Compared to Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, Catanduva is a great city to slow down the pace. It sits in the Brazilian state of Sao Paulo and has a refreshingly laid-back vibe, with a handful of local attractions to explore and a lively street scene to soak up.
Things to do in Catanduva
In the heart of the city is the beautiful Mother Church of Catanduva, decorated with paintings by local artist Benedito Calixto. It watches over Catanduva’s bustling central square, which is a great place to indulge in a spot of people watching.
Brazil might be famous for its coffee, but in Catanduva it’s all about sugar cane. This makes it a great place to stock up on locally made sweets and try freshly pressed sugarcane juice. The Municipal Zoo of Catanduva is another highlight, set in a slice of forest just outside the city centre.
A few kilometres out of town is Sitio da Uva, a working farm that offers family-friendly tours of its grape, pumpkin, coconut and pineapple plantations. After exploring the grounds, you can stay for a tasty lunch and freshly squeezed juice.
Catanduva boasts a handful of cultural attractions. The Museu Padre Albino celebrates one of Brazil’s most beloved priests, while the Pedro de Toledo History and Teaching Museum offers a glimpse at Catanduva’s colourful history.
Getting around Catanduva
Local buses run throughout the city, though for most visitors, taxis are the fastest and easiest way to get around. Araraquara is the closest airport, located around 115 kilometres from central Catanduva. From here, a flight to Sao Paulo takes just one hour.