Located in Rio Grande do Sul, this wine region has strong Italian roots visible in local restaurants and bakeries. The old town's narrow streets lead to ornate churches and wine bars.
Caxias do Sul rises 760 meters above sea level in Brazil's Serra Gaúcha region, where Italian immigrants shaped the city's wine culture and cuisine. You can explore medieval turrets at Château Lacave Castle, watch symphonic performances at the Municipal Theater, or join thousands of visitors at the Festa da Uva celebration. As Rio Grande do Sul's second-largest city, Caxias do Sul combines its wine-making traditions with modern industry, visible in its bustling downtown area and university district.
Transportation to Caxias do Sul
You can reach Caxias do Sul through Hugo Cantergiani Regional Airport, which connects to major Brazilian cities. The airport lies 2 miles southwest of downtown. Regular trains run between Caxias do Sul and Porto Alegre, while the highway north leads to São Paulo.
Climate and Seasonal Activities
Summer days (December to February) reach 81°F with frequent afternoon showers. Winter temperatures drop to 44°F from June to August, with occasional snowfall. The best time to visit is between November and April when moderate temperatures make walking tours comfortable and outdoor festivals run frequently.
Wine Production and Tasting
Italian winemaking traditions from the 1870s live on in local vineyards. At Château Lacave Castle, you can tour medieval-style towers and stone walls before descending into wine cellars for tastings. Family vineyards throughout Serra Gaúcha welcome visitors for tours and tastings - ask at the tourist office for current opening times and locations.
Festa da Uva Festival
Every even-numbered year in February, the National Grape and Wine Festival fills the city with music, food, and wine. You'll find local producers selling wines and grapes, food stalls serving Italian-Brazilian dishes, and live demonstrations of grape harvesting. The festival grounds include exhibition halls showcasing agricultural methods and regional crafts.
Cultural Institutions
The University of Caxias do Sul's art gallery displays rotating exhibitions of Brazilian artists. The university's symphonic orchestra performs weekly at the Municipal Theater and other venues across the city. Several museums document the Italian immigration period with photographs, tools, and personal items from early settlers.
Sports and Recreation
Two professional football clubs call Caxias do Sul home: S.E.R. Caxias and Juventude. Juventude won the 1999 Copa do Brasil and has played more than fifteen seasons in Brazil's top division. Both teams play regular matches at their home stadiums throughout the football season, creating an energetic atmosphere on game days.
