São Mateus Historic Center
Explore the historical heart of São Mateus with its colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Top hotels & flights
Hand-picked stays and the best fares into São Mateus.
Top Hotels in São Mateus
Top Flights to São Mateus
Popular activities
Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in São Mateus.
Tours
Paleontological Museum of São Mateus
Discover local paleontological finds and learn about the region's prehistoric life.
Local Cuisine Tasting Tour
Taste the authentic flavors of São Mateus with a guided food tour.
São Mateus Marina
The perfect place for a leisurely stroll and to watch the boats go by.
Shopping
Central Market of São Mateus
Visit this bustling market to experience local culture and buy traditional crafts.
Outdoor
Guriri Beach
Visit the beautiful Guriri Beach for a day of relaxation and watersports.
Itauninhas Ecological Park
A natural reserve perfect for hiking and observing local wildlife.
Rio Cricaré Exploration
Explore the ecosystems of Rio Cricaré by boat or kayak.
Praia de Barra Nova
A serene beach known for its clear waters and tranquil environment.
Location videos
Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.
From travelers
Watch & explore
Practical info
The essentials for planning your time in São Mateus.
Currency
R$ | BRL | Brazilian Real
Population
114,000
Languages
Portuguese, Portuguese
Local guide
What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on São Mateus.
What people love
São Mateus, located in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil, offers several unique attractions and experiences for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to São Mateus include:
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Beaches: São Mateus is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Guriri Beach and Barra Nova Beach, where visitors can relax, swim, and enjoy water sports.
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Culture and History: The city has a rich cultural heritage, with historic sites like the Church of São Mateus and the Municipal Museum offering insights into the region's history and traditions.
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Nature and Wildlife: São Mateus is surrounded by lush landscapes, including the Sooretama Biological Reserve and the Cachoeira do Itaúnas State Park, where travelers can explore diverse ecosystems and spot unique wildlife.
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Local Cuisine: The city is famous for its traditional dishes, such as moqueca capixaba (a fish stew) and banana farofa (a side dish made with bananas and cassava flour), providing a delicious culinary experience for visitors.
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Festivals and Events: São Mateus hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including the Festa da Cidade (City Festival) and the Festa de São Mateus (Saint Matthew Festival), offering a vibrant atmosphere and showcasing local traditions.
Overall, traveling to São Mateus can be a rewarding experience for those looking to immerse themselves in Brazilian culture, explore natural beauty, and enjoy a relaxing beach getaway.
Enjoy your trip to São Mateus!
What to know
São Mateus, located in the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil, is a beautiful destination with its own set of cons for travelers to consider:
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Safety Concerns: Like many cities in Brazil, São Mateus has its share of safety concerns, including petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft. Travelers should be cautious and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
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Limited Tourist Infrastructure: São Mateus is not a major tourist destination compared to other cities in Brazil. As a result, the city may have limited tourist infrastructure, including accommodations, restaurants, and transportation options. Travelers may find fewer amenities and services compared to more popular tourist destinations.
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Language Barrier: While Portuguese is the official language spoken in Brazil, English may not be widely spoken in São Mateus, especially outside of tourist areas. Travelers who do not speak Portuguese may face challenges in communication, which can make navigating the city and interacting with locals more difficult.
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Limited Tourist Attractions: São Mateus may have fewer tourist attractions compared to other cities in Brazil. Travelers looking for a wide range of activities and sightseeing opportunities may find the options in São Mateus to be more limited.
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Transportation Challenges: Getting around São Mateus may be more challenging compared to larger cities with well-developed transportation systems. Travelers may need to rely on taxis or private transportation options, which could be more expensive and less convenient.
Overall, while São Mateus offers its own unique charm and attractions, travelers should be aware of these potential cons when planning a trip to the city.