Located in São Paulo state, this Brazilian city is a major medical research hub with multiple universities and hospitals. Known for its strong agricultural sector and educational centers.
In Ribeirão Preto, you can watch opera performances in the 1,580-seat Pedro II Theatre, stroll through the butterfly gardens at Carlos Raya Botanical Garden, or join thousands of music fans at the annual João Rock Music Festival. This major city in São Paulo state has a rich coffee-growing past, visible in its downtown architecture, while the historic Pinguim Beerhouse continues serving draft beer since 1943 in its original art deco building.
Getting Around Ribeirão Preto
You can reach most parts of the city using the public bus network, which runs 300 buses on 113 routes. From Leite Lopes Airport, you can fly directly to São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília. The 24-hour central bus station connects you to other cities in São Paulo state and neighboring regions.
Parks and Green Spaces
The Luís Roberto Jábali Park (Curupira) in the southern zone has walking trails and exercise equipment. At Carlos Raya Botanical Garden, you'll find butterfly gardens and native plant species. Tom Jobim Park in the northwest has playgrounds and sports courts, while Maurílio Biagi Ecological Park in the center contains walking paths through native Brazilian vegetation. The Fábio Barreto municipal forest includes hiking trails and bird watching spots.
Cultural Venues and Events
The Pedro II Theatre, built in 1930, hosts opera performances and concerts in its 6,500-square-meter space. The city's annual calendar includes the Agrishow, Brazil's largest agricultural technology fair, the National Book Fair, and cultural festivals celebrating Japanese (Tanabata) and Italian (Festitália) communities. The João Rock Music Festival brings Brazilian rock bands to perform each June.
Climate and Seasons
Plan your visit according to Ribeirão Preto's tropical climate patterns. Rain falls regularly during summer (December-February), while winters stay dry. Temperatures peak from January through March, with May and June being the coolest months. The 23°C (73°F) average temperature makes visiting comfortable in any season.
Business and Education
The city has evolved from its coffee-growing origins into a center for agribusiness and medical services. The University of São Paulo campus brings students and researchers to the city, contributing to its academic environment and medical research facilities.
Sports Facilities
Watch professional soccer at two main stadiums: Estádio Palma Travassos, where Comercial FC plays, and Santa Cruz, home to Botafogo FC. Botafogo FC participates in Campeonato Brasileiro Série B and Campeonato Paulista, bringing regular professional matches to the city.
