Nova Friburgo City Guide

Food reflects Swiss and German roots with Brazilian staples. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Some late-night spots open weekends.

Nightlife is relaxed with bars, pubs, and a few clubs open mainly on weekends.

Good coffee culture with many cafés serving quality Brazilian coffee.

10% service charge common in restaurants, optional but usual. Taxi tipping is rounding up the fare.

SIM cards can be bought at Vivo, Claro, and TIM stores. Vivo has best rural coverage. ID and CPF needed; some help available if you don't have CPF.

The city is clean with regular waste collection, especially in tourist areas.

Limited 24/7 services; some pharmacies and minimarts open late. Night clinics rare.

Supermarkets offer a mix of local and some imported goods. Fresh produce is sold at local markets on set days. Supermarkets open roughly 8 AM to 9 PM.

Card payments work well in most places, but carry some cash for markets and small vendors.

ATMs are common at banks and shopping centers. International card fees vary, so check with your bank before arrival.

Local schools teach in Portuguese. Few international schools; families often send kids to Rio de Janeiro for those.

Small digital nomad community. Mostly local groups or self-organized meetups.

Excellent access to green spaces and parks.

Parks and quiet streets are good for running; climate is pleasant.

Several gyms offer standard facilities. Smart Fit is a popular chain.

Tennis courts are at some private clubs; booking needed.

Padel is rarely available.

Several studios offer yoga classes; instructor English varies.

Gyms offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Judo. English-speaking instructors uncommon.

No skiing; Brazil lacks natural snow for this.

Limited freshwater activities possible but not common.

No surfing, city is inland and far from coast.

No diving; inland location.

Public and private hospitals are available. Private hospitals like Hospital Unimed often have English speakers. Pharmacies are common and can provide basic advice.

Tap water is treated but not always safe to drink. Use bottled water.

Parks and attractions like the Cable Car and Swiss Village suit families. Some cafés welcome kids and baby supplies are easy to find.

Generally safe for LGBTQ+ but less active scene than big cities.

Pet-friendly city with parks and vet clinics. Some accommodations accept pets.