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17 Best Places to Visit in Brazil

By Kay Pierce · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Famous for being home to one of the world’s top football teams, the Rio de Janeiro Carnival and the remarkable Iguazu Falls, Brazil is an exciting world travel destination. As South America’s largest country, Brazil covers a majority of the continent’s northeastern region and borders all of its countries except for Chile and Ecuador .

From the Amazon rainforest in the North to the tropical beaches along the Atlantic , to the Pantanal wetlands and the vibrant metropolises of the Southeast there are plenty of interesting places to visit in Brazil .

17. Jericoacoara

Located in the northeast of Brazil in the state of Ceara, Jericoacoara is a lovely, laidback place nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and a national park of the same name. Often referred to as Jeri or Jijoca, the small and secluded seaside town boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in Brazil and is an increasingly popular tourist destination.

Besides its beautiful beaches, Jeri is surrounded by delightful dunes and lagoons that offer countless recreational opportunities, with hiking, swimming and watersports all very popular. Exploring the area on horseback or in dune buggies is a fantastic way to see as much of its splendid scenery as possible; Pedra Furada – or the ‘Arched Rock’ – is the standout sight and symbol.

While its remote setting makes visiting Jericoacoara a challenge, it is well worth the effort for its sumptuous scenery, wealth of outdoor activities, and surprisingly lively nightlife.

16. Sao Paulo

Not only is Sao Paulo the largest city in Brazil, but it is also one of the largest in the world according to population. Located in southeastern Brazil, Sao Paulo is known for its skyscrapers, gastronomy and robust culture scene. Home to many ethnic groups from all over the globe including the largest Japanese community outside of Japan.

Dividing the city between its old and new districts, Paulista Avenue is the city’s busiest strip, brimming in businesses, shopping malls, art galleries, theaters and restaurants. Although Sao Paulo is known for its concrete jungle, it is also home to a large number of public parks and even portions of the Atlantic rainforest.

15. Brasilia

Located in the Brazilian Highlands, Brasilia was installed in 1960 as Brazil’s capital. Brazil’s former President Juscelino Kubitschek of the late 1950s ordered the city to be planned and developed into what some refer to as a utopia. Brasilia’s modern day infrastructure is designed in the shape of an airplane in which each of its sections serve as different districts such as government, commercial, residential and cultural.

Brasilia’s new and creative architecture attracts many visitors. Most significant is the Three Powers Square, which houses the Presidential Palace , the Congress and the Supreme Court. Other important buildings include the Palácio da Alvorada, the President’s official residence and the TV Tower. The Brasilia Cathedral with its glass roof that resembles hands reaching up to heaven is a must visit.

In addition to all its concrete, steel and glass, Brasilia also features a large artificial lake and several beautiful parks that all offer a variety of leisure activities. The capital is also an important transportation hub for travel within Brazil.

14. Ouro Preto

Tucked away among the mountains of Minas Gerais, Ouro Preto is the most picturesque, popular, and well-preserved colonial town in Brazil. As it was one of the main centers of the Brazilian Gold Rush , wealth and riches poured into its streets – along with the power and prestige that came with it.

Strung out across a series of hills, its historic center is full of steep, winding cobbled streets that meander past gorgeous old buildings and 18th-century churches. The small city also has several interesting museums for visitors to check out; many of these focus on the artworks of Aleijandinho or Ouro Preto’s mining past.

Many people visit the city for its rich history and culture or to visit the numerous mines via a guided tour. In recent years, Ouro Preto’s colorful carnival has attracted more and more revelers to its ancient streets.

Lying in the southwest corner of Mato Grosso do Sul, the small city of Bonito is a great place to go in Brazil if you are looking to explore the gorgeous Pantanal region. While there’s not all that much to see or do in the town itself, it has long been the posterchild of sustainable ecotourism in Brazil.

Awash with natural wonders, the area surrounding Bonito is home to sparkling waterfalls, gushing rivers, and huge sinkholes and lake-filled caves that you can go swimming or snorkeling in. Hiking in the lush rainforest is also popular, with lots of colorful fauna and flora to be spied in Serra da Bodoquena National Park .

Many companies operate out of Bonito’s pousadas, and excursions usually focus on the Pantanal’s rich ecology and ecosystems. Among the most popular are snorkeling below underwater stalagmites at Anhumas Abyss, enjoying a canopy walk in the rainforest, and exploring Blue Lake Cave – one of the largest flooded caves in the world.

12. Fortaleza

Nice beaches, dynamic shopping and lively culture all make Fortaleza one of Brazil’s popular tourist destinations. The capital of the Ceará state on the country’s northeastern coast, Fortaleza is Brazil’s fifth largest city, well-known for its forró music .

Featuring a mix of colonial and modern day architecture, Fortaleza offers plenty of things to see and do. Praça do Ferreira is the city’s main square where restaurants, shops and a movie theater are all located. Praça José de Alencar is another popular square where street performers can be observed.

Fortaleza’s 16 miles of urban beaches are one of the reasons many tourists flock to the city. The most popular beach is Praia do Futuro , but other favorites are Iracema, Mucuripe and Meireles. Not only are the beaches great for swimming, sunbathing, fishing and surfing competitions, but they also offer hotels, restaurants and markets. Fortaleza also serves as the jumping-off point for many visitors to truly spectacular beaches, rolling dunes and idyllic fishing villages along the Ceará coast.

The shopping experience in Fortaleza is another of its main attractions. Because the city is home to a large textile industry, clothing is cheap here. Local handicrafts and fresh seafood and produce can be found among the city’s markets while the Iguatemi Mall offers a little of everything.

11. Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park

Home to sparkling lakes, dramatic waterfalls , and stunning landscapes – as well as some of the oldest and most biodiverse tropical ecosystems in the world – Chapada dos Veadeiros really is a treat to explore. Covering a huge area in the center of Brazil, the marvelous microregion can be found in the state of Goias, some three hours drive north of the nation’s capital Brasilia.

Chapada dos Veadeiros’ main attraction is the wonderful national park of the same name that lies atop an ancient rainforest-coated plateau . Scarred by jagged cliffs and crumbling canyons, the park is fascinating to hike around, with lots of awe-inspiring waterfalls hidden away among its verdant flora and fauna.

Other highlights include the appropriately named Moon Valley , which is home to lunar landscapes. Swimming and bathing in any one of the numerous waterfalls and rivers that dot the area is a must-do. The two main places to stay when visiting Chapada dos Veadeiros are Alta Paraiso and Sao Jorge, a small city and village which lie not too far from all of the main sights.

A paradise of tropical forests, waterfalls, emerald sea and coastal mountains, Parati is a popular tourist destination located along Brazil’s Green Coast in the Rio de Janeiro state. Also spelled Paraty, this beautiful city is a former Portuguese colony established on the shores of the Bay of Ilha Grande.

The heart of Parati is its historic center with cobbled streets and multicolored colonial houses, many of which now serve as bed-and-breakfast accommodations called pousadas . Some of the most visited attractions here are the colonial defense forts that still boast original walls and cannons. The historic center of Parati is pedestrian-only .

Surrounding the city are several beautiful parks and nature preserves where visitors can hike and explore the natural setting of mangrove forest, waterfalls and wildlife. There are also indigenous villages here that can be visited. The bay offers gorgeous beaches where visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, diving and boat cruises.

Nicknamed the “ Venice of Brazil ” because of its numerous waterways and bridges, Recife is the capital of the Pernambuco state and one of the largest and most important cities on Brazil’s northeastern coast. Situated amid tropical forests with many islands and rivers, Recife is an interesting place to visit because of its historic old town, beaches and vibrant culture.

Recife was a Dutch colony during the early 17th century, and nowhere is this more evident than the city’s historic district where many colonial buildings still remain. Some of the most significant structures include the oldest synagogue in the Americas and one of Brazil’s most beautiful baroque churches, the Franciscan Convent of Saint Anthony.

Saint Peter Square is also noted for its history and picturesque setting of colorful buildings, shops and restaurants.

The city’s main market, the Sao José Market , is a popular place to find traditional handicrafts, medicinal herbs and locally produced food. Recife’s beaches are considered some of the best in Brazil. Lined with hotels, restaurants and bars, Boa Viagem is the most popular beach with its pristine white sands, clear water and coral reef.

8. Chapada Diamantina National Park

Created in 1985 to protect, preserve, and promote its spectacular scenery and rich ecosystems, Chapada Diamantina National Park lies in the northeast of Brazil in the center of the state of Bahia. Popular among nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the park encompasses everything from dramatic mountain ranges and sweeping valleys to teeming rivers and towering waterfalls.

As it is set atop of a plateau, the park is very mountainous, with its tallest peaks reaching more than 2,000 meters. Crumbling, rugged cliffs line the plateau, as do lots of epic waterfalls ; the awe-inspiring 380-metre-high Cachoeira da Fumaca is the tallest in Brazil. Cavernous caves also punctuate its rugged terrain, with Lapa Doce and Pratinha two of the largest.

Thanks to its diverse landscapes and gorgeous scenery, Chapada Diamantina National Park is an increasingly popular tourist destination. Visitors can choose to either camp or stay in one of the small towns, such as Lencois and Vale de Capao. Horseback riding and hiking are popular pastimes, as is swimming in the rivers and pools of the area.

One of Brazil’s best-preserved colonial cities, Olinda is located on the country’s Atlantic Coast in the northeastern state of Pernambuco. Founded by the Portuguese in the early 16th century, the city served as the state’s capital until it was burned by the Dutch, thereafter losing its sovereignty to its nearby neighbor, Recife.

Perched on a picturesque hilltop surrounded by trees, Olinda’s historic downtown is a treasure trove of colonial churches, colorful old houses and numerous artisan studios. Because of its love affair with art, Olinda packs many shops and markets selling paintings, ceramics, sculptures and handicrafts.

Every year, Olinda hosts its lively Carnival celebration that differs somewhat from those of Rio de Janeiro and Salvador in that Olinda’s festival is best at daytime and features the music, dances and traditions of African culture . Olinda’s Carnival involves parades, lavish costumes, giant puppet dolls, street parties and the rhythms of maracatu and frevo.

However, even outside of the Carnival season, Olinda offers an animated culture where every weekend buzzes with parties, bars, nightclubs and singing groups who perform serenades of traditional songs in the streets.

6. Pantanal

Covering a vast swathe of western Brazil, as well as parts of Paraguay and Bolivia , the Pantanal is the world’s largest and most diverse tropical wetland area. Due to its stunning scenery and incredible wildlife, the region is increasingly popular to visit, although its remote and watery nature does pose a few challenges.

During the rainy season, around 80 percent of the floodplains are submerged, so the only way to get around is by plane or boat. It is worth it, however; the endless marshes and grasslands are home to an astounding array of fauna and flora.

Besides exploring the scenic landscapes ranging from swamps and savanna to lakes, forests, and wetlands, visitors are also sure to spot many caiman and capybara . The highlight of any trip is spotting the South American jaguar ; the Pantanal is the best place on the continent to catch a glimpse of the elusive creature.

5. Florianopolis

The capital of Santa Catarina state, Florianopolis lies in the south of Brazil, with half of the city set on the mainland and the other on a beautiful island . Due to its scenic setting, it is a very popular tourist destination and is widely considered one of the best places to live in the country.

An important economic, cultural, and political center, Florianopolis is a modern city with lots of large shopping malls and chic restaurants, as well as lively bars and nightclubs. Despite this, it is a lovely laidback place, and each of its neighborhoods has its own distinct identity.

The main attraction, however, is the wealth of fabulous beaches . While relaxing in the gorgeous scenery is divine, Florianopolis also has stunning dunes, sparkling waterfalls, and forested mountains – as well as a large lagoon for visitors to explore. Hiking and cycling around the ‘Magic Island’ (which it is also known as) are popular activities, as are paragliding and watersports.

The capital of the Amazonas state in northwestern Brazil, Manaus is an important tourist destination because it serves as a gateway to the Amazon rainforest .

As a result of the region’s flourishing rubber industry during the early 20th century, Manaus today is Northern Brazil’s largest metropolitan area, featuring distinguished landmarks like the Amazonas Opera House , the Adolpho Lisboa Market and the Rio Negro Palace.

Not only is the port of Manaus an important commercial hub for several manufacturing industries, but it also serves as the most popular starting point for river tours into the Amazon rainforest. Some of the most striking things to see on these tours include the Paricatuba Waterfall, Love Cascade and glimpses of the Pied tamarin, Brazil’s most endangered monkey. Another significant sight is the Meeting of the Waters , which is a natural phenomenon where the two rivers of Negro and Solimões run side by side for more than three miles without mixing.

Besides the rainforest and river, Manus also offers public parks, a botanical garden and a zoo. Several beaches are here as well such as Ponta Negra with a number of restaurants, bars and hotels.

3. Salvador

A historic Old City, beautiful beaches, lively culture and one of the world’s biggest Carnival celebrations all fashion Salvador into one of Brazil’s top tourist destinations. One of the oldest cities in the Americas, Salvador is Brazil’s third largest city and the capital of the Bahia state.

Formerly a major center of sugar and slave trade, Salvador today still bears traces of its history in Pelourinho or Old City, which features colonial architecture, stunning churches and plazas where important events once occurred. Also found in the old quarter are many restaurants, bars, art galleries and handicraft shops. Contrastively, Salvador’s New City district is where all the modern day developments of shopping megaplexes, entertainment venues, golf courses and residential neighborhoods are located.

Situated on the coast of the Bay of All Saints, Salvador offers fantastic beaches that are ideal for sunbathing, swimming and surfing. Some of the most popular include Porto de Barra, Flamengo and Stella Maris.

One of Salvador’s main crowd-pullers is its annual Carnival celebration . Acclaimed as one of the largest in the world, this extravagant event involves music, dancing, parades, costumes and street parties.

2. Foz do Iguacu

One of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world, Iguazu Falls straddles the Argentine-Brazilian border. It is often compared to Niagara Falls and Victoria Falls, such is its staggering size and scale. Surrounded by dense rainforest, its endless series of cascades stretch for almost three kilometers, making it the largest waterfall system in the world.

Every second, incalculable gallons of water from the Iguazu River course over the Parana Plateau, plunging onto the rocks and pools below. While 80 percent of the falls are in Argentina , it is the Brazilian side that offers the most spectacular views, with Devil’s Throat canyon being the highlight.

Besides gazing in awe at Iguazu Falls and taking in the deafening roar, visitors can take a boat ride beneath the falls or go hiking in the steamy rainforest that surrounds them. The gateway to the falls on the Brazilian side is Foz do Iguaçu, a big and reasonably safe city by Brazilian standards.

1. Rio de Janeiro

There is no destination on earth more animated and exciting than Rio de Janeiro. Located in southeastern Brazil, Rio de Janeiro is the most visited city of South America due to its famous mountains, beaches and Carnival festival.

Rio de Janeiro is situated on one of the world’s largest harbors surrounded by natural attractions that include the Sugarloaf and Corcovado mountains and famous beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema . Within this sprawling metropolis is Tijuca National Park , one of the world’s largest urban forests, teeming in native flora and fauna.

The city’s iconic landmark is the enormous Christ the Redeemer statue sitting atop Corcovado mountain. Other important landmarks include colonial fortresses, former presidential palaces and Maracanã Stadium, one of the world’s largest football stadiums.

See also: Where to Stay in Rio de Janeiro

Sadly, most people also know Rio for its crime and favelas. The favelas are areas of poor-quality housing, slums usually located on the city’s many mountain slopes, juxtaposed with middle-class neighborhoods.

Rio de Janerio is home to one of the world’s largest Carnival celebrations , renowned for its vibrant parades, costumes, dancing, music, fireworks and street parties. Outside of the festival, the city buzzes nightly with an abundance of bars and dance clubs.

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Reader interactions.

October 11, 2019 at 3:37 am

I would also recommend Maceió. Beautiful beaches, great nightlife and safer than the big cities. But, you can’t go to Brasil for the 1st time and not go to Rio (my hometown for 16 years/Copacabana). As one person said above, do your homework before you go and you should be safe. Don’t dress like a gringo… just saying!?

February 16, 2019 at 3:44 pm

I highly recommend you guys to go to Porto de Galinhas (translates to…Hen’s Harbour, yeah), i’ve been there a couple of times and it’s one of the most beautiful places i’ve ever been, with amazing beaches, some handicraft fairs (that show a lot of brazilian’s northeastern culture) and splendid sights and hotels.

March 30, 2018 at 8:04 am

I recommend “Porto de Galinhas-Pernambuco” and “Maragogi-Alagoas”. Paradise! They are safe places. Really Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo are very dangerous.

June 29, 2017 at 7:44 pm

@Laura Morgenstern, I have to say that there are some places that are dangerous. But people generalize about it. Like most countries, there ares some dangerous neighborhoods but it is not the entire country. There are very safe cities, and I’m sure that if you speak with local people they will tell you where you have to avoid going to. There are amazing places in Brazil that some people don’t know about such as Gramado, Aguas de Lindóia, Brotas – radical sports in the water, Balneário camboriu

June 11, 2017 at 1:23 pm

Isla do Mel……amazing! Curitiba, fantastic city.

January 10, 2017 at 3:52 pm

And about Espirito Santo… Beaches. Guarapari and Vila Velha and beautiful mountains like Domingos Martins with a wonderful wine by the fireplace

December 22, 2016 at 12:19 am

I went to Brazil for three weeks this summer and there weren’t any cases that made me feel uncomfortable or where I felt unsafe. I was in both Sao Paulo and Rio de Janiero during my trip. I wouldn’t recommend going to certain parts of both cities because there are gangs but if you do your research you’ll be able to figure out where not to go and what is safe.

My trip was absolutely amazing and I would recommend going if you ever get the opportunity.

October 20, 2016 at 9:33 am

Gramado is the best city

June 30, 2016 at 12:46 pm

I think Brazil is a beautiful place, but ‘s very dangerous. It’s true?

November 23, 2015 at 11:07 am

Thank you for recommending all these interesting places. My husband I are thinking to go to Brazil next year but I do not wish to go to big cities – may go to Rio for a few days only and then travel to other small places. Which ones would you recommend – We are not beach people. Like the culture and ”naturaleza” from these places people are recommending? which is the best time to go?

October 13, 2015 at 8:21 pm

Forget about the big cities in Brazil… The best and safest tourism here is in small and fantastic places. Keep noted: 1. Bonito – Is, by far, the most amazing place in Brazil!!! There you can swim in small rivers with several fishes and enjoy the real nature 2. Fernando de Noronha – Is an isolated island in the north east of Brazil. Destination of the Hollywood movie stars. You can swim with dolphins or sharks. Amazing beaches and is a very calm place. 3. Iguaçú falls (Foz de Iguaçú) – Much bigger than niagara falls and really beautiful. You can feel the power of nature there. 4. Chapada dos Veadeiros – A lot of water falls and a mistic place. Great site to meditate and to be in touch with yourself.

All these places are safe and really cheap if you have Dollars or Euros. Forget the big cities…

June 12, 2015 at 12:07 am

I do not speak English , I am using a translator , sorry . Anyway , I wanted to leave my opinion ‘m from São Paulo SP Brazil ( love this place <3) , and put the ranking as: 1 – Maranhão – National Park Maranhenses 2 – Amazonas – Manaus, located in the center of the largest tropical forest in the world 3 – Bahia – Morro sp 4 – Bahia – Chapada Diamantina National Park 5 – Pernambuco – Porto de Galinhas 6 – Ceará -the beach of Canoa Quebrada 7 – Rio de Janeiro – Paraty 8 – Minas Gerais – Sao Tome das letras 9 – São Paulo – SP ( Paulista Avenue, Ibirapuera Park) 10 – Rio de Janeiro – RJ

Sao Paulo has little beauty , but it's where you find the best hotels, bars, parties and museums in Brazil.

May 15, 2015 at 6:47 pm

I think that you should mention Mato Grosso do Sul ( Bonito the city) , crystal clear waters, a lot of different animals. It s amazing and perfect

July 30, 2014 at 3:49 pm

Christ the Redeemer statue sitting atop Corcovado mountain is wonderful and unbelievable! I really want to visit that place 🙂 Great!

July 24, 2014 at 10:16 am

I think you should put Graemado and Canela (two cities of Rio Grande do Sul) too! It doesn’t have beaches, but it’s like a cold paradis. It’s VERY beautiful and there are a lot of cultural attractions. I would recommend the dates around Easter and Christmas (specially the last one), because there’s really maaaany beautiful things. During the winter it’s very cold and good to stay there! It’s awesome

May 27, 2014 at 10:58 am

Brazil is Amazing and Fascinating!! I hope I visit it soon and the first place ide love to visit is amazingly the Rio De Jeneiro!! ..its the most wonderful place I’ve heard of and apart from this comes the iguazu Falls..SPLENDID..its Paradise On Earth!..

May 23, 2014 at 6:18 pm

You should visit the south too, specially Rio Grande do Sul, where many cities still conserve the german and italian culture! June and july is the best time of the year

May 14, 2014 at 12:21 pm

Wow, I never knew there were so many beautiful cities in Brazil! I visited Floripa and it IS beautiful!

Please add it between 2 and 6!!

May 8, 2014 at 11:30 am

I agree with you! There are a lot of beautiful cities in Brazil to visit!! Not just São Paulo e Rio de Janeiro! Floripa is very beautiful too

April 14, 2014 at 7:44 am

Thanks for mentioned Sao Paulo!

January 7, 2014 at 2:01 pm

I also would put Floripa between 3 and 6 for sure!

December 26, 2013 at 10:15 pm

I want to understand how Florianopolis isn’t in that list…

December 10, 2013 at 5:55 pm

I appreciate your information about the top ten in Brasil.. But I would like to inform another city: Ouro Preto, very interesting,, cultural and beautiful , the first capital of the important Minas Gerais state. Rich Baroque, churchs from the XVII and XVIII, is a place very important to the cultural tourism. All the gold from Brasil to Europe, in these centuries came from OURO PRETO ( black gold) regions , the name of this city, in the heart of Brazil, between mountains, near the new Capital of Minas Gerais State: Belo Horizonte.

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Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Places to Visit in Brazil

15 Best Places to Visit in Brazil

Have you been itching for lush rainforests, fantastic cities, tropical islands, and heavenly beaches?  Then you’ve been itching for a Brazilian adventure. You’ll find colonial towns that will make you feel that you’ve stepped back in time, red-rock canyons that will make you feel that you’ve stepped onto another planet, and awe-inspiring waterfalls and jungles that will make you wish you could stay forever.

Brazil is the country of Carnaval, a celebration that takes over every city and every soul. You won’t believe the human capacity for fun and joy until you experience this festas. Ask yourself what you want in your next holiday, and Brazil is guaranteed to have it on offer.

Diverse ecosystems, with rare and wild plant and animal species unique to all other places on earth, kayaking through rainforests, horseback riding, whale watching, snorkelling in coastal reefs, samba dancing, all-night DJ’s, white sand beaches, history, culture, and big, full-power cities. Let’s explore the best places to visit in Brazil !

1. Rio de Janeiro

There’s just no other place like Rio.  Welcome to lush mountains, brilliant beaches, over the top nightlife, and fanatic football fans. Known as Cidade Maravilhosa, the Marvellous City, Rio is ringed by green mountains while the coast stretches for miles.

Most people come first for the beaches.  The cariocas (locals) consider the beach a home away from home and so much happens here that you could never leave and still have a complete vacation. You’ll love biking on the beach, hiking in Tijuca rainforest, hang gliding, rock climbing, and sailing to one of several small islands just off the coast.

Music is everywhere in the city – with the most popular being the African influenced samba vibe. If you want to explore the nightlife, head to Lapa, the cities red-light distinct. You’ll find live music and street parties every night.

2. Salvador

Located in the state of Bahia, Salvador has a phenomenal energy that’s notable even for Brazil.  Most known for being Portugal’s New World capital, it maintains a great deal of its colonial architecture and you’ll find the historic centre of the town in the Pelourinho neighbourhood.

Here you’ll find large squares with small cobblestone alleys leading away, multi-coloured buildings, and churches like São Francisco with gilt woodwork and other baroque features. There’s an amazing arts movement here. You’ll find Olodum drummers on the streets, along with Capoeira martial artists, and crazy festivals happening everywhere you look.

The culture here is decidedly Afro-Brazilian and you’ll see that in the incredible food, religious ceremonies and rituals, and dance.

3. São Paulo State

Another in the long list of incredible things about Brazil is São Paulo state. It offers some of the best of the best that the country has to offer.  São Paulo city is the current Boom Town – everything here is growing:  commerce, industry, culture, finance, and, of course, tourism. But you can also leave the city for a bit and head to Serra da Mantiqueira.

Use this stunning mountain range, with its 2500m peaks, as your cosy mountain getaway. There’s also Ilhabela, to be used as your posh island escape. Or try Iporanga in the midst of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest.

You’ll also find great beaches with the rainforest as their backdrop – try the lovely Ubatuba for a relaxing few days.

4. São Paulo City

The heartbeat of São Paulo State is Sao Paulo city.  It’s the largest city in Brazil and one of the largest in the world.  It’s a bit of a melting pot, with all kinds of ethnic groups calling it home, including the largest community of Japanese outside of Japan.

You’ll find unbelievable art galleries and experimental theatres, as well as fantastic fine-dining restaurants and upscale bars.  If you want a taste of sophisticated city life, this is your stop.

With 20 million people, Sao Paulo is a mammoth city, and does come with a lot of big city hassles, but for those willing to look a little closer; there is a vibe here that rivals New York City.

5. Brasilia

Built in the 1960’s, Brazil’s capital is a thoroughly planned and intricately organized city. Brasilia’s landmark infrastructure is laid out in the form of an airplane.

Each section of the plane is a different district like residential, government, finance, culture, and commerce.  The architecture here attracts tourists and professional architects alike.

Be sure to check out the Three Powers Square.  Here you’ll find the Supreme Court, Congress, and the Presidential Palace.

6. Fortaleza

Another of Brazil’s big cities is Fortaleza.  It’s best known for an energetic cultural scenes, great beaches, and even greater shopping. If you’re going for the beaches, check out Meireles, Mucuripe, Iracema, and everyone’s favourite, Praia do Futuro.

Spend your mornings strolling through Centro, the oldest part of the city, and then spending your evenings in Praira de Iracema, a neighbourhood densely packed with hotels, restaurants, and nightlife.

Once you’ve had your fill of Fortaleza beaches, use it as starting point to discover the quaint fishing villages and rolling dune beaches of the Ceará coast.

One of the most popular stops for tourists is located along Brazil’s Green Coast in the state of Rio de Janeiro.  Paraty is bursting with waterfalls, emerald green sea, giant coastal mountains and tropical forests.

Once a Portuguese colony, the heart of the town is still the historic centre. Complete with multicoloured colonial buildings and cobbled streets built in the 17th century during the height of the Brazilian gold rush.  Many of the houses have been converted to bed and breakfasts’ which the locals call pousadas.  The entire historic district is great for strolling as the lanes are closed to cars.  It really feels like you’ve stepped back in time.

Don’t forget to check out the colonial forts – many that still have their original cannons – and Capela de Santa Rita, a lovely 18th century church.

There is nothing not to love about the “Venice of Brazil.”  Inside the city is a network of waterways, bridges, islets, and peninsulas, and just outside are tropical rainforests with rivers and islands to explore.  There is a wonderful historic old town here, as well as incredible culture and fantastic beaches.

The old town is known as Recife Antigo and is located on its own island near the harbour. Most would agree that Boa Viagem is the most popular beach in town due to the white sands and coral reef.

Recife is a large city with lots to offer – including an awesome place to spend Carnaval.

Six kilometres from Recife is Olinda, is a 16th century Portuguese colonial town. The historic old town sits on a hill surrounded by trees and filled with churches, museums, and restaurants. In 1982 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.  The rest of the town is no less charming with tons of 18th century architecture, monasteries and convents, and fantastically painted houses.

Once a leader in the sugarcane industry, Olinda has transformed into a small artists’ colony; full of artists, workshops, studios, and other creative types.  Check out the pousadas in the old town if you’re interested in using Olinda as a base to enjoy Recife.

Carnaval is slightly different here, celebrated primarily during the day with the music and dance focused on traditional African culture.

Considered by many as the gateway to the Amazon Rainforest, Manaus sits on the Negro River. The capital of Amazonas and one of the largest cities in the country it has incredible landmarks like the Rio Negro Palace and the Amazonas Opera House.

If you’re in the mood for some phenomenal nature, check out the Meeting of the Waters, a three mile stretch where the Solimões and the Negro Rivers run side by side without fully mixing. Eventually, both rivers converge to form the Amazon. Most people come here as a stopping point on their way into, or out of, the Amazon.

If you’ve got time, check out the zoo that lets many of the animals roam free, and a little beachside museum just outside the city centre.

11. Iguazu Falls

This stunning natural wonder runs for 2.7km along the border with Argentina.

Iguazu Falls is a series of waterfalls along the Iguazu. The combination of luscious green forest, exotic wildlife, and breathtaking waterfalls is intoxicating.

Use the city of Foz do Iguaçu as your base camp as you enjoy cascades like the 80 metre Devil’s Throat.  With hundreds of fall’s to discover, you might consider a tour in one of the tourist rubber boats called zodiacs.

Bonito is a one-street town full of charisma.  It serves as an ecotourism model for Brazil and as a hub for the surrounding areas.  If you’re an outdoor adventurer and water enthusiast, then this is your spot.

Discover Abismo Anhumas, a gigantic cavern covered in stalactite where you can dive and swim in an underground lake as well as do some abseiling.  Or how about snorkelling in the crystal clear Rio da Prata? If you’re a bird lover you won’t want to miss the macaws that nest deep in the Buraco das Araras.

To top it all off, explore the Serra da Boduquena National Park.

13. São Luís

The historic centre of São Luís has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its well-restored colonial mansions. There are so many museums, crafts, and galleries to explore while here.

São Luís maintains a largely Afro-Brazilian culture and you’ll find both reggae and Bumba Meu Boi music festivals. While you’re here be sure to catch the Centro de Cultura, a museum with exhibits on the three major Brazilian festivals.  You might also like the Archaeological Museum and the Casa das Tulhas, a 19th century market building.

When you’re ready, cross the Baía de São Marcos for a quick day trip to Alcântara to see this historic town as it slowly slips into tropical decay.

14. Jijoca de Jericoacoara

This hidden gem is one of the spectacular beaches in Ceara, Brazil. Named by the Washington Post as one of the Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in the world, you’ll find calm seas, white sand dunes, and gorgeous blue lagoons.

It’s a nesting spot for large turtles and therefore was declared an Environmental Protection Area; it’s also been a national park since 2002. Thanks to all that, the area has remained largely isolated and untouched.

They’ve had electricity for less than 20 years in Jeri and thanks to local ordinance; the streets can only be lit by the moon.

15. Curitiba

This thoroughly urban capital of Paraná state is a well-known performance centre.  Visit the Wire Opera, a steel tube building with a see-through roof, as well as the Guaíra Theatre for some great programs.

Curitiba is also well known to urban planners across the globe as one of the most efficient cities ever built.  You’ll find a six-block stretch designated as a pedestrian zone, tones of parks and trees, innovative solutions to urban problems like pollution and poverty.

It’s a unique place to recharge before ending your Brazilian adventure.

15 Best Places to Visit in Brazil:

• Rio de Janeiro
• São Paulo State
• São Paulo City
• Iguazu Falls
• Jijoca de Jericoacoara

15 things to do in Brazil that will amaze you

Sep 28, 2023 • 12 min read

Experiencing Rio’s Carnaval should be on everyone's list of the top things to do in Brazil © A.PAES / Shutterstock

Whether you prefer wilderness or dense cities, the call of frogs in the rainforest or the beat of samba drums,  Brazil  has an experience lined up for you.

The country’s status as a natural paradise is impossible to deny. While superlatives simply don’t do it justice, this continent-sized nation is home to the largest rainforest, the most sprawling wetlands, and more known species of plants, freshwater fish and mammals than any other country in the world.

Brazil is also home to a myriad of indigenous and immigrant cultures, each with their own unique languages, foods and music. Get a taste for Afro-Brazilian heritage by eating acarajé in Salvador, dance samba in Rio de Janeiro, or move to the sounds of frevo  in Olinda during Carnaval. The Amazon, too, hosts some of the biggest parties in Brazil.

If you think you’ll be ready for another vacation at the end of all that, look no further than Brazil’s tropical islands for some downtime. To help you write up your shortlist of must-dos, here are the top things to do when you visit Brazil.

1. Admire the view in Rio de Janeiro

Beaches, architecture, museums, waterfalls, nightlife...there are dozens of good reasons to visit Rio de Janeiro . But if this city has one essential thing to do, it’s getting up high to admire the view. From above, Rio’s dramatic topography is revealed in all its splendor – forest-covered mountains plunging down to the ocean with urban sprawl jammed in between. 

Visitors jostle for selfie space at two of the city’s most popular tourist spots, the 710m-high (2329ft-high)  Christ the Redeemer statue and Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain), which both offer spectacular 360-degree views.

To avoid the crowds, a splurge on a helicopter tour is worth every real. A stunning vista is the reward at the end of hikes in the Tijuca National Park – one of Brazil's best national parks . The views from the Pico da Tijuca and Pedra da Gávea peaks are particularly breathtaking. 

2. Spot whales in Praia do Rosa

Once a sleepy fishing hamlet, Praia do Rosa is now a top surf destination, with charming guest houses and hotels tucked into the hillside above a bay. In the winter months (June to November), surfers are joined by another type of visitor playing in the waves: southern right whale calves. 

Whales were hunted in these waters as far back as the 1700s and were widely thought to be extinct by the 1970s. Despite making a comeback, they’re still highly endangered. The whales migrate here from Patagonia every year to breed, and a marine reserve stretching 130km (80 miles) along the coast was established to help protect them.

Only masochists will want to swim in the sea this far south in the winter, but the beach is a beautiful destination for windy walks and whale spotting year-round. Boat tours can also be booked for a closer look.

3. Watch birds in the Atlantic Forest

Bird-watching enthusiasts will want to trek to some of the most spectacular off-the-beaten-path spots in the Mata Atlântica (Atlantic Forest). One of Brazil’s six biomes, the Atlantic Forest is a hot spot for birding – it's home to nearly 900 bird species, a quarter of which don’t live anywhere else, including three-toed jacamars and kaleidoscopic green-headed tanagers.

You can explore Atlantic Forest habitats in dozens of national and state parks as well as hundreds of private nature reserves. Itatiaia , established in 1937 as Brazil’s first national park, is a birding paradise. Further south, among the mangroves and salt marshes of Superagui National Park and the Sebui private nature reserve, other Atlantic Forest species such as scarlet ibis and the red-tailed Amazon parrot fill the skies at sunset as they come in to roost for the night. 

11 incredible places to visit in Brazil

4. Soak up the energy at a soccer game

It’s impossible not to know when there’s a big soccer game playing in Brazil, as every screen in every bar will have it on, with shouts ringing out across neighborhoods when goals are scored. Join in the action by booking tickets to see a game, where the passionate supporters can be as much of a spectacle as the game itself. 

The Maracanã stadium in Rio de Janeiro is legendary, and it hosted the 2014 FIFA World Cup final between Germany and Argentina, as well as the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2016 Summer Olympics. SR Flamengo is the biggest club in Rio and you can expect excited crowds when the team goes head-to-head with any of its local rivals.

In São Paulo, SE Palmeiras and Corinthians both have gleaming modern stadiums, and the latter in particular is famous for its passionate supporters. The city’s Pacaembu Stadium is an art deco jewel, although it hosts fewer games these days. The soccer museum underneath the stadium is a monument to Brazil’s greatest passion.

5. Get soaked on a speed boat under Iguaçu Falls

The thunder and roar of 396,000 gallons (1.5 million liters) of water pouring over the edge of Iguaçu Falls every second is a thrilling, visceral experience. Dozens of activities in and around the falls will keep visitors occupied for days, from hiking and cycling in the surrounding national park to feeding the birds at the Parque das Aves bird and wildlife sanctuary. 

There’s a good chance you’ll get wet at some stage during your visit, so why not submit to the deluge in the most adrenaline-fueled way possible, with a speedboat ride right under the falls? Turbo-dinghies with 500 horsepower outboard motors pass right beside the falls, where it’s so loud no one will hear your shrieks. The nearby Itaipú Dam – the world’s second-largest – is well worth a visit, too, and accessible via Brazil or Paraguay . 

The best times to book a trip to Brazil

6. Dance during Carnaval 

For one hot, sweaty but utterly thrilling day of your life, you can feel like a star as you don an enormous costume and join a samba school to parade down the Sambódromo during Carnaval in Rio de Janeiro. Broadcast live on national television, with many thousands of spectators cheering from the grandstands, this parade is a fierce competition that’s taken extremely seriously by the samba schools that prepare for it year-round.

But Carnaval is not all about Rio. Each corner of the country celebrates in its own way, and one of the most traditional can be found in the coastal city of Olinda. Instead of samba, the rhythms of frevo , maracatu and afoxé ring out across the hilly streets of this charming town. Local bands playing percussion and brass draw huge crowds of excitable revelers trying to keep pace.

7. Kitesurf on Brazil’s northeast coast

Some of the world's most respected kitesurfing champions are from Brazil – no surprise given the country’s thousands of miles of windswept Atlantic coastline. Ceará in northeastern Brazil has some of the best kitesurfing hotspots, including Cumbuco (a playground for some of the top athletes) and the coastal hubs of Icapuí and Preá.

A little farther north in Piauí state, Barra Grande is an up-and-coming spot for the sport. In Maranhão , lagoons in Atins offer up wind without the waves and the bonus of being on the doorstep of the desert-like Lençois Maranhenses National Park . 

How to get around Brazil

8. Contemplate the origins of life at Serra da Capivara 

The culmination of a lifetime’s work for Brazilian archeologist, Niède Guidon, the Museu da Natureza (Museum of Nature) opened in late 2018. A spiral-shaped building at the edge of the Serra da Capivara National Park , the museum explores the history of humans and other species from their earliest known existence.

Highlights include saber-toothed cat teeth and a 6m (20ft) life-size model of the giant sloth Eremotherium , fossils of which were found in the park. Serra da Capivara has an astounding 300 archeological sites where fossils, ceramics, bones and tens of thousands of examples of cave art – the largest collection in the world – have been found over the decades.

These discoveries suggest that humans settled here as far back as 50,000 years ago, challenging the mainstream theory about human settlement in the Americas. An airport was built near the Serra da Capivara in 2015, but the only commercial flights run from Petrolina and Recife; most visitors drive or catch a bus from Petrolina or Teresina.

9. Understand Afro-Brazilian culture in Salvador

Chili, coconut, coriander, dried shrimp, dendé palm oil...the ingredients of Bahian cuisine make for some of the tastiest dishes in Brazil, showing the strong African influences in the city of Salvador .

A popular street food is acarajé , a deep-fried ball of black-eyed pea paste stuffed with a dried shrimp stew and condiments. The dish is traditionally made by baianas , descendants of African women; it was even given protected cultural heritage status in 2005. Acarajé is just one of the  baiana -made foods connected to the worship of orixás , deities of Yoruban origin. 

Salvador is the best place in Brazil to immerse yourself in Afro-Brazilian culture and religion. The Caminho dos Orixás do Oxum is a tour of the city’s sights run by an agency specializing in Afro-Brazilian culture. Viare Travel also organizes tours tailored around Afro-Brazilian heritage. 

10. Float down the river in Bonito

An ecotourism boom town near the Pantanal wetlands, Bonito is a giant aquarium and a playground for lovers of nature. The clear waters here spring up through a limestone base that acts as a water purifier, allowing for astounding underwater visibility. Visitors will come face to face with all sorts of fascinating fish while floating down the Rio da Prata. Alternatively, rafting down the Rio Formoso provides a chance to look out for fish and birds while you navigate the rapids.

11. Party on at festivals in the Amazon

Trees, not people, are what dominate the Amazon in the popular imagination. But the world’s largest rainforest is home to more than 30 million people and they throw some pretty spectacular parties (they’re Brazilian too, after all). Boi Bumbá is a folk festival held in June in Parantins that recounts the death and resurrection of an ox, with music, fireworks, dancing and glittering costumes. 

The biggest Amazonian festival is Círio de Nazaré, a Catholic celebration that attracts more than a million devotees each October. Devout locals file through the streets of Belém , at the mouth of the Amazon River, in a cathartic throng. Some 966km (600 miles) upriver, the town of Maués throws a festival every December to celebrate the harvest of its energy-boosting guaraná fruit. Locals dance on the beaches of the Maués-Acú River until the early hours. 

12. Visit a cachaça distillery 

Also known as pinga  (among dozens of other nicknames), cachaça is an exclusively Brazilian distilled sugarcane spirit that can range from cheap rocket fuel to an expensive, aged artisanal delicacy. It’s also the main ingredient in the unofficial Brazilian national drink, the caipirinha . Bars can provide an easy education in the delights of cachaça – but better still is a distillery tour. 

The Mapa da Cachaça website is a great resource, mapping out distilleries across the country. Minas Gerais is the main cachaça-producing region in Brazil and home to the oldest functioning distillery, Engenho Boa Vista, which has been in business for more than 260 years.

Overlooking the sea, the Maria Izabel distillery is a must for any visitors to Paraty . Rio Encantos runs a cachaça tour in Rio, taking in the historic center of the city and finishing up a cachaça tasting. 

13. Track jaguars in the Pantanal

The largest cat in the Americas, the jaguar is a rare and elusive creature. These famed big cats roam far and wide across Brazil, and despite game hunting being illegal since 1967, jaguars are still poached. Add in habitat loss – exacerbated by recent fires and the expansion of cattle ranching – and the result has been a decline in their population, placing these magnificent animals at risk of extinction.

One of the best habitats for spotting jaguars is the Pantanal , the world’s largest wetland, especially during the dry season (April to September). Conservation NGO Onçafari was set up in 2011 to help protect the jaguars through research and ecotourism. The group runs jaguar safaris from its base at the Caiman Lodge , a private nature reserve. A number of local tour operators also run jaguar safaris, and the deeper you get into the wetlands, the better chance you have of spotting one.

Brazil's best hikes from beaches to rainforests

14. Relax on a tropical island

Brazil has thousands of beaches along its coastline, but you can side-step the difficult task of choosing one by escaping to a tropical island instead. Ilha Grande , south of Rio de Janeiro on the Costa Verde, has warm seas and white sandy beaches fringed by the forests of the Mata Atlântica. Ilhabela combines good restaurants for the São Paulo weekenders with hiking trails and guest houses hidden away in dense, jungle-covered hills. 

Smaller Ilha do Mel in the south of Brazil near  Paranaguá feels more remote, with just a handful of accommodation options, plus a lighthouse , fort and caves to explore. The Bahian coast is a safe bet for sunshine, and Boipeba has more than 20km (12 miles) of palm-lined beaches and a castaway vibe. 

15. See street art in São Paulo 

A maze of underpasses and overpasses, sidewalks cracked by tree roots, and steep hills make walking in São Paulo something of an adventure sport. But the reward is a wealth of murals and graffiti daubed across the city’s urban sprawl, all the more striking against the city’s ubiquitous gray concrete.

The colorful Beco do Batman (Batman’s Alley) is a top spot for street art and a tourist honeypot. In Centro, artist Felipe Yung’s 10,000 sq m (107,639 sq ft)  Aquarium covers the facades of 15 buildings. The 3.5km (2.2-mile) Minhoção – officially Via Elevada Presidente João Goulart – is closed to traffic at night and at weekends, making it the perfect place to stroll while taking in artwork by such artists as Speto, Zezão and Mag Magrela.

Cambuci, in the southeast of the city, was the stomping ground for the world-famous duo OsGemeos in their youth, and it’s the best place to see their art outside of museums. In northern São Paulo, the Museu Aberto de Arte Urbana (Open Museum of Urban Art) brings together street art by dozens of creators on the huge columns underneath a metro line.

This article was first published Jan 5, 2022 and updated Sep 28, 2023.

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The 25 Best Places to Visit And Things To Do In Brazil!

Posted on Last updated: December 15, 2023

Categories Brazil , South America

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

One of the world’s most fascinating countries, there are so many things to do in Brazil that adventure-hungry travelers are spoilt for choice. Whether you want to hike in the jungles, lie on the beach or dance in the streets, you can do that here.

From tranquil beaches to vibrant cities to lush rainforests, the country spans a huge variety of landscapes — and as a result, there are so many places to visit in Brazil.

If you’re not already captivated by its scenery and biodiversity, you’ll be hooked by the culture. There are energy and a love of life that runs through every aspect of Brazilian culture.

Samba dancing, drumming in Carnival, indigenous and Portuguese influences, mouth watering food; all of these aspects and more combine to create an atmosphere that you’ll want to stay in forever.

And, to put it plainly: Brazil loves to party!

You’ll have heard of Carnaval, of course; a cacophony of music, dancing, and general joy. There are also diverse festivals going on throughout the year, great nights out in the cities and towns; not to mention just any quick drink turning into dancing at dawn!

So, what are some of the best things to do in Brazil? With so much on offer, how can you narrow it down? We’ve got some suggestions below.

The 25 Best Places to Visit And Things To Do In Brazil! 🇧🇷

Page Contents

Rio de Janeiro

Fernando de noronha, iguazu falls, recife & olinda, lençóis maranhenses national park, parque nacional da chapada diamantina, ilha grande, florianópolis, amazon from manaus, são miguel das missões, alter do chao, belo horizonte, the pantanal, salvador city, chapada dos veadeiros national park, vale dos vinhedos, armação dos búzios.

World-famous for its Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, Christ the Redeemer statue and wild Carnaval, Rio de Janeiro is absolutely top of the list of things to do in Brazil. We can’t pretend it’s a quiet place, but it’s got a relaxed, carefree attitude that is intoxicating for travelers.

Otherwise known as the Cidade Marvalihosa (Marvelous City), here you’ll find lush forests and mountains circling the city while the beach acts as the city’s backyard.

You can hike, surf, sail or rock climb – or just chill on the sands, if you’d rather! It’s a stunning landscape for a city and you’ll never stop appreciating the beauty. In a city this, well, marvelous, it’s hard to get past the superlatives and decide exactly what to do — so to help, we have put together a list of the top things to do in Rio de Janeiro Brazil!

The rich and varied history means there’s plenty to discover among Rio’s myriad attractions. That is, if you want to leave the endless fun of the bars and the beach. Arriving at a festival time means you’ll soak up even more of the joyful celebration, whether it’s a big football match, Carnaval or weekend samba parties. New Year is also a pretty spectacular time to enjoy all that makes Rio special.

The tropical oasis of Fernando de Noronha is in an entire league of its own. The isolated tip of a submerged ocean volcanic, the archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, lies 271 miles (350 km) off Brazil’s northeast coast and consists of 21 islands.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a sensitive ecosystem, tourist numbers here are restricted to around 450 to 500 people per day. But the lucky few that make it here are duly rewarded …

Fernando de Noronha has everything you could want from an unforgettable island getaway. Picturesque scenery, majestic seascapes, fine white sand beaches, bountiful diving, animated snorkeling, turquoise waters, and oh-so-much-more.

Only one island in the chain is inhabited, with a population of around 5,000 people. Otherwise, most of the rest of this paradisaical retreat is left to the seabirds, reptiles, turtles, and exotic marine life. A nature lover’s paradise, Fernando de Noronha can be compared to Fiji , an arresting beach island scene straight out of a Hollywood film set.

There are a limited number of flights daily, so getting here – and accommodation once you arrive – is not particularly cheap. Still, if you can stretch your budget, Fernando de Noronha is worth every cent.

As well as fascinating cities, Brazil also has some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world; the awe-inspiring Iguazu Falls are among these. There are 275 separate drops along the 2.7 kilometers of the falls, which separate Argentina and Brazil. From the Brazilian side, you go to the Igauçu National Park to enjoy the spectacle.

There’s an intricate series of footpaths and walkways that enable visitors to get up close to the natural beauty and on the Brazilian side, there’s a long pathway along the canyon.

A must-see for everyone is Devil’s Throat, a narrow chasm that takes half of the river’s flow along; you can imagine the power and noise of the water there.

Get a panoramic view of the falls from the trail or splurge on a helicopter ride for the bird’s eye perspective. Stay in the nearby town of Foz de Iguacu so you can get up early to beat the heat and the crowds; then enjoy being mesmerized by the majesty of this remarkable place.

Recife and Olinda are sister cities on Brazil’s northeast coast that stand within sight of each other. Both started life as colonial cities under Portuguese rule, exploiting the vast richness of the New World, but over the centuries Recife has pulled ahead while Olinda has kept its small-town charm. The juxtaposition of both is tantalizing, and ensuring visiting them together is one of the top things to do Brazil.

Recife, the capital of Pernambuco state, has a booming population and everything from charming canals and vividly painted colonial buildings to glistening skyscrapers, palm-fringed beaches, and exuberant nightlife. An energetic and inspiring city, Recife also has plenty of entertainment and cultural attractions, more than a dash of grit and growing traffic problems. A true metropolis – warts and all.

In contrast, Olinda – just a short bus trip to the north – has very much maintained its colonial charm and clings to a slower pace of life. Position on a hillside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this UNESCO World Heritage site is an artsy counterpart to Recife with galleries, workshops, baroque churches, convents, monasteries, and wonderfully preserved houses and manors.

It is rare in the world to find two destinations that contrast and complement each other so completely. On their own, each would be worth a visit – but together, they become one of the absolute top highlights of Brazil.

A must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by the natural landscape, this 1550 square kilometer national park is a spectacular area filled with dunes, lagoons, and beaches. Its undulating dunes give the park its name – ‘Lençóis’ means ‘bedsheets’ and these expanses really do look like sheets draped across the land.

The rains between May and September get filtered by the sand to create incredibly clear blue lakes between the hills of sand. You can choose whether you navigate the area on foot, on horseback or in a car; whatever you do, you won’t regret making the effort to come here. It’s got an almost otherworldly quality, making a dramatic impact.

It’s easy to see why it is called one of the most beautiful places in Brazil – and people make the considerable effort to get here. 

The most convenient way to explore is to stay at Barreirinhas on the river although if you don’t mind heading somewhere more remote, Santo Amaro and Atins are more peaceful bases.

An expansive national park in eastern Brazil, Chapada Diamantina attracts adventurous tourists looking for nature, hiking, colonial wonders, and off-the-beaten-track experiences. And boy, do they find it here.

An almost untouched wonderland of cascading waterfalls, intrepid hiking, and panoramic views – the entire park sits atop an otherworldly 41,751 square kilometers (16,120 sq. mi) plateau bounded by cliffs in central Bahia.

The most famous attraction is the Fumaça Waterfall, one of the tallest waterfalls in Brazil, which at 340 m tall evaporates in a mist before even reaching the ground. Another famous highlight is the cauldron-like Devil’s Pool, with its deep black water and sinister history, or the enormous sandstone-and-quartz Lapão Cave.

Parque Nacional da Chapada Diamantina offers everything from day hikes to multi-day journeys. There are plenty of trained local guides happy to help you organize your expeditions once you arrive. The old colonial mining towns of Lençois and Mucugê are popular bases for exploring the park and offer cobblestone streets, outdoor cafes and a cute range of pousadas (a boutique inn that provides a more intimate experience than your traditional hotel).

If you’re tired of the mega-cities yet still want to experience town life in Brazil, Ouro Preto is the place to go. It’s one of several colonial towns in the state of Minas Gerais that date back to the 18th-century gold rush and by far the most beautiful.

It’s not just historically important for the gold mining but also for being the setting for the country’s first independence movement. That is probably why they made if a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you have traveled to places like Lisbon,  you’ll really be able to see the influence of Portugal on Ouro Preto. In fact, Ouro Preto actually has some of the best-preserved Portuguese colonial architecture, with few signs of modern urban development—unlike Macau.

Sure it might not be that easy to get to, but the best places never are and you will be justly rewarded with a fairytale town like no others. It’s pure magic!

There’s so much joy here in getting lost in the narrow, cobbled, steep streets (not to mention you’ll have thighs of steel by the time you’re done!) and the views once you get to a vantage point are incredible.

It’s also one of the more artistic things to do in Brazil with a range of art galleries and cultural centers showing off the mineiro art.

Do you dream of cocktails at sunset? White sand under your toes and the sound of waves crashing on the beach? A stress-free location away from chaos where no cars are allowed, prices are low, and your biggest worry will be ‘Açai or Coconut for lunch?’

Well then, do we have the island for you. Ilha Grande is a fabulous tropical island located only a few hours bus and boat trip away from Rio de Janeiro on Brazil’s stunning southeast coastline. Yes, this could be all yours: gorgeous blue skies, empty beaches, and that tempting ocean. Just imagine…

It’s a natural paradise with 99% of the island being covered in natural Atlantic Rainforest, only one small town and a series of paths crisscrossing the dense vegetation leading to deserted beaches.

Yes, it sounds like heaven— and that’s because it probably is.

Then there is the thriving (but laid-back) nightlife scene, incredible sunsets, fantastic snorkeling, funky monkeys, range of affordable accommodation islands, and abundance of caipirinhas.  Most people who travel here end up extending their stay, but it’s hard to know beforehand if you will like it, and how long you will need, so we have put together a more comprehensive guide to things to do in Ilha Grande to help you fall in love with this magnificent place.

From secluded natural beauty to wild and wonderful festivities with a cacophony of noise and color. An annual festival held in February in the run-up to Lent, this is a time where Brazilan cities let loose with parades, music, and dancing.

A lot of dancing.

While the Rio Carnaval is the most famous, you can go to any city in Brazil at this time and experience the best party you’ve ever been to. The entire county celebrates Carnaval and unifies for almost a week of non-stop partying.

In the Southeast Region you’ll hear a lot more samba; in the Northeast, more frevo and maracutu. Whatever the music and wherever you are, shine your sequins and get ready for spectacle galore!

Freshwater snorkeling in heavenly Bonito one of the best-kept secrets in Brazil, though its popularity is growing.

Bonito is an eco-tourism hub in Mato Grosso do Sul state in Southern Brazil. The encompassing area has garnered a reputation for its crystal-clear rivers, huge, stalactite-covered cavern, and a bounty of colorful fish.

Located on the edge of the great Amazon basin, Bonito is a mirror into the underworld – similar to the great cenotes of Tulum and Cuba . While unassuming on the surface, there is a reason by Bonito is named after the Portuguese for “beautiful.”

While snorkeling in the magical waterways that end in shallow (and warm) pools as clear as glass is the main highlight, Bonito is also the jumping-off point for expeditions into the Pantanal region, filled with jaguars, boa constrictors, and colorful birds. Then there are the river-beaches on clear water lakes, zip-lining adventures, paddle boarding, scuba diving, and fantasy waterfalls.

An aquarium come to life; Bonito is a jungle-laden paradise with just enough eco-tourism operators to make life easy— yet not enough to destroy what makes this spot so enchanting.

The capital of southern Brazil’s Santa Catarina state, Florianópolis, is the place to go for beach resorts, surfing, boating, and a heavy German influence.

Most of the city lies on the spectacular 54-kilometer-long Santa Catarina Island and connected to a mainland commercial area via the famous Pedro Ivo Campos Bridge. The frontier between Portuguese and Spanish empires, the region was filled with German-speaking immigrants in the 1820s to act as a buffer – and has had a lasting legacy.

These immigrants kept their small family-owned farming practices, similar to North America at the time, yet vastly different from the mega-plantation culture of most of Brazil. This resulted in Florianópolis having a healthier legacy of equality and egalitarian policies than the rest of the country — a trend that continues today. Not to mention a wild Oktoberfest festival, fascinating history, and a flourishing cultural scene.

For tourists, there is sun, sand, and surf aplenty, with beach hopping being the most popular attraction. The seafood and beer are both expectedly standout, as is the sophisticated city vibes. With over a hundred beaches, all encircled by picturesque hills covered with lush Atlantic Forest vegetation – it is impossible not to love this unique place in Brazil.

What Sao Paulo lacks in Rio-style beauty and landscape, it more than makes up for in energy and pride. Ask any resident and they’ll tell you at length how they’ll never live anywhere else – so it’s definitely somewhere that travelers should check out. Traffic galore there may be but there’s plenty to experience in this bustling cosmopolitan city.

 It’s the art center of Brazil so, as might be expected, there are a wealth of museums, galleries and cultural centers. Not to mention all the street art.

Head downtown for the historic area and many of the main attractions; head to the other areas for more of an insight into the daily life of the Paulistanos. In the evenings, aside from a great nightlife, there is always something happening, whether it’s theatre, musical performance and international events.

We love heading to Avenida Paulista on a Sunday to join in the masses of people walking, cycling and rollerblading along the temporarily pedestrianized street. The city is also home to a wide range of culinary delights and it’s definitely one of the top places to go in Brazil for foodies.

Another contender for the most beautiful town in Brazil, Tiradentes in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, is an unspoiled case of Portuguese colonial architecture. It is so well preserved and so appealing, you would at times think you have mistakenly wandered into a movie set – and will catch yourself thinking,’ how can a place be so perfect.’

Gorgeous homes set along cobblestone roads enveloped by green mountains and a truly majestic church: Tiradentes is the kind of place dreams are made of. Except it is real. When gold became scarce, this historic mining town was largely forgotten and fell into decay. Crucially, this meant it wasn’t modified or ravaged by growth and modernity. When tourism began to trickle back here in the late 1970s, intrepid guests were rewarded with exceptionally preserved Baroque structures thanks to the years of isolation.

Beyond the obvious visual appeal, there is a booming restaurant scene, lush forest hikes, and some wonderfully insightful museums. The charming São José Fountain should not be missed, along with the vintage steam train that runs between Tiradentes and the magnificent Serra São José grouping of quartzite blocks.

If you’re looking for things to do in Brazil that give you more of a perspective on the country, then Brasilia is one of those. Established as the capital city in 1960, it was a utopian vision of organized urban design in response to the perceived chaos of Rio and Sao Paulo.

It was designed in the shape of a crucifix but is also often compared to an airplane, with Eixo Monumental forming the central body with the star attractions laid out along it and two wings making up the residential and commercial sectors.   

It’s a spread-out city with lots of spaghetti junctions so you can’t walk around it the same way you would other cities, but there’s still plenty to discover.

Head up to the viewing platform of the Television Tower to appreciate the city plan or stroll past the government buildings on the Esplanade of the Ministries. Go bar hopping, starting at old favorite Beirute, or enjoy culinary experiences in some of Brasilia’s ever-increasing contemporary restaurants.

A small town popular with backpackers, Paraty is flanked by the jaw-dropping mountains on Brazil’s Costa Verde and supremely positioned between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.

The perfect place to break up a trip, Paraty has a lot going for it with a rich Portuguese colonial center including cobbled streets and many excellent 17th- and 18th-century buildings due to its history as an important port during the Brazilian Gold Rush.

Today more of a popular artist refuge and tourist hotspot than an export hub, Paraty was recently recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site along with the nearby island of Ilha Grande.

Paraty is a welcome escape from the city madness, with tropical hiking, horseback riding, boat cruising, and snorkeling. Or you can just spend hours exploring the colonial-era streets, darting into small cafes, whitewashed churches, and modern galleries. Paraty has long been a beloved getaway for residents of Rio, but now the cosmopolitan vibes have been taken a step further with the influx of international vacationers.

In August, Paraty host the annual Festival of Cachaça, and in May, there is the Paraty Bourbon Jazz Festival, which includes many of the world’s top artists. Add to this the 65 islands and 300 beaches nearby, a fun cook school, a slew of bars and luxe lodgings, and it is safe to say Paraty will firmly keep its status as one of the best places to visit in Brazil for the foreseeable future.

The Amazon has captured the imagination of hundreds of thousands of people throughout the ages and for good reason. Its incomparable ecosystem and diverse flora and fauna are fascinating not just to biologists, but to travelers, which is why going on an Amazon Rainforest River Tour on the Rio Negro is so popular!

Cruising down the Amazon River taking in the quiet majesty of the area is one of the things to do in Brazil that just can’t be missed.

Manaus is the largest city nearby and definitely the most convenient location you can explore from. Here you’ll find a wide range of accommodation options and tour operators to fit every budget. And prices are a lot lower here than what you can find in the Ecuadorian Amazon or Peruvian Amazon if that helps…

You can go on organized hikes into the jungle, canoe trips or even go fishing. All of these are unforgettable experiences to help you appreciate the power of the river and the life it generates around it.

São Miguel das Missões in Rio Grande do Sul state is a monumental Spanish Jesuit mission ruins from the 17th century.

It was built because the Jesuits at the time of colonization were on a mission of evangelizing the Indigenous people of Bacia do Rio Prata (a territory that today is spread across Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil), to preserve their culture and language and protect them from Portuguese slave traders. Eighteen such villages were built as places where converted Indigenous people lived, to adapt their lifestyle to Christianity.

The Jesuits were eventually expelled under the Treaty of Madrid when the area was transferred from Spain to Portugal. The Guaraní tribes who lived here refused to comply with the order to relocate from their homelands, and thus a joint Portuguese-Spanish army attacked and defeated the Guaraní. The São Miguel das Missões was left in ruins, the Guaraní were killed and enslaved, and this great social experiment ended.

The ruins today have a ‘paradise lost’ feel to them, with an incredible museum and many gorgeous viewpoints to appreciate the scale of the undertaking.

In 1984 the Mission was listed as World Heritage under the Jesuit Missions of the Guaranis listing, along with three others in Argentina including the equally impressive San Ignacio Mini.

Hidden in the murky depths of the famous Amazon jungle, Alter do Chao is a quirky and offbeat beach destination that boasts astonishing white sandy stretches that will convince you you’ve somehow traveled to Brazil’s famous north coast.

Located around 33 kilometers west of the already isolated Santarém, Alter do Chao is most well-known for its Ilha do Amor (Island of Love), an arresting island ringed by a white-sand beach. But there is much more to this place than just beaches; there is a three-fingered lagoon to investigate – either by canoe or stand-up paddleboard – and boat tours into the surrounding Amazon.

You should not miss a trip to Ponta do Cururu at sunset where large numbers of pink and grey dolphins gather for an evening meal. An ethereal experience — to say the least.

Positioned on a major tributary of the Amazon river between Belem and Manaus, the isolation of Alter do Chão’s and retreat from the modern world is the appeal here – and the main reason why there are so few visitors. A lack of roads in the region means the main way to get here is by flying to Santarém and then catching the bus. You’ll be duly rewarded for your efforts.

While not on most tourist itinerary for Brazil, landlocked Belo Horizonte is the capital city of Brazil’s Minas Gerais and the countries sixth-largest city.

A lively, industrial and gritty city – architectural lovers should not miss this city and the Pampulha Lake Architectural Complex, home to an assortment of incredible designs by Brazil’s modernist architect Oscar Niemeyer. There is the wavy-topped Church of St. Francis of Assisi, a casino, a ballroom, the Golf Yacht Club, and various other edifices all in collaboration with famed landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx and give a hint to what he would later build in Brasília.

The artificial lake itself is also stunning and has capybara living around its edge.

Back in the concrete jungle, Belo Horizonte is a sprawling mess – but has plenty of charm if you are willing to seek it out. The Instituto de Arte Contemporânea Inhotim is the world’s largest open-air contemporary art museum with 87 acres of beautiful gardens— then there is a vibrant central market and a revitalizing museum scene.

Ouro Preto is also a short distance away, making Belo Horizonte a convenient stopover point.

Another of the most incredible natural sites in Brazil, the Pantanal is virtually unpopulated. It’s an enormous wetland covering approximately 210,000 square kilometers and hosting an amazing variety of animals.

Definitely, one for the nature lovers, the wildlife here is unmissable if you like to see creatures in their natural habit. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pantanal Conservation Area actually consists of a group of four protected areas with a total area of 187,818 ha.

Positioned in western central Brazil at the south-west corner of the State of Mato Grosso, the protected site stewards 1.3% of Brazil’s Pantanal region, one of the world’s largest freshwater wetland ecosystems.

The headwaters of the region’s two primary river systems, the Cuiabá and the Paraguay rivers, are found here, and the wealth and diversity of its vegetation and animal life are magnificent.

Belém, the largest city of the state of Pará in the country’s north, is the eastern gateway to the Amazon River.

2.5 million people reside in this tropical metropolis, which has benefited throughout its history from a position approximately 100 km upriver from the Atlantic Ocean.

While many might flit through this transit hub in a rush to more exotic adventures, you should spend a few days exploring the dynamic city filled with mango trees, vibrant markets, museums, and a growing restaurant scene. For a while during the rubber boom in the late 19th century Belem was known as the ‘tropical Paris; with electricity, grand monuments, streetcars, and a sophisticated European vibe – though today Belem is very much forging its own path.

The standout highlight has to be the colorful riverfront district Cidade Velha (old town) filled with Portuguese-colonial architecture similar to Lagos or Porto – with plenty of ornate churches, picturesque azulejo-tile houses, and an extensive 17th-century fort.

Another ‘must-see spot’ is the vast Ver-o-Peso open-air market located on Guajará bay’s docks and hawking exotic Amazonian fish, unknown fruit, and indigenous handicrafts. It is considered one of the largest markets in Latin America, and you can spend at least a few hours perusing the items on sale, interspersed with breaks for a gratifying bowl of pulped açai berries at one of the stands and a cold bottle of Tijuca beer to top it all off.

In the evening – try to catch an opera or performance at the Theatro da Paz, which would look right at home in Vienna or Buenos Aires .

We love Salvador, Brazil’s third-largest city, for its lively mix of cultures and styles, its 17 th and 18th-century architecture, and its endless vibrancy. This is the epicenter of Brazil’s Afro-Brazilian community and where the best music and culture can be found.   

Of all the things to do in Brazil, make Salvador one of them. During the days, explore streets so picturesque that you feel like you have stepped back in time, especially in the center (Pelourinho); at night, take a ride on the 85 meters Art Deco Lacerda Elevator on your way to a delicious meal in one of the many restaurants. Architecturally blessed and culturally diverse, Salvador was the first capital city of Brazil and has it all.

In between times, chill on the beach. This is a city that likes to live, so enjoy being part of it!

An improbable eco-tourism destination, the remote Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park in the central Brazilian state of Goiás is 650 square kilometers of big sky country. There are rolling hills, lush flora and fauna, dramatic canyons, and plenty of hiking trails to keep you occupied for at least a few days.

Rivers crisscross the park (and surrounding private land), creating a lattice of canyons, cliffs, and rivers – usually with a waterfall somewhere to allow for a refreshing dip at the end of the hike. There is an abundance of orchids, and iconic wildlife species like jaguars, armadillos, jaguars, and toucans.

Guides are no longer required to hike here, but if you want to learn about the biodiversity here, they are recommended. The Travessia das Sete Quedas hike, in particular, is simply magical, a 23-kilometer trail through a spectacular canyon and crossing the Rio Preto river twice. You can do it all in one day, or overnight in a campsite with seven small waterfalls nearby.

Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park access is from the nearby town of São Jorge, which connects to kooky Alto Paraíso de Goiás and the rest of the start.

Who would have expected one of the top things to do in Brazil to be to visit wine country, but yes – the Vale dos Vinhedos Wine Region proves this marvelous country does have it all.

Located in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul between the cities of Garibaldi, Bento Gonçalves, and Monte Belo do Sul, this area has a strong Italian influence. It also offers the unique properties required in terms of soil, climate, topography, and culture to create a desirable bottle of wine.

Vale dos Vinhedos covers 82 square kilometers (32 square miles) and is home to over 30 wineries and an influential national grape and wine research bureau. Miniature estates sit alongside larger wineries providing plenty of options for wine tours, with most allowing drop-in visitors.

Even for those who don’t like wine, the attractive area also houses a cornucopia of cheese factories, art workshops, craft houses, restaurants, and boutique accommodations. The work of the Italian immigrants over the last 150 years has culminated in Vale dos Vinhedos getting a reputation for outstanding vintages, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It was even recently named one of the world’s ten best wine travel destinations recently, joining the likes of Queenstown in New Zealand or Champagne in France.

While not yet swamped with international tourists, the Vale dos Vinhedos is exceptionally popular with locals and has a well-established collection of rural inns and tourist routes. You’ll be rubbing your eyes and thinking you have been transported to Italy or Northern California.

One hundred eighty kilometers from Rio de Janeiro is Armação dos Búzios – or just Búzios for the devoted, a renowned seaside town where Rio’s elite flock each weekend.

An urbane Eden of greenery, clear waters and narrow cobblestone streets create an enduring appeal that has seen Búzios transform over the past 50 years from a small fishing village to Brazil’s St. Tropez. Located on a jutting peninsula, Búzios is a collection of three settlements and 17 beaches with oceanfront dining, an arresting harbor, and all the expected tourist amenities.

There is everything from hostels to high-end hotels and more options for relation, shopping, and nightlife then we could ever cover. It is hard to know where to start. And then there are the off-shore islands, ideal for diving, world-class gastronomy, world-class galleries, and boutique shopping.

But our favorite activity has to be people watching here. Buzios attracts the most fashionable people from not just Brazil but around the world. So, as you might imagine, one of the best things to do is simply choose a seat at a pavement cafe, order a Caipirinha, and watch the gorgeous people go by…

20 Breathtaking Places to Explore in Brazil

Famous for its love of dancing, fun, festivals, and football, Brazil is one of those bucket list countries most want to visit in their lifetime.

It’s a unique land known for its firsts and originality. Home to the world-famous Rio Carnival, Samba, Capoeira, and, of course, Caipirinha, I spent many months traveling around this extraordinary country. Here are my choices for the best spots…

1. Rio de Janeiro

The city offers something for everyone. Do you want to go hang-gliding and see the stunning skyline from above? Then do it – the birds-eye view of Rio is hard to beat! Trekking? That is also a possibility.

Fancy visiting one of the seven wonders of the world? Go ahead, but set a few hours aside since the ride up to Christ the Redeemer takes a while.

Are you bored of hectic city life? Then I suggest taking a tour of the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema and finishing the day enjoying the nightlife in Lapa, a neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro with bars and clubs catering to all tastes.

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2. Porto de Galinhas, Pernambuco

Situated 70 kilometers south of Recife, the town was an isolated fisherman village until the 1990s. Now, it is accessible to anyone who wants to relax and enjoy the amazing beaches the town offers.

Snorkeling is a must here. Only a couple hundred meters out in the sea is a reef, and when the tide is low, natural pools are created on the beaches behind the reef.

These natural aquariums feature a stunning selection of colorful fish. Other activities include water sports, trekking, Capoeira, and much more.

3. Lençóis National Park, Maranhão

Lençóis – located in the North of Brazil – provides a view that will leave you gasping for air. The national park is a “desert” unlike any other.

Rain collects in the alleys between the dunes, resulting in what could have been a desert: an area where the dunes are varied and turquoise lagoons are as far as the eye can see.

The lagoons are home to many different species of fish, and one species stays dormant in the moist areas of the sand during the dry season, only to surface when the lagoons once again emerge.

The stark contrast between white dunes and crystal clear lagoons makes Lençóis a must-see experience!

4. Pantanal, Mato Grosso do Sul

Pantanal is located in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul, except for small parts of the wetland that belongs to Bolivia and Paraguay.

It’s the world’s largest wetland and the place to go if you are interested in wildlife. The open marshes make it easy to spot the animals, and the unspoiled region of Pantanal doesn’t have a large human population, so the wildlife flourishes.

The wetland offers beautiful landscapes and the chance to see various birds and other animals. You’ll also see reptiles and jaguars in their natural habitat.

5. Salvador, Bahia

Salvador is the first colonial capital of Brazil and one of the oldest cities in North and South America. Known as the country’s capital of happiness, it offers numerous outdoor parties, and the city´s street carnival is the largest in the world.

 The city’s beauty is partly due to its location by the sea, but it is much more than that—it has a rich music and architectural culture and a historic area filled with colorful colonial houses and cobblestone streets.

6. Chapada Diamantina, Bahia

The gorgeous National Park Chapada Diamantina takes its name from the region’s cliffs and the diamonds that were once found there.

When visiting the national park, you will have beautiful views of the landscapes from different cliffs. You will see canyons, waterfalls, natural swimming pools, caves, and wonderful untouched landscapes!

7. Jericoacoara, Ceara

This is a remote little beach town in the Ceara state. You can get here by bus from Fortaleza to Jijoca. It’s not an easy journey, but it is worth it!

This paradise-like town has not yet been destroyed by tourism.

The streets of sand, the beautiful beach, the kite-surfing, the breathtaking sunset views from the dunes, the Capoeira at the beach, the amazingly vast and starry night sky, and the hammocks in the lagoon, which are just a beach buggy ride away, are just some of the reasons why Jericoacoara is one of the country’s hidden treasures.

8. Fernando de Noronha, Pernambuco 

Would you want to visit a beautiful beach that just the sight of it will make you gasp for air? Do you want to swim with stingrays, sharks, and colorful fishes?

Do you want to see dolphins, sea turtles, and albatrosses? Well, you can here! Fernando de Noronha is a group of islands in Brazil.

The archipelago consists of 21 islands, islets, and rocks of volcanic origin. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed island is a paradise on earth for anyone interested in diving and animal life.

9. Iguazú Falls, Paraná

This is a world-famous beauty spot! The Iguazú Falls, consisting of over 270 waterfalls of different sizes bordering Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay, are a truly fantastic spectacle.

If you are in Brazil (or any other bordering country), do not miss the opportunity to see one of Mother Nature´s most significant expressions of beauty in our world.

10. Paraty, Rio de Janeiro

This gorgeous coastal town was first settled in 1667 and has much history. It truly offers something for everyone, including cobblestone streets, magnificent forests, impressive waterfalls, and an emerald-green sea.

There is a lot to do and even more to look at when you visit Paraty, and even though it is compact enough to be enjoyed on foot, you’ll still find a lot of enjoyment and fun activities every step of the way.

There’s even a city center that provides information on how the town became what it is today.

11. Búzios, Rio de Janeiro

A resort town with roughly 34,000 residents, Búzios is the place to go when you want calmness, serenity, and a break from the hustle and bustle of a tourist’s life.

Many of the people who live there are fishermen, and it offers all sorts of water activities, including swimming and surfing.

This town offers a little bit of everything, including shopping, restaurants, bars and lounges, art museums, and just about anything else you need to make your vacation unforgettable.

12. Florianópolis, Santa Catarina 

In southern Brazil, Florianópolis has 60 beaches and is noted for its surfing opportunities. Its economy is based mainly on tourism and information technology, so tourists can find much to do there.

Radical sports and nature offer some of the best tourist opportunities, such as mountain climbing, hang-gliding, rowing, and paragliding.

It is connected to the continent by three bridges, one famous but now-closed Hercilio Luz Bridge.

13. IlhaBela, São Paulo

Also known as Beautiful Island, translated to in Portuguese, IlhaBela has a population of roughly 32,000 and offers attractions such as 360 waterfalls, numerous forests, hiking trails of all difficulty levels, and, of course, beaches.

There are 41 beaches on the main island, so whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or watch dolphins and whales, you’ll never run out of things to do.

With beautiful waters and even more beautiful skies, this is the place to be if you like sand and surf.

14. Maragogi, Alagoas 

Maragogi sits in the northwestern section of Brazil and offers many beaches and living tropical reefs. You can go snorkelling or scuba diving or enjoy the sights that give the place some ambience.

Maragogi is filled with natural beauty and offers plenty of activities, too. You can enjoy sea cliffs that seem to reach the sky and take a boat ride to get up close and personal with the coral reefs. Whatever you do there, it’s a tough place to forget! 

15. Trancoso, Bahia

Trancoso has two things going for it: lots of beaches and an advanced way of reducing their carbon footprint.

There are many festivals to enjoy throughout the year, but its main attractions are the beaches surrounding the area, each seemingly more gorgeous than the previous one.

With white sand, reefs, and water that always seems to be at the perfect temperature, this is the ideal place to be when lots of time in the water and sun is what you’re looking for.

16. Campos do Jordão, São Paulo

A municipality in southeastern Brazil, Campos do Jordão is the highest city in Brazil, reaching 5,341 feet above sea level. Among the many tourist activities are hiking, mountain climbing, treetop cable swings, motorbike, and ATV riding.

There is also a festival that takes place every winter that celebrates classical music. In addition to a fantastic cable car, the town offers bars, restaurants, discos, and other activities that make for great nightlife.

In other words, this town truly offers something for everyone.

17. Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro

One thing you will never be short of in this country is stunning paradise-esque beaches. Ilha Grande is an island located in the sea outside the state of Rio de Janeiro, where you will find tropical beaches that will tempt you to purchase your pousada and enjoy the tranquil island lifestyle for the rest of your days.

Previously a prison island, it offers good snorkeling conditions and opportunities to see coral, tropical fish, whales, and penguins.

The island, which has no roads or motorized vehicles, provides hiking trails to different beaches and villages. On the island, you are likely to spot both monkeys and hummingbirds.

18. Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro

Primarily known as the town home to Brazil’s national football team, this city sits between mountains and hills, has lush green grass, and has some of the most beautiful scenery you’ve ever experienced.

There is a national park found on the part of the city near the city limits, and mountain structures such as Devil’s Needle and God’s Finger are worth visiting.

There are also lakes, statues, and lake houses that are nothing short of extraordinary, and the farms in the area provide a little bit of nostalgia to this now-modern city, which I think is always a win-win situation! 

19. Petrópolis, Rio de Janeiro 

Also known as The Imperial City, it is home to nearly 300,000 residents and offers activities to pique anyone’s interests.

These include theaters, museums, and lots of festivals and carnivals. You can also enjoy some very unique architecture. If you love palaces, national parks, or old monasteries, this is, I think, the place to be! You can visit these places individually or join a tour guide.

This large city offers all the advanced benefits of any other large city, so you’ll never run out of things to do. Regardless of which month you visit the city, you’ll always have something interesting to do, I loved this place!

20. Amazon Rainforest 

Although Brazil is known for its beautiful beaches and outstanding landmarks, the Amazon rainforest is another famous place to visit. The Amazon is the largest rainforest in the world.

The forest covers 60% of Brazilian territory, 13% of Peruvian land, and 10% of Colombian soil. The remaining 17% is distributed between French Guiana, Suriname, Guyana, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Bolivia.

There are so many things to explore in this giant jungle, and one of them is to spot pink dolphins or go bird watching, as the forest is home to over 800 bird species. The best time to visit is during the low-water season, from July until December.

Emma-Clair Ni Clearaigh - writer and photographer With itchy feet, an inquisitive nature and an ardent wanderlust, Emma Clair has always been a traveller at heart. Hailing from the Emerald Isle she calls a small coastal town near Dublin home, but has lived in a few countries including Saigon, Vietnam where she resided for over a year, now she balances travel and travel writing with teaching and a passion for vintage interior design. She counts supping on Bloody Marys on a rooftop in Manhattan, downing Singapore slings at the Raffles Hotel, daring a paraglide on the Grand Cayman, spending an exotic Christmas in Malaysia and exploring the Angkor Wat, Cambodia as her all time favourite travel moments. Although, she’ll always have a special place in her heart for the city where she makes her annual pilgrimages – Paris, her true city of lights. Find Emma-Clair on Instagram or Facebook . Hotel Reviewing Experience - Asked by tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including the Catalonia Tourist Board ,  Visit Finland, Visit Zurich and Atout France. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos .

22 thoughts on “20 Breathtaking Places to Explore in Brazil”

Going to Visit brazil next week as I don’t know much about it so I was looking for a blog to know the best things to there thanks for this information. As Know I know What to do there.

WOOOOW the OXXXmmm place Brazil one day i will enjoy these natural beauty

Hope everyone get a chance to come to Brazil specially to Jericoacoara!

Oh Jericoacoara is so beautiful and this PIC is so… Bleh. We can find great pics on google.

Visitem Ibicoara, localizada na Bahia,chapada diamantina.

Rio and Ouro Preto are my top choice 😉

Thanks Escape Hunter! Good choices 🙂

So many reasons to visit Brazil! I’d love to visit Salvador and Ilha Grande especially. Gorgeous photos!

Very true, there’s so much more to the country!

Thanks for the suggestions Gabriel!

Wow what a country, I really must visit one day!

Hope you make it one day Scott!

They all look beautiful! Would love to visit and every one of them!

What a beautiful place, would love to go there.

Ilha Grande is a new find for me.. wow! so beautiful. Brazil is definitely one to really explore – thanks for the post, a great eye opener!

Thanks Adam!

There is also Pantanal in the state of Mato Grosso, not only in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul.

Congratulations though for the overall text and pictures!

I want to go to all of these places! Brazil has been on my list for a long time now! Thanks for sharing.

Happy travels 🙂

I admire travelers who focus on South America, it’s such a gorgeous region with so much to see. Thanks for the inspiration!

Wow, I’ve fallen in love just with the pictures alone! It would be nice to get back to Brazil one day. Clearly Rio has so much to offer I could need an extended trip there.

I’m in love with Rio de Janeiro!!! Hope to make it there soon, perhaps in 2015!

What lovely photos and a great read! I wish I had spent longer in Brazil when I went last year as only saw Rio and Iguazu and would have loved to have visited some other parts including Salvador and Pantanal. I also can’t believe Ilha Grande was right there and I didn’t even know about it till just now! It looks stunning 🙂

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• South America
• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

20 Must-Visit Attractions in Brazil

As the largest country in South America , Brazil is a vast playground for the intrepid traveller with everything from dense, exotic rainforest to bustling, dynamic cities, as well as sprawling national parks and glorious, jaw-dropping beaches. If you’re feeling spoilt for choice, here are the 20 attractions that are must-sees in Brazil.

Foz do iguaçu.

Foz do Iguaçu are one of the largest waterfalls in the world. This impressive natural phenomenon straddles the border of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay and is made up of hundreds of powerful cascades that tumble down into the fast-moving body of water below. A highlight is the Devil’s Throat, an 80-metre fall where visitors can look over the edge of a wooden platform that crosses the top.

Christ the Redeemer

One of Brazil’s most iconic monuments and Rio’s most visited attraction, Christ the Redeemer captures the imagination and hearts of hundreds of thousands of travellers each year. In addition to the symbolic importance in the Catholic community, the statue is also one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and provides spell-binding views over Rio de Janeiro.

Fernando de Noronha

Made up of a collection of 21 islands, Fernando de Noronha is a slice of paradise in Brazil. As a protected national marine park, the area is home to a diverse and rich ecosystem that includes dolphins, reef sharks, tropical fish, and rays. Famed for its undeveloped beaches and rugged, green coastline, it is a picturesque retreat and ideal for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Sugarloaf Mountain

One of Brazil’s most visited natural wonder is Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, a rounded peak surrounded by the sea. Visitors take a cable car to the top to enjoy panoramic views over the city, the coastline and across the ocean – the most rewarding time to go is at sunset when the lights of the city twinkle below, while the sun casts shades of pink, orange, and red across the sky and sea.

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

Located in the north of the country, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is a striking desert landscape made up of sloping white sand dunes that stretch tall and wide, and dotted with rainwater lagoons that nestle between the valleys of the sand banks. The largest lagoons there are Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Bonita.

A huge wetland that swallows up the west of Brazil before sprawling into Bolivia and Paraguay, the Pantanal is a wildlife haven rich in a diverse ecosystem of rare and wonderful creatures. Nature lovers can spot hundreds of species of birds, in addition to large mammals such as jaguars and capybaras. Some of the most famous residents there are the thousands of caimans.

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Amazon rainforest

One of the most ecologically complex regions in the world, the Amazon rainforest is an extraordinary natural wonders. The dense forest provides fertile grounds for thousands of endemic species, while the Amazon river provides a home for incredible freshwater life, including the elusive pink river dolphins.

Chapada dos Veadeiros

Stretching across the central of Brazil is Chapada dos Veadeiros, an immense national park comprising deep canyons, hardy vegetation, and imposing quartz crystal formations. It is a fertile ground for several orchid species that grow wild throughout the park, and local residents include jaguars and armadillos.

Pelourinho, Salvador

Pelourinho is the historic city centre of Salvador in the state of Bahia. The vibrantly coloured buildings are a picturesque example of how the African, indigenous and European cultures, which were thrown together in Salvador, have converged throughout the centuries.

Located in the exotic northeast of Brazil, Fortaleza is a coastal city with strong winds that have attracted adrenaline-junkie kitesurfers for years. Watch the surfers race across the sea’s surface, their trajectory temporarily broken by impressive, daredevil leaps. The city is famed for its fresh, locally-sourced seafood with beachside restaurants in abundance serving Fortaleza’s delicious cuisine.

Jalapão State Park

Jalapão State Park is in the lesser-known state of Tocantins, yet the park has long been on the radar of curious travellers who love adventure. Known for its deep-orange dunes, raging rivers, and cascading waterfalls, it is a prime example of untouched wilderness that will keep any intrepid visitor satisfied.

Dunas de Genipabu

Just a short drive from Natal in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, the Genipabu dunes are an ever-changing collection of sand dunes that are shaped and reshaped by the daily winds that come off the coastline and whip over the sands. The region offers a host of adventurous activities such as buggy rides, camel treks and sledging down the sand dunes.

The charming colonial city of Olinda sits in the north of the country, in the state of Pernambuco. Located on a hilltop, it is a cultural wonderland of churches, museums, and buildings that have kept their colonial façade. The best time to go is during carnival when the city comes alive with vibrant, colourful street celebrations that reflect its strong African roots.

Porta de Galinhas

With its crystal clear waters and white, pristine beaches, Porta de Galinhas has deservedly earned the title as one of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. When the tide comes in, the shoreline fills up with warm pools, locked between walls of coral and filled with a thriving ecosystem of marine life. It is possible to see marine turtles here, as well as seahorses for the observant snorkeller.

Mount Roraima

A rock formation that seems straight out of The Lost World, Mount Roraima is an imposing flat-top mountain that extends across the borders of Brazil, Venezuela, and the less-explored Guyana. To reach the top takes between seven and 10 days, but those that try will be treated to unforgettable views and waterfalls on the way.

Inhotim is located outside of Belo Horizonte in Minas Gerais, and has inspired art lovers across the world. The open-air art gallery is located on the grounds of a 5,000-acre botanical gardens and houses sculptures, art pavilions and interactive masterpieces from both Brazilian and international artists.

A region teeming with natural resources and wildlife, Bonita in the southwest of the country is recognised for its ecological importance and has become a well-protected haven. With freshwater pools and waterfalls alive with thriving shoals of tropical fish, it is a must-visit for any keen nature explorer. One of the highlights is Gruta do Lago Azul, an underground flooded cavity that stretched more than 200 feet deep and home to the fossiled remains of prehistoric animals, such as sabre-tooth tigers. The source of the mysterious, underground river that has yet to be discovered.

Chapada Diamantina

This large national park is teeming with an extraordinary range of biodiversity from rare orchids to large animals such as giant anteaters and armadillos. The large flat top rock formations with long, sloping plains beneath them create breathtaking views and scenery.

Cathedral de Brasilia

This cathedral with its circular-inspired ceiling is the masterpiece of Brazilian architect, Oscar Niemeyer. The all-around stained glass walls slant up to a single point in the ceiling and allow natural light to flood in, creating an airy atmosphere. The cathedral has a capacity of 4,000 people, watched over by angels that hang suspended from the ceiling.

Bento Goncalves

The landscape of Bento Goncalves comprises sloping hills, rows of grapevines and quaint rivers, ringing a persistent bell that sounds of the Italian countryside scenery. That’s unsurprising, given the area is largely influenced by Italian immigration in the 1800s. The area is replete with wine regions, locally-produced foods such as cheese and jams, and the streets are lined with charming boutique restaurants and places to eat.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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Top 10 Brazil Tourist Attractions You Have To See

The largest country in South America, Brazil occupies almost half the continent. Nearly all of it is in the Southern Hemisphere, and much of it is tropical, with vast stretches of rainforest filled with exotic plants and wildlife. The country’s 4600-mile-long Atlantic coast is lined with golden-sand beaches, and its interior is filled with mineral resources. Portugal was the colonial power that ruled Brazil until 1822. The national language is Portuguese and a strong Portuguese influence is evident in Brazil’s colonial architecture and decorative arts. Below are what we consider the top attractions worth visiting on a vacation to Brazil .

Cristo Redentor

Christ the Redeemer

One of Brazil’s most iconic monuments and Rio’s most visited attraction , the statue of Christ the Redeemer was completed in 1931 and stands 98 feet tall, with horizontally outstretched arms spanning 92 feet. The work of Polish-French sculptor Paul Landowski and Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa is made of reinforced concrete clad in a mosaic of thousands of triangular soapstone tiles. The statue stands on a square stone pedestal about 26 feet high, which itself is situated on a deck atop the mountain’s summit. The base encloses a chapel that is popular for weddings. The statue has become emblematic of both the city of Rio de Janeiro and the whole nation of Brazil and is the largest Art Deco-style sculpture in the world.

In addition to the symbolic importance within the Catholic community, the statue is also one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and provides spell-binding views over Rio de Janeiro and the bay from the summit of Corcovado, 2310 feet above the city. The area on which it stands is part of the Tijuca National Park, and a rack railway climbs two miles to a broad plaza at the top. A mid-point stop on the railway leads to trails through the Tijuca National Park, replete with springs, waterfalls, and a wide variety of tropical birds, butterflies, and plants.

Way to experience the falls

Iguaçu Falls

At the point where Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina meet, ten miles before joining the Parana River, the Iguaçu River flows over rough, uneven ground, and then, amidst the exuberant forest, spectacularly hurls itself into a semicircular chain of 247 irregular waterfalls that thunder down into the gorge below. Just above the falls, the river is constricted to a quarter of its usual width, making the force of the water even stronger. Some of the falls are more than 330 feet high and they cover such a broad area that you’ll never see all of them at once, but you do get the broadest panorama from the Brazilian side.

A visit to the Iguazu falls is a heart-stopping, visceral experience, while the power and noise of the cascades, which extend nearly 1.85 miles, will live forever in your memory. The falls lie split between Brazil and Argentina in the UNESCO-acclaimed Iguaçu National Park, where subtropical rainforests are home to more than 1,000 species of birds and mammals, including deer, otters, ocelots, and capybaras. Catwalks and a tower offer different perspectives, and one bridge reaches all the way to the largest water curtain, known as the Garganta do Diabo (Devil’s Throat), which drops more than 262 feet into a creamy white pool. You can cross to the Argentinian side for closer views from catwalks that extend farther into the center of the falls. The two sides offer different perspectives and views, so it’s a good idea to plan to see both.

Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro

Occupying a narrow strip of land between the mountains and the sea, Copacabana − downtown Rio’s most fashionable district − follows Avenida Nossa Senhora de Copacabana, and is famous for its magnificent two-and-a-half-mile curved beach. Skyscraper hotels, apartment houses, cafés, shops, nightclubs, restaurants, theatres, live music bars, street fairs, and pubs line the waterfront. The neighborhood is a blend of Brazilian soul; it is crowded, rowdy, and traditional. However, the most powerful draw in Copacabana is still the fantastic view of the coast and the incredible white-sand beach alongside the rolling surf.

The beach is separated from the buildings and the traffic by a broad promenade paved in black and white mosaic in a rippled pattern inspired by Rocio’s Square in Lisbon, Portugal. The huge strip of sand bordering Copacabana Beach is not the result of a natural process; during the ’70s, a large land reclamation increased the area of the beach, which is a popular playground filled with sun-worshippers whenever the weather is fine.

Carnaval (Carnival), Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro Carnaval is one of Brazil’s top tourist attractions − the mother, the mecca, the king of all carnivals. Every year, just before the beginning of Lent, Rio de Janeiro transforms into the biggest party on the planet, a party that is attended by five million people from all around the world. Few shows match Carnaval’s extravaganza for color, sound, action, and exuberance. This is not just another boisterous street party, but a carefully staged showpiece. The highlight of attending Rio Carnaval is witnessing the world-renowned Samba Parade hosted in a purpose-built stadium called the Sambódromo, where dancers and musicians from the competing samba schools strut their stuff in a dazzling explosion of brilliant costumes.

Carnaval is an exhilarating time to be in Rio, all the businesses unrelated to Carnaval shut down and the Brazilians completely embrace the carnival spirit, joining street parties across the city. You’ll also find Carnivals in Salvador, Bahia, Recife, and other Brazilian cities.

Bordered by Arpoador Beach on one end and Leblon Beach on the other end, Ipanema Beach is considered one of the main centers of activity for the city of Rio and one of the most expensive places to live. Known as the “Little Paris” of Rio, it is renowned for its avant-garde art galleries, bookstores, movie theaters, hotels, restaurants, and cafés, which make it a popular social zone year-round. The same wave design of Copacabana’s wide promenade continues here, separating the sand from the buildings. Sunday is especially busy, with an antique market at Praça de Quentaland and the Feira de Artesanato de Ipanema, alive with music, street food, art, and handcrafts with vendors selling everything from wooden dolls to swizzle sticks topped with parrots, making it fun a festive for families visiting Brazil .

Pelourinho, Salvador

Pelourinho is the historic city center of Brazil’s former colonial capital, Salvador . The cobblestoned streets and vibrantly colored buildings are a picturesque example of how the African, indigenous, and European cultures, which were thrown together in Salvador, have converged throughout the centuries. This old quarter has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site for its exceptional collection of 17th- and 18th-century colonial buildings, the finest such assembly in South America. This is where you’ll find Salvador’s most beautiful churches and monasteries, built at a time when Brazil was the source of Portugal’s riches, and the plentiful gold was lavished on the colony’s religious buildings.

The finest and most opulent of the city’s churches is São Francisco, built in the early 1700s and filled with intricate carvings covered in gold. Pelourinho means “whipping post” in Portuguese, and this was the location of the slave auction in the days when slavery was common. Slavery was outlawed in 1835, and over time, this portion of the city, though home to artists and musicians, fell into disrepair. In the 1990s, a major restoration effort resulted in making the area a highly desirable Brazil tourist attraction.

Ipiranga Museum

Art Museums of Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo holds some of the best collections of fine arts in Latin America, and the buildings in which they are housed are architectural landmarks as well. The Museu de Arte, MASP, is considered the premier art museum in Brazil, displaying the continent’s most comprehensive collection of Western art, with representative works by artists from Classical antiquity, the Renaissance, the Baroque period, along with plentiful works by Brazilian and other Latin American artists. The museum is a Modernist landmark conceived by Italian architect Lina Bo Bardi; bright red concrete elevates the building structure above ground making the museum stand out from the neutral-colored high-rise buildings that surround it. There are 73 bronze sculptures by Degas and works by Renoir, Manet, Van Gogh, Matisse, Picasso, and Miró.

At the Museu de Arte Contemporânea, in Ibirapuera Park, you’ll find more than 8,000 works of art. This is one of Latin America’s largest collections of 20th-century Western art, comprising the most important artists, art movements, and tendencies of modern and contemporary art. It includes works by Picasso, Chagall, Kandinsky, Miró, and Modigliani along with major Brazilian painters. Additionally, Museu do Ipiranga, set above Versailles-inspired formal gardens, houses paintings, and decorative arts.

For a different type of art, don’t miss Batman’s Alley, an open-air gallery of street art by local and international artists. It is in the bohemian Vila Madalena neighborhood, where you’ll also find art galleries showing the works of well-known and rising Brazilian artists and craftspeople.

Cathedral of Brasilia

This striking modernist building is an architectural icon of Brazil, designed by renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer. The round church has 16 concrete columns representing hands raised to heaven. The columns converge to a central elevated circle, soaring 138 feet towards the sky while allowing the natural light to flood in through a glass roof offering a glimpse to the heavens with angels suspended above the congregation. Not only that but the building is surrounded by a shallow pool that reflects its beauty.

Botanical Garden of Curitiba, Paraná

The postcard-worthy botanical garden is one of Curitiba’s main attractions and rightly so because it has an impressive and colorful garden and has a fantastic greenhouse. The Park is packed with flower gardens, with ideal places for picnics. Moreover, the external garden has a lovely French style with beautiful designs and walks between the areas colored by flowers and a fountain that provides beautiful photo opportunities. Inside the glass-and-steel greenhouse, it is possible to see species of plants typical of tropical areas.

Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro

Sugarloaf Mountain is arguably one of the most important tourist attractions in Brazil. The rounded rock peak juts out of a tree-covered promontory, rising nearly 1300 feet above the beaches and the city. Its summit offers jaw-dropping views of Rio and the harbor, together with the thrill of riding suspended in a cable car between SugarLoaf and the Morro da Urca, a lower peak from which a second cableway connects to the city. Rio’s first settlement began below these peaks, near the long Praia da Urca beach, and you can tour one of the three early forts there, the star-shaped Fort São João.

While Rainforest Cruises aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information herein or found by following any link on this site. Rainforest Cruises cannot and will not accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies, or for any consequences arising therefrom, including any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the display or use of this information.

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Rio de Janeiro   Travel Guide

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17 Best Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

If it's your first time in Rio, you can't pass up people-watching along the white-sand shores of Copacabana  or Ipanema . But don't spend all your time at the beach; the Marvelous City has more spectacular natural beauty to offer with sites

• All Things To Do

Christ the Redeemer Christ the Redeemer

This iconic landmark is a must-see attraction in Rio. Recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this statue of Jesus Christ stands with arms outstretched to the city from above Corcovado Mountain's staggering 2,310-foot elevation.

Started in 1922 and completed in 1931, the monument – made of concrete and covered in soapstone mosaic tiles – stands 124 feet tall as a religious and cultural symbol of the Brazilian people's warm and welcoming culture. The monument rests atop Corcovado Mountain in the Tijuca National Park and is the most famous attraction in Rio de Janeiro, visited by nearly 2 million people each year. Recent travelers recommend visiting on a day with clear skies since the vantage point is the best in the city. Many also advise going as early as possible to avoid the crowds.

Tijuca National Park Tijuca National Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: After a day of hiking, head over to Os Esquilos ("The Squirrels"), the national park's only restaurant. Visit between May and October when Rio's temperatures drop to enjoy fondue paired with red wine next to the roaring log fire. – Sarah Brown

Outdoorsy types love exploring this expansive green rainforest. Covering more than 9,600 acres, Tijuca National Park sits within the Atlantic Forest and is one of the largest urban forests on the planet. The natural beauty of the park can't be understated: it features varied terrains, waterfalls, caves and more than 1,600 plant species and more than 300 different species of mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles.

Jardim Botânico Jardim Botânico

Spread out across more than 350 acres, this botanical paradise awes its visitors with more than 7,000 indigenous and exotic species of flora. This serene garden hosts everything from orchids to Amazonian trees to large ferns, and is a haven for wild animals such as marmosets, frogs and tropical birds. The gardens were originally created in 1808 by Regent Prince D. João to acclimatize spices from other regions. Since its debut to the public in 1822, the verdant sanctuary has become a haven for locals and tourists; Albert Einstein even dropped in. The national park is also known as a premier botany and ecology research center. 

Travelers relish the garden's tranquility, the abundance of nature, and recommend taking guided or self-driven thematic tours of the park's various sections. The park also includes a playground, souvenir shop and the Garden Café restaurant.

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Boat Tours Boat Tours

With its iconic coastline and mountainous backdrop, Rio de Janeiro is best explored from the water. Boat tours offer a unique perspective of the city, giving visitors opportunities to admire its stunning beaches, islands, and landmarks from a different angle. There's a variety of boat tours to suit different preferences, including daylong boat tours and scuba diving excursions.

A scuba diving trip takes about five hours. Trips usually go to Cagarras Island – just off the coast of Ipanema – or to Arraial do Cabo – east of Rio. Those who have never dived before will get a quick lesson from experienced divers and will be accompanied in the water by a guide during their entire swim. Qualified divers can go ahead and enjoy the underwater biodiversity. Rio Natural Ecotourism and Itaway Eco Tours are two favorite vendors among tour-takers. Prices start at $130 per person.

Lapa Lapa free

If you come to Rio to revel in samba and other Brazilian music, Lapa is the place for you. This festive neighborhood ignites at night when locals swing their hips and sip on delectable cocktails. Brimming with rows of botecos (typical Brazilian bars), clubs and live music venues, Lapa's seductive night crawl certainly isn't lacking excitement or charm.

You'll definitely want to check out  Rio Scenarium , the most popular Brazilian club that features three stories, vintage decor and a long list of craft cocktails. Other popular bars and nightclubs include Leviano , known for its variety of music ranging from samba to forró , and Armazém do Senado , a lively bar with live music where visitors spill out into the street, especially on Saturday afternoons.

Ipanema Beach Ipanema Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: At the end of the day, go to Arpoador at the far end of Ipanema near Copacabana to watch the sunset next to the Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers Mountains). Locals clap as the last slither of sun dips behind the horizon. – Sarah Brown

Made famous by the well-known bossa nova song, "The Girl from Ipanema," this beach has drawn tourists for decades. The 1.5-mile stretch of sand boasts gorgeous mountain views, beautiful Brazilians and cobalt waters. While sunbathing, you'll observe wildly entertaining games of  futevolei  (the Brazilian version of volleyball without hands) and smell coalho cheese with oregano grilling nearby on skewers.

Escadaria Selaron Escadaria Selaron free

One of the most iconic landmarks in Rio de Janeiro is the Escadaria Selarón, or Selarón Steps, a 250-step staircase decorated with more than 2,000 carefully placed tiles from around the world. It was created by Chilean-born artist Jorge Selarón who began the project in 1990 of transforming a run-down outdoor staircase in Rio's downtown into one of the city's most photographed masterpieces. Dedicating hours of life to what he referred to as a tribute to Brazilian people, Selarón was found dead on his steps in 2013 (the exact cause of his death has not been disclosed). Today, the landmark has appeared in fashion magazines, music videos and films and continues to be one of the city's most visited icons. Best of all, it's free to visit.

Recent visitors said it was a must-see and a great spot for photos, even though it can get a bit crowded. Some travelers said the steps themselves are safe, however, it's recommended to keep belongings close while wandering in the surrounding area to avoid pickpocketing.

Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar)

U.S. News Insider Tip: After visiting the Sugarloaf, unwind at the neighboring picturesque Praia Vermelha beach and then head over to the nearby Mureta, a bay-side wall in Urca where locals gather to watch the sunset and socialize the night away. – Sarah Brown

Standing high above Rio's bustling metropolis at 1,296 feet, Pão de Açúcar, or the Sugarloaf Mountain, cascades over the picturesque Guanabara Bay. From Praia Vermelha (Red Beach) in the residential Urca district, you can take a three-minute cable car ride up to Morro da Urca and then hop on another cable car up to the top of Sugarloaf. From the glass-enclosed bondinho (cable car), you'll get a dazzling view of the city, the sea and Rio's tree-covered mountains.

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Pedra da Gávea Pedra da Gávea free

Amid Rio's vibrant cityscape stands Pedra da Gávea, an adventure-lover's dream. This iconic granite peak stands more than 2,700 feet above sea level, providing stunning panoramic views of the city, ocean and the Atlantic Forest. It's a hike that's not for the faint-hearted, but the rewards are worth the effort – recent visitors describe it as "amazing" and "incredible" but warn it's a tough hike. It takes about five hours up and back down (although it can take longer depending on which viewpoints you visit), and involves a mix of steep ascents, rocky terrain and some rope-assisted sections. Hiring a local guide is recommended for safety and navigation, even if you're an experienced hiker. Always check the weather forecast before you go, as the trail becomes slippery during the rain.

The views from the summit are breathtaking and let you see some of Rio's famous sites including the Christ the Redeemer  statue, Sugarloaf Mountain , and the golden coastline. On the way back down, don't forget to visit the Garganta do Céu ("The Sky's Throat") for a unique perspective of Rio's coastline. Also keep an eye out for the Cabeça do Imperador ("The Emperor's Head"), a natural rock facade shaped like a face and an abundance of wildlife (think: monkeys, toucans and various plant species).

Prainha Prainha free

Known as Brazil's "little" beach, this remote paradise sits about 22 miles west of  Ipanema Beach  but is well worth the jaunt. Prainha's magnificent shoreline features a backdrop of rolling hills and verdant rainforest. Surfers covet the killer waves – Prainha is a beloved spot among the surfing community – while beachgoers marvel at the gorgeous sunsets. The shore empties out during the weekdays (particularly during Brazil's winter, which is June to September), making Prainha a great alternative to other tourist-laden beaches. However, swimmers and surfers take note: currents are strong and there are no lifeguards.

Recent travelers love the quieter, more local vibe at Prainha, especially in the offseason. The beach boasts plenty of sunbathing spots during the week and is lined with kiosks selling snacks and drinks. There is also a restaurant nearby called Mirante da Prainha, ideal for oceanic views and Brazilian food. The best way to get there is by car (either taxi or Uber is recommended), as there are no direct public transport options. There is parking space for cars which is informally manned by local car attendants, meaning the cost may vary but is about 15 reais ($3) according to recent travelers, who also recommend getting there early to get a spot.

Pedra do Telégrafo Pedra do Telégrafo

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make sure to visit the Wild Beaches after your trip to Pedra do Telégrafo. These stunning beaches are often completely deserted and feature white sand and lush forest backdrops. Check out Perigoso, Funda, Inferno and Meio beaches. – Sarah Brown

Located in the Atlantic Forest, Pedra do Telégrafo is a popular hiking destination for travelers seeking breathtaking views and memorable photo opportunities. This famous peak has gained worldwide fame for its gravity-defying photos that make it appear as though you're hanging off a rocky precipice over a sheer drop. Don't worry though – there's a solid rock platform beneath. The photos are all about perspective.

Copacabana Beach Copacabana Beach free

One of Rio's most popular shores, Copacabana is a public beach located in the heart of the luxurious Zona Sul neighborhood. The beach is marked by postos , or lifeguard stands, that offer changing rooms and restrooms for a small fee (less than $1). Copacabana's 2.5-mile stretch of sand runs from Posto 3 to Posto 6, where you'll find a peninsula that houses the Historical Museum of the Army and Copacabana Fort.

Brimming with authentic eats, lavish accommodations and the beautiful Avenida Atlântica sideway made of mosaic tiles in a wave motif, Copacabana Beach boasts much more than powdery sands. Recent visitors said it was a must-visit beach and commented on how many people practice sports there at all times of day. Others commented on petty theft that may occur on the beach and recommended keeping belongings in sight and close by. You'll see runners and cyclists making the most of the cycle path that runs alongside the beach from the crack of dawn until well into the evening. The beach is also a hotspot for beach volleyball and football (soccer) at all times of day.

Santa Teresa Santa Teresa free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don't miss Parque das Ruínas , a restored historical building with exposed brickwork and stunning views across Guanabara Bay, Sugarloaf and Rio's downtown. Check out the gallery of contemporary, local art there too. Best of all, it's free. – Sarah Brown

This hilly bohemian district boasts an eclectic array of art and architecture. Strolling along Santa Teresa's cobblestone streets, you'll be enchanted by sidewalk mosaics, palatial mansions and artsy galleries. Conveniently situated just southwest of  Lapa , this neighborhood offers traditional Brazilian restaurants, bars and craft stores.

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from $ 84.00

Barra da Tijuca Barra da Tijuca free

Barra da Tijuca, which includes an expansive 11-mile stretch of coastline and adjacent shopping center, is a neighborhood known as "Barra" and is popular among Cariocas. Recent travelers say its beach has a more relaxed environment than the sands at Copacabana  and Ipanema  and is more local and less crowded. They also say it's an ideal spot for walking, running and cycling. You can also find places to do surfing lessons, one of the most favorite pastimes of a Carioca. Along the shore, you'll find plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants, as well as kiosks selling coconut water, alcoholic drinks and typical Brazilian cuisine

The adjacent shopping center, Barra Shopping, is Brazil's largest commerce complex, featuring retail, entertainment, dining and business centers totaling more than 700 stores. Hours for shops and other stores vary within the center, although the mall itself opens Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 10 p.m. Check Barra Shopping's website (written in Portuguese) for more information.

Grumari Beach Grumari Beach free

You won't find beachfront restaurants, luxurious hotels or plentiful kiosks here. Without them, you'll have space to stretch out on the 1.5 miles of white and red sand. Part retreat for sun-seekers, part environmental reserve, this lovely beach is a way away from the swooning tourists at  Copacabana  and  Ipanema (about 25 miles).

Travelers rave about Grumari Beach's cleanliness and natural beauty but note that the trek there may take you awhile. Recent visitors said that even though the beach is about an hour's drive from the city, it's a hidden gem worth checking out. Some travelers warn that cell phone reception isn't great, meaning calling for a ride back can be a bit tricky. They also mentioned that the sea can be quite rough, so take care if you go swimming, especially as there are no lifeguards in the area.

Ilha Fiscal Ilha Fiscal

Set apart from the bustling sights and sounds of central Rio, this remote neo-Gothic castle rests on a tucked away island in Guanabara Bay. Completed in 1889 and once a prime location for the Brazilian custom service for supervising port operations, Ilha Fiscal now serves as an illuminated city gem. It was once known for being the venue of the event that was known as "The Last Ball of the Empire," which was held just days before the Proclamation of the Republic.

The castle was reopened in July 2023 following 18 months of restoration and now includes several historical exhibitions and the Galeota D. Joao VI, the oldest vessel preserved in Brazil and used by the Portuguese royal family.

Metropolitan Cathedral Metropolitan Cathedral free

Located in Rio's downtown, the Metropolitan Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of St. Sebastian of Rio de Janeiro, is a unique masterpiece and a must-see for those interested in architecture. Designed by architect Edgar Fonseca, it's a striking example of modernist architecture, with its cone-shaped dome standing at 246 feet and resembling the Mayan pyramids. It's decorated with colorful stained-glass windows that encircle the structure and create a wonderful play of light inside, which many recent travelers say is beautiful to see. Construction of the cathedral began in 1962 and the first mass was celebrated there ten years later.

The interior has minimal decor, but has an impressive display of religious art. The main door, known as the Door of Faith, is decorated with 48 bronze high-reliefs, and the church holds a large collection of sculptures, paintings, statues and space for a choir and an organ.

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Places to Visit in Brazil

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Brazil Places to Visit

Here are some of the best places to visit in brazil:, rio de janeiro.

Nestled between the mountains and the sea, the very location of Rio de Janeiro makes it spectacular so much so that it has been acclaimed as the world heritage site for being the “the staggeringly beautiful location for one of the world's biggest cities" by UNESCO. However, the accolades of UNESCO weren’t solely for the natural setting of the city but also for the planned green space, urban cultural landscape and the right blend of architecture, all of which have contributed very well in the growth of the city.     

Rio de Janeiro is also the second major city of Brazil has also served as the capital of Brazil from 1763 to 1960. Founded by the colonists from Portugal in the mid 1500s, the city used to be the port for the shipment of gold from its inland mining areas. 

All through the history, Rio always seemed very aware of its physical assets -   long crescent beaches, soaring mountains behind it and the towering Sugar Loaf above the harbor. All these are today the prime tourist attractions of the city which have amplified the landscape with distinguished buildings from the different era of the history as well as the green parks and spaces that add to the city’s landscape.    

Even though the city is not too large in size, it is considered to be one of the most important industrial and commercial centers of the country. On the basis of what the Ministry of Tourism, Brazil had to say, Fortaleza is found to be the “second-most desired tourist destination in Brazil.” Some of the famous beaches of the city include the bech of Futuro and the Iracema. Since beaches are commonly used here, the majority of the tourists also indulge in watersports. Fortaleza consists of Brazil’s largest oceanariums known as Acquario Cear?. Found to be nestled away on the Praia de Iracema coastline in Fortaleza, the oceanarium has been recorded to have attracted over 12 million visitors annually. You can check out the Beach Park - a theme park to satisfy all your adventure fantasies. There are many other exciting experiences that you can indulge in including checking out the marvellous night-life and the beach-front restaurants are worthy of your time. Another one of Brazil’s gems that has a typical tropical climate. Some of the best times to visit this city are during summers, which would be between February and April.

Located in the northeast corner of South America, Recife was founded in 1537 thereby qualifying as one of the oldest cities in the world. It is the capital city of Pernambuco and is primarily known for housing the largest scale of production for sugar canes. The city is home to many beautiful rivers, beaches and tiny islands. The name Recife itself can be accredited to the fact that the city’s shoreline is filled with magnificent-looking stone reefs. Due to the nature of the city, the place is also fondly referred to as the “Brazillian Venice.” Among the places to visit in Brazil, Recife should top your list. Why? The spirit of Recife is always about being up and about and the folks herein indulge in many different celebrations all throughout the year. You should surely check out the New Year celebrations starting at the Praia de Boa Viagem beach located in Old Recife. Recife consists of numerous local markets including the Mercado de S?o Jos? are worth a visit or two. Featuring an old, iron construction - these markets give you a vintage feeling. You can also visit the Fort Cinco Pontes, also known as the ‘Fore of Five Points.’ The weather is quite friendly all year round. Most days are tropical but the winter can go down to 1 degree. We recommend visiting Recife between March and June to enjoy the tropical weather.

Brasilia - named inspired by Brazil itself serves as the main seat of the government. Since it is home to the federal government, it is understood to be a federal capital of Brazil. This well-planned city is also home to some of the most important buildings in Brazil including the Banking sector and the Embassy sector. The city is filled with parks and beaches all around. Although modern by heart, they haven’t commercialised all aspects of the city but have made sure everything is kept intact. The city is filled with modern structures all over and thus, was declared to be a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987. The city’s planning was considered to be quite advanced and urban. Another one of the architect’s paradise, many even refer to Brasilia as the “City of Design.” Being the federal capital doesn’t stop Brasilia from being just as happening as any other party location. There are festivals taking place all throughout the year. The festivals are often accompanied with different parades and unique types of celebrations. Brasilia itself features a young, vibrant art’s scene. Some of the world-famous artists have hailed from Brasilia including Bruno Giorgi, Alfredo Volpi, Burle Marx and Marianne Peretti to name a few. Brasilia is home to tropical, savanna-type climate. There are a few months during the year, wherein it does get mild however it is best to experience this city during its winter months. The best time to visit Brasilia is between December and March.

Capital city of Amazonas, Manaus is home to Negro and Solim?es rivers and is qualified as the second oldest city in Brazil, as it was discovered in 1669. Initially, owing to its size, Manaus was actually considered to be a fort. It had a different name too. Back in those days, it was called Fort of S?o Jos? do Rio Negro. Among the tourist places in Brazil, many fondly refer to Manaus as ‘The City of the Margins of the Black River.’ Manaus acts as the perfect destination to lay low for a bit before you go exploring the incredible flora and fauna. It’d be interesting to take a boat ride through the black waters of the Negro River. If you’re around the region, you will surely be informed of the ‘Meeting of the Waters’ point wherein the black waters of Negro meet the brown waters of Solimoes River. Manaus is known for the happening nightlife it offers to its visitors. Imagine partying hard at the beachfront with some of the most interesting travelers from around the world - that’s just the kind of vibe that Manaus holds. Compared to most other cities in Brazil, Manaus has a humid climate. The best times to visit Manaus would be between December and March because that’s when most celebrations take place, as is the case with most Brazil places to visit. 

The name ‘Salvador,’ is an abbreviation of a longer version, “S?o Salvador da Bahia de Todos os Santos.” This literally stands for ‘Holy Savior of the Bay of All Saints.’ Being the capital city of Bahia, the city is home to one of the oldest colonial settlements in the world, let alone Brazil places to visit. Salvador’s Porto da Barra Beach awaits you. Named as one of the best beaches in the world, the region is a party hub for anyone looking for adventure. The beaches are ideal for watersports including swimming, sailing and several other underwater activities. Stellar examples of rich Portuguese colonial architecture can be found in Salvador - a sight that you cannot absolutely miss. In fact, the whole Pelourinho area located in the upper town region of Salvador is classified as a ‘World Heritage Site’ by UNESCO. You will find yourself indulging in the tasteful cuisines that the city has to offer. The city is also known for its art - in several forms including music and dancing - making it an interesting choice when it comes to places to visit in Brazil. The weather, unlike many other cities in Brazil, is quite pleasant. The temperatures here are relatively consistent with most months being hot. It is only between April and June that it rains. The best times to visit Salvador would be between December and March, as is the case with most other Brazil places to visit.

Alter do Chao

Alter do Cha? stands out as one of the most important administrative districts. Many even refer to Alter do Cha? as the ‘Brazilian Caribbean,’ given its location, which is why it is an important place to include in your list of places to visit in Brazil. Alter do Cha?, considered as the main tourist spot in the state of Santar?m, is home to some of the most incredible-looking freshwater beaches. Known as the ‘Island of Love,’ this small slice of paradise is located a few kilometers away from the Alter do Cha? city centre. Bustling at the heart of the city is a vibrant arts community. The region, Arariba Cultura Indigena is what comes to mind when we talk about art. If you’re at the Island of Love, you might want to go rowing in the boat and check out the crystal clear water. When it comes to Alter do Cha?, art doesn’t just limit itself to canvases. Be it ceremonial costumes, necklaces or even home decor - there’s something unique that you are sure to find among the Brazil places to visit. Tourists from all around the world come visiting during the low-tide months, which is between August and December, especially because of how calming the waterforce can get. However,  the best months to visit Alter do Cha? are between December and April.

Belo Horizonte

The words Belo Horizonte literally translates to “A Beautiful Horizon” in English. It should be on the top of your places to visit in Brazil list. History suggests that Belo Horizonte is among the first cities in Brazil that undertook the modern-style of planning. Greenery all over, there are plenty of parks all throughout the city that you can check out as well, including the Baleia State Park as well as the Serra do Rola-Moca State park. The city is a paradise for architecture lovers as it is home to some of the best works till date. Chief among the best works of architecture is the Pampulha Complex. The good-natured city is extremely serious about conserving its flora and fauna and thus, you will find multiple environmental education projects all throughout. Some of the most common activities that you can indulge in while you’re here is visit the Bela Horizonte Zoo. The Zoo, which comes under the protection of the Ministry of Conservation Brazil, is constructed over a massive 1.4 million square meters. Belo Horizonte has mild weather all throughout the year, there are no extremes on this one. The city is pleasant all throughout the year but we recommend visiting during summers as the greenery just pops up the whole atmosphere.

S?o Paulo is the most populated city of Brazil. The city is recognised as the capital of the surrounding state of S?o Paulo. Some of the wealthiest people are inhabitants of this city. There are numerous photo-worthy spots around the city as well, which makes it worth it in the places to visit in Brazil. For example there is the narrow alleyway of Vila Madalena. While you’re at it, do check out the luscious greenery of Ibirapuera Park. Another location that is straight out of a postcard is the Municipal Theatre - which is primarily based on the structural design of the Paris Opera House. This theatre is known to host musical and dance performances by world-famous artists. Be sure to check out one of the shows, if you’re passing through. There are a lot of activities that one can take part in while in S?o Paulo. Chief among them would perhaps be visiting the Avenida Paulista, the main financial and cultural centre of the city. The best of these restaurants and contemporary centers can be found in S?o Paulo’s Avenida Paulista region. The most popular museum of Brazil known as MASP is also located in this region. The temperatures here are relatively consistent with most months being hot. The weather is quite friendly all year round, with most days being tropical however, we recommend visiting between March and June.

Other Attractions

The pantanal.

The Amazon Rainforest

Sao Paulo Museum Of Art

Chapada Dos Veadeiros National Park

Lencois National Park

Arraial Do Cabo

Museu do Ipiranga

The Museu do Ipiranga, nestled in the heart of São Paulo, Brazil, stands as a magnificent tribute to the rich history and cultural heritage of this vibrant nation. With its grandeur and historical significance, it beckons visitors from far and wide to immerse themselves in the tapestry of Brazilian history.

As you step through its gates, you're transported on a journey through time, where the past comes alive through captivating exhibits and artifacts. The museum's expansive collection beautifully showcases Brazil's evolution from its indigenous roots to the bustling metropolis it is today.

One cannot help but be awestruck by the architectural marvel that is the museum itself. Its majestic facade, adorned with intricate details and adorned with the Brazilian flag, commands admiration and reverence. Designed by renowned architect Tommaso Gaudenzio Bezzi, the building is a testament to the grandeur of Brazilian architecture.

Inside, visitors are treated to a treasure trove of artifacts spanning centuries. From ancient indigenous relics to colonial-era artifacts and modern artworks, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of Brazil's diverse cultural landscape. Each exhibit is meticulously curated, offering insights into Brazil's history, art, and societal development.

Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa in Rio de Janeiro is a bohemian neighborhood nestled on a hillside, offering stunning views of the city below. Known for its charming cobblestone streets, vibrant art scene, and eclectic mix of cafes and galleries, Santa Teresa exudes a unique cultural vibe that attracts both locals and tourists alike.

Florianōpolis

Mount Roraima

Chapada Diamantina National Park

Teatro Municipal de Sao Paulo

Teatro Municipal de São Paulo stands as a cultural beacon in Brazil, symbolizing the nation's rich artistic heritage. Located in the heart of São Paulo, this historic theater is renowned for its architectural grandeur and diverse array of performances. Since its inauguration in 1911, it has served as a hub for opera, ballet, symphony concerts, and theatrical productions, showcasing both Brazilian and international talent.

Beco do Batman

Beco do Batman, in São Paulo's Vila Madalena district, is a vibrant open-air gallery renowned for its stunning street art. Named after a Batman mural, it attracts art enthusiasts and tourists alike. The alley's ever-changing graffiti and murals showcase local and international artists, making it a dynamic and colorful destination for exploring urban creativity. 

Catedral Metropolitana de São Paulo

The Catedral Metropolitana de São Paulo, also known as São Paulo Cathedral, is a striking neo-Gothic structure located in the heart of São Paulo, Brazil. Completed in 1954, the cathedral stands on the historic site of the city's founding. Its design, inspired by medieval European cathedrals, features impressive stained glass windows, towering spires, and a grand central dome. The interior houses beautiful mosaics, sculptures, and a significant organ with over 12,000 pipes. As one of the largest churches in Brazil, it is a central place of worship and a symbol of São Paulo's cultural and architectural heritage.

Iguacu National Park

Iguaçu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986, is a breathtaking testament to the power and beauty of nature. Located in the tri-border region of Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay, the park is famed for its awe-inspiring Iguaçu Falls, one of the largest waterfall systems in the world. The sheer force of the cascading water, surrounded by lush rainforest, creates an unforgettable spectacle that draws visitors from across the globe.

Sugarloaf Mountain

Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) is a prominent peak situated at the entrance of Guanabara Bay in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Rising 396 meters (1,299 feet) above the harbor, it is renowned for its unique, rounded shape and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surrounding landscapes, including the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, and the Christ the Redeemer statue.

Ibirapuera Park

Ibirapuera Park, located in São Paulo, Brazil, is a sprawling urban oasis renowned for its lush greenery, scenic lakes, and recreational facilities. The park offers jogging trails, cycling paths, and open spaces for picnics and leisure activities. Cultural attractions like museums and art installations add to its vibrant charm.

Mercado Municipal de Sao Paulo

The Mercado Municipal de São Paulo, also known as the Mercadão, is a vibrant and iconic market located in the heart of São Paulo, Brazil. Built in 1933, this architectural gem is renowned for its bustling atmosphere and diverse array of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and spices. Its striking stained glass windows and towering dome add to its allure, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

Mosteiro de Sao Bento

The Mosteiro de São Bento, or Saint Benedict Monastery, is a renowned religious and architectural landmark located in São Paulo, Brazil. Founded in 1598 by a group of Benedictine monks, the monastery has played a pivotal role in the city’s spiritual and cultural history. The current structure, an impressive example of neo-Gothic architecture, was completed in 1922, designed by the German architect Richard Berndl.

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Brazilians often say they live in a continent rather than a country. It’s an excusable exaggeration. The landmass is bigger than the United States if you exclude Alaska; the journey from Recife in the east to the western border with Peru is longer than that from London to Moscow, and the distance between the northern and southern borders is about the same as that between New York and Los Angeles. Brazil has no mountains to compare with its Andean neighbours, but in every other respect it has all the scenic – and cultural – variety you would expect from so vast a country.

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Where to go in brazil, festivals in brazil, language in brazil, travel ideas for brazil, created by local experts.

9 days  / from 2042 USD

Brazilian Beaches: Copacabana, Botafogo and more

Begin at Foz do Iguaçu, where you will stand in awe of the huge Iguaçu Falls. Next up, we'll head to the lively city of Rio de Janeiro, home of the legendary Copacabana, Botafogo and Flamengo beaches, and of course, Sugar Loaf Mountain and the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.

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Blissful Brazil

Welcome to a lavish journey that marries adventure with style, featuring stays in carefully chosen four-star hotels. This reinvigorating trip will have you sightseeing in São Paulo, gazing at the spectacular Foz do Iguaçu falls and relaxing on Rio's finest beaches before you know it.

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Breathtaking Brazil: Rio, Beaches and Waterfalls

Explore the lively city of Rio de Janeiro, home to Ipanema and Copacabana beaches; experience the stunning Foz do Iguaçu National Park and see the world’s largest waterfalls system; immerse yourself in cultural Salvador, the magnificent former capital of Portugal’s New World colony.

Despite the immense expanses of the interior, roughly two-thirds of Brazil’s population live on or near the coast and well over half live in cities – even in the Amazon. In Rio and São Paulo, Brazil has two of the world’s great metropolises, and ten other cities have over a million inhabitants. Yet Brazil still thinks of itself as a frontier country, and certainly the deeper into the interior you go, the thinner the population becomes.

Other South Americans regard Brazilians as a race apart, and language has a lot to do with it – Brazilians understand Spanish, just about, but Spanish-speakers won’t understand Portuguese. Brazilians also look different. In the extreme south German and eastern European immigration has left distinctive traces; São Paulo has the world’s largest Japanese community outside Japan; slavery lies behind a large Afro-Brazilian population concentrated in Rio, Salvador and São Luís; while the Indian influence is still very visible in the Amazon. Italian and Portuguese immigration has been so great that its influence is felt across the entire country.

Brazil is a land of profound economic contradictions. Rapid post-war industrialization made it one of the world’s ten largest economies by the 1990s and it is misleading to think of Brazil as a developing country; it is quickly becoming the world’s leading agricultural exporter and has several home-grown multinationals competing successfully in world markets. The last decade has seen millions of Brazilians haul their way into the country’s expanding middle class, and across-the-board improvements in social indicators like life expectancy and basic education. But yawning social divides are still a fact of life in Brazil. The cities are dotted with favelas , shantytowns that crowd around the skyscrapers, and there are wide regional differences , too: Brazilians talk of a “Switzerland” in the South, centred on the Rio–São Paulo axis, and an “India” above it, and although this is a simplification the level of economic development does fall the further north or east you go. Brazil has enormous natural resources but their exploitation has benefited fewer than it should. Institutionalized corruption, a bloated and inefficient public sector and the reluctance of the country’s middle class to do anything that might jeopardize its comfortable lifestyle are a big part of the problem. Levels of violence that would be considered a public emergency in most countries are fatalistically accepted in Brazil – an average of seventeen murders per day in the city of Rio de Janeiro, for example.

These difficulties, however, don’t overshadow everyday life in Brazil, and violence rarely affects tourists. It’s fair to say that nowhere in the world do people enjoy themselves more – most famously in the annual orgiastic celebrations of Carnaval , but reflected, too, in the lively year-round nightlife that you’ll find in any decent-sized town. This national hedonism also manifests itself in Brazil’s highly developed beach culture , superb music and dancing, rich regional cuisines and the most relaxed and tolerant attitude to sexuality – gay and straight – that you’ll find anywhere in South America.

• By far the largest country in South America, Brazil covers nearly half the continent and is only slightly smaller than the US, with an area of just over 8.5 million square kilometres. It shares a frontier with every South American country except Chile and Ecuador.
• Brazil has around 200 million inhabitants, making it the fifth most populous country in the world.
• Almost ninety percent of Brazil’s electricity is generated from hydropower, about six percent from fossil fuels and six percent from nuclear power. Brazil is becoming an important oil exporter, with new reserves recently discovered offshore from Rio.
• Brazilian exports consist mainly of manufactured products (including automobiles, machinery and footwear), minerals and foodstuffs as varied as coffee, beef and orange juice. But only thirteen percent of GDP comes from exports: Brazil‘s growing domestic economy is the powerhouse of its development.

The most heavily populated part of the country is the Southeast, where the three largest cities – São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte – form a triangle around which the economy pivots. All are worth visiting but Rio, which really is as beautiful as it seems in pictures, is the one essential destination. The South, encompassing the states of Paraná, Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul, is the most economically advanced part of the country and includes much of the enormous Paraná river system. The spectacular Iguaçu Falls on the border with Argentina is one of the great natural wonders of South America.

Central Brazil is dominated by an enormous plateau of savanna and rock escarpments, the Planalto Central. In the middle stands Brasília, the country’s space-age capital, built from scratch in the late 1950s and still developing today. The capital is the gateway to a vast interior, Mato Grosso, only fully charted and settled over the last fifty years; it includes the Pantanal, the largest wetlands in the world and the richest wildlife reserve anywhere in the Americas. North and west Mato Grosso shades into the Amazon, the world’s largest river basin and a mosaic of jungle, rivers, savanna and marshland that also contains two major cities – Belém, at the mouth of the Amazon itself, and Manaus, some 1600km upstream. The tributaries of the Amazon, rivers like the Tapajós, the Xingú, the Negro, the Araguaia or the Tocantins, are virtually unknown outside Brazil, but each is a huge river system in its own right.

The other major sub-region of Brazil is the Northeast, the part of the country that curves out into the Atlantic Ocean. This was the first part of Brazil to be settled by the Portuguese and colonial remains are thicker on the ground here than anywhere else in the country – notably in the cities of Salvador and São Luís and the lovely town of Olinda. It’s a region of dramatic contrasts: a lush tropical coastline with the best beaches in Brazil quickly gives way to the sertão, a semi-arid interior plagued by drought and grinding poverty. All the major cities of the Northeast are on the coast; the two largest are sprawling Recife and Salvador, Brazil’s most heavily Afro-Brazilian city and a fascinating place to visit. The coast of the Northeast is developing rapidly these days, taking advantage of proximity to Europe to attract package tourists and holiday-home buyers. But it is big enough for it still to be possible to get away from it all.

Discover more places in Brazil

• Mato Grosso Travel Guide
• Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo Travel Guide
• The Northeast Travel Guide
• São Paulo Travel Guide
• Brazil South Travel Guide

Carnaval is the most important festival in Brazil, but there are other parties, too, from saints’ days to celebrations based around elections or the World Cup.

When Carnaval comes, the country gets down to some of the most serious partying in the world. A Caribbean carnival might prepare you a little, but what happens in Brazil is more spectacular, goes on longer and is on a far larger scale. Every place in Brazil, large or small, has some form of Carnaval, and in three places especially – Rio, Salvador and Olinda, just outside Recife – Carnaval has become a mass event, involving seemingly the entire populations of the cities and drawing visitors from all over the world.

When exactly Carnaval begins depends on the ecclesiastical calendar: it starts at midnight of the Friday before Ash Wednesday and ends on the Wednesday night, though effectively people start partying on Friday afternoon – over four days of continuous, determined celebration. It usually happens in the middle of February, although very occasionally it can be early March. But in effect, the entire period from Christmas is a kind of run-up to Carnaval. People start working on costumes, songs are composed and rehearsals staged in school playgrounds and backyards, so that Carnaval comes as a culmination rather than a sudden burst of excitement and colour.

During the couple of weekends immediately before Carnaval proper, there are carnival balls (bailes carnavalescos), which get pretty wild. Don’t expect to find many things open or to get much done in the week before Carnaval, or the week after it, when the country takes a few days off to shake off its enormous collective hangover. During Carnaval itself, stores open briefly on Monday and Tuesday mornings, but banks and offices stay closed. Domestic airlines, local and inter-city buses run a Sunday service during the period.

The most familiar and most spectacular Carnaval is in Rio, dominated by samba and the parade of samba schools down the enormous concrete expanse of the gloriously named Sambódromo. One of the world’s great sights, and televised live to the whole country, Rio’s Carnaval has its critics. It is certainly less participatory than Olinda or Salvador, with people crammed into grandstands watching, rather than down following the schools.

Salvador is, in many ways, the antithesis of Rio, with several focuses around the old city centre: the parade is only one of a number of things going on, and people follow parading schools and the trio elétrico, groups playing on top of trucks wired for sound. Samba is only one of several types of music being played; indeed, if it’s music you’re interested in, Salvador is the best place to hear and see it.

Olinda, in a magical colonial setting just outside Recife, has a character all its own, less frantic than Rio and Salvador; musically, it’s dominated by frevo, the fast, whirling beat of Pernambuco, and is in some ways the most distinctive visually, with its bonecos, large papier-mâché figures that are the centrepiece of the Olinda street parades.

Some places you would expect to be large enough to have an impressive Carnaval are in fact notoriously bad at it: cities in this category are São Paulo, Brasília and Belo Horizonte. On the other hand, there are also places that have much better Carnavals than you would imagine: the one in Belém is very distinctive, with the Amazonian food and rhythms of the carimbó, and Fortaleza also has a good reputation. The South, usually written off by most people as far as Carnaval is concerned, has major events in Florianópolis, primarily aimed at attracting Argentine and São Paulo tourists, and the smaller but more distinctive Carnaval in Laguna. For full details of the events, music and happenings at each of the main Carnavals, see under the relevant sections of the Guide.

Other festivals

The third week in June has festas juninas, geared mainly towards children, who dress up in straw hats and checked shirts and release paper balloons with candles attached (to provide the hot air), causing anything from a fright to a major conflagration when they land.

Elections and the World Cup are usually excuses for impromptu celebrations, while official celebrations, with military parades and patriotic speeches, take place on September 7 (Independence Day) and November 15, the anniversary of the declaration of the Republic.

In towns and rural areas, you may well stumble across a dia de festa, the day of the local patron saint, a very simple event in which the image of the saint is paraded through the town, with a band and firecrackers, a thanksgiving Mass is celebrated, and then everyone turns to the secular pleasures of the fair, the market and the bottle. In Belém, this tradition reaches its zenith in the annual Cirio on the second Sunday of October, when crowds of over a million follow the procession of the image of Nossa Senhora de Nazaré, but most festas are small-scale, small-town events.

In recent years, many towns have created new festivals, usually glorified industrial fairs or agricultural shows. Often these events are named after the local area’s most important product, such as the Festa Nacional do Frango e do Peru (chickens and turkeys) in Chapecó. Occasionally, these local government creations can be worth attending as some promote local popular culture as well as industry. One of the best is Pomerode’s annual Festa Pomerana, which takes place in the first half of January and has done much to encourage the promotion of local German traditions.

Football in Brazil

Going to a football match in Brazil is something even those bored by the game will enjoy as spectacle: the stadiums are sights in themselves and big matches are watched behind a screen of tickertape and waving flags, huge banners, massed drums, fireworks and firecrackers, to the chants, roars and whistling of the world’s most passionate football supporters.

Brazil’s major teams are concentrated in Rio and São Paulo. In Rio, Flamengo is the best-supported team in the country, and its distinctive shirt of red and black hoops is seen everywhere. Its clashes with perennial Rio rival Fluminense (maroon, green and white stripes) is one of the most intense matches in Brazilian club football, rivalled only by the games between São Paulo’s two leading teams, São Paulo (white with red and black hoops) and Coríntians (white). In Rio, Botafogo (black and white stripes with the famous white-star badge) and Vasco (white with black diagonal stripe) vie with Fla-Flu for dominance, while Palmeiras (green) and Santos (white) make up the big four in São Paulo. The only teams that consistently live with the best of Rio and São Paulo are Internacional (red) and Grêmio (blue, white and black stripes) from Porto Alegre, and Atlético Mineiro (white) and Cruzeiro (dark blue) from Belo Horizonte.

Brazilian stadiums tend to be enormous, concrete, and with a few exceptions rather dingy and lacking in character: they are rarely full save for clássicos, matches between major teams, and rely on the supporters rather than their architecture for colour and feeling. Most pitches are separated from supporters by a wide running track and sometimes even a moat, which puts the play further from the terraces than British fans will be used to. But some stadiums are worth going out of your way for: the Maracanã in Rio, it goes without saying, but also the beautiful Art Deco Pacaembú in São Paulo. No football fan should visit Rio without leaving a morning for the excellent tour of the Maracanã, or miss the superb new Museu de Futbol when in São Paulo.

Tickets are very cheap by European standards; good seats at a clássico will cost no more than R$50, but an ordinary match will be half that or less – the issue is availability rather than price. For clássicos, hotels often have packages that include transport, tickets and a guide for around R$100 all in, an expensive way of doing it but often the only practical option if you can’t get a ticket a few days in advance. For ordinary matches, you can almost always turn up half an hour beforehand and look for the bilheteria, the ticket office, which usually only takes cash. All stadiums are two-deckers, most are now all-seaters but a few still have terracing on the lower deck: upper-deck seats are arquibancada, lower-deck geral. There is not as much of a problem with crowd violence in Brazil as in many European countries, but don’t wear a Brazilian club shirt just to be on the safe side: non-Brazilian shirts are no problem (except for Argentinian ones – the two countries don’t get on well in footballing terms), and Brazilian fans are extremely friendly to foreigners. December is the off season; otherwise, a mixture of state and national championships ensures constant football.

Learning some Portuguese before you go to Brazil is an extremely good idea. Although many well-educated Brazilians speak English, and it’s now the main second language taught in schools, this hasn’t filtered through to most of the population. If you know Spanish you’re halfway there: there are obvious similarities in the grammar and vocabulary, so you should be able to make yourself understood if you speak slowly, and reading won’t present you with too many problems. However, Portuguese pronunciation is utterly different and much less straightforward than Spanish, so unless you take the trouble to learn a bit about it you won’t have a clue what Brazilians are talking about. And contrary to what you might expect, very few Brazilians speak Spanish themselves.

Unfortunately, far too many people – especially Spanish-speakers – are put off going to Brazil precisely by the language, but in reality this should be one of your main reasons for going. Brazilian Portuguese is a colourful, sensual language full of wonderfully rude and exotic vowel sounds, swooping intonation and hilarious idiomatic expressions. You’ll also find that Brazilians will greatly appreciate even your most rudimentary efforts, and every small improvement in your Portuguese will make your stay in Brazil ten times more enjoyable.

People who have learned their Portuguese in Portugal or in Lusophone Africa won’t have any real problems with the language in Brazil, but there are some quite big differences. There are many variations in vocabulary, and Brazilians take more liberties with the language, but the most notable differences are in pronunciation: Brazilian Portuguese is spoken more slowly and clearly; the neutral vowels so characteristic of European Portuguese tend to be sounded in full; in much of Brazil outside Rio the slushy “sh” sound doesn’t exist; and the “de” and “te” endings of words like cidade and diferente are palatalized so they end up sounding like “sidadgee” and “djiferentchee”.

Carnaval plunges Brazil into the most serious partying in the world. Mardi Gras in New Orleans or Notting Hill in London are not even close; nothing approaches the sheer scale and spectacle of Carnaval in Rio, Salvador and Olinda, just outside Recife. But Carnaval also speaks to the streak of melancholy that is the other side of the stereotype of fun-loving Brazil.

Part of the reason is Carnaval’s origins at the time when Brazil was still the largest slaveholding country in the Americas. The celebrations just before Lent acquired a kind of “world turned upside down” character, with slaveowners ceremonially serving their slaves food and allowing them time off work – giving a particularly double-edged feel to Carnaval as servitude reasserted itself come Ash Wedneday. Brazil has come a long way since then, but the traditional freedom to transgress that comes with Carnaval gives its partying an edge that deepens in the small hours, as alcohol and crowds generate their usual tensions – the already high murder rate hits its peak over the festival and traffic deaths are also at their annual high. There is a big difference between day and night. Carnaval during the day is for families, and you can relax along with the Pierrots, masks and brass bands that ply the streets and squares: if you travel with children they will remember a good Carnaval for the rest of their lives. Carnaval at night is memorably spectacular in Rio and the biggest street party you will ever see in Salvador and Olinda, but it’s best to keep your wits about you and your head clear. For more information, see Carnaval dates and the relevant sections of the guide for more information.

Travel advice for Brazil

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14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in São Paulo

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers and Michael Law Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The largest city in South America, São Paulo sits on the Piratininga plateau and is surrounded by rivers that fan out into the interior. Almost from its founding in 1554, São Paulo became the gateway to the sertão (Brazil's backcountry), and explorers known as bandeirantes made expeditions from the city into this region. Today's main highways to interior cities still follow the routes of the bandeirantes.

Immigrants from all over the world have always been a part of São Paulo, and you'll still see the influence of Portuguese, Spanish, German, African, Jewish, Arab, and Japanese residents on its life and culture. There is an entire museum devoted to Japanese immigration, for example, and another to the contributions of Africans in Brazil.

Perhaps the most difficult thing to grasp about the city is its sheer size. A good way to get an idea of how far it spreads is from the observation deck of the 46-story Itália Building on Avenida Ipiranga. Many of São Paulo's tourist attractions are widespread, so you'll find the Metro a good way to travel between them.

Discover the best places to visit in this lively metropolis with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Sao Paulo.

See also: Where to Stay in São Paulo

1. Museu de Arte

2. museo do futebol (football museum), 3. parque do ibirapuera (ibirapuera park), 4. museu de arte contemporânea (contemporary art museum), 5. avenida paulista, 6. parque da independància and museu paulista, 7. sé (cathedral), 8. teatro municipal (city theater), 9. beco do batman (batman alley), 10. pátio do colégio, 11. mosteiro de são bento (benedictine monastery), 12. pinacoteca do estado (art gallery of the state of são paulo), 13. nossa senhora da luz, 14. largo de são francisco, where to stay in são paulo for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to são paulo, map of attractions & things to do in são paulo, sao paulo, brazil - climate chart.

The São Paulo Museum of Art, known locally as MASP, only opened in 1968 but has the most representative and comprehensive collection of western art in Latin America. You'll see works by Impressionists and modern masters - Renoir, Van Gogh, Matisse, Manet, Debret, Picasso, Miró, along with 73 works of bronze sculpture by Degas alone.

Although it reaches back to the Renaissance artists, this is one of the first art museums on the continent to focus on artists of the mid-20th century and later, as well as on contemporary artists in Brazil, including Portinari and Di Cavalcanti. Its outstanding collections put it in the league with the Tate Modern, MoMA, and the Centre Pompidou.

The building itself, designed by Brazilian-Italian architect Lina Bo Bardi, is a classic of Modernism. The plaza under its suspended structure hosts a Sunday antiques market and frequent concerts.

Address: Avenida Paulista 1578, São Paulo

Official site: https://masp.org.br

In this football (soccer) mad country, a city like Sao Paulo would be bereft if it didn't have a museum dedicated to the "beautiful game." This fantastic museum provides insight and information on the game and how it occupies a special place in the heart of all Brazilians.

Spread out over 6,000 square meters and 15 galleries are interactive exhibits that are engaging and entertaining. Each gallery focuses on different aspects of the game and the development of sport in Brazil. Jumbo screens mounted on the walls showing famous plays, games, and happenings almost induce a feeling of sensory overload. Other galleries have hundreds of framed photos and other treasured memorabilia.

Think you are a hotshot player? Test your skills by taking a penalty kick against a virtual goalie. The machine will tell you your results, including the speed of the ball. The museum is located at the world famous Pacaembu stadium.

Official site: https://museudofutebol.org.br/en/pagina-inicial-en/

Ibirapuera Park was laid out by landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, with buildings designed by Oscar Niemeyer. The immense green space with its monuments, museums, playgrounds, gardens, trails, lakes, and performance spaces is a leisure paradise for the people of São Paulo, as well as a showcase of modern architecture and culture. The park is immensely popular, with over 14 million people visiting each year.

Commemorating the pioneers from São Paulo who opened up Brazil's interior, the Bandeiras Monument is a magnificent work by Brazilian sculptor Victor Brecheret, with imposing heroic figures. An obelisk commemorates those who died in 1932 in the struggle for a new constitution.

Auditório Ibirapuera , the ultra-modern music hall designed by Oscar Niemeyer, is considered one of São Paulo's best concert venues. Museu da Aeronáutica e do Folclore , the Aeronautics and Folk Art Museum , displays aircraft models and flight equipment on the ground floor, with nearly 20,000 exhibits devoted to folk art and traditions from all over Brazil filling the remaining floors. The large Museu Afro-Brasil celebrates the contributions of Afro-Brazilians and their social and cultural history.

The Japanese Pavilion dates from 1954 and has exhibits of sculptures, Samurai clothing, pottery, and other treasures. The gardens out front contain volcanic rock from Japan along with a variety of beautiful plants. The fish pond nearby is stocked with colorful carp that are always looking to be fed.

Address: Avenida Pedro Alvares Cabral, São Paulo

Inside Parque Ibirapuera, the Pavilhão da Bienal de Artes , designed by Oscar Niemeyer and completed in 1957, houses the excellent Museum of Contemporary Art along with special exhibitions and shows. The museum's more than 5,000 pieces represent a wide range of art schools, from Picasso, Modigliani, and Léger to leading Brazilian painters Tarsila do Amaral, Anita Malfatti, Portinari, and Di Cavalcanti.

Among Latin America's largest collections of 20th-century Western art, the museum also displays works by Marc Chagall, Wassily Kandinsky, and Joan Miró. The Sculpture Garden was designed by Roberto Burle Marx and displays 30 large works in an outdoor setting.

Address: Gate 3, Parque Ibirapuera, São Paulo

Official site: http://mam.org.br/

Avenida Paulista is São Paulo's center of activity, full of things to do and a favorite destination for both tourists and locals. This is an ideal spot for people-watching from one of the numerous sidewalk cafes. The area is home to many shops, theaters, galleries, and museums, including the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP).

Nearby and within walking distance are parks, like Parque Trianon, which provides a foliage-dense oasis right in the city center. This main avenue hosts numerous festivals and celebrations throughout the year, often closing to traffic to become a pedestrian mall.

In São Paulo's Ipiranga district, traversed by the stream alongside which the independence of Brazil was proclaimed by Prince Pedro, Independence Park commemorates that 1822 event. Overlooking the formal gardens of roses, topiaries, and fountains inspired by those at Versailles, is the Museu Paulista, more commonly known as the Museu do Ipiranga.

Its Italian architect, Tommaso Gaudenzio Bezzi, created an eclectic design modeled on Italian Neoclassicism, reminiscent of Renaissance palaces. Inside are large collections of costumes, decorative arts, paintings, and furniture of the Imperial Period.

Address: Parque da Independência, Ipiranga, São Paulo

The neo-Gothic cathedral was built on the site of an earlier cathedral and took from 1913 to 1967 to complete. Its building was interrupted by two world wars, which made it difficult to get the mosaics and other decorative elements from Italy. It was consecrated in 1954, on the 400th anniversary of the foundation of São Paulo.

On the façade are statues of Old Testament prophets and Christ's disciples. Although the rest of the church is neo-Gothic, it is capped by a Renaissance-style dome. The interior has several interesting features, including the 10,000-pipe organ and stained glass windows picturing the history of Catholicism in Brazil.

Be sure to notice the capitals on the columns, carved to represent Brazilian flora (branches of coffee and pineapples) and fauna, including armadillos. You can tour the crypt below the main church to see marble sculptures and tombs. The cathedral sits at the historic center of São Paulo, and is a good place to begin a walking tour of the old town.

Address: Praça da Sé, São Paulo

Architect Ramos de Azevedo modeled São Paulo's Municipal Theater after the Paris Opéra, drawing on an eclectic mixture of Art Nouveau and Italian Renaissance themes. Almost immediately after its completion in 1911, it became a major city attraction. This status was enhanced in 1922, when it was the venue for a landmark event that revolutionized the arts in Brazil.

The Week of Modern Art introduced and spotlighted artists who were to become icons of the Brazilian Modernist Movement, celebrated names including painters Emiliano Di Cavalcanti, Tarsila do Amaral, Anita Malfatti, and Menotti Del Picchia; composer Heitor Villa-Lobos; playwright Mário de Andrade; and sculptor Victor Brecheret.

A major center for the performing arts in South America, the theater has hosted performances by internationally renowned singers, dancers, musicians, and performing artists that have included Carla Fracci, Rudolf Nureyev, Titta Ruffo, Enrico Caruso, Maria Callas, Arturo Toscanini, Heitor Villa-Lobos, and Mikhail Baryshnikov.

The building was completely restored to its original grandeur and re-opened in 1991. It is home to the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra, the Coral Lírico (Lyric Choir), and the City Ballet of São Paulo.

Address: Praça Ramos de Azevedo, São Paulo

If you find yourself in the Vila Madalena neighborhood, Beco do Batman is a wild and colorful spot located between Gonçalo Afonso Street and Medeiros de Albuquerque Street. Since the 1980s, spray paint artists have been showcasing their innovative work on the walls.

The artwork is continually changing, and the creative murals make for colorful photos. There is even a good chance you'll see an artist or two at work when you visit.

If you are interested in meeting some of the artists and having your very own photo shoot with a professional photographer who will take your picture against the colorful murals, consider taking a tour. The Photoshoot of Batman's Alley includes 100 photos of you, with the results curated in Photoshop and sent to you digitally in 24 hours.

The square known as Pátio do Colégio, immediately north of Praça da Sé and the cathedral, is the original nucleus of São Paulo. Here, Manuel de Nóbrega and José de Anchieta founded the College of the Society of Jesus, a residence and center of study for Jesuits, and here on January 25, 1554, the first mass in the settlement was celebrated.

The attractive plaza is now occupied by the Historical Museum, a museum of sacred art, and the Capela de Anchieta. All that remains of the 16th-century building are the doors and a stretch of clay wall. In the gardens of the museum is a pleasant café.

The Benedictine monastery and its church were founded in the late 16th century, but the current church dates only from 1910-22. Don't discount it for its modern origin or its rather austere exterior, as the interior is richly painted and includes 17th-century statues of St. Benedict and St. Scholastica carved by Agostinho de Jesus.

A number of other notable Benedictine artists contributed to the decoration of the monastery. Also notable are some impressive stained glass, an image of the Virgin in a robe set with pearls, and a crucifix dating to 1777. This is an active brotherhood, and the monks accompany the morning mass with Gregorian chants. Stop in the monastery shop to buy cakes, breads, and chocolates made by the brothers.

Address: Largo de São Bento, São Paulo

This museum is the oldest in São Paulo, opened in 1905 to showcase the works of Brazilian artists. Its 10,000 works of art include drawings, paintings, and sculpture from the 1800s through the present. Housed in the restored Liceu de Artes e Ofícios building, the architecture itself is a reason to visit.

Part of the collection is housed in the museum's second location at Pina Estação where visitors will find a memorial to the São Paulo Resistance, an extensive library of historic documents related to Brazil's political struggles, and many more examples of Brazilian art.

Address: Praça da Luz, 2, São Paulo

Official site: https://pinacoteca.org.br/en/

On Avenida Tiradentes, which skirts the Parque da Luz, are the convent and church of Nossa Senhora da Luz, typical examples of the traditional architecture of São Paulo: in spite of their fairly recent age – they were built in the 18th century – they are constructed entirely of clay.

The Nossa Senhora da Luz convent now houses a Museum of Sacred Art, which has a large collection of about 11,000 items, including statues, pictures, altarpieces, and furniture from the 16th through 19th centuries. Also on Praça Tiradentes is the Pinacoteca do Estado, the State Picture Gallery, the oldest museum in São Paulo. It contains about 2,500 pictures, drawings, and prints, mainly by Brazilian artists.

Address: Praça da Luz, São Paulo

To the west of the cathedral and the Pátio do Colégio, Largo de São Francisco is a street in the city center named for the monastic complex that faces it. The Igreja de São Francisco de Assis, the church of St. Francis, was built in 1644 and is one of the city's oldest surviving churches. Its interior is clearly based on those of Portugal in that period, with a cheerful, airy feel and plentiful gold flourishes.

It was restored after a fire in 1870 and again more recently. Not so the neighboring church of the Ordem Terceira de São Francisco, the Third (lay) Franciscan Order, built from 1676 to 1791 and so seriously showing its age that it is closed to visitors. The third building in the complex, the Franciscan friary, has been occupied since 1828 by the Law Faculty of São Paulo University. The neighborhood is a little run down and is not a place to visit at night.

Address: Rua Borges Lagoa, São Paulo

Unlike many large cities, where most of the main attractions are clustered near the historic old town, São Paulo's are spread across the city. Luckily for tourists, a good Metro system brings all the sites within easy reach. It's best to choose a location in the Paulista neighborhood, close to the São Paulo Museum of Art or south of it, near Ibirapuera Park, where several other attractions are located. Here are some highly-rated hotels in this area of São Paulo:

Luxury Hotels :

• Several top hotels in the Paulista area surround the São Paulo Museum of Art, close to restaurants and shopping. Renaissance Sao Paulo Hotel has a pool and good city views from the upper floors, while InterContinental Sao Paulo offers a large fitness center along with a pool. Some rooms have balconies.
• At the edge of Paulista, a few blocks from Ibirapuera Park, Marriott Executive Apartments also has several good restaurants within walking distance.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Close to the Trianon metro station and Museum of Art, the quiet Royal Boutique Jardins Hotel is near the public gardens.
• Still in Paulista, but only a short walk to Ibirapuera Park and its museums, the 154-room Mercure Sao Paulo Paulista is well worth a look.

Budget Hotels:

• Although it is right in the center of the busy Paulista shopping and restaurant neighborhood, rooms are quiet at Ibis Paulista .
• Melia Paulista is directly across from the Trianon metro station, and the airport bus stop is a block away.
• Also near the art museum, shopping center, and dining, Intercity Paulista has a sauna, fitness room, and small pool.
• Sightseeing Tours : Visitors can see many of the top tourist attractions on the three-hour City Tour of São Paulo , which begins at the P acaembu Football Stadium and includes tours of several significant neighborhoods. Highlights include the Museu de Arte (MASP) in the Paulista neighborhood and the Municipal Theater and Pátio do Colégio in downtown São Paulo. The tour also visits Sé Square and its historic cathedral, as well as several public squares and historic monuments, including the stunning Ibirapuera Park .

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Donald Trump Is Banned from 37 Countries as Convicted Felon, Including Major Allies Like Canada and U.K.

If elected president again, Trump would need special permission to enter several key countries for maintaining foreign relations

Donald Trump may face travel restrictions with his newfound felon status , potentially complicating his presidency if he were to win another term in office.

Thirty-eight nations, counting the United States, bar felons from entry, according to World Population Review . Those bans stand regardless of whether someone is allowed to retain their passport after conviction.

Countries that turn felons away include several of the United States' strongest allies, like the United Kingdom, Australia and Canada — the final of which will host the G7 summit of world leaders in 2025. The list also includes a number of nations at the center of pressing foreign policy issues, such as China, Israel and Mexico.

AP Photo/Alex Brandon

International governments can, and in some cases would, choose to make an exception for Trump if he requested special permission as president to make a visit.

George W. Bush , who was arrested for drunk driving in the 1970s, ran into issues with Canadian travel restrictions during his presidency while planning an official state visit and, after applying for a special waiver, he was ultimately allowed to enter.

Win McNamee/Getty

In Bush's case, which still proved tedious, the circumstances were a bit different: the crime happened decades earlier, was only categorized as a misdemeanor and was never tried in a court of law (Bush admitted to driving under the influence upon arrest and got off with a fine and temporary license suspension). It's hard to say whether Trump's new 34 felony convictions would be dealt with in a similar manner.

Countries That Deny Entry to Felons

• Dominican Republic
• New Zealand
• Philippines
• South Africa
• South Korea
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

If Trump were elected to another term in the White House and chose to apply for special travel waivers, the irony would not go unnoticed.

The former president has often characterized foreigners as "criminals," and has campaigned on a promise to tighten U.S. travel restrictions, which would include shutting down the border and instating travel bans on people of certain nationalities and ideologies.

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20 Most Dangerous Places for Female Travelers

Posted: June 6, 2024 | Last updated: June 6, 2024

Attention ladies! If you want to travel alone to distant and lonely places, you'd better understand the risks. Although traveling alone can be a great experience, there are certain places where women travelers are in very serious danger. From whistling and catcalls to actual sexual assault, the threats are very real. But don't let this stop you from traveling! Let's explore the 20 most dangerous places for female travelers.

South Africa

Beautiful Cape Town, what a place to visit! Unfortunately, South Africa has a very violent culture towards women. Statistics show that it has the highest assault rates in the world, and only 25% of women felt safe walking alone during the night. Sometimes, even the most beautiful destinations are the most dangerous for solo female travelers.

Rio's streets, the beaches, the wonderful nature, and the Amazon rainforest. But this beautiful country is also dangerous for female solo travelers. According to statistics, it has the third-highest rate of intentional homicide of women, and 36.9% of women have experienced intimate partner violence. Be careful, stay alert, and don't be reckless in Brazil!

Countless tourists visit Russia yearly to view its historic architecture and scenic landscapes, but females should avoid traveling alone to this huge country. Ranking second in the rate of intentional homicide of women and the top ten for legal discrimination, Russia is proof that things can be pretty but still dangerous.

Despite the beautiful beaches and historic ruins, Mexico is considered the fourth most dangerous country overall. 67% of women in Mexico do not feel safe walking alone at night, and the country ranks fourth in the rates of intentional female homicide and non-partner sexual violence. So unless you want to become a señorita prey, think twice before you visit.

From ornate mosques to vibrant bazaars, Iran is sure to satisfy any traveler's appetite for beauty–but females should steer away from this Middle Eastern country. Iran ranks number one in the global gender gap, which means that women suffer relatively large disparities in many respects. With the third lowest score for legal discrimination, Iran certainly has work to do in protecting and tolerating its female citizens.

Dominican Republic

Imagine yourself on a white sandy Caribbean beach, sipping a cold piña colada under the palm trees. Unfortunately, this all-inclusive dream is also a very dangerous place for women to visit. Only 33% of women felt safe walking alone during the night, and the country is in the top five countries in the world where women are killed by an intentional homicide. 

Pyramids, the Nile, home to some of the earliest monuments in the world. Egypt is a beautiful and interesting country to visit, but not for female solo travelers. This country is in the top six worldwide in gender inequality and the top six for legal discrimination against women through laws that restrict women's participation in society. Also, only 47% of women felt safe walking alone during the night.

From the alleys of Marrakech to the beaches of Essaouira, Morocco is a very interesting and colorful country to visit. But this beautiful place hides some severe risks for solo female travelers. An astonishing 45% of women have experienced physical or sexual violence from their partner (the highest rate in this list!), and this country is in the top ten for legal discrimination against women. Be careful and keep your eyes open. 

India is a land of beautiful colors, spices, and yoga, but it is also a land of risks for female travelers. Out of the 50 countries analyzed by the study, India has the highest gender inequality index ranking. From sexual harassment to deeply rooted cultural beliefs, India is definitely not an easy place to visit for solo female travelers. You should always be vigilant and never be caught off guard. 

Imagine yourself on a white sandy beach in Thailand, holding a fresh coconut, trying to cool down the hot tropical sun. Unfortunately, this paradise is also very dangerous for women to visit. 61% of women think that violence is sometimes or always justified against women–the highest rate of the 50 countries studied. Thailand is beautiful, but its people certainly do not appreciate women.

This multi-ethnic country offers a rich culture and history, delicious food, and beautiful nature and beaches. Unfortunately, it is also very dangerous for women to visit. Malaysia has a very high gender inequality index score (it ranks 173rd out of 142 countries analyzed), and only 46.1% of women feel safe walking alone at night.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is rich in tradition and culture, and the landscape is beautiful, filled with oases in the deserts, but women's rights don't exist here. Saudi Arabia is the worst in the world for legal discrimination against women, and it's in second place for the global gender gap. There are huge restrictions on women's freedoms, and this conservative country is definitely not very safe for solo female travelers.

Turkey is a beautiful country with an interesting mix of ancient and modern, located on the border between East and West. But unfortunately, this bridge between cultures hides some serious dangers for solo female travelers. Turkey has the fourth worst rating for violence against women, and only a small number of women feel safe on the streets. From the bazaars to the beautiful ruins, be careful and aware of the risks that this country hides.

The tango halls and Patagonian mountains of Argentina will leave you in awe – but solo female travelers should prepare for the pitfalls of this country. Argentina is ranked third worst in the world for street safety, with only 31% of women safe when walking alone after dark. It is also ranked 10th worst in the world for intentional homicide of women and for intimate partner violence.

Chile’s impressive mountains and colorful cities attract many adventurers – but solo female travelers should be careful. Chile is ranked seventh worst in the world for street safety. A shocking 85% of women reported suffering some form of harassment during their lifetime. While you may leave Chile with memories of its natural beauty, its treatment of women will leave much to be desired.

This country is rich in culture and history, the landscapes are beautiful, and people are smiling. However, this country is also very dangerous for women to visit. It has the third-worst rating regarding the attitudes to violence against women and a very high gender inequality index. This makes Cambodia a wonderful and mysterious destination for any traveler and a very dangerous place for women.

From its modern cities to its ancient fort, Bahrain's rich history is apparent to all visitors. However, solo female travelers should prepare for the pitfalls of this country – Bahrain is ranked fourth worst in the world for legal discrimination against women. It is also ranked sixth worst in the world for the global gender gap, which means that women are significantly hindered from participating fully in society. It's also unsafe to walk alone at night in Bahrain.

Tunisia, the Jasmine Revolution's country, is a beautiful destination to visit. From the beaches of the Mediterranean Sea to the ancient Punic and Roman ruins, Tunisia is definitely a country to visit in Africa. But unfortunately, this beautiful place is quite dangerous for women to visit. Tunisia is in the top nine countries regarding the global gender gap, and it's also poor in the ranking of safety in the streets, legal discrimination against women, and gender inequality.

United States

As a global superpower and the world’s foremost democracy, this country is the fourth largest in the world in terms of both area and population. And it's the land of the free, right? Well, maybe not always. The United States is in the third position in the number of homicides of women aged 20-24. From the busy New York City to the vast American West, women should be very careful and aware of the risks when traveling alone in this huge and developed country.

Situated between the European Union and Russia, Ukraine has a rich heritage, beautiful architecture, and friendly locals. But this nation caught between two continents poses serious dangers for solo female travelers and visitors in general, considering the war. Ukraine is ranked 6th worst in street safety in Europe and scores poorly in both the global gender gap index and the gender inequality index.

The post 20 Most Dangerous Places for Female Travelers appeared first on Housely .

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UEFA EURO 2024: Meet the 24 teams

Saturday, June 8, 2024

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Get the full lowdown on the 24 teams competing for glory in Germany.

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How they qualified, top scorers, pedigree, key players and the coach – all you need to know about the 24 teams competing for glory at UEFA EURO 2024 in Germany.

Group A fixtures vs Scotland (Munich, 14 June, 21:00) vs Hungary (Stuttgart, 19 June, 18:00) vs Switzerland (Frankfurt, 23 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Qualified automatically as hosts

Pedigree EURO best: Winners 1972, 1980 (both as West Germany), 1996 EURO 2020: Round of 16, lost 2-0 to England

Coach: Julian Nagelsmann Nagelsmann has been on something of a roller-coaster ride since succeeding Hansi Flick in September 2023, but friendly wins against France and Netherlands in March seem to have sparked optimism and belief. The tactically astute 36-year-old selects players based on form, and convincing Toni Kroos to return from international retirement could turn out to be his best move yet.

Did you know? Germany are appearing at a record 14th EURO. They did not qualify for the first three editions (1960, 1964 and 1968) but have not missed a finals since.

Group A fixtures vs Germany (Munich, 14 June, 21:00) vs Switzerland (Cologne, 19 June, 21:00) vs Hungary (Stuttgart, 23 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group A runners-up: P8 W5 D2 L1 F17 A8 Qualifying top scorer: Scott McTominay (7)

Pedigree EURO best: Group stage (1992, 1996, 2020) EURO 2020: Group stage

Coach: Steve Clarke Scotland have reached back-to-back European Championships under Clarke, the first Scotland manager to achieve that, and have qualified directly for a major finals for the first time since 1998. If they can reproduce their fine qualifying form, the next target for Clarke and company will be to make further history by becoming the first Scotland squad to progress beyond the group stage at a finals tournament.

Did you know? This is the second time Scotland have qualified for back-to-back European Championships.

Group A fixtures vs Switzerland (Cologne, 15 June, 15:00) vs Germany (Stuttgart, 9 June, 18:00) vs Scotland (Stuttgart, 23 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group G winners: P8 W5 D3 L0 F16 A7 Qualifying top scorer: Barnabás Varga, Dominik Szoboszlai (4)

Pedigree EURO best: Third place (1964) EURO 2020: Group stage

Coach: Marco Rossi Having led Hungary from Nations League C to A, come agonisingly close to progressing from a EURO 2020 group containing Germany, France and Portugal, and now, unbeaten, reached EURO 2024, Rossi's popularity is sky high among players and fans alike. The Italian appears equally smitten, taking Hungarian citizenship. The togetherness, discipline and belief he has instilled among his squad is remarkable, with Hungary looking increasingly capable of springing a surprise or two.

Did you know? Hungary's 14-match unbeaten run in the lead-up to the finals was their longest sequence since Ferenc Puskás and the Mighty Magyars – 18 games between July 1954 and February 1956 – under Gusztáv Sebes.

Group A fixtures vs Hungary (Cologne, 15 June, 15:00) vs Scotland (Cologne, 19 June, 21:00) vs Germany (Frankfurt, 23 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group I runners-up: P10 W4 D5 L1 F22 A11 Qualifying top scorer: Zeki Amdouni (6)

Pedigree EURO best: Quarter-finals (2020) EURO 2020: Quarter-finals, lost 3-1 on penalties to Spain (1-1 aet)

Coach: Murat Yakin The 49-year-old has been at the 'Nati' helm since summer 2021. He oversaw Switzerland's run to the last 16 at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where they reached the knockout phase for a fifth straight major tournament. After a low-key end to their EURO 2024 qualifying campaign, Yakin will want his team to regain their famed consistency as they bid to extend that impressive run.

Did you know? EURO '96 was Switzerland's first European Championship finals; this year marks their sixth finals appearance in the last eight editions.

Group B fixtures vs Croatia (Berlin, 15 June, 18:00) vs Italy (Gelsenkirchen, 20 June, 21:00) vs Albania (Düsseldorf, 24 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group A winners: P8 W7 D0 L1 F25 A5 Qualifying top scorers: Joselu, Álvaro Morata (4)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (1964, 2008, 2012) EURO 2020: Semi-finals, lost 4-2 on penalties to Italy (1-1 aet)

Coach: Luis de la Fuente A likeable Basque who won the Spanish Liga as a full-back with Athletic Club, the Spain boss has the winning habit. His side beat Group B rivals Italy and Croatia as they won the UEFA Nations League last summer, and he previously led national teams to EURO glory at under-age levels – the U19s in 2015 and the U21s in 2019. The levels he can summon from his big players after brilliant club seasons will dictate Spain's trajectory.

Did you know? Spain are the only national team to have won three continental and world titles in a row: EURO 2008, the 2010 World Cup and EURO 2012.

Group B fixtures vs Spain (Berlin, 15 June, 18:00) vs Albania (Hamburg, 19 June, 15:00) vs Italy (Leipzig, 24 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group D runners-up: P8 W5 D1 L2 F13 A4 Qualifying top scorer: Andrej Kramarić (4)

Pedigree EURO best: Quarter-finals (1996, 2008) EURO 2020: Round of 16, lost 5-3 aet to Spain

Coach: Zlatko Dalić Since taking over in 2017, Dalić has guided Croatia to astonishing achievements, including back-to-back World Cup medals by reaching the final in 2018 and securing third place in 2022. Defeats in the EURO 2020 round of 16 and 2023 Nations League final, both by Spain, have set up a highly anticipated rematch in their opening game here.

Did you know? Croatia have qualified for seven out of eight EURO final tournaments as an independent nation, and have proceeded to the knockout stage in four of their six appearances to date.

Group B fixtures vs Albania (Dortmund, 15 June, 21:00) vs Spain (Gelsenkirchen, 20 June, 21:00) vs Croatia (Leipzig, 24 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group C runners-up: P8 W4 D2 L2 F16 A9 Qualifying top scorer: Davide Frattesi (3)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (1968, 2020) EURO 2020: Winners

Coach:   Luciano Spalletti The much-travelled Tuscan took over from Roberto Mancini in August, just after leading Napoli to a historic Scudetto title. He wasted little time in conveying his football philosophy to the Azzurri squad, helping them reach the finals in Germany and starting to rebuild the national team by mixing veterans of the EURO 2020 triumph with a new generation of players.

Did you know? The Ukraine stalemate which confirmed Italy's place in Germany was then 24-year-old goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma's 60th appearance for the Azzurri. His predecessor, Gianluigi Buffon, reached the same milestone as a 28-year-old in another goalless draw with Ukraine, ending his career with a record 176 caps.

Group B fixtures vs Italy (Dortmund, 15 June, 21:00) vs Croatia (Hamburg, 19 June, 15:00) vs Spain (Düsseldorf, 24 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group E winners: P8 W4 D3 L1 F12 A4 Qualifying top scorers: Jasir Asani, Nedim Bajrami (3)

Pedigree EURO best: Group stage (2016) EURO 2020: did not qualify

Coach: Sylvinho Sylvinho's appointment in January 2023 heralded a new era for the Albanian national team. With his background in elite football, the Brazilian has succeeded in rejuvenating the side's playing style and instilling a winning mentality. His leadership has brought unity and cohesion, creating a team capable of surprising their opponents at EURO 2024.

Did you know? Under Sylvinho, Albania have never lost a game after taking the lead – a sequence of six matches into the Brazilian's tenure.

Group C fixtures vs Denmark (Stuttgart, 16 June, 18:00) vs Serbia (Munich, 20 June, 15:00) vs England (Cologne, 25 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group H runner-up: P10 W7 D1 L2 F20 A9 Qualifying top scorer: Benjamin Šeško (5)

Pedigree EURO best: Group stage (2000) EURO 2020: did not qualify

Coach: Matjaž Kek Back for a second finals after steering Slovenia to the 2010 World Cup, the former centre-back resumed command in November 2018, leading his country to promotion from Nations League League C before overseeing a successful EURO qualifying campaign. The 62-year-old is confident his side can give their Group C rivals a run for their money.

Did you know? Slovenia met England at the 2010 World Cup, Jermain Defoe scoring the only goal in a narrow defeat which cost Kek's men a last-16 place. They face the Three Lions in their final Group C game in Germany.

Group C fixtures vs Slovenia (Stuttgart, 16 June, 18:00) vs England (Frankfurt, 20 June, 18:00) vs Serbia (Munich, 25 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group H winners: P10 W7 D1 L2 F19 A10 Qualifying top scorer: Rasmus Højlund (7)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (1992) EURO 2020: Semi-final, lost 2-1 aet to England

Coach: Kasper Hjulmand Hjulmand led Denmark to the semi-finals at EURO 2020 – their best result since winning the tournament in 1992. The coach played an important role as the nation came together after Christian Eriksen's on-field cardiac arrest, and following a disappointing World Cup the former Lyngby, Nordsjælland and Mainz boss will aim to give Denmark fans another summer to remember.

Did you know? To date, Denmark have taken part in eight EUROs since the introduction of the group stage, advancing to the knockout phase on four of those occasions.

Group C fixtures vs England (Gelsenkirchen, 16 June, 21:00) vs Slovenia (Munich, 20 June, 15:00) vs Denmark (Munich, 25 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group G runners-up: P8 W4 D2 L2 F15 A9 Qualifying top scorer: Aleksandar Mitrović (5)

Pedigree EURO best: Runners-up (as Yugoslavia, 1960, 1968) EURO 2020: Did not qualify Coach: Dragan Stojković Having played at EURO '84 with Yugoslavia and at the 2000 finals with Serbia and Montenegro, 'Piksi' has steered his nation to their first EURO in 24 years – and their first as Serbia. One of the best midfielders in Serbian history, he took charge of the national team on his 56th birthday in 2021. His charisma and desire have propelled the Eagles to the 2022 World Cup and now EURO 2024.

Did you know? Yugoslavia were runners-up at the first-ever EURO in 1960; the Soviet Union denied them the title with an extra-time winner in Paris.

Group C fixtures vs Serbia (Gelsenkirchen, 16 June, 21:00) vs Denmark (Frankfurt, 20 June, 18:00) vs Slovenia (Cologne, 25 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group C winners: P8 W6 D2 L0 F22 A4 Qualifying top scorer: Harry Kane (8)

Pedigree EURO best: Runners-up (2020) EURO 2020: Runners-up, lost 3-2 on penalties to Italy (1-1 aet)

Coach: Gareth Southgate After reaching a EURO final as well as a World Cup quarter-final and semi-final in his three major tournaments in charge, Southgate will be desperate for this to be fourth time lucky. The former Three Lions centre-back, a hugely popular figure with his players, will seek to get the best out of the vast amount of talent at his disposal in Germany.

Did you know? England have lost just once in their last 65 European Championship and World Cup qualifiers: a 2-1 defeat to Czechia in the EURO 2020 preliminaries.

Group D fixtures vs Poland (Hamburg, 16 June, 15:00) vs France (Leipzig, 21 June, 21:00) vs Austria (Berlin, 25 June, 18:00)

Qualifying Group B runners-up: P8 W6 D0 L2 F17 A7 Qualifying top scorers: Cody Gakpo, Calvin Stengs, Wout Weghorst (3)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (1988) EURO 2020: Round of 16, lost 2-0 to Czechia

Coach: Ronald Koeman Koeman had a stuttering start to his second spell in charge of the Oranje, losing three of his first four matches – against France, Croatia and Italy. However, he steadied the ship, with the Dutch winning all their group qualification games bar those against the French. A EURO winner as a player in 1988, the 61-year-old would achieve immortality in the Netherlands if he repeated the feat as coach.

Did you know? Wim Kieft's fortuitous effort against the Republic of Ireland during Oranje's victorious EURO ‘88 campaign was the Netherlands' first headed goal at a major finals. It was also the only one of the eight Dutch strikes in West Germany that was not finished or created by Marco van Basten.

Group D fixtures vs Austria (Düsseldorf, 17 June, 21:00) vs Netherlands (Leipzig, 21 June, 21:00) vs Poland (Dortmund, 25 June, 18:00)

Qualifying Group B winners: P8 W7 D1 L0 F29 A3 Qualifying top scorer: Kylian Mbappé (9)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (1984, 2000) EURO 2020: Round of 16, lost 5-4 on penalties to Switzerland (3-3 aet)

Coach: Didier Deschamps One of the most decorated figures in world football, Deschamps will be eager to get his hands on the one trophy that has evaded his clutches as a coach. He came agonisingly close in 2016, and that heartbreak should stoke the fire within this fierce competitor. A cool character and a measured communicator, the World Cup winner looks well placed to lead his side to glory.

Did you know? France's Antoine Griezmann holds the record for most consecutive appearances in international football history, after featuring in 84 games between August 2017 and November 2023.

Group D fixtures vs Netherlands (Hamburg, 16 June, 15:00) vs Austria (Berlin, 21 June, 18:00) vs France (Dortmund, 25 June, 18:00)

Qualifying Group E third place: P8 W3 D2 L3 F10 A10. Qualified via play-offs after beating Estonia and Wales Qualifying top scorer: Robert Lewandowski (3)

Pedigree EURO best: Quarter-finals (2016) EURO 2020: Group stage

Coach: Michał Probierz Probierz replaced Fernando Santos in September and steered his nation through the play-offs to ensure participation in his first major international tournament. Probierz spent his playing days in Poland and Germany, while his best coaching achievement in club football has been winning the Polish Cup with Jagiellonia Białystok and Cracovia.

Did you know? Poland have regularly appeared at World Cup finals yet did not qualify for their first EURO until 2008. Since then they have not missed a single edition of the tournament.

Group D fixtures vs France (Düsseldorf, 17 June, 21:00) vs Poland (Berlin, 21 June, 18:00) vs Netherlands (Berlin, 25 June, 18:00)

Qualifying Group F runners-up: P8 W6 D1 L1 F17 A7 Qualifying top scorer: Marcel Sabitzer (4)

Pedigree EURO best: Round of 16 (2020) EURO 2020: Round of 16, lost 2-1 aet to Italy

Coach: Ralf Rangnick Known as one of the godfathers of 'gegenpressing', Rangnick has left an indelible mark on modern football and Austria's current crop of players. No longer a side inhibited by a defensive mindset, Rangnick's charges have produced some eye-catching attacking performances. Belief is growing that Austria can make the knockout stage, like they did in 2021.

Did you know? Christoph Baumgartner grabbed international headlines in March when he scored the fastest international goal of all time after just SIX seconds against Slovakia.

Group E fixtures vs Romania (Munich, 17 June, 15:00) vs Slovakia (Düsseldorf, 21 June, 15:00) vs Belgium (Stuttgart, 26 June, 18:00) Qualifying Group C third place: P8 W4 D2 L2 F11 A8. Qualified via play-offs after beating Bosnia and Herzegovina and Iceland Qualifying top scorer: Viktor Tsygankov (3) Pedigree EURO best: Quarter-finals (2020) EURO 2020: Quarter-finals, lost 4-0 to England Coach: Serhiy Rebrov One of Ukraine's best-ever forwards, Rebrov formed a formidable partnership with Andriy Shevchenko in the late 1990s. He started his coaching journey at Dynamo Kyiv in 2014, winning the league and the Ukrainian Cup twice before taking charge of the national team during EURO 2024 qualifying, following successful spells in Saudi Arabia, Hungary and the United Arab Emirates. His side narrowly missed out on second place in Group C but got to Germany via the play-offs. Did you know? Due to the ongoing Russian military invasion in Ukraine, the national team played all of their nominal home matches abroad in qualifying: two in Poland and one each in Slovakia, Czechia and Germany.

Group E fixtures vs Belgium (Frankfurt, 17 June, 18:00) vs Ukraine (Düsseldorf, 21 June, 15:00) vs Romania (Frankfurt, 26 June, 18:00)

Qualifying Group J runners-up: P10 W7 D1 L2 F17 A8 Qualifying top scorer: Lukáš Haraslín (3)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (as Czechoslovakia, 1976), round of 16 (as Slovakia, 2016) EURO 2020: Group stage

Coach: Francesco Calzona Calzona took the reins in August 2022, replacing Pavel Hapal. He started with a home stalemate against Luxembourg in EURO qualifying but has not looked back since, guiding Slovakia to victories in all their remaining games other than those against table-topping Portugal. Since February, he has combined the national team job with the head coach position at Napoli.

Did you know? EURO 2016 was Slovakia's first European Championship finals since the separation of Czechoslovakia in 1993. Ján Kozák's team reached the round of 16, being eliminated by Germany.

Group E fixtures vs Slovakia (Frankfurt am Main, 17 June, 18:00) vs Romania (Cologne, 22 June, 21:00) vs Ukraine (Stuttgart, 26 June, 18:00)

Qualifying Group F winners: P8 W6 D2 L0 F22 A4 Qualifying top scorer: Romelu Lukaku (14)

Pedigree EURO best: Final (1980) EURO 2020: Quarter-final, lost 2-1 to Italy

Coach: Domenico Tedesco Born in southern Italy, Tedesco played in the German lower divisions before moving into coaching. In 2017, as a 31-year-old, he took charge of German second-tier club Erzgebirge Aue, helping them avoid relegation. He later managed Schalke and Spartak Moscow before winning the German Cup and reaching the Europa League semi-finals with Leipzig. Now ready to take on his biggest challenge yet.

Did you know? Since replacing Roberto Martínez, coach Tedesco is unbeaten in his first year directing the national team.

Group E fixtures vs Ukraine (Munich, 17 June, 15:00) vs Belgium (Cologne, 22 June, 21:00) vs Slovakia (Frankfurt, 26 June, 18:00)

Qualifying Group I winners: P10 W6 D4 L0 F16 A5 Qualifying top scorers: Nicolae Stanciu, Valentin Mihăilă, Denis Alibec (3)

Pedigree EURO best: Quarter-finals (2000) EURO 2020: Did not qualify

Coach: Edward Iordănescu Son of Anghel Iordănescu, Iordănescu Jr's Romania side came through qualifying unscathed to book their place at this EURO following an eight-year absence. Synonymous with a modern and meticulous approach to match preparation, Iordănescu's goal is to build an exciting new generation for the national team. He will strive to get the most out of his players in Germany and give the travelling Romania fans plenty to cheer about.

Did you know? Edward Iordănescu's father Anghel coached the team to the World Cup quarter-finals in 1994 – their best performance at a major championship.

Group F fixtures vs Czechia (Leipzig, 18 June, 21:00) vs Türkiye (Dortmund, 22 June, 18:00) vs Georgia (Gelsenkirchen, 26 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group J winners: P10 W10 D0 L0 F36 A2 Qualifying top scorer: Cristiano Ronaldo (10)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (2016) EURO 2020: Round of 16, lost 1-0 to Belgium

Coach: Roberto Martínez Fernando Santos's replacement has made an impressive start as Portugal boss, overseeing a perfect qualifying campaign for the EURO 2016 winners. The Spaniard has also won over fans and players by learning to communicate in excellent Portuguese. He has built a group that will form the core of his squad in Germany, while also introducing new tactical ideas in the hope of extracting the max from the preternaturally talented players at his disposal.

Did you know? Cristiano Ronaldo is in line for his sixth EURO finals appearance. The 39-year-old holds the record for most goals (14) and appearances (25) at the tournament. João Neves was not even born when Ronaldo started to shine for the Seleção at EURO 2004.

Group F fixtures vs Portugal (Leipzig, 18 June, 21:00) vs Georgia (Hamburg, 22 June, 15:00) vs Türkiye (Hamburg, 26 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group E runners-up: P8 W4 D3 L1 F12 A6 Qualifying top scorers: Tomáš Souček, Václav Černý (3)

Pedigree EURO best: Winners (as Czechoslovakia, 1976), runners-up (as Czechia, 1996) EURO 2020: Quarter-finals, lost 2-1 to Denmark

Coach: Ivan Hašek A former central midfielder who captained Czechoslovakia at the 1990 World Cup, Hašek won 56 caps, scoring five goals. He also lifted six league titles with Sparta Praha, later playing in France and Japan. His coaching career includes spells at Sparta as well as clubs in France, Japan and the Gulf States, along with the Gabon and Lebanon national teams. The 60-year-old wants his charges to play positive attacking football.

Did you know? Czechia have won all three EURO penalty shoot-outs they have been involved in (including as Czechoslovakia). They have also converted all 20 spot kicks taken in those shoot-outs.

Group F fixtures vs Türkiye (Dortmund, 18 June, 18:00) vs Czechia (Hamburg, 22 June, 15:00) vs Portugal (Gelsenkirchen, 26 June, 21:00)

Qualifying 4th place in a Group A: P8 W2 D2 L4 F12 A18. Qualified via play-offs after beating Luxembourg and Greece Qualifying top scorer: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (4)

Pedigree EURO best: Debut

Coach:   Willy Sagnol   A multi-decorated player at club and international level, Sagnol takes a major step forward as a coach at this tournament. Using his enormous big-match experience, he found the right words to motivate his team for their qualifying play-offs. The 47-year-old has an air of authority and will give Georgia the confidence to travel to this EURO with a sense of ambition beyond merely being there.

Did you know?   Georgia have qualified for the first time as an independent country, although three representatives of the nation won this competition's inaugural edition in 1960. That USSR team included Givi Chokheli, Mikhei Meskhi and Slava Metreveli, with Zaur Kaloev an unused substitute. Metreveli equalised in the final against Yugoslavia, also setting up the clinching goal. Overall, 11 Georgians have played at EUROs, including Murtaz Khurtsilava, Revaz Dzodzuashvili and Givi Nodia, runners-up in 1972, and Tengiz Sulakvelidze, likewise in 1988.

Group F fixtures vs Georgia (Dortmund, 18 June, 18:00) vs Portugal (Dortmund, 22 June, 18:00) vs Czechia (Hamburg, 26 June, 21:00)

Qualifying Group D winners: P8 W5 D2 L1 F14 A7 Qualifying top scorers: Kerem Aktürkoğlu, Cenk Tosun (2)

Pedigree EURO best: Semi-finals (2008) EURO 2020: Group stage Coach: Vincenzo Montella After two successful seasons in charge of Adana Demirspor in the Turkish Super League, Montella was named national team coach with three EURO 2024 qualifying matches still to play, leading Türkiye to the finals with victories over Croatia and Latvia and a draw against Wales. Having helped Italy reach the EURO 2000 final as a player, Montella will make his first appearance as a coach at the European Championship.

Did you know? Türkiye were in the same group as Portugal and Czechia at EURO 2008. They defeated the latter in their final group matches in both 2008 and 2016, triumphing 3-2 and 2-0 respectively.

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