accomplice steals your belongings.
Solo Female Travel
Exercise a higher degree of vigilance, especially when traveling alone. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, particularly at night. Avoid displaying expensive items.
Hidden Gems in Campinas
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Pedreira do Chapadão
FREEA former quarry offering a unique, expansive view of the city, especially stunning at sunset. Locals gather here for a relaxed atmosphere and impressive panoramas.
Mercado Municipal de Campinas
More than just a market, it's a vibrant hub of local flavors, offering fresh produce, regional delicacies, and a glimpse into daily Campinas life. Perfect for a casual lunch or sampling local cheeses and fruits.
Parque Portugal
FREEA large, beautiful park with walking trails, picnic areas, and a charming Japanese garden. It's a peaceful escape from the city bustle, loved by locals for its tranquility and natural beauty.
Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Campinas (MACC)
Housed in a striking modern building, this museum showcases a diverse collection of contemporary Brazilian art. It offers a stimulating cultural experience away from the main tourist crowds.
Bar do Cação
A beloved local bar known for its delicious petiscos (appetizers) and lively atmosphere. It's a great spot to experience authentic Campinas nightlife and enjoy some well-crafted caipirinhas.
Rua dos Jequitibás
FREEA picturesque street lined with large jequitibá trees, offering a charming and often overlooked walk. It's a peaceful area with beautiful old houses and a pleasant ambiance for a leisurely stroll.
What It Costs in Campinas
Daily budget per person in BRL
💡One of the cheapest destinations worldwide
BRL 150/day
BRL 300/day
BRL 700/day
Where to Stay in Campinas
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Praça Carlos Gomes20 min
- Shopping Iguatemi Campinas25 min
Pros
- +Excellent dining and nightlife options
- +Safe and well-maintained streets
- +Good public transport access
Cons
- -Can be expensive
Top stays in Cambuí
Hotel Vila Rica Campinas
$$$A well-established hotel offering comfortable rooms and good amenities.
Ibis Budget Campinas Cambui
$$A reliable and affordable option for travelers seeking basic comforts.
Comfort Hotel Campinas
$$Offers good value with amenities like a pool and on-site restaurant.
Best for
Walk to
- Catedral Metropolitana de Campinas5 min
- Mercado Municipal de Campinas10 min
- Estação Cultura15 min
Pros
- +Rich in historical sites and cultural attractions
- +Central location with excellent transport links
- +Affordable food and shopping options
Cons
- -Can be very crowded and noisy
- -Safety requires more vigilance, especially at night
Top stays in Centro
Hotel Orozimbo
$A budget-friendly option with a central location, good for basic stays.
Hotel Metropolitan
$$Offers clean and functional rooms in a convenient downtown location.
Dan Inn Hotel Campinas
$$Provides standard amenities and a central position for exploring the city.
Best for
Walk to
- Parque Taquaral30 min
- Shopping Dom Pedro40 min
Pros
- +Peaceful and residential atmosphere
- +Good selection of local shops and restaurants
- +More affordable than Cambuí
Cons
- -Less central, requires transport for major attractions
- -Nightlife is limited
Top stays in Nova Campinas
Yaa Hotel Campinas
$$A modern hotel offering comfortable rooms and good service.
Hotel Campinas Boulevard
$$A well-located hotel with convenient access to local amenities.
Royal Palm Residence
$$$Offers spacious apartment-style accommodations with hotel services.
Areas to be cautious
- Areas immediately surrounding the bus terminal (Rodoviária) and certain parts of the industrial districts: These areas can have higher crime rates, especially after dark, and offer little of interest to tourists.
Insider tip: Visit the Mercado Municipal for an authentic taste of local produce and snacks; it's less touristy than many other markets and offers great value.
Safety in Campinas
Exercise cautionSolo Female Travel
Exercise a higher degree of vigilance, especially when traveling alone. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, particularly at night. Avoid displaying expensive items.
At Night
It's advisable to use ride-sharing apps or taxis when moving between neighborhoods or if going out late. Walking alone in less populated or poorly lit areas, especially in the Centro, is not recommended.
Emergency
190 (Military Police), 192 (SAMU - Ambulance), 193 (Fire Department)
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Distraction theft: Thieves may bump into you or spill something on you to distract you while an accomplice steals your belongings.
- 2Overpriced taxis: Always ensure the meter is running or agree on a price beforehand, especially from unofficial sources.
- 3Fake charity collectors: Be wary of people approaching you for donations, particularly in tourist areas.
Getting Around Campinas
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Viracopos International Airport (VCP) is about 20km away. Options include: Taxi (approx. R$ 80-120, 30-40 min), Ride-sharing apps (approx. R$ 60-100, 30-40 min), Airport Bus (R$ 15-25, 60-75 min).
🎫
Day Pass
No specific day pass; single ride tickets are used.
Single: R$ 4.85 (as of late 2023, subject to change)
🚶
Walkability
Good TransitUber
📶
WiFi
Good25-50 Mbps in cafes
Public Transport
The main public transport system is the bus network, managed by Empresa Municipal de Desenvolvimento de Campinas (EMDEC). Key lines connect major neighborhoods and the city center.
Ride-share
Uber and 99 are widely available. Typical cost for short rides (5-10km) is R$ 15-30.
Transport Tip
Purchase a 'Bilhete Único' card if you plan to use buses frequently; it offers discounted fares and easier transfers.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Some shopping malls (e.g., Shopping Iguatemi, Shopping Dom Pedro), some cafes, and public squares sometimes offer free Wi-Fi.
Coworking
Several coworking spaces exist, particularly in the Cambuí and Nova Campinas areas. Daily passes typically range from R$ 40 - R$ 80.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: May, Jun, Jul
Hotels & Accommodation in Campinas
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Who Is Campinas Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
Foodies
This area boasts the highest concentration of diverse and high-quality restaurants, bars, and cafes.
First-Timers
Provides easy access to the city's main historical landmarks and cultural attractions, serving as a good introduction.
Families
Offers a more relaxed residential feel with access to parks and local amenities, though requires transport for major sites.
Budget Backpackers
Features more affordable accommodation and food options, along with access to free cultural sights.
Digital Nomads
Combines affordability with proximity to coworking spaces and good transport links, though safety requires attention.
Couples
Offers a vibrant atmosphere with excellent dining and nightlife options for a more upscale experience.
About Campinas
Campinas ( kam-PEE-nəs, Brazilian Portuguese: [kɐ̃ˈpinɐs]; lit. 'Plains, Meadows') is a city in the Brazilian state of São Paulo, located 84 kilometers northwest of the city of São Paulo. As of 2024, the city's population is estimated at 1,185,977, making it the fourteenth most populous Brazilian city and the third most populous in São Paulo state.
Frequently Asked Questions About Campinas
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Campinas Guides by Traveller Type
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