San Francisco de Paula, affectionately known as São Chico, is a charming town in Serra Gaúcha. Set about 112 km from Porto Alegre, this little gem is a perfect haven for those seeking tranquility, natural beauties and a touch of history and culture.

Surrounded by stunning landscapes with stunning araucaria forests and waterfalls. The Parque das Oito Cachoeiras is one of the best known sights, with trails leading to several waterfalls. Lake São Bernardo is another must-see location, ideal for quiet walks and picnics, as well as being a great spot to enjoy the sunset.

In the cultural part, the strong European heritage is represented in the House of Culture a place where visitors can learn more about local history and enjoy art exhibitions.

Gastronomy in San Francisco de Paula is a separate chapter. The city is known for its restaurants serving typical dishes of the gaucho cuisine, such as barbecue, gallet and carpenter. In addition, there is a strong presence of colonial coffees, where it is possible to taste a variety of locally produced breads, cakes, cheeses and sausages.

San Francisco de Paula is a must-see destination in Serra Gaúcha, ideal for those seeking a combination of natural beauty, rich culture and warm hospitality. Whether for a quiet weekend or an adventure amidst nature, São Chico promises to enchant and surprise all visitors.

How to get there:

By Car:

From Porto Alegre:

• Via BR-116 and RS-235: Exit from Porto Cheerful for the BR-116 towards New Hamburg. Then take the RS-235 towards Gramado. From Gramado, follow RS-235 to Canela and then RS-020 to San Francisco de Paula. The trip lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
   
• Via BR-290 and RS-020: Another option is to leave Porto Alegre by BR-290 (Freeway) towards Gravataí. Take the RS-118 towards Sapucaia do Sul and then RS-020 to San Francisco de Paula. This route also takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

From Caxias do Sul:

• Via RS-122 and RS-020: Get out of Caxias do Sul from RS-122 to São Sebastião do Caí. In São Sebastião do Caí, take the RS-122 and then the RS-020 until San Francisco de Paula. The trip lasts about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
• Via RS-453 and RS-020: Another option is to follow the RS-453 (Rota do Sol) until Tainhas and then take the RS-020 to San Francisco de Paula. This route takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

By bus:

• There are regular bus lines from Porto Alegre Bus Station to San Francisco de Paula, operated by companies like Citral. Check timetables and availability in advance.
   
• The Caxias do Sul Road also offers regular bus lines to San Francisco de Paula, with several time options throughout the day.

By plane:

Salgado Filho International Airport (Porto Alegre): The nearest airport is Salgado Filho International Airport in Porto Alegre. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to San Francisco de Paula.

Hugo Cantergiani Regional Airport (South Coaxias): Another option is the Hugo Cantergiani Regional Airport in Caxias do Sul. From here, you can rent a car or take a bus to San Francisco de Paula.