Although business tourism is strong in the city, this does not mean that Vitória do Espírito Santo does not also attract leisure tourists looking for relaxing trips or excitement. The capital usually combines both, with busy and deserted beaches and lively events in bars and calmer ones in monasteries or routes in the Upper City, where most of the historical visiting points are located, such as museums, churches, cathedrals, chapels, etc. . Set aside a few days to enjoy nature’s attractions such as diving, boat trips and others to discover the city on foot, including the gastronomic delights.
Rustic and traditional tours and others that are more radical and adventurous. These are the options found in the capital of Espírito Santo. The most typical tours are ocean fishing, the Anchieta pilgrimage and the train ride through the landscapes of Espírito Santo, while the adventure tours include windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Cidade Alta (Historic Center)
Traveling to Vitória is taking a trip back to the past. The capital has existed since 1551 and thus reveals a historic center rich in historic buildings such as churches, chapels, museums, convents, theater, monastery and others. Most of its main architectures and buildings have been listed as historical heritage.
Cidade Alta is the heart of the city, where all its history since its emergence in 1551 is kept alive. The city’s historical heritage is rich and can be enjoyed on foot through the streets and squares. Among the attractions, see the Anchieta Palace from 1573, a former convent that is now the seat of government and houses noble rooms with antique mahogany furniture; the 1920 Neo-Gothic Metropolitan Cathedral; the Santa Luzia Chapel, the oldest building in the city; São Gonçalo Church dating from 1707 and listed as a heritage site; São Francisco Convent from 1591, which houses an old cemetery and the Nossa Senhora das Neves chapel; Castro Gomes Theater from 1927, inspired by the Milan theater and the Rosary Church from 1763 which houses a museum.
Morro da Vargem Zen Monastery
Open every Sunday, the space houses five temples in its complex that brings together gardens surrounded by lotuses and the temple of the goddess Bodhisattva Kannon. Some spiritual retreats take place periodically and are available for visitors who want to renew their energy and improve their vibrations.
Monjardim Solar Museum
The name refers to the famous Monjardim family. An 18th century mansion today gives way to a museum that houses objects from the 18th and 19th centuries that denote the wealth of the imperial family.
Schooner Tour
Two schooner departures take place every day and take visitors on a tour that starts at the Iemanjá pier in Praia do Camburi, sails through Vitória Bay, passes through Praia da Costa, Boi and Frades Islands and the Vale Museum. Bring a camera to record the scenes.
Mountain Train
The traditional train ride has been taking place again since 2010. It is a route that runs from Viana to Araguaia. There are 46 km that climb mountains, cross bridges, tunnels, pass through waterfalls and areas of native forest.
Ocean Fishing
The region from Vitória to Guarapari is one of the best places for sport fishing. The place is abundant with marine species, especially white and blue marlin. The best time for fishing is from September to March. Some fishing competitions take place there from time to time.
Anchieta Steps
The religious tradition is always carried out in Corpus Christi. It is about the four-day pilgrimage carried out by Father Anchieta in the past and which is recreated by devotees. The route goes from Vitória to Anchieta, with stops for the night and rest in Barra do Jucu, Setiba and Meaípe. The blessed catechized the Indians on the state’s coast in the 16th century.
Adventure trip
Due to the good winds, stable sea and maritime area of around 6 km, adventure tourism is often practiced by fans. The routes are usually made in the late afternoon by kitesurfers at Praia do Camburi. Windsurfers enjoy Praia do Canto and travel along Praia do Camburi until reaching Porto do Tubarão. The walks reveal beautiful landscapes.
Clay Pot Shopping
The famous clay pots used to prepare traditional foods, including moqueca, are already a reference. The flavor of Espírito Santo cuisine is largely due to the pans. To purchase one, you can follow the manufacturing process in the Goiabeiras neighborhood, where the clay is collected in Vale do Mulembá and then follow the process at the Associação das Paneleiras de Goiabeiras.
