Águas de São Pedro

Águas de São Pedro is a city in the Campinas Region of São Paulo state. Boasting the second highest Human Development Index (HDI) of Brazil, Águas de São Pedro is a small and picturesque mineral spring resort town that attracts visitors to its public and private baths, green-filled streets and cozy city center.

Understand


In 1934, mineral springs with therapeutic properties were discovered in the municipality of São Pedro, which led to the construction of the luxurious Grand Hotel São Pedro in the area. In 1940, the municipality of Águas de São Pedro was created, with the city itself being completely planned and adapted for tourism.

With a combination of small size, non-existence of poverty, and good administrations, Águas de São Pedro became one of the most economically and socially developed cities of the country, a position that it retains until nowadays.

By bus
Despite being very small, as a tourist-oriented city, Águas de São Pedro is attended by a number of intercity buses, operated by Piracicabana and São Paulo São Pedro. From São Paulo, a one-way ticket costs R$ 41,50 (as of August 2013) and the trip takes about 3 hours. From Piracicaba, it costs R$ 6,50 and takes 45 minutes. Check the company websites for other itineraries and more information. The intercity bus terminal of Águas de São Pedro is located at the city center, near Praça dos Rouxinóis.

By car
Águas de São Pedro is reached by Rodovia Geraldo de Barros (SP-304), which links the city to São Pedro and Piracicaba

Get around
Most hotels and pousadas are located in the city center, which can be easily explored on foot. A car may be convenient to explore the attractions outside the city center, like the mineral water springs or the founder's house, although one with enough time and disposition may explore the hilly city on foot. Another option is to use the (non-stop) touristic train rides, taken at Parque Municipal Dr. Octavio Moura Andrade.

Buy
Av. Carlos Mauro is the town's highly tourist-oriented shopping street. There is a supermarket at Praça dos Rouxinóis.

Go next

 * São Pedro - Much larger but less famous than Águas de São Pedro, São Pedro boasts beautiful waterfalls and great spots for hiking and adventure
 * Piracicaba - Lively city with a nice riverside and several historical attractions