Discovering Gramado & Canela from the Top Deck

As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for activities that are both fun and stress-free for families. When I heard about the Double-Decker Bus Tour in Gramado and Canela, I knew it was something I had to experience. The idea of exploring these charming cities from the top of a double-decker bus sounded like the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

The tour starts at the iconic cathedral of Canela, and from the moment we boarded the bus, I could feel the excitement in the air. The kids were thrilled to sit on the upper deck with the open ceiling, giving us a panoramic view of the beautiful landscapes. The bus tour covers 40 tourist spots, and the flexibility to hop on and off at any stop made it incredibly convenient for our family. We could explore at our own pace, which is a huge plus when traveling with children.

The guides on the bus were fantastic, providing us with a bracelet that allowed us to board any bus throughout the day. They were always available to answer questions, offer tips, and even sell additional tours to attractions like the Caracol Waterfall and Skyglass. The printed materials and physical map were a great help, and the kids enjoyed following along with the app to see where we were headed next.

Exploring the Highlights of Gramado & Canela

One of the highlights of the tour was visiting Mini Mundo, a miniature park that captivated the kids’ imaginations. Seeing the tiny cities, 24 times smaller than their real size, was like stepping into a fairy tale. We also loved Lago Negro, where we took a leisurely pedal boat ride surrounded by lush greenery. The serene atmosphere was a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Another must-see stop was the Praca das Etnias, a square that pays homage to the Italian, Portuguese, and German immigrants who shaped the region. The themed houses and delicious baked goods were a hit with the whole family. And of course, we couldn’t resist a visit to the Prawer chocolate factory, where we learned about the artisanal chocolate-making process and indulged in some sweet treats.

The bus tour also took us to the Exceed Games Park, the largest VR gaming park in Brazil. With over 20 attractions and 50 games, it was a paradise for the kids. They had a blast exploring the virtual worlds, and I appreciated the chance to relax and enjoy a coffee while they played.

Making Memories in Vila Suica

Our adventure in Gramado and Canela wouldn’t have been complete without a visit to the Parque Terra Magica Florybal. This amusement park, with its 7D cinema and dinosaur-themed areas, was a hit with the kids. We spent hours exploring the various attractions, and the smiles on their faces were priceless.

The Caracol State Park was another highlight, with its breathtaking waterfall and dense forests. We took a moment to soak in the natural beauty and reflect on the incredible experiences we were having as a family. The park’s Escada da Perna Bamba and Vila do Artesanato offered unique shopping opportunities, and we found some lovely souvenirs to take home.

As the day came to an end, we returned to the bus, feeling grateful for the memories we had made. The Double-Decker Bus Tour was a fantastic way to explore Gramado and Canela, offering a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. It’s an activity I highly recommend to any family looking to create unforgettable memories together.