São Luís do Maranhão, the capital of the state of Maranhão, is a city of Sao Luis that fascinates with its rich history and rich culture. Founded in 1612 by the French, the city was later colonized by the Portuguese, which left a deep mark on its architecture and way of life.
São Luís enchants visitors with its UNESCO-listed historic center, where colonial architecture meets vibrant cultural festivals like Bumba Meu Boi.
The things to do in Sao Luis Brazil are endless!
If you want more, we also put together a complete São Luís travel guide to this fantastic city! Now, back to it!
The historic center of São Luís declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a veritable open-air museum, where cobbled streets intertwine with colonial mansions adorned with tiles that tell the story of European influences in the region.
The city is also famous for its vibrant folk festivals, especially the Bumba Meu Boi, a cultural manifestation that mixes dance, music, and theater, attracting both locals and tourists. During the month of June, the city of São Luís is transformed into a real spectacle, with folklore groups performing in various parts of the city, celebrating tradition and the identity of Maranhão.
The natural beauty that surrounds São Luís is another irresistible attraction. The beaches, with breathtaking landscapes, are ideal for relaxing and enjoying the view. In addition, the proximity to the Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, one of Brazil’s postcards, offers unique experiences for those who love adventure like me.
The gastronomy of São Luís is also an unmissable experience. Typical dishes such as arroz de cuxá, peixe na folha de bananeira, and the famous tortas de camarão reveal the unique flavors and ingredients of the local food, influenced by Indigenous, African, and Portuguese traditions.
Thus, São Luís do Maranhão is a destination that offers a very rich history, culture, nature, and gastronomy, and I invite everyone to explore its beauties and experience the warm hospitality of the locals.
Things to Do in São Luís Brazil: A Bit of History
The history of São Luís do Maranhão begins in 1612, when the French founded the city, naming it “Saint-Louis” after King Louis XIII of France. The city emerged as an attempt to colonize the Brazilian coast, but in 1615, the Portuguese invaded and occupied the place, bringing a new administration that shaped São Luís’ identity.
During the colonial period, the city developed as an important commercial center, especially in the slave market and sugar production. São Luís stood out for its architecture, with historical buildings, and colonial houses in the Portuguese style that still enchant visitors.
In the 20th century, the city faced challenges such as the degradation of its infrastructure and mass migration to urban areas. However, from the 1990s onwards, revitalization initiatives began to preserve São Luís’ historical and cultural heritage, resulting in its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
Today, São Luís enchants everyone with its rich history, vibrant festivities, and natural beauty. The city combines tradition and modernity as an important cultural and economic center in the Brazilian Northeast.
Often called the “Lisbon of South America”, São Luís is the capital of the state of Maranhão and one of the largest cities in northeastern Brazil. With a population of 1,227,659 in the metropolitan area, you’ll probably be surprised to find empty streets, especially when walking through the Historic Center at midday. This quietness results from the combination of high temperatures and high humidity, typical of Brazil’s equatorial areas.
Despite the heat, which can reach between 30 and 35 degrees Celsius in the shade, São Luís is a very special city. Its cobblestone streets are dominated by old historic buildings, some dating back to the 17th century, which tell of the region’s rich history and cultural diversity.
Most of the historic buildings in São Luís are covered in a traditional mosaic of colored tiles (ceramic tiles), which further enhances their beauty. For many visitors, a trip to Maranhão becomes a once-in-a-lifetime experience. That’s why I advise you to make the most of your trip.
Things to Do in São Luís Brazil: What to See
Here are some of the main attractions you shouldn’t miss on a trip to São Luís:
Historic Center of São Luís
Many attractions are located in this part of the city, the narrow and unknown streets of the historic center are a real treasure trove for lovers of beauty. Take the opportunity to go for a long, slow walk through the quiet cobbled streets, it will undoubtedly be an unforgettable moment. And don’t forget your camera, because here you’ll be able to take incredible photos.
Arthur Azevedo Theatre
The Arthur Azevedo Theater is a beautiful building located in the heart of the old town of São Luís. Surrounded by historic buildings with exquisite architecture, the theater was completed in 1817. The theater can be visited as a museum during the day, and if you want to attend one of the productions, you should visit it in the evening.
Praia Grande
Praia Grande, in São Luís do Maranhão, enchants its visitors with its rich history and beautiful colonial architecture. The colorful mansions and Portuguese tiles in the historic center attract many tourists.
In Praia Grande, you can relax by the sea and enjoy the scenery. There are also festivals and cultural events, such as reggae concerts and Maranhão folklore performances. If you like art, don’t miss the galleries and ateliers exhibiting the work of local artists. Strolling through the streets of Praia Grande is a unique experience that combines culture, history, and nature.
Visit the Sé Church (Igreja da Sé)
Today, the Igreja da Sé is one of the city’s most important tourist attractions. It took more than 80 years before the cathedral was finally completed in 1699. It is famous for its baroque altar and rich decoration. The Igreja da Sé (or as it is also called – Metropolitan Cathedral) is a spectacular temple located in one of the most beautiful parts of São Luis.
Bumba Meu Boi
It is a very traditional folk music and dance event with over 200 years of history throughout Brazil. If you want to experience one of the São Luís’ festivals, such as the Bumba Meu Boi dance and music performances, they take place in the second half of June each year, the main attraction and the streets of the old historic center of São Luís serve as the stage, so plan your trip for this time of year.
Lençóis Maranhenses
The Lençóis Maranhenses are spectacular and one of the most iconic tourist attractions in the northeast of Brazil. Declared a national park in 1981, this place enchants everyone who passes by with its vast expanses of white sand dunes and crystal-clear lagoons that form during the rainy season. It’s simply enchanting.
Visit the Historical Art Museum
The Historical and Artistic Museum of Maranhão is considered one of the best places to visit in the city. It is a beautiful historic building, built in 1836. Several very famous local politicians and businessmen lived here before the mansion was sold to the state government in 1968.
Palace of the Lions
The “Palácio dos Leões”, located on the seafront in the old historic district of São Luís, is magnificent. Built-in 1612, it not only tells us about the city’s rich cultural history but also displays beautiful colonial architecture.
Town of Barreirinhas (Vila de Barreirinhas)
Although it takes almost four hours to get to Barreirinhas from the capital of Maranhão, the trip is really worth it. Here you can enjoy traditional meals in a relaxing atmosphere. On the river bank, you’ll also find a fantastic stretch of fine, golden sand.
Lagoa Bonita and Lagoa Azul
Lagoa Bonita and Lagoa Azul are the main tourist attractions in the Barreirinhas region. Lagoa Bonita and Lagoa Azul are considered the best bathing spots in the state of Maranhão. Surrounded by fantastic white sands, Lagoa Bonita and Lagoa Azul are known for their turquoise colors. The water is crystal clear and offers incredible visibility below the surface.
Maranhão Cuisine
Getting to know the local cuisine is fundamental to understanding more about Maranhão’s identity and traditions. In addition, the gastronomy of São Luís is full of fresh and exotic ingredients, such as fish and seafood, which highlight the diversity of the region.
Trying these dishes in local restaurants and markets will give you a unique immersion in the culture and hospitality of the people of Maranhão, making the travel experience even more memorable. Typical dishes, such as arroz de cuxá, made with vinagreira, and the famous shrimp pies, delight the palate and offer an explosion of flavors.
Enjoy a Day at Valparaiso Aqua Park
Valparaíso Acqua Park is one of the most popular and visited places in São Luís because of its year-round warm climate with temperatures above 30 degrees. Here, surrounded by coconut trees and lush exotic vegetation, you can enjoy swimming pools, water slides, and many other water attractions.
The best way to enjoy the park is to book your flexible tickets before your trip, as this allows you to choose the most convenient time for your visit. This way, you’ll guarantee a smooth and fun experience, exploring all the options the park has to offer.
And when you’ve had enough of the games and entertainment, the park still offers you the perfect opportunity to sample the excellent local cuisine and enjoy great refreshing drinks with your family and friends. This relaxing break allows you to enjoy the experience even more.
Visit Praia do Meio
Your walk to “Praia do Meio” will probably become one of the most memorable experiences during your stay in São Luís. It’s a huge beach, with its vast flat, and spacious expanse providing a tranquil and almost deserted environment.
When you arrive at the beach, you will be able to enjoy the natural beauty of the place, with its clear sands and the sea breeze, making the visit unique and unforgettable.
Visit the Reggae Museum
Maranhão is considered the second most popular place in the world, after Jamaica, when it comes to reggae culture and the history of reggae music. The Reggae Museum is one of the must-see attractions in the historic center of Sao Luis.
Take a Horseback Ride Along the Waterfront
One of the most recommended attractions in São Luís is to enjoy a wonderful afternoon horseback ride along the coast. You’ll enjoy this ride and it will make your trip even more memorable. This way, you’ll discover the beauty of the tropical city, as well as the natural wonders of the region.
Craftsmanship
The crafts in São Luís do Maranhão are very rich and diverse, as they reflect the culture and history of the region. Local artists produce pieces in ceramics, lace, straw, and wood, highlighting traditional techniques that are passed down from generation to generation. There is an interesting variety of typical Maranhão crafts.
Getting to know São Luís do Maranhão is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The city is enchanted with its historic center, which is full of tiles and colonial buildings that tell the story of Brazil. The rhythms of reggae and drumming make the local culture vibrate. What’s more, natural wonders such as the Lençóis Maranhenses are just a short drive away.
Things to Do in São Luís Brazil: Wrap Up
So, when you visit São Luiz, you connect with the rich tradition and diversity of the Maranhão people. So don’t miss the chance to explore all that São Luís has to offer, you’ll fall in love with every landscape you see and you’ll definitely want to come back soon.
