26 College Towns That Feel Like Mini Versions of Major Cities

22. Belo Horizonte, Brazil – A Mini São Paulo with a Bohemian Twist

Often overshadowed by Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, Belo Horizonte is one of Brazil’s most exciting cultural and university cities. Home to major universities like UFMG, the city thrives on its music scene, literary culture, and buzzing nightlife. With craft beer breweries, live samba, and a strong creative economy, Belo Horizonte feels like a compact version of São Paulo but with friendlier locals and a lower cost of living.