Planura can be explored on two scales: through the design of its urban fabric and through nature and leisure attractions across the municipality. The square, town hall and festive traditions offer concrete cultural themes; fishing, cycling routes and riverbanks represent other interests at the municipal level. This distinction can help with trip planning by answering two questions: Would you like to get to know Planura mainly through architecture and culture, or make nature and activities your focus?

Squares and architecture

Praça da Vila de Furnas is the largest square in Planura’s urban fabric; it was designed by landscape architect Fernando Chacel. Its park-like features and integration with the banks of Lago de Planura connect the design of the square with its natural surroundings. The site can therefore be understood both as part of the urban fabric and in terms of its design by the water. For travelers interested in architecture and landscaped squares when choosing where to visit, the Praça is a distinctive landmark.

Planura’s town hall building offers a different architectural emphasis: its façades display striking Art Deco features. At the town hall, the focus is on façades and style; at the Praça, it is on a landscape architect’s design and the site’s integration with the waterfront. Travelers who prioritize culture and design when choosing a destination can compare these different scales: the façades of a single municipal building and a square that is rooted in the urban fabric and by Lago de Planura.

Festivals and culture

Carnaplan is Planura’s street carnival, which began in the late 1990s. Folia de Reis is also part of Planura’s cultural festival traditions. Together, the two offer a perspective on festivals alongside the town’s architectural features: one is about cultural traditions, the other about the design of squares and façades. If Carnaplan is the reason for your trip, check the event dates for your preferred travel period in advance.

Rivers and activities across the municipality

The municipality’s river attractions offer another dimension. The Rio Grande borders almost the entire extent of the municipality of Planura and is a tourist attraction there. The banks of the Rio São Francisco within the municipality are also tourist attractions for visitors interested in nature. The two rivers offer different points of interest: the Rio Grande is notable for bordering nearly the entire municipality, while the banks of the Rio São Francisco are a tourist attraction for nature lovers. This distinction helps separate river and landscape interests at the municipal level from attractions in the urban fabric.

Cycling routes and fishing also add to the municipality’s tourism offerings. The ecological and rural cycling routes are tourist attractions there. The well-known fishing circuit is recognized by sport anglers from across the country. These are two distinct activities: cycling on routes geared toward ecological and rural settings, or sport fishing. When deciding what to focus on during your stay, consider whether cycling or fishing better suits your interests.

Discover more destinations: Porteirinha, Bocaina De Minas, Lapinha, Caeté, Caxambu, Abre Campo, Curvelo, Paracatu.

Return to the main travel overview: Minas Gerais.