São Carlos, in São Paulo state, stands out globally as Brazil’s “Capital of Technology,” hosting two top-tier universities—USP and UFSCar—within a mid-sized city. Its unique blend of high-tech innovation and rural coffee-farm heritage fuels a startup ecosystem deeply rooted in academic research, unlike any other in Brazil. This rare synergy makes São Carlos a hotspot for robotics, automation, and applied science breakthroughs.
Notable points about São Carlos
- São Carlos, São Paulo is uniquely known as Brazil’s “Capital of Technology” due to its unusually high number of PhDs per capita and two top universities—USP and UFSCar—shaping the city’s identity.
- Unlike most Brazilian cities, São Carlos stands out for its strong science and innovation ecosystem, drawing tech startups and researchers rather than tourists or beachgoers.
- The best time to visit is during the winter dry season from May to August, when the weather is mild, perfect for enjoying the city's hilly landscapes and cultural festivals.
- Cost of living here is moderate—cheaper than São Paulo city, with plenty of affordable dining and lodging options, especially around the university areas like Vila Nery and Santa Felícia.
- For authentic immersion, join locals at the Feira do Produtor on Saturdays in Praça da XV to taste homemade sweets, listen to live music, and buy fresh local produce.
- Don’t miss “Coxinha da Gula,” a legendary street snack shop where locals line up for golden, oversized coxinhas filled with catupiry and chicken—simple but unforgettable.
- Public buses connect most neighborhoods efficiently, but the best way to explore is by walking or biking through the central historical area and the USP campus with its green open spaces.
- Visit the Ecological Park of São Carlos, a lesser-known but beautifully maintained sanctuary that combines a mini-zoo, native forest, and picnic areas ideal for families and nature lovers.
- It’s a generally safe city, but travelers should be cautious in outer neighborhoods after dark; most locals speak Portuguese only, so download offline translation tools before arriving.
- The most unforgettable moment is watching the sunset from the Mirante da Babilônia hilltop, where you’ll see the entire city bathed in orange light with church towers dotting the skyline.