4 DaysBrazilCultureFood
Itu
Your 4-day travel guide
April to September for mild, dry weather
Itu•4D•Couple
Itu, Brazil
Duration:4 Days
Activities:12
Best for:Couple
Giant Statues and Colonial Charm in Brazil's Quirkiest Town
Welcome to Itu, where everything is oversized and the history is rich. You'll quickly notice something unusual here – from giant pencils and payphones to enormous chairs scattered around town, giving this colonial city a playful personality. As a couple, you'll love wandering through cobblestone streets lined with colorful 18th-century buildings, discovering why locals call this 'the city of the exagerados' (the exaggerated ones). The air smells of wood-fired pizza from family-run restaurants and the sound of church bells mixes with laughter from the main square. This itinerary blends Itu's unique cultural heritage with São Paulo state's hearty cuisine, perfect for couples who appreciate history with a side of whimsy. Get ready to explore Brazil's most unexpectedly charming small city.
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1
Colonial History and Giant Discoveries
Day 1 of your journey
Start your Itu adventure at the heart of the city, where you'll find the iconic giant objects that make Itu famous. The enormous red telephone booth and oversized pencil are perfect photo opportunities for couples. Surrounding the square are beautifully preserved colonial buildings from the 18th century, including the Matriz Church. Take your time wandering the cobblestone streets, noticing the colorful facades and architectural details. This area is most enjoyable in the morning before it gets too crowded with weekend visitors from São Paulo.
Praça Padre Miguel (Main Square)
Why Visit
This square represents the essence of Itu's identity – where colonial history meets playful exaggeration. The giant objects have become symbols of the city and provide unique photo memories. The surrounding architecture offers authentic examples of Brazilian colonial style, making it essential for understanding Itu's cultural heritage.
Address: Praça Padre Miguel, Centro. Visit the tourist information center in the square for a free map showing all the giant objects around town. The best photos are taken from the church steps looking toward the giant telephone.
2
Cultural Heritage and Local Flavors
Day 2 of your journey
3
Free Day and Local Exploration
Day 3 of your journey
4
Day Trip to Nearby Attractions
Day 4 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
Itu is about 100km from São Paulo – drive takes 1.5-2 hours via Rodovia Castello Branco (SP-280)
Portuguese is essential – English is not widely spoken outside tourist offices
Brazilian Real is the currency – credit cards accepted at most restaurants and hotels
Parking in the historic center can be challenging on weekends – consider parking further out and walking
Itu is generally safe, but take normal precautions with valuables in crowded areas
Many attractions close on Mondays – plan your itinerary accordingly
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated – 10% is standard in restaurants if service charge isn't included
Dress is casual but modest when visiting churches – cover shoulders and knees
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Itu is during the dry season from April to September when rainfall is lower and temperatures are mild, typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). These months offer comfortable weather for walking around the historic center and exploring outdoor attractions. The rainy season from October to March can bring heavy afternoon showers that might disrupt outdoor plans. Weekends tend to be busier with visitors from São Paulo, so if you prefer quieter exploration, consider visiting on weekdays. Major holidays like Carnival (February/March) and Christmas bring larger crowds.
Local Insights & Tips
Itu residents take pride in their city's nickname 'Cidade dos Exagerados' (City of the Exaggerated), which refers not just to the giant objects but to a local tendency toward enthusiastic storytelling and hospitality. The giant objects began as a marketing campaign in the 1990s and have become integral to the city's identity. Locals are generally friendly and patient with visitors trying Portuguese. The pace of life is slower than in São Paulo, with afternoon siestas still observed by some businesses. Food culture emphasizes traditional Paulista (São Paulo state) cuisine with Italian influences – expect hearty portions. Sunday afternoons often find families gathering in the main square. Respect for historical preservation is strong, so be mindful when photographing private homes.