- The city was originally settled by German immigrants in 1824 and was known as Hamburgo Velho before the name Novo Hamburgo was officially adopted.
- Novo Hamburgo is historically recognized as the 'Capital of Footwear' in Brazil due to its long-standing dominance in the export of leather shoes.
- The city maintains a strong connection to its roots through the preservation of Hunsrückisch, a German dialect spoken by descendants of the original settlers.
- Unlike many Brazilian cities, Novo Hamburgo features significant architectural remnants of the 'enxaimel' (half-timbered) style brought by 19th-century European immigrants.
- The city's rapid industrialization in the 20th century transformed it from a small agricultural colony into one of the most significant economic hubs in the state of Rio Grande do Sul.
About Novo Hamburgo
Novo Hamburgo, located in the Rio Grande do Sul state, holds a unique place in Brazilian history as a hub of German immigration and a former powerhouse of the global leather and footwear industry. The city's cultural heritage is deeply connected to its industrial identity, symbolized by the Monument to the Shoemaker. Visitors can explore local history at the Schmitt-Presser Museum or experience large-scale performances at the Teatro Feevale. The landscape is characterized by its hilly terrain and proximity to the Sinos River Valley, blending urban development with traditional architectural influences.
Highlights of Novo Hamburgo
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Venues
This modern facility hosts major national and international theatrical productions and musical concerts.
Venues
This stadium serves as the primary ground for the local football club, Esporte Clube Novo Hamburgo.
Museums
Housed in a preserved 19th-century building, this museum displays artifacts detailing the lives of the first German settlers.
Parks
A tranquil green space offering recreational areas for locals and visitors to enjoy the city's natural hilly topography.
Places of interest
This landmark commemorates the city's vital role in the international footwear manufacturing industry.
Top things to do in Novo Hamburgo
The 14 highest-rated places in Novo Hamburgo, ranked by travellers.
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Teatro Feevale is one of the largest and most technologically advanced performing arts venues in southern Brazil. Locate...
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Novo Hamburgo on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Novo Hamburgo
Autumn (April to June) or Spring (September to November), as these seasons offer mild temperatures ideal for outdoor walking tours and visiting local historical sites.
2 days, which provides sufficient time to tour the historical district of Hamburgo Velho and visit major cultural venues.
The city is served by the Trensurb metro line, connecting it to Porto Alegre, while local travel within neighborhoods is best achieved by car or ride-sharing services.
The Centro area is convenient for accessing transport and commercial services, while the historic district of Hamburgo Velho provides a quieter, more scenic atmosphere.
Mid-range; the city offers a variety of accommodations and dining options that generally reflect the cost of living in the southern Brazilian interior.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 14 curated attractions in and around Novo Hamburgo, ranked by traveller ratings.
Teatro Feevale is the highest-rated place to visit in Novo Hamburgo right now.
The largest category is venues, with 4 places to explore.
Travellers also explore São Paulo, Brasília, Fortaleza.
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