Belo Horizonte surprised me with its blend of big-city energy and the warmth of Minas Gerais. Between museums, bars, and panoramic hills, I found a city that balances tradition and modern life with effortless charm.
Arriving in the capital of Minas Gerais
Belo Horizonte—or simply BH, as everyone calls it—is one of those cities that make you feel welcome right away. Surrounded by mountains and known for its friendly people, the capital of Minas Gerais combines urban rhythm with a laid-back spirit. When I arrived, the first thing I noticed was how the skyline blends perfectly with the hills. It’s a city built on curves, with streets that rise and fall like waves.
Strolling around Pampulha
One of my favorite spots was the Pampulha district, a masterpiece of modern Brazilian architecture. Designed by Oscar Niemeyer and landscape artist Burle Marx, it’s a symbol of the country’s creativity. Walking along the lagoon, I stopped to admire the Church of São Francisco de Assis—its curved lines and blue-tiled panels by Cândido Portinari are stunning. I sat by the water watching people jogging, couples taking photos, and kids feeding the ducks. It’s the kind of place that makes you forget you’re in a busy capital.
Culture and art everywhere
BH has a rich cultural scene. I spent an afternoon at the Praça da Liberdade Cultural Circuit, where old government buildings have been turned into museums and art spaces. The Memorial Minas Gerais Vale was one of my highlights—an immersive museum that tells the story of the state through sounds, images, and interactive exhibits. Later, I visited the Palácio das Artes, one of the most important cultural centers in Brazil, where I caught a local photography exhibition. Everywhere I went, there was a sense of pride in the city’s artistic identity.
Food that defines a region
No trip to Belo Horizonte is complete without exploring its food scene. The city is famous for its bars and for serving what many call the best bar food in Brazil. I joined friends at the Mercado Central, a maze of narrow aisles filled with the aroma of cheese, coffee, and pork crackling. I tried goiabada with Minas cheese, drank a sugarcane juice, and left with a bag full of sweets. At night, I went to the bohemian neighborhood of Savassi for a round of craft beers and pastelzinhos while chatting with locals. The friendliness here is as genuine as the food.
City views and green escapes
BH may be a large city, but nature is always close. I climbed to the top of Mirante do Mangabeiras, a viewpoint that offers one of the most impressive panoramas of the city. As the sun went down, the sky turned pink and orange, and the lights of Belo Horizonte began to sparkle below. It was the perfect place to reflect on how balanced this city feels—vibrant yet calm, urban yet green.
Conclusion
Belo Horizonte isn’t a city that overwhelms you; it embraces you. Between its modern architecture, warm people, and incredible food, I found a capital that reflects the soul of Minas Gerais—welcoming, proud, and full of stories. It’s a place where every conversation feels like an invitation to stay a little longer.