brazilian cities to visit

Most Popular Cities in Brazil

These popular cities share something in common: They are all excellent examples of Brazil 's varied regions, attractions, and culture in large cities and favorite beach resorts.

Rio de Janeiro

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Truly a cidade maravilhosa, Rio is spectacularly located, and cariocas and visitors enjoy a vivid lifestyle nestled between fabulous beaches and rainforested hills.

Don't miss out on Ipanema Beach, made popular by the song The Girl from Ipanema. But it's also a destination popular for locals who meet for drinks, as beer is sold all along the beach.

If you're more active, there are plenty of activities like volleyball, soccer, and Brazilian footvolley, which combines the two sports.

If the beach at Ipanema is too crowded, don't worry: You always have the nearby Copacabana.

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The city is South America's largest and Brazil's center of trade and industry. Paulistanos work hard and play hard. Sao Paulo is known to locals as "Sampa," and while many complain about its financial focus, there are also plenty of opportunities for art and culture .

If you're into street art, the city is known for its  pichação,  which is a series of tagging in a cryptic style in death-defying locations. Many of the most famous artists try to impress by finding the most difficult locations to tag. 

Sao Paulo is also famous for its shopping and is one of the best places to learn Portuguese in Brazil.

Pelourinho and Salvador

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Pelourinho, the old historic center of Salvador, is a city within a city. Centered around the old slave auction, Pelourinho has pastel-hued buildings, churches, museums, shops, restaurants, and fantastic nightlife.

Known as "Pelo" to locals, it's a great location for food and entertainment. It is perfect for photographers who want to shoot its ​colorful colonial buildings.

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The capital of Pernambuco state, Recife is called the "Venice of Brazil" and offers the visitor two carnivals a year, plus beaches, dance, music, and Olinda.

It's located on the coast and is home to two important rivers leading to the Atlantic Ocean. While this made it an important economic center in years past, it is now known for its beautiful beaches.

If you love soccer, also known as football in Brazil, this is one of the best places to watch a game. It's played and watched with a passion here and was chosen as one of the ten World Cup sites.

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An international resort, Buzios is one of the most popular cities in Brazil and a popular day trip from Rio de Janeiro. The town is two hours north of Rio de Janeiro, and its twenty plus beaches and relaxed hedonistic style liken it to Saint Tropez.

If you're not one to soak up the rays on the beach there are plenty of activities such as boat tours, surfing, and scuba diving. 

Truth be told Buzios isn't one city but actually a region with three communities: Ossos on the northern coast which is the oldest and most beautiful with old colonial homes. The beaches here are easily accessible and sheltered from harsh weather. Manguinhos and Armacao are more difficult to reach but the beaches are more beautiful.

You can't go wrong with either, the region is spectacular.

It's easy to see that the most popular cities in Brazil are those with access to beautiful beaches and stunning scenery. It's hard to choose a bad city in Brazil as they all have something to offer with friendly people.

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The 12 Best Cities to Visit in Brazil for a Sensory Overload

Boasting almost one-third of the world’s remaining tropical rainforests, spectacular biodiversity, and loads of breathtaking natural beauty, Brazil is not only the biggest country in South America but also one of its most mesmerizing.

Nature aside, each of its vibrant, captivating cities has its own unique feel and mood, revealing a different slice of Brazil – head to Rio for legendary beach culture, to Brasília for Niemeyer’s modernist architecture, and to Manaus for unparalleled jungle adventures.

Here’s a guide to 12 of the best cities to visit in Brazil, from postcard-pretty Salvador to sexy, high-spirited Rio de Janeiro.

Rio de Janeiro

Famous worldwide for its stunning natural setting, beautiful golden beaches, and exuberant atmosphere, Brazil’s Cidade Maravilhosa hardly needs any introduction. This is one of the world’s most spectacular cities and the best place to soak up the very essence of Brazil, whether you’re taking in epic panoramic views from the summit of Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain), mingling with good-looking Cariocas on Ipanema, or dancing the night away at Pedra do Sal (the cradle of samba).

The ever-popular Zona del Sul boasts most of Rio de Janeiro’s highlights, including the spectacular beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana, Christ the Redeemer, the postcard-perfect Guanabara Bay, and the Tijuca National Park – one of the world’s largest urban forests. Also here, you’ll find the charming bohemian quarter of Santa Teresa, as well as the upscale neighborhood of Leblon, with its stylish restaurants, designer shopping boutiques, and excellent nightlife.

For a different taste of Rio, head to the off-the-beaten-path North Zone, where infamous favelas share the land with samba schools, and the iconic Maracana Stadium fuels Brazilian’s ardent passion for football on match days.

A vast and bustling metropolis, cosmopolitan São Paulo attracts urban explorers with its progressive cultural scene, fabulous food, and unparalleled nightlife. The city might lack the good looks of Rio, but it’s Brazil at its most modern and sophisticated.

One of the most attractive areas in this concrete jungle is Vila Madalena, a vibrant mix of trendy cafés, quirky boutiques, art studios, pulsating nightlife, and bohemian flair. Equally inspiring are the sprawling Ibirapuera Park – filled with landmark modernist buildings designed by Oscar Niemeyer, or the wonderful Museu de Arte de São Paulo, which is home to the best collection of Western art in the southern hemisphere. The nation’s infectious party spirit is in full force across São Paulo’s swanky nightclubs, live music botecos (local bars), and colorful street parties, and its shopping scene rivals anywhere else in the world.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of urban development, Brazil’s futuristic capital is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, with lots of green open spaces and wide esplanades.

The city has the shape of a giant airplane, with many buildings by famous architect Oscar Niemeyer scattered along the Eixo Monumental (Monumental Axis) – the avenue that passes through its fuselage, cutting the city into Asa Sul (South Wing) and Asa Norte (North Wing). These comprise the striking Cathedral of Brasília with its unconventional hyperboloid structure, the Cultural Complex of the Republic, Itamaraty Palace, the National Congress of Brazil, as well as Praça dos Três Poderes and Palácio do Planalto.

Famous for its stunning sand dunes and forro music, this quiet northeastern Brazilian town offers beautiful beaches and lovely blue waters, decent nightlife, and exciting dune-buggy rides. It may not be the liveliest or most atmospheric place in the country, but it’s a safe, sunny city and, more importantly, the getaway to the wonderful Rio Grande do Norte, the region with the purest air in the world, after Antarctica (according to NASA).

The most animated neighborhood in Natal is Ponta Negra, home to the main beach and the spectacular Morro do Careca sand dune, as well as many bars, shops, and restaurants.

Conveniently located on the picturesque northeastern coast of Brazil, this sprawling metropolis of over 2 million people has all the ingredients for a fun-filled trip: lovely beaches, attractive colonial architecture, good shopping, and a vibrant atmosphere that evokes Brazil’s typical exuberance.

The city’s main urban beaches, Praia de Iracema and Meireles, are packed with hotels, shops, and restaurants, while the handsome 5 km-long Praia do Futuro (about 8 km outside the city) is lined up with typical, rustic barracas , where you can drink, eat fresh seafood, and soak up the beach culture.

The Centro, Fortaleza’s oldest part, is a lovely area to wander around and browse small shops, whereas the beautiful Cocó Ecological Park is a paradise for nature lovers, brimming with unique flora and wildlife.

Salvador da Bahia

Once the capital of the New World, Salvador is a showcase of outstanding colonial architecture, delicious Bahian food, and colorful Afro-Brazilian culture. It is one of the prettiest, liveliest, and most exciting cities in Brazil and a wonderful destination to combine music, beaches, and culture into a one-of-a-kind experience.

Spend the day roaming the charming cobbled streets of its UNESCO-listed Old Town ( Pelourinho ), lined with glimmering gold-paved churches and pretty pastel-colored buildings housing boutiques, restaurants, and live music venues. Alternatively, take a peek inside the city’s outstanding nautical museum (Museu Náutico da Bahia) or head to Porto da Barra beach for some fun in the sun, Brazilian way.

In terms of nightlife, Salvador has a serious passion for music, so you’ll have a huge variety of bars and clubs to have fun.

For those who want to infuse their Brazilian vacation with exciting jungle adventures, then Manaus is the place to go. Although situated in the heart of the Amazon, the city is as urban as it gets, with many extravagant buildings, museums, churches, parks, and open squares. Its main sight is probably the beautiful Teatro Amazonas, a majestic opera house built in a striking neoclassical style.

Scenically located at the confluence of two rivers – Rio Negro and Solimoes, Manaus is overflowing with picturesque views. The city is also a great destination to indulge yourself in the exotic, albeit adventurous, Amazonian cuisine, with many decent restaurants to choose from. But, above all, it’s an excellent base for exploring the wonders of the world’s largest tropical rainforest, offering everything from exciting seaplane trips to river cruises to jungle tours.

Just like the other destinations situated in northeast Brazil, Recife enjoys pleasant temperatures all year round. And, with one of the longest and most attractive beaches in the country – Boa Viagem, an atmospheric Old Town (Recife Antigo), and a vibrant cultural scene, the capital of Pernambuco is sure to offer something for everyone.

Home to the main beach in town, Recife’s Boa Viagem area is an upscale enclave of bars, nightclubs, and stylish restaurants, while the characterful Recife Antigo attracts visitors with its lively cafés and eye-catching Portuguese and Dutch-influenced architecture.

Just a few kilometers away lies Olinda, a bohemian UNESCO-listed town chock full of striking Baroque churches, art galleries, and elegant colonial mansions.

A lively city steeped in tradition, Cuiaba is the getaway to some of the nation’s wildest and most spectacular landscapes. It lies in the state of Mato Grosso at the juncture of three of the country’s most amazing biospheres: Pantanal – the planet’s greatest tropical wetland, Cerrado de Chapada dos Guimarães with its spectacular scenery and river basins, and the Amazon. But Cuiaba it’s not all about wilderness spotting, riverboat cruises, and adventurous trips; it’s a place rich in unique culture, indigenous cuisine, and fantastic history.

Also known as Brazil’s Green Capital, Curitiba stands out for its high quality of life, sustainable design, and highly efficient work programs meant to reduce issues like poverty and homelessness. It is one of the world’s best examples of urban planning and has a pleasant cosmopolitan vibe. Moreover, what the city lacks in beaches and Brazilian magnetism makes up for it in fantastic parks, vivid open-air food markets, and ambitious infrastructure.

Major attractions in Curitiba include the eye-shaped Oscar Niemeyer Museum, the Wire Opera House, Tingui Park, and the Botanical Garden of Curitiba. The city abounds in dining options, so there’s certainly something to suit every foodie’s palate.

Porto Alegre

The capital of Rio Grande do Sul region is a vibrant, modern port city teeming with art, culture, nightlife, and delicious regional gastronomy. Most of the bars and microbreweries in town are clustered around the attractive neighborhoods of Cidade Baixa and Moinhos de Vento, or the beautifully restored Centro Historico.

Other places of interest in Porto Alegre are the Museo de Arte do Rio Grande do Sul, the beautiful Catedral Metropolitana, the Piratini Palace, and Farroupilha Park, the city’s largest green space.

Belo Horizonte

The third largest city in Brazil is a friendly, laid-back metropolis with an excellent range of museums, shops, bars, and restaurants, so whatever you’re looking for, you’ll certainly find it here.

If you are into culture and sightseeing, don’t miss the revamped Praça da Liberdade – with its cutting-edge Memorial Minas Gerais Vale, the lovely Museu de Arte da Pampulha, or the whimsical Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, designed by famous Brazilian avant-garde master Oscar Niemeyer.

Otherwise, fashionable neighborhoods like Lourdes and Sion offer great people-watching, along with a plethora of bars, cafés, and excellent restaurants.

As you can see, Brazilian cities are as wonderful and diverse as the country itself, so expect tons of adventure and memorable experiences, no matter which one you decide to visit.

Omg this is awesome I’m brazilian and you made such a good job, the photos and the list are perfect, those are really interesting cities I wish they got more recognition worldwide

Most beautiful ones missing Florianopolis, Gramado.

Europeans won’t find Gramado interesting. The only reason we Brazilians like Gramado is because it feels like Europe, but Europeans don’t come to Brazil to feel like they’re in Europe.

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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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Must-Visit Destinations for Your Ultimate Brazil Vacation

Brazil is the largest country in South America and one of the most diverse places on earth. From the Amazon rainforest to iconic beaches to fascinating colonial towns, Brazil offers incredible destinations for travelers. Here are the 17 best cities to visit in Brazil for culture, beaches, nature and more.

1. Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is likely the first place you think of when imagining Brazil. Situated between the mountains and the sea, Rio is renowned for its stunning landscapes. The giant statue of Christ the Redeemer towers over the city, while beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema are perfect for sunbathing and people watching. Take the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views or dance the night away at a samba club. Don’t miss a visit to the Maracanã Stadium or the Escadaria Selarón staircase, covered in colorful tiles. With its beautiful setting and fun-loving residents, Rio de Janeiro makes a fabulous vacation destination.

2. São Paulo

The largest city in Brazil at over 12 million people, São Paulo may not be as picturesque as Rio but it has an energy and cosmopolitan vibe all its own. This is the business and cultural capital, with first-rate art museums like the MASP and a dining scene boasting everything from molecular gastronomy to bustling pizza parlors. Shopaholics flock to Rua Oscar Freire , with its luxury boutiques, while the historic center features architectural gems dating back to the city’s coffee boom in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Don’t miss Brazilian favorites like feijoada (black bean stew) and caipirinhas (cocktails made from sugar cane liquor and lime). São Paulo dazzles with its diversity and dynamism.

3. Salvador

The capital of the state of Bahia, Salvador is considered the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with cobblestone streets and brightly colored colonial buildings. Cap off a day of sightseeing with sunset views from the Elevador Lacerda, an antique elevator connecting the upper and lower towns. Salvador is also renowned for its African-influenced cuisine, music, and Carnaval celebrations. Visit the Mercado Modelo to shop for handcrafted goods and watch capoeira performers. With its lively festivals, sounds of drumbeats, and sacred Candomblé ceremonies, Salvador immerses you in Brazil’s African roots.

4. Belo Horizonte

The third largest city in Brazil, Belo Horizonte was designed at the turn of the 20th century to be the country’s planned capital. That honor went to Brasília instead, but Belo Horizonte still boasts a wealth of important architecture, museums, and green space. Stroll along the shaded sidewalks of the Pampulha Architectural Ensemble and take a boat ride on the artificial lake, surrounded by iconic Oscar Niemeyer buildings. The Museu de Artes e Ofícios showcases folk art and artisan crafts from across Brazil. The buzzing Savassi and Lourdes neighborhoods offer chic cafés, live music venues, and stylish shops. Belo Horizonte is a modern, progressive city with a relaxed charm.

5. Ouro Preto

Step back in time wandering the cobblestone streets of Ouro Preto , a beautifully preserved colonial mining town dating to the 17th century. One of Brazil’s best examples of Baroque architecture, Ouro Preto was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. Marvel at masterpieces like the Church of São Francisco de Assis , adorned with 4kg of gold, and stroll down Rua Direita with rows of two-story whitewashed homes and wrought iron balconies. Learn about the history of gold mining or browse handicrafts at the Museu da Inconfidência . Tour nearby Mina da Passagem mine or ride the funicular down to the valley below for gorgeous views. Ouro Preto transports visitors to the height of the gold rush.

For a charming coastal getaway, head to Paraty , set amid jungled mountains jutting into the bay. recognizable by its picturesque historic center and cobblestone streets. Go for a boat tour around the islands in the bay or relax on neighboring beaches like Praia do Jabaquara or Praia do Sono . Sample delicious seafood, browse the handicrafts stalls, or try cachaça at one of Paraty’s many distilleries. Paraty comes alive for festivals like Carnaval and Festa Literária Internacional de Paraty , celebrating Brazilian and international literature. With its natural beauty, relaxed pace, and creative scene, Paraty is an alluring escape.

Perched on a hillside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the colorful colonial town of Olinda charms visitors with its mosaic-tiled churches, artist workshops, and lively festivals. Wander through the historic churches of Igreja São Roque , Igreja da Sé , and Igreja NS do Carmo , decorated with ornate wood carvings. For fantastic views, climb the church towers of Igreja NS do Monserrate or Convento de São Francisco . Browse works by local artists, then relax at an outdoor café. Don’t miss Oliveira’s exuberant street party during Carnaval or the Frevo dance festival. With the ocean breezes, tranquil plazas, and music floating through the streets, Olinda is an artful paradise.

8. Brasília

Built from scratch in just 41 months in the 1950s as the new capital, Brasília is a city shaped by some of the top modernist architects in Brazil. The airplane-shaped design was revolutionary for its time. Visit the National Congress Building , which looks like a futuristic saucer landing in the middle of a reflective pool. The ** Metropolitan Cathedral** has stained glass windows in an angular crown shape, while the Three Powers Plaza epitomizes the modernist vision. While some may find Brasília’s endless concrete andaxial layout too repetitive, this intriguing planned city offers a look into Brazil’s future-focused optimism of the mid 20th century.

9. Florianópolis

Nicknamed Floripa, the resort island of Florianópolis is beloved for its idyllic beaches, surfing, and laidback lifestyle. Praia Mole , backed by soaring dunes, and Praia do Rosa , flanked by cliffs, are two prime spots for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Pedal along the beachfront bike path or stroll through Lagoa da Conceição ‘s lively district. The summer crowds mean buzzing nightlife and lots of live music. Inland, explore Balneário Camboriú’s Cable Car , Cristo Luz , one of the world’s largest statues, or the UNESCO biosphere reserve of Serra do Tabuleiro . Floripa offers the best of the coast and countryside.

Nature lovers flock to the small town of Bonito for its otherworldly landscapes and eco-activities. Home to some of Brazil’s clearest rivers and most photogenic waterfalls, Bonito allows visitors to swim, raft, snorkel and dive in pristine waters teeming with fish. Don’t miss a dip in Balneário Municipal , Abismo Anhumas , or Aquário Natural . The must-do adventure here is floating down the lazy Rio da Prata and watching the jungle glide by. At night, go on a guided tour of Gruta da Lago Azul cave to see the stalactites and bioluminescent lake. Bonito shows an untouched side of Brazil that is breathtaking to experience.

11. Jericoacoara

Looking like a tropical paradise out of a magazine, Jericoacoara (known as Jeri) features white sand dunes and turquoise waters reminiscent of the Caribbean. Take a dune buggy into the Parque Nacional dos Lençóis Maranhenses to admire the windswept landscape and lagoons. Rappel down rock faces or surf the powerful breaks off Praia do Futuro . At sunset, hike up Pedra Furada, Tatajuba or another sandstone peak to watch the sky light up over the dunes. The chilled out beach town has an alternative bohemian vibe, with music and bonfires on the beach at night. For a rustic, relaxing retreat, head to this northwest Brazilian gem.

12. Foz do Iguaçu

Situated on the edge of Brazil’s border with Argentina and Paraguay, Foz do Iguaçu is home to the astonishing Iguazu Falls , listed as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. The massive cascades, with 275 individual drops up to 80 meters high, are an awe-inspiring display of nature’s wonder. Walkways let you get up close to smaller falls like Salto Floriano and Devil’s Throat . Enjoy panoramic views from helicopters or speedboats, then get soaked on a boat ride directly into the falls! In the evening, visit Itaipu Dam , the world’s second largest hydroelectric producer with a laser light show at night. The power and majesty of Iguazu Falls make Foz do Iguaçu an unforgettable destination.

13. Tiradentes

One of Brazil’s best-preserved historic towns from the colonial period, Tiradentes transports you back to the 18th century. The picturesque narrow streets are lined with charming buildings, churches, museums, galleries, and charming inns. Climb the hillside Santuario de Senhor dos Passos church for scenic views over the red-tiled rooftops. Attend Festa de São João in June, when the town honors their patron saint with processions, folk dancing, Mass, and traditional foods like rice, beans, and roasted chicken. Visit Casa dos Contos to learn about the historic gold mines. With its winding alleys, baroque churches, and quaint cafés, Tiradentes is the perfect country retreat.

14. Porto Seguro

The landing spot of Portuguese explorer Pedro Álvares Cabral in 1500, Porto Seguro is packed with history and natural beauty. Join a 4×4 expedition to the Parque Nacional Monte Pascoal rainforest, home to endangered species like the puma and the red-browed amazon parrot. Take an organized day trip to the sunkissed Praia do Espelho or tranquil Praia do Apaga Fogo . In the historic center, visit the colorful colonial buildings along Rua Direita, as well as Igreja NS da Pena church and Museu de Porto Seguro . Stop at Praia de Taperapuã to see the handprints and signatures left by travelers like Pedro Cabral. With ancient ruins, pretty beaches, and lush jungles, Porto Seguro provides discovery beyond the sun and sand.

A charming resort town just a few hours from Rio, Búzios attracts celebrities and high society crowds with its stylish atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Stretching along a peninsula, the coast alternates between lagoons perfect for water sports and scenic beaches lined with rustic fishing boats. Praia da Ferradura and Praia da Armação are two most popular spots. Visit the trendy shops and restaurants along Rua das Pedras or enjoy waterfront dining overlooking the boats on Praia dos Ossos . Take a sunset cruise, try your luck at deep sea fishing, or opt for a relaxing couple’s massage. With glamorous energy and iconic views, Búzios is an ideal weekend getaway or extended vacation.

16. Ilha Grande

Although just a short ferry from Rio de Janeiro, Ilha Grande feels like you’ve landed on a remote tropical island with its unspoiled beaches and lush mountainous terrain. Activities include excellent hiking trails to waterfalls and through the Atlantic Forest , as well as snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding. Relax on secluded palm-lined beaches like Praia Lopes Mendes or Praia do Abrãao . Explore the remains of an abandoned prison or check out the island’s historic plantation houses in Abraão. With more than 100 pristine beaches and no cars allowed, Ilha Grande is an unspoiled natural escape from Brazil’s big cities.

17. Armação dos Búzios

Known as just Búzios, this chic beach town offers high-end dining, shopping and nightlife, as well as gorgeous coastline with 23 beaches. Walk along lively Rua das Pedras, browse local fashions, or enjoy waterfront dining and people watching. Some of Búzios’ most scenic beaches include Praia da Ferradura , shaped like a horseshoe and great for snorkeling. Praia dos Ossos is a tranquil spot for watching the boats and fishing fleet. Try your luck at deep sea fishing, take a sunset cruise, or opt for a relaxing couple’s massage at one of the town’s spas. With its beautiful setting and upscale amenities, Búzios attracts visitors looking to indulge in a vacation paradise.

Brazil is a vast country filled with vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and lively cities just waiting to be explored. From the Amazon River to thundering Iguazu Falls, Brazil’s natural wonders will take your breath away. In cities like Rio de Janeiro you’ll find beautiful beaches, outdoor cafes, and world-famous landmarks like Christ the Redeemer watching over the city. The rhythms of samba and bossa nova music set the lively mood across Brazil’s urban nightlife.

Beyond nature and city life, Brazil offers unique glimpses into history. Wandering colonial streets in Ouro Preto transports you back to the 17th century gold rush, while Salvador’s Afro-Brazilian roots shine through in its food, music and sacred candomblé ceremonies. From modern metropolises like São Paulo to charming resort towns like Paraty and Búzios, each Brazilian destination has its own allure.

Brazil’s diversity extends across its regions and landscapes. The Amazon rainforest in the north teems with exotic plants and wildlife. The Pantanal wetlands provide one of the best places on Earth to spot capybaras, caiman, macaws and even jaguars. Iguazu Falls on the border with Argentina showcase nature’s power and beauty on a grand scale. The coastal cities boast iconic beaches and scenic views high above the ocean below.

No matter which destinations call to you, Brazil offers experiences, sights and adventures to suit every interest. Revel in Rio’s fun-loving spirit. Marvel at Brasilia’s futuristic architecture. Wander charming cobblestone streets in colonial towns. Dance to the rhythm of samba and bossa nova. Lounge on white sand beaches surrounded by towering cliffs. Hike through jungles and waterfalls. Brazil’s diversity is its greatest appeal.

While Portuguese is the official language, you’ll find English spoken in major tourist areas. Brazilians are welcoming people eager to share the magic of their country with visitors. Safety precautions are advised but Brazil is an enchanting destination.

From nature to beaches, from cities to remote ecotourism, Brazil shines with its uniqueness. The iconic Christ the Redeemer, with arms spread wide, symbolizes Brazil’s spirit of embracing travelers to its shores. Let yourself be immersed in Brazil’s music, culture, landscapes and joie de vivre. With endless beauty across its cities and regions, Brazil offers an escape like no other, full of moments you’ll treasure forever. Allow yourself to be swept away on the adventure of a lifetime exploring Brazil’s best destinations.

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brazil

Written by Michael Law , Lana Law , and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 29, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

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.

Brazil's 7,400-kilometer Atlantic coast is lined with golden-sand beaches , and its interior is filled with mineral resources. Gold from Brazil's mines still lines the churches of Portugal, the colonial power that ruled Brazil until 1822. This strong Portuguese influence is evident in Brazil's colonial architecture , in decorative arts such as the glazed tiles in its churches and convents, and in the language.

For tourists, Brazil is both a tropical paradise and an exciting cultural destination with attractions for all tastes, from idyllic beach holidays and jungle explorations to world-class art museums and the pulsing rhythms of Rio's Carnival.

To discover the best places to visit and things to do, use this handy list of the top tourist attractions in Brazil.

1. Cristo Redentor and Corcovado, Rio de Janeiro

2. sugar loaf, rio de janeiro, 3. iguaçu falls, 4. copacabana, rio de janeiro, 5. amazon rainforests, 6. carnaval, rio de janeiro, 7. brasília's modernist architecture, 8. jericoacoara, 10. salvador's pelourinho, 11. ouro preto, 12. museu do amanhã (museum of tomorrow), 13. ibirapuera park, são paulo, 14. museu oscar niemeyer, curitiba, 15. botanical garden of curitiba, 16. porto de galinhas & pernambuco beaches, 17. art museums of sao paulo, 18. belo horizonte.

With arms outstretched 28 meters, as if to encompass all of humanity, the colossal Art Deco statue of Christ, called Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer), gazes out over Rio de Janeiro, Sugar Loaf, and the bay from the summit of Corcovado. From here, you have possibly the best view in the city .

The 709-meter height on which it stands is part of the Tijuca National Park, and a railway climbs 3.5 kilometers to the top , where a broad plaza surrounds the statue. Completed in 1931, the 30-meter statue was the work of Polish-French sculptor Paul Landowski and Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, and is constructed of reinforced concrete and soapstone.

The steep ride up to the statue on the railway is part of the attraction as it passes through a lush forest, home to a wide variety of tropical birds, butterflies, and plants.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro

The easily recognized emblem of Rio de Janeiro, the rounded rock peak of Sugar Loaf juts out of a tree-covered promontory, rising 394 meters above the beaches and city. From the summit are outstanding views of Rio and the harbor , as well as a stunning view of Christ the Redeemer. This is an absolute must-do when visiting the city but plan to do this on a clear day and preferably in the morning.

Part of the attraction is the thrill of riding the cable car between Sugar Loaf 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 .

Iguaçu Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. At the point where Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina meet, the Iguaçu river drops spectacularly in a semicircle of 247 waterfalls that thunder down into the gorge below. Just above the falls, the river is constricted to one-fourth of its usual width, making the force of the water even stronger.

Some of the falls are more than 100 meters 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. Catwalks and a tower give you different perspectives, and one bridge reaches all the way to one of the largest falls, known as the Garganta do Diabo (Devil's Throat).

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 most tourists plan to see both.

The falls are protected by 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.

In early November 2023, water flows that were ten times normal levels caused significant damage to many of the walkways in and around the falls. The most famous, the Devil's Throat, has reopened but the Garganta del Diablo will be closed for quite some time with no reopening date announced as of writing.

It's hard to think of Rio without conjuring up an image of Copacabana. This is Rio's playground, a popular escape from the heat filled with sun-worshipers, swimmers, and kids building sand castles. A seemingly endless assortment of beach shacks offer chair and umbrella rentals, snacks, drinks, and even free showers.

Downtown Rio's most famous section follows Avenida Nossa Senhora de Copacabana and is bordered all along one side by four kilometers of white sand and breaking surf .

The beach is separated from the buildings and traffic by a broad promenade paved in black and white mosaic in an undulating pattern reminiscent of streets in Lisbon, Portugal. Along this promenade, the famed Copacabana Palace is protected as a national monument. Inside this hotel's lobby, you can easily imagine seeing the royalty and film idols who have stayed here.

About 20 kilometers southeast of Manaus, the dark Rio Negro waters meet the light muddy water of the Rio Solimões, flowing side by side for about six kilometers before mixing as the Amazon. Boat trips from Manaus take you to this point, called Encontro das Aguas , meeting of the waters.

Other boat trips take you into the heart of the rainforests and the network of rivers, channels, and lakes formed by the three rivers. In the Rio Negro, the Anavilhanas Islands form an archipelago with lakes, streams, and flooded forests that offer a full cross-section of the Amazonian ecosystem.

You can see monkeys, sloths, parrots, toucans, caimans, turtles, and other wildlife on a boat trip here. Also close to Manaus, the 688-hectare Janauari Ecological Park has a number of different ecosystems that you can explore by boat along its narrow waterways.

An entire lake here is covered with giant water-lilies found only in the Amazon region. While in Manaus, be sure to see its famous Teatro Amazonas , the Italian Renaissance-style opera house, designed to put Manaus on the map as South America's great center of culture.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Manaus

Few shows match Rio's pre-Lenten Carnaval (Carnival) extravaganza for color, sound, action, and exuberance. Make no mistake, this is not just another rowdy street party, but a carefully staged showpiece, where spectators can watch the parades of competing samba dancers from a purpose-built stadium designed by none other than Brazil's best-known architect, Oscar Niemeyer.

Called the Sambódromo , this long series of grandstand boxes provides ringside seats to a 700-meter parade route where dancers and musicians from the competing samba schools strut their stuff in a dazzling explosion of brilliant costumes.

If mob scenes are less appealing to you than more spontaneous celebrations (that are equally riotous and colorful), you'll also find Carnivals in Salvador , Bahia, Recife, and other Brazilian cities.

Brazil's new city of Brasília was carved out of the wilderness and completed in less than three years to replace Rio de Janeiro as the country's capital in 1960. The ambitious plan by Lúcio Costa and Oscar Niemeyer became a showpiece of city planning and avant-garde architecture, and it remains today as one of the world's few cities that represent a completed plan and a single architectural concept.

Without the normal mix of residential and business districts, the entire governmental section is composed of major architectural highlights, which are the city's main tourist attractions . Some of the most striking surround Praça dos Tràs Poderes : the presidential palace, supreme court, and the two sharply contrasting congress buildings, plus the Historical Museum of Brasília and the Panteão da Liberdade (Pantheon of Freedom), designed by Oscar Niemeyer.

That architect's best-known building in the city is the circular Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida , whose curved concrete columns rise to support a glass roof. Another of Niemeyer's landmark works is the Palácio dos Arcos , surrounded by beautiful gardens designed by Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, who worked with Niemeyer on several projects throughout Brazil.

The round Memorial dos Povos Indígenas (Museum of Indigenous People) is patterned after a traditional Yąnomamö round house. But many consider Niemeyer's finest work to be the Monumento JK , a memorial to President Juscelino Kubitschek, the founder of Brasilia. Brasilia has been named a UNESCO World Heritage city.

If you've ever dreamed of a beachside village where all the streets are sand and like with good restaurants, decent hotels, and the odd donkey wandering around, Jericoacoara is the place for you. Jeri, as it's commonly referred to is, located within the confines of the spectacular Jericoacoara National Park , access is only through a huge expanse of massive sand dunes in a 4WD vehicle or, for the more adventurous, on the back of a beach buggy.

Each night the town comes alive when the mobile vendors set up shop on the sand and the band starts to play. Grab a bite from one of the small BBQ stands and catch the sunset as it sinks into the expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, or even better secure a rooftop patio seat. Later on wander the sandy, pedestrian-only streets and enjoy a dinner with your toes in the sand. After dinner, check out one of the many boutiques featuring a variety of beach and resort clothing.

Windswept beaches run for hundreds of miles north and south of Jeri and this draws wind sport enthusiasts from around the world. Jeri is considered by many to be the best place in the world to go kiteboarding and as a result, draws a diverse set of participants from across the globe.

To experience the dunes or explore freshwater lagoons, where you can set up beachside at a restaurant and go for a swim, hire a buggy for the day , and go on an excursion. You can also head down towards Guiru or further along to Tatajuba to see or enjoy more kiteboarding. It's a fun trip that involves a river crossing on a small, flat barge.

You can fly directly to Jericoacoara . As an alternative, you can fly into Fortaleza and hire a car and driver to run you up the coast, which is about a five-hour drive . The best option is to stop off for a night or two along the way in some of the other beach towns like Cumbuco or Guajiru , both of which are popular kiteboarding areas.

Beyond the beaches of Copacabana, the glorious white sands merge into the just-as-famous beaches of Ipanema. The same wave design of Copacabana's wide promenade continues here, separating the sand from the line of hotels, restaurants, cafés, art galleries, and cinemas that make this a popular social zone year-round.

Farther along, beyond the Jardim de Alá Canal, which drains Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon, are the beaches of Leblon . With more locals and fewer tourists, these beaches are favorites for families. Sunday is especially busy, with an antiques market at Praça de Quentaland and the Feira de Artesanato de Ipanema , alive with music, art, handicrafts, and street food.

The waves at Ipanema and Leblon can be very strong and unpredictable, so be careful where you swim. Follow the locals and stay out of the water where you don't see others swimming. If surf is what you're looking for, head to the stretch between Copacabana and Ipanema, where the surfers hang out.

The Cidade Alta (Upper Town) of Brazil's former colonial capital has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site for its exceptional collection of 17th- and 18th-century colonial buildings, the finest such ensemble in South America.

Called the Pelourinho, this old quarter 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. In the choir and cloister, you can see excellent examples of Portuguese tile panels, called azulejos.

This was the friary church, and next to it is the church of the Franciscan Third Order. It's impossible to miss the riotously carved façade covered in statues and intricate decoration. The interior is just as ornate, surpassing even the Portuguese Baroque in its opulent detail.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Salvador

The wealth of Brazil's state of Minas Gerais in its glory days of the colonial period is easy to imagine from the interiors of the churches in its old capital, Ouro Preto. Entire walls are washed in gold that flowed – along with diamonds – from the mines surrounding the city in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Cascading down the sides of a steep valley and surrounded by mountains, Ouro Preto is a jewel of a colonial town, but its steep narrow streets and mountain setting – however captivating for tourists today – didn't meet the needs of a growing provincial capital. The government moved to the newly built capital of Belo Horizonte, leaving Ouro Preto in its time capsule.

The 17th-century Baroque and Rococo churches of São Francisco de Assis and Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Pilar are the best examples, but the entire town is so rich in colonial architecture that Ouro Preto has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The steep streets, so precipitous in places that they become stairways, are lined by gracious colonial mansions, and white churches crown its hills with Baroque bell towers.

The futuristic architecture of the Museum of Tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro gives a clue about its contents. Thought-provoking exhibits invite visitors to think about what the world might be like in the future, exploring scenarios of how our planet may change in the next half-century.

Examining these times of fast-moving changes in society, technology, and the physical world, the museum prompts viewers to consider various paths into the future, and how each opens up based on the choices made every day as individuals and as a society.

This eye-catching science museum overlooking the waterfront was designed by Spanish architect and artist, Santiago Calatrava.

Address: Praça Mauá 1, Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The most visited park in South America, Ibirapuera Park is a vast green space designed by Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, with buildings designed by Oscar Niemeyer. The park is a showcase for modern architecture and a center for Brazilian culture.

Amid its monuments, gardens, playgrounds, trails, and lakes are museums and performance spaces that include Oscar Niemeyer's Auditório Ibirapuera , one of São Paulo's best concert venues. A Japanese Pavilion with sculptures, clothing, and traditional crafts is set in rock gardens with a fishpond.

The Museu da Aeronáutica e do Folclore , the Aeronautics and Folk Art Museum , features thousands of examples of folk arts and exhibits on traditional cultures from across Brazil. The lower floor is devoted to aeronautical equipment and model airplanes. A separate museum, the large Museu Afro-Brasil , features the culture and history of Afro-Brazilians and their contributions.

Address: Avenida Pedro Alvares Cabral, São Paulo

Paving the way for the unconventional building shapes created by later futurist architects such as Frank Gehry and Santiago Calatrava, Oscar Niemeyer left his native Brazil with a treasury of his most iconic buildings. One of these was built as the New Museum, completed in 2002 when Niemeyer was 95 years old, and renamed in tribute to him in 2003.

Balanced on a massive 60-foot pillar, the gallery is formed by a pair of joined arcs that resemble the shape of the human eye, hence its popular name, Museu do Olho – Eye Museum. Access to this raised structure is by a series of curved ramps. Inside the eye, the 2,000-square-foot gallery focuses on architecture, design, and the visual arts, and displays many of Niemeyer's works.

Niemeyer added a later rectangular gallery on the grounds to display changing exhibitions of works by contemporary Brazilian artists. In addition to visiting during its daytime open hours, try to see the Museu Oscar Niemeyer after dark, when it is spectacularly lighted.

Address: Rua Marechal Hermes 999, Curitiba

Reflecting the style of 17 th - and 18 th -century French palace gardens, Curitiba's Botanical Garden was opened in 1991. Formal beds are outlined by low sculpted hedges, in a geometric design inspired by the city's flag. The landscape is enlivened by fountains, waterfalls, and ponds, and in the park surrounding the gardens are forests of native trees, with walking paths.

The focal point of the botanical gardens is the main greenhouse, an Art Nouveau-style conservatory made of glass and white metal, reminiscent of the Crystal Palace in Victorian London. Its unusual shape includes three domes that merge into the rectangular base. Inside are plants native to the region.

Even the grass in the Garden of Native Plants of Curitiba is a native variety, and its flowers are especially attractive to butterflies and other pollinators. The Garden of the Senses (Jardim das Sensações) is a 200-yard path through a wisteria tunnel, where more than 70 plant species are chosen for their fragrance or tactile appeal. Visitors are invited to try walking through it blindfolded to fully appreciate the garden by using their other senses.

Behind the main greenhouse is the Frans Krajcberg Cultural Space, displaying more than 100 large sculptures created from the remains of trees that were burned or illegally cut, calling public attention to the destruction of Brazil's native forests.

The crystal waters, tall palm trees, and broad stretches of silver sand are only a few of the reasons why Porto de Galinhas is frequently cited as Brazil's best beach. For a country with more than 7,000 kilometers of Atlantic coast, much of it sandy beaches, that's saying a lot.

The town stretching along the beach is laid-back, colorful, and just the right blend of old-fashioned beach town fun and chic boutiques. Its hotels and resorts lie close to the land instead of soaring in high-rise blocks.

Jangadas, picturesque sailboats, will take you out to reef-top pools where brilliant tropical fish swim around your feet in ankle-deep water. You can also take a boat to a lagoon where tiny seahorses swim, and you can scuba dive to explore impressive coral reefs or shipwrecks, kayak in the lagoons and estuary, or buy a fanciful kite from a beach kiosk to fly in the steady breeze. Nearby Maracaipe is popular with surfers.

Porto de Galinhas is just one of the beautiful beaches on Pernambuco's 187-kilometer coast. Closer to Recife, 17th-century Olinda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooking a popular beach. The main beaches in Recife itself are Praia da Boa Viagem, São José da Coroa Grande, and the Carne De Vaca.

São 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, displays the continent's most comprehensive collection of western art, with representative works by artists from the Renaissance through modern masters.

There are 73 bronze sculptures by Degas and works by Renoir, Manet, Van Gogh, Matisse, Picasso, and Miró. From its beginning, the museum has concentrated on works of mid- to late-20th-century artists, and the building designed by architect Lina Bo Bardi is a Modernist landmark.

Oscar Niemeyer designed the Pavilhão da Bienal de Artes in Ibirapuera Park , home to the Museu de Arte Contemporânea. More than 8,000 works of art - one of Latin America's largest collections of 20th-century Western artists - includes Picasso, Chagall, Kandinsky, Miró, and Modigliani along with major Brazilian painters.

Set above Versailles-inspired formal gardens, Museu do Ipiranga houses paintings and decorative arts.

For another kind 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.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in São Paulo

The capital of the state of Minas Gerais gave the pre-eminent Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer his first commissions, and today, these early Niemeyer buildings draw tourists and fans of Modernist architecture to the city.

His first major work, which immediately set him apart from conventional architects, was the parabolic-curved São Francisco de Assis church, beside a lake in the Pampulha neighborhood. On the hillside above it, and connected by gardens designed by landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, is Niemeyer's earlier casino building, now an art museum.

Overlooking the large Praça da Liberdade in the city center is the sinuous apartment building, Edificio Niemeyer , one of his most famous early works. The clean geometric lines of his later Palácio das Artes mark the edge of the Municipal Park, housing the Minas Gerais Craft Center featuring works of contemporary craftsmen.

The postmodern Rainha da Sucata – Queen of Scrap Iron – is another landmark building in Belo Horizonte, this one the work of Éolo Maia and Sylvio Podestá. It now houses the mineralogy museum.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Belo Horizonte & Easy Day Trips

More on Brazil

Rio de Janeiro   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Anna Gibiskys | Getty Images

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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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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• 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

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.

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.

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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…

12 Small Amazing Cities to Visit in Brazil

If you have ever made any plans about traveling to Brazil, you have probably looked into the big touristic cities such as Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Florianópolis, or Bahia. But sometimes, the best perfumes come in small packages, which means there are quite a few amazing small cities in the country that you should definitely include in your itinerary.

You can visit the beautiful historical sites in Paraty (Rio de Janeiro), get more in touch with nature at Águas de São Pedro (São Paulo), enjoy the beaches and natural wonders at Jericoacoara (Ceará), and even enjoy the wintertime at Campos do Jordão (SP).

In this post, we are going to go over the main small cities you should visit while you are in Brazil. Then, we’ll talk about why you should visit, the main activities you will be able to do in each of them, the best places to accommodate yourself, the best time of the year to travel, and much more!

1. Águas de São Pedro – São Paulo (SP)

General Trip Vibe: relax and heal with thermal water, outdoor activities, get in touch with nature, outdoor exercising How Many Days Should You Stay: at least 2 Best Time To Visit: all year long Best Hotels to Stay: Pousada Estrela da Manhã , Pousada Estrela da Manhã , Hotel Portal das Águas   

With just a little over 2,700 inhabitants, Águas de São Pedro is a small county located in the state of São Paulo that offers a lot of comfort and outdoor activities to the people coming to visit . In addition to the pleasant climate and cozy environment, the city is one of the Hydromineral Resorts of São Paulo.

The city is known for its hydro-mineral waters of medicinal value, having its natural springs as some of its main tourist attractions. And if that wasn’t enough, Águas de São Pedro has a Human Development Index (HDI) of 0.854, the second-best in São Paulo (as well as the second-best in Brazil), which makes it an excellent place to live (especially if you are looking for somewhere calm and peaceful).

How To Get To Águas de São Pedro?

The city is located just under 112 miles from the city of São Paulo, between the Piracicaba and Brotas counties. So, the best way to get to Águas de São Pedro is by departing from São Paulo, either by car or by bus.

• if you are going by car, just follow the Bandeirantes highway (SP-348), in a journey that lasts, on average, 2h30.
• for those who wish to travel by bus, it is still possible to find a variety of timetables and tickets at the Tietê Bus Terminal, also in the capital. Although not in English, you can check out their website to take a look at the bus schedule.

What To Do in Águas Claras de São Lourenço?

Visit the fontanário municipal water fountain.

The Águas de São Pedro county was blessed by nature with a variety of hydrothermal sources, and that is why the Fontanário Municipal is definitely one of the main destinations for you to visit in the city. The place has three mineral water sources with medicinal properties that help in the treatment of many diseases and provide very relaxing moments.

The fountain is pretty close to the city’s downtown area, and it is open daily from 7:30 AM to 7 PM, with free entry.

Visit the Spa Thermal

The Spa Thermal of Águas de São Pedro is another destination that takes advantage of the city’s hydrothermal waters. The place is a very charming spa that, amongst its many services, has immersions that promise to bring a series of health benefits.

In addition to bathing, the spa also stands out for offering skin, beauty, and massage treatments. The Spa Thermal is open daily from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM, and Friday and Saturdays also from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Go Ziplining At Rancho da Tirolesa

Located just over 10 miles from the city’s downtown area, Rancho da Tirolesa is another place in Águas de São Pedro which you should include in your itinerary. Ideal for the whole family, the place promises to please most radical activities lovers, who will be able to go ziplining in the middle of nature.

The Tirolesa Ranch also has a highly praised restaurant and features a unique view of the Serra do Itaqueri; the attraction provides good moments, which are perfect for the end of the itinerary.

Other Things to Do In Águas de São Pedro:

• visit Represa das Palmeiras
• observe the nature at Mini Horto
• spend the day and have fun at Thermas Water Park

2. Guaramiranga – Ceará (CE)

General Trip Vibe: relax, contemplate nature, outdoor activities How Many Days Should You Stay: at least 3 days Best Time to Visit: June/July (if you like the cold) Best Places to Stay: Hotel Chalé Nosso Sítio , Le Rêve Pousada , Hotel Vale das Nuvens , Chalet Schönenberg

The Northeast region of Brazil is generally known for having the highest temperatures in the country (as it is located very near the Equator Line). Still, Guaramiranga is one of the few exceptions. Since it is located in a mountainous region, this small town has a milder climate, where you can find a preserved area of ​​the Atlantic Forest, with waterfalls, rivers, and trails.

As the city is located in the mountain range area, the average temperatures during the year are between 14°C and 25°C. Therefore, for those who want to enjoy the region during its colder weather, it is best to travel during the months of June and July. But outside of these moments, it is possible to enjoy the mild temperatures and all the attractions of this area of ​​the Atlantic Forest.

How To Get To Guaramiranga?

The best way to get to Guaramiranga is by taking a plane to Fortaleza and then taking a bus to the city. If you are thinking about renting a car, you can just follow the CE 060 highway until Baturité, and after arriving at the city’s entrance, just continue for about 11 miles. From Fortaleza to Guaramiranga is a relatively smooth journey of approximately three hours by car.

What To Do In Guaramiranga?

Visit the guaramiranga mountain range.

With an altitude of just over 2700 feet, the Guaramiranga Mountain Range (Serra da Guaramiranga) is the best place to enjoy the place’s exuberant nature in the state of Ceará . In addition, the Mountain Range houses a preserved area of ​​the Atlantic Forest, having a colder and more humid climate, as well as beautiful flowers. So if you like to spend time in nature, definitely include this on your list!

Visit the Handara Park

If you are traveling with family or with a large group of friends, a great thing to do in Guaramiranga is to visit Handara Park. In this place, it is possible to learn a little more about the local flora. In addition, the park has several ecological activities designed for children, such as zip lines, pedal boats, and bouncy sticks, as well as trails for the more active and for adults.

Dive at the Perigoso Waterfall

The Perigoso Waterfall is relatively close to the city’s downtown area and is a place for adrenaline lovers. There is a ten-minute trail that leads to a waterfall of approximately 230 feet, which as the name translates, can be a bit dangerous (perigoso = dangerous in Brazilian Portuguese).

The main thing about this waterfall is that its refreshing waters are ideal for bathing, and it is also a great place to enjoy the natural surroundings.

Other Things to Do In Guaramiranga:

• take pictures at the Pico Alto mountain top
• go trekking and nature watching at Parque das Trilhas
• visit the Jesuítas Monastery
• visit and watch the sun rise at the Linha da Serra Obervatory

3. Paraty – Rio de Janeiro (RJ)

General Trip Vibe: enjoy the beach, outdoor activities, relax, visit some historical sites How Many Days Should You Stay: at least 3 Best Time To Visit: from March to June Best Places To Stay:   Samblumba Hostel Trindade , Pousada Literária , Pousada Arte Urquijo

Paraty is a charming city located on the south coast of Rio de Janeiro, famous for its colonial mansions and for being considered a National Historical Heritage in the country. The city’s downtown area is very charming and known for making tourists fall in love with its architecture, colors, and traditions.

Paraty is frequently ranked in the lists of the most beautiful small towns in Brazil, and once you get there, it is clear to see why: with 300 beaches, 65 islands, 5 Atlantic Forest conservation units , and several waterfalls, this coastal town may be small in size, but it offers a lot of natural beauty, history, and local culture.

How To Get To Paraty?

The best way to get to Paraty is by traveling to the city’s closest airport, which is Galeão, located in Rio de Janeiro. From there, you can go by car, on a journey that takes approximately 4 hours, or by bus, departing from the Novo Rio bus station.

What To Do In Paraty?

Visit praia do sono.

Praia do Sono is one of the most famous beaches in Paraty and is also considered one of the most beautiful on the whole coast. Furthermore, it is located in an almost untouched environmental preservation area, so that you can expect rigid measures in regards to cleanliness.

As it is difficult to access – it is only possible to get there by boat or by walking a not so difficult trail – it is not very busy and is supported by local businesses. While you are there, you can take the opportunity to get to know the local tradition of the residents who preserve the style of the fishing village.

Visit Paraty’s Historical Center

Paraty’s Historical Center is considered by UNESCO as the most harmonious colonial architectural ensemble in the country, and in 1965 the city was established as a National Heritage. To get to know all of the city’s history, there are guided tours that go through the main spots.

Don’t be surprised if while you are touring you find the streets taken by the waters of the sea. The city was designed to allow the entry and exit of ocean water as a natural way of cleaning; therefore, when the tide is strong, some streets in the Historical Center are taken over.

Go Diving at Ilha do Algodão

Famous for being a pit-stop for several boat trips, Ilha do Algodão is the largest island in the region and is recommended for those who enjoy snorkeling and diving in the deep sea. If you’re lucky, you can see the dolphins that usually like to appear on days with colder weather or after the rains.

Visit Saco do Mamanguá

Saco do Mamanguá is an unexplored paradise, and it is considered the only tropical fjord in the world, or in other words, a great inlet of the sea surrounded by high rocky mountains. The green sea follows for an extension of a little under 5 miles.

It has 33 beaches and a preserved mangrove area. The main access to Saco de Mamanguá is by boat, departing from Paraty-Mirim, or by trail, which requires good physical conditioning. If you decide to visit this little piece of paradise, make sure to bring everything you need, as there are no on-site sales outlets.

Other Things to Do In Paraty:

• visit the Museu da Arte Sacra
• visit the Parque Nacional da Serra da Bacaína
• visit other famous beaches such as Praia da Lula, Ilha Comprida and Praia do Cepilho

4. Jericoacoara – Ceará (CE)

General Trip Vibe: beach, relax, enjoy a night out How Many Days Should You Stay: at least 4 days Best Time To Visit: from July to December Best Places to Stay At:   Essenza Hotel , My Blue Hotel , Casa na Praia Jeri , Hostel da Praça

Jericoacoara is a village located in the county of Jijoca de Jericoacoara, in the state of Ceará, Northeastern Brazil. It is located about 168 miles west of the state capital, Fortaleza. Despite the simple setting and the adventure required to reach your destination (we’ll see more on that in the next topic), Jericoacoara has great infrastructure, with many hotels, inns, bars, and restaurants around.

A curious fact about this beautiful village is that it was discovered by immigrants way before it became known by Brazilians, which makes the local customs and gastronomy very influenced by European culture, especially Italian, Belgian, German, and French.

How To Get To Jericoacoara?

We mentioned earlier that a little bit of an adventure is required to reach Jericoacoara. That is because the village is considered an Environmental Protection Area (APA), and as such, the construction of highways and roads is prohibited, as well as any type of pavement, so tourists are obligated to venture on 4×4 on Jericoacoara’s dunes.

After landing at the Fortaleza International Airport (Aeroporto Internacional Pinto Martins – FOR), there are a few different ways to get to Jericoacoara . Unfortunately, none of them is exactly a breeze, as it takes at least 5 hours to get to the city in any of them. However, if you organize your schedule properly, it will definitely be worth the trouble!

So, you basically have three different options:

• You can arrange transportation (transfer) with the hostel you will be staying at. A 4×4 car with capacity for four people costs around USD 175 round trip. This is most definitely the most expensive option.
• You can rend your own car (preferably a 4×4, which is safer on the road). However, it is a complicated alternative to do alone, as the path there is basically a sand dune and the route is very poorly signaled. The ideal thing here is to hire a local to give correct directions.
• The cheapest alternative (USD 12.00) is to take a travel bus that departures from the airport to a town called Jijica. From Jijoca to Jericoacoara, you will be taking a vehicle called “jardineira”, which is basically an adapted 4×4 vehicle.

What to Do In Jericoacoara?

1. visit the jericoacoara beach.

The Jericoacoara Beach is famous for its 100 feet high sand dunes, which are the first row seats to one of the most spectacular sunsets you will ever see. There are many rafts in small lakes at the beach, as due to its shallow waters and constant winds, the beach is usually one of the most sought after by sportsmen, especially windsurfers.

But if you are not exactly a fan of windsurfing, no worries! You can just lay at one of the deck chairs and soak up the sun (don’t forget to wear sunscreen!)

2. Ride The Quadricycle To Meet New Places

In Jericoacoara, it is possible to rent quad bike rides and visit new wonderful places, such as Lagoa da Torta, in Tatajuba. If you don’t have a lot of time, you can rent the trip to the Cavalo Marinho lagoon, which lasts about two hours and passes by Mangue Seco Beach, another beautiful location.

3. Enjoy The City’s Night Life

If you want to enjoy a night out at Jericoacoara, head to Rua Principal, where the night begins. Close to the beach, there are caipirinha (click here if you don’t know what caipirinha is) tents that natives and tourists always surround.

After having a few shots, people usually head to the local clubs or to different bars with live music. Among the best options if you want to dance, are Forró da Dona Amédia and Maloka. For snacks and drinks, take a look at Samba Rock, Tortuga, or Zchopp, which are also close to the caipirinha stalls.

And if you are still up when the sun is rising, why not enjoying good delicacies at the famous Padaria Santo Antônio? It opens at two in the morning, and it is a famous pit stop for people heading home after a big party!

Other Things To Do In Jericoacoara:

• take the buggy ride between Lagoa Azul and Lagoa do Paraíso
• watch the sunset at the Sunset Dune, on the left side of the Jericoacoara Beach
• go horseback riding at the beach
• go shopping at the city’s many artisanal shops
• go to Barra Grande (one of our upcoming locations)

5. Domingos Martins – Espírito Santo (ES)

General Trip Vibe: eating well, outdoor activities, enjoying the local festivals How Many Days Should You Stay: at least 2 days Best Time To Visit: between June and August Best Places to Stay At: Pousada Alemã Schwambach , Pousada Japerê , Pousada Pedra Azul , Hotel Fazenda China Park

Domingos Martins is one of the most famous cities in the mountainside of Espírito Santo, and it draws attention for its very apparent European influence, mainly from Germans, Pomeranians, and Italians. This influence is mostly reflected in the city’s architecture, gastronomy, and some of the various events and festivals that are hosted by the city.

Domingos Martins is located in one of the most beautiful regions of Espírito Santo, so expect nothing but incredible experiences and amazing landscapes. The city has plenty to do in its downtown area, but it is also surrounded by ecological trails and natural attractions that will most likely please all nature lovers.

How To Get To Domingos Martins?

The best way to get to Domingos Martins is to land at the Vitória airport (Eurico de Aguiar Salles – VIX) and then decide on either taking a bus or renting a car to continue the trip.

• If you decide on going by car, the access must be via the BR-262 route, and it is a pretty chill trip that will take about an hour.
• If you prefer, you can also get there by taking a travel bus at the Bus Terminal Carlos Alberto Vivácqua Campos, which is located about 20 minutes from the airport.

What To Do In Domingos Martins?

1. visit dr. arthur gerhardt square.

Praça Arthur Gerhardt is one of the most charming locations in the city, and it is perfect for a family outing. The place is surrounded by big trees and beautiful flowers, as well as many typical attractions. It is also possible to visit the local artisanal craft fairs and several old mansions.

2. Visit the Pedra Azul State Park

The Pedra Azul State Park is located 21 miles away from Domingos Martins’s downtown area, and it is the most visited attraction in the city. The region is home to several species of local plants and animals and has incredible ecological trails.

The location also has very good infrastructure, with a restaurant, parking and small shops, being the perfect location to spend at least a portion of your day.

3. Enjoy a Few Drinks at Rua do Lazer

Although it is pretty crowded during most of the day, Rua do Lazer is also a good place to enjoy the night. Located in downtown Domingos Martins, the street houses several options of bars and restaurants that specialize in the city’s cuisine. The space is ideal for having a few drinks, grabbing something to eat, go shopping, and going out with friends and family .

Other Things To Do In Domingos Martins:

• visit Bosque das Cerejeiras
• take the Rota do Lagarto Tour
• go to the Zoo Park da Montanha
• enjoy the local festivals, which include Sommerfest, Vila da Páscoa and Festival de Inverno (the biggest music event in the state)

6. Barra Grande – Piauí (PI)

General Trip Vibes: great for kitesurfing, relaxing, enjoying the nature How Many Days Should You Stay: at least 3 days Best Time To Visit: from August to December Best Places To Stay At: Terra Patris! Atellier Pousada , Manatí Hotel , Pousada BGK , Casa Areia Pousada , Raízes Eco Hostel 

Located in the Cajueiro da Praia county, Barra Grande is a fishing village on the coast of Piauí, Northeast of Brazil. The place is the ideal destination for those who want to enjoy simpler and relaxing days, with beautiful landscapes to contemplate on.

The Barra Grande coast is filled with white sand, sapphire-blue, and warm seawater all year round and 41 miles of beautiful beaches that, most of the time, are empty and quieter. The local gastronomy is also very present in the region, especially in its fish and seafood dishes.

I mean, there is nothing better than sitting at a bar on the sand eating fresh fried fish, having a cold beverage, and enjoying the evening, right?

How To Get To Barra Grande?

Departing from Jericoacoara

In our previous Jericoacoara topic, we have listed going to Barra Grande as one of the places to visit, as it is pretty easy to include both of them in your travel itinerary. So here’s how you can get to Barra Grande if you are departing from Jericoacoara:

• By Car – If you don’t mind driving from Jericoacoara to Barra Grande, you can rent a car in Jericoacoara and only return in Parnaíba, a city close to Barra Grande. It should take you about 3 h 30 minutes to get there.
• Hire a Driver – Renting a private transfer in a Hilux from Jericoacoara to Barra Grande costs around USD 130.00 and the car can take up to 4 people.
• Shared Transfer – To go from Jericoacoara to Barra Grande, you can also take the shared transfer. The transfer is made on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and the value per person is USD 25.00.

Departing from Outside Brazil

The best way to get to Barra Grande if you are coming from outside the country is by landing at Parnaíba’s International Airport (Prefeito Doutor João Silva Filho – PHB/SBPB) and continuing the trip on the road. From the Parnaíba Airport, you can get to Barra Grande:

• By Uber or Transfer Driver – an Uber ride to Barra Grande costs around USD 30, but you could also hire a driver in advance.
• By Car – If you would like to have more autonomy over your trip, it is a good idea to rent a car in Parnaíba and take one of the two main routes to Barra Grande. One of them goes outside the city and the other one along the coast. If your route includes Jericoacoara, it is possible to rent a car in Parnaíba and return it in Jericoacoara.
• By Bus – In Parnaíba, you will be able to find a bus line that takes you to Barra Grande. It is open from Monday to Saturday and takes you directly to the city’s main square. Buses have the advantage of you not having to worry until you get there, but it will take about two hours to get to Barra Grande, as it stops in many places along the way. The average ticket costs around USD 3.00.

What To Do In Barra Grande

Take the cavalo marinho ecotour.

The Cavalo Marinho EcoTour is a very good option for those who want to really get in close contact with nature and be able to learn more about the local fauna and flora. The highlight of the tour obviously is the observation of seahorses in their natural habitat, which most definitely delights people of all ages.

Go Kitesurfing at Barra Grande Beach

Outdoor sports practice is one of the main activities in Barra Grande, even for people outside the country. The Barra Grande beach is a well-known spot for kitesurf lovers. The season most sought after by athletes is from July to January, when the winds are stronger.

Go On The Delta do Parnaíba Tour

The Delta do Parnaíba site is one of the most interesting landscapes in Brazil. You will come across freshwater beaches, dunes, lakes, and rivers in an exuberant natural setting perfect for some unforgettable moments. It is pretty nice to do this tour on speedboats, which go through several channels, but you can also take a regular traditional boat.

It is recommended to take this tour between the months of May and August when there is less rain.

7. Trancoso – Bahia (BA)

General Trip Vibe: learn more about the local history, enjoy the natural wonders, enjoy the local food How Many Days Should You Stay: at least 3 days Best Time To Visit: from November to April Best Places To Stay At: Casas da Lia , Pousad,a Jardim das Margaridas , Pousada Aldeia do Sol , Vila Morena Trancoso , Pousada Ouro Sobre Azul II

Located in Porto Seguro, Bahia, Trancoso can be best described as paradise on Earth. That is because the overall structure of the district, which began to receive more tourists in the mid-1990s, still preserves most of the local natural beauties, having that charming wild beach flair intact.

But don’t Trancoso’s rustic appearances fool you! Despite its simplicity, the village offers the best to its tourists, such as highly praised five-star hotels and restaurants. Moreover, most of the things can be done within walking distance in Trancoso, as the district’s downtown area is closed to vehicles, which adds even more to that feeling of disconnecting with the big city.

How To Get To Trancoso?

The best way to get to Trancoso is by landing at the Porto Seguro International Airport (BPS), which is the nearest airport to the city. From the airport, you can get to Trancoso by car, bus, taxi, Uber, or hiring a private transfer driver:

• Bay Car – there are two main routes you can take to get to Trancoso by car. The first (the shortest – 30 miles) runs across Arraial d’Ajuda, where you will need to take the ferry crossing between Porto Seguro and Arraial d’Ajuda. The other route (which is longer – 48 miles), is through the BR-367 highway and then follow through BA-001. It is worth mentioning that the quality of the road is not the best, so make sure to pay close attention.
• By Bus – now, if you are on a budget, the most economical option to get to Trancoso is taking the bus from Arraial d’Ajuda. In this case, youy will need to take an Uber to the ferry harbor, take the ferry to Arraial da d’Ajuda, and then take the bus from Arraial d’Ajuda to Trancoso. It may seem like a really long quest, but it isn’t that bad really, and you’ll get to see many beautiful scenarios on your way there.
• By Uber/Private Driver – finally, if you are looking to get to Trancoso in the fastest and most comfortable way, calling for the Uber service, taxi or hiring a private transfer driver from Porto Seguro Airport is the best choice. Uber rides are approximately USD 30.00 to take up to 4 people there. The average cost of a private transfer driver is around USD 50.00 and you can ask in your hotel if they have a reliable person to recommend.

What To Do In Trancoso

Have a drink at quadrado.

The Quadrado is one of the main attractions of Trancoso, being a place with an important historical background for the region. It was here that the first Jesuit village was built in 1586, remaining for many centuries as a hidden place.

In the ’70s, this famous group of houses started gaining color, and over the years, it slowly turned into the district’s commercial center. During the day, the Quadrado location is the perfect spot for many Instagrammable pics, mainly due to its striking and beautiful colors.

But the place gets even more alive at night, when the restaurants and local bars light the candles on the outside tables, making the scenery even more beautiful.

Visit the Itaquena Wild Beach

If you want to lay down in a semi-deserted, extensive wild beach bathed by clear water, then the Itaquena beach must definitely be on your itinerary. The site is one of the most untouched and remote in the region, located halfway between Trancoso and Praia do Espelho, in an environmental protection area called Reserva da Vida Selvagem do Rio dos Frades.

Since the beach is pretty deserted, don’t forget to take some snacks if you are thinking about spending the whole day there (and don’t forget to bring your trash bag with you too!).

Visit the Rio Verde Beach

Now, if wild beaches aren’t really your thing, then the Rio Verde coast might be right up your alley . The beach is surrounded by bars and restaurants, not to mention a few beach clubs famous for rocking the shores (Paradise and Bahia Bonita are some of them). The waves are strong and ideal for surfing as well.

Other Things to Do In Trancoso:

• visit the Itapororoca Beach
• visit Praia do Espelho
• visit the São João Batista square
• visit the Taípe Beach

8. Campos do Jordão – São Paulo (SP)

General Trip Vibe: eat good food, enjoy the cold weather in Brazil, marvel at the local architecture How Many Days Should You Stay: at least 3 days Best Time To Visit: from March to August Best Places To Stay At: Golden Park Campos do Jordão , Dan Inn Campos do Jordão , Hotel Leão da Montanha , Nacional Inn Campos do Jordão

Locally known as the “Brazilian Switzerland,” Campos do Jordão is a small town located in Serra da Mantiqueira, in the countryside of the São Paulo state. Due to its altitude (1600 meters above the sea), Campos do Jordão is a perfect destination for chilly weather lovers , and it also has great infrastructure and several attractions for the most diverse types of tourists.

The city’s gastronomy is another local highlight, having many restaurants of international standard, but with a focus on regional products such as olive oil, mushrooms, trout, chocolate, among others . Finally, Campos do Jordão houses 4 amazing local breweries for the beer enthusiasts, so get ready for some serious tastings!

How To Get To Campos do Jordão?

The best way to get to Campos do Jordão is by flying to the Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) in São Paulo and then taking a bus, an Uber, or renting a car to finish the rest of the trip. Campos de Jordão is located about 94 miles from São Paulo, and it should take you around 2 and a half hours to get there.

What To Do In Campos do Jordão?

Visit the vila capivari district.

Vila Capivari is one of the busiest neighborhoods in Campo de Jordão, housing a lot of attractions for those looking to enjoy the city both during the day as well as during the nighttime. The district almost looks like something out of a European movie, with its local architecture decorated in true Colonial style.

There are a lot of restaurants, bars, bakeries, and cafés around, which is why the district is always so busy. There are also some pretty cool gift stores for you to buy a few souvenirs to bring home.

Visit The Felícia Leiner Museum

Felícia Leiner was a Polish artist who came to Brazil in 1927. Fast forward a few years, and during one of her trips around the country, she came across Campos de Jordão while in search of a peaceful place and decided to settle in after falling in love with the city.

In 1978, she founded the museum, and it has ever since become a must-see attraction in Campos do Jordão for all art enthusiasts. There are sculptures on display in the indoor and outdoor areas, and there is also a very delicious restaurant so you can recharge your energies!

Visit The Horto Florestal State Park

The Horto Florestal State Park has over 20k acres of green, being a perfect place for a picnic with the children and also for trekking on the two existing trails: the Cachoeira Trail (which is 2,7 miles long), and the Campos make Timoni Trail, which has around 1,8 miles. Also, make sure to visit the exhibition center and the small chapel there; they are both very charming.

Other Things To Do In Campos do Jordão:

• take lots of pictures at the Pico do Imbiri
• watch the sunset at the Vista Chinesa observatory (Belvedere)
• ride the cable car up to Morro do Elefante
• go fishing at the Pesca na Montanha EcoPark
• go beer tasting at the Cervejaria Baden Baden brewery

Oh, and for those who enjoy good music, it is also worth visiting Campos do Jordão during the wintertime when the Campos de Jordão International Winter Festival takes place . The festival is considered one of the best classical music events in the country and usually takes place in July.

9. Morretes – Paraná (PR)

General Trip Vibe: enjoy the local culinary, outdoor activities, visit beautiful waterfalls How Many Days Should You Stay: at least 3 days Best Time To Visit: from December to March Best Places To Stay At: Casa da Estação ,   Pousada Bella Morretes ,   Pousada Dona Laura ,   Pousada Cidreira , Porto Real Hotel  

Morretes is a super cozy city located in between the mountains and the coastal area of ​​the state of Paraná. In its historic center (located on the banks of the Nhundiaquara River), there are several Colonial mansions that house the local restaurants, bars, cachaçarias, and artisanal craft shops.

One of the main highlights of this small coastal town is a locally famous dish called barreado, which consists of a large piece of meat that is cooked in a clay pot for almost 20 hours. The dish has a unique seasoning, also being served with flour and bananas on the side.

How To Get To Morretes?

The best way to get to Morretes is by landing at the Curitiba International Airport (Aeroporto Internacional Afonso Pena – CWB). Then, you can choose between getting to Morretes by bus or by renting a car, but the coolest way to get there is by using the train service.

It takes just under four hours to cross one of the oldest railways in the country, cutting through tunnels, bridges, descending the Serra do Mar mountain, and observing the natural beauties of the Atlantic Forest reservation. It may take you a while to get to Morretes, but the train trip is surely worth all the trouble!

What To Do In Morretes?

Visit the nhundiaquara river and its surroundings.

Morretes was born on the banks of the Nhundiaquara River, and this scenario is still one of the main highlights in the region. Around the metallic bridge that crosses the river, you will find a conglomerate consisting of several restaurants and bars, a famous spot with very good infrastructure. In addition, locals say that watching the sunset sitting at the Nhundiaquara River is an obligatory activity, so don’t miss out on that as well!

Visit the Pico do Marumbi State Park

For those who want to get the adrenaline pumping, visiting the Pico do Marumbi State Park is the ideal thing to do. The park is filled with waterfalls, trails, and beautiful peaks, but it is recommended to have an experienced guide to take you there, as the place is a little bit difficult to access when you don’t know your way around it.

If you happen to visit the park during the hot weather season, then you must visit the Salto dos Macacos waterfall as well, which is known for its natural stone “slides.” The natural pool (with a breathtaking view and no borders – which makes it look like a natural infinity pool) can be accessed after a two-hour walk, and diving into its waters surely is the best way to celebrate your hard work!

Visit The Nearby Beaches

Morretes is located about 30 miles from Pontal do Paraná, a nearby coastal city that houses beach resorts such as Praia de Leste, and Pontal do Sul . So, if you want to fit a few days at the ocean in your itinerary, you can get to the shores pretty quickly from Morretes.

The Praia de Leste beach is a definite crowd-pleaser with its beautiful calm sapphire blue waters and soft sand. In addition to all the natural beauty, the place also has a pretty good infrastructure , with lots of vendors and beach apparel rental (chairs and/or umbrellas) on the sand. There are also restaurants and shops on the outskirts of the beach.

Other Things To Do In Morretes:

• have a one of a kind gastronomic experience at Celeiro Ecogastronomia
• visit the historic houses at the city’s downtown area
• have a few drinks and dinner at Empório do Largo
• learn more about the local history at Paraná Encantado HISGEOPAR
• visit the Ekôa Park

10. Baía Formosa – Rio Grande do Norte (RN)

General Trip Vibe: relax at the beach, outdoor activities How Many Days Should You Stay: at least 2 days Best Time To Visit: from June to January Best Places To Stay At:

Baía Formosa is a small town located about 55 miles from Natal, the capital of Rio Grande do Sul. Surrounded by lush nature and beautiful cliffs, the region has natural pools and some of the most beautiful beaches in Brazil. Also, this little paradise is the perfect spot for adventurers and surfers.

That is because Baía Formosa has over 16 miles of beaches housed by its coast, so you won’t have much trouble finding a quiet spot in case you want some peacefulness. The city itself has a little bit of everything; there are options for those who just want to relax and enjoy the sea and also for those who want to have fun and party a little.

How To Get To Baía Formosa?

The best way to get to Baía Formosa is by landing at the Natal International Airport (Aeroporto Internacional Augusto Severo – NAT) and then concluding the rest of the trip on the road. However, you can also choose to land at the João Pessoa International Airport (Aeroporto Internacional Presidente Castro Pinto – JPA), as they both have the same distance from baía Formosa.

You can take a travel bus to Baía Formosa from either one of the airports or rent a car to drive there, which should take you a little over an hour. Renting a car is always a nice option, as it lets you have more autonomy in regards to the neighboring places you could be visiting.

What To Do In Baía Formosa?

Visit praia da cacimba.

Praia da Cacimba is one of the main beaches in Baía Formosa, and it attracts a lot of tourists in the region due to its paradisiac surroundings. Therefore, this is a beach that will surely please most different visitors, from those interested in relaxing or just swimming in the sea to the more adventurous, who want to crash into the waves – which can reach mind-boggling heights, FYI!

Visit the Baía Formosa Observatory

The Baia Formosa Observatory is one of the best ways to observe and take in most of the beauty of the region. Located in a privileged position, this observatory offers a unique view of the local beaches and cliffs, which allows for some pretty awesome pictures.

The sunset is a time when most locals and tourists gather to witness the beautiful horizon and its different colors, so make sure to get there early and catch the best spot!

Bathe In The Natural Pools

As many of the beaches in Baía Formosa are formed by rocks or sandbanks close to their shores, it is possible to enjoy the natural pools that form during the low tide, which is the ideal time to enjoy the sun-warmed waters and take a dip in the sea.

The natural pools are also a great place for children, as the little ones can swim and cool off safely without having to worry about big waves or drowning.

Other Things To Do In Baía Formosa:

• visit the Bacupari Beach
• take the buggy ride tour across the beaches
• take the boat tour (there are high chances of seeing dolphins!)
• go surfing at Baía dos Golfilhos

11. Aiuruoca – Minas Gerais (MG)

General Trip Vibe: enjoy the beautiful landscapes, enjoy the local food, outdoor activities How Many Days Should You Stay: at least 2 days Best Time To Visit: from June to January Best Places To Stay At: Pousada Pico do Papagaio , Pousada do Waldir , Pousada Recanto das Flores , Chalé Vale do Cangalha , Chalé na montanha Matutu

The historic cities of Minas Gerais are well known in Brazil, but the Aiuruoca district is a clear highlight from the rest of them. With about six thousand inhabitants, the city is a small paradise surrounded by nature located in Serra da Mantiqueira, at an altitude of 1,050 meters.

The many waterfalls, wells, trails in the middle of the forest, and the beautiful viewpoints are the clear stand-outs of the region, with Vale do Matutu and Vale dos Garcia being home to the most popular waterfalls, such as Macacos and Fadas.

How To Get To Aiuruoca?

The best way to get to Aiuruoca is by landing in any of these three airports:

• the Belo Horizonte International Airport (Aeroporto Internacional de Confins -CNF)
• the São Paulo International Airport (Aeroporto Internacional de Guarulhos – GRU)
• the Rio de Janeiro International Airport (Aeroporto Internacional Tom Jobim – GIG)

You can rent a car from any of the three airports and drive to Aiuruoca, which should take between 4 to 5 hours (depending on the traffic and your overall speed). If you are not comfortable driving for so long, you can take a bus at the local bus stations or hire the services of a qualified driver (which the hotel you’ll be staying in will probably be able to recommend).

What To Do In Aiuruoca?

Visit the beautiful local waterfalls.

If you are visiting during the hot season, then why not cooling off at the local waterfalls? Amongst the many choices, you can visit the Cachoeira do Fundo waterfall, as well as Deus-Me-Livre, Cachoeiras das Fadas, Vale dos Garcia, and a few others.

If you are a fan of long walks and trekking, you will find the Joaquim Bernardo well on the way to the Vale dos Garcia waterfall, where you can enjoy stone slides and some delicious natural hydro massages. The trail that leads to the Cachoeira do Fundo waterfalls requires a little bit of physical preparation, but you can bet that the scenery of all these trails is damn worth the effort!

Fill Your Tummy With Delicious Food

If you know anything about Minas Gerais, then you might be aware that the local cuisine is just absolutely DELICIOUS. I mean, sorry for the caps, but this is actually my favorite type of regional culinary in Brazil, and if you haven’t had any “comida mineira” (how Brazilians refer to the food made in Minas Gerais) yet, prepare to fall in love.

Walk Around the Town’s Center Area

Located in Aiuruoca’s central region, the town’s square is a charming little place, with a cozy gazebo and a few benches that are certainly inviting for you to take a moment and enjoy the peaceful vibes of the city. There are several restaurants and snack bars around the square as well.

There are also several shops around selling artisanal products, but don’t leave all your shopping to the last minute, as most of them close by 5 PM! Oh, and if you happen to be in town on a Sunday, there are always Forró dances at the square every Sunday night!

And if you don’t know how to dance de Forró, don’t worry! We covered that and many other traditional Brazilian dances in this post , so you can practice until you get to the country!

Other Things to Do In Aiuruoca:

• visit the Casarão do Matutu, a local historical museum located at Vale do Mututu
• visit the waterfall at Vale dos Garcias, said to be the most beautiful waterfall in the region
• visit the Serra do Papagaio State Park
• watch the stars during the night time, as because of the altitude, you’ll feel closer to the skies 😉

12. Cabaceiras – Paraíba (PA)

General Trip Vibe: visit Brazilian cinema famous locations, enjoy the beautiful landscapes, enjoy the local festivals and parties How Many Days Should You Stay: at least 2 days Best Time To Visit: from June to January Best Places To Stay At: Pousada Familiar Shalom , Flor de Mandacaru Pousada , Pousada Glória , Hotel Casa Blanca Express

Located in the Northeast region of Brazil, this city of five thousand inhabitants is one of the most important tourist destinations in Paraíba. Cabaceiras is locally known as the “Brazilian Hollywood” for having served as background to over 30 Brazilian cinematographic productions, including the film “O Auto da Compadecida.”

The colorful houses at Cabaceira’s historic center are one of the reasons why tourists love coming to the city, but Cabaceiras also has many other tourist attractions, such as the Lajedo do Pai Mateus and the Cinematographic Memorial.

How To Get To Cabaceiras?

The best way to get to Cabaceiras is by landing at the João Pessoa International Airport (Presidente Castro Pinto Airport – JPA), taking a bus at the city’s bus station to Campina Grande, and from there, taking another bus to Cabaceiras.

If you are any good with directions and has a valid license to drive in the country (take a look at this guide we made to learn more about it), you could always rent a car at the airport and drive to Cabaceiras yourself, which should take you just under 3 hours.

What To Do In Cabaceiras?

Visit the “roliude” sign.

Right at the entrance to the city, you will come across a giant sign written in white that says “ROLIÚDE NORDESTINA” – a Brazilian take on “Hollywood from the Northeast” and an obvious nod to the original Hollywood Sign.

As we stated earlier, the city has been the stage of many Brazilian movie productions, mainly because there are very few chances of rain in the city most of the time. Some of the movies shot in Cabaceiras include Madame Satã, Canta Maria, Beiço de Estrada, Por Trás do Céu, Viva São João, and O Auto da Compadecida.

Visit The Film Memorial (Memorial Cinematográfico)

And of course, what would the Brazilian Northeast “Roliude” be without a small museum filled with photos of the recordings in which the city served as a background, right? Overall, the Film Memorial houses photographs and clippings from newspapers and magazines that had pieces on the films that were shot in Cabaceiras. Although very simple, it is a pretty cool place to visit!

Have Fun At The Bode Rei Festivity

Cabaceiras is a pretty chill and deserted city most of the year, except during the season of the Bode Rei festival, which is very traditional. The festival houses fairs, courses, crafts, competitions, dances (especially forró pé-de-serra) and has plenty of delicious food as well, including the locally famous tapioca filled with goat meat. The festival takes place from May to June, so make sure to stop by if you are in town!

Other Things To Do In Cabaceiras:

• have drinks and shop at Bar do Zé de Cila
• visit the Matriz Nossa Senhora da Conceição Church, where the O Auto da Compadecida movie was shot
• visit the Lajedo de Pai Mateus rock formation (there are only 2 other rock formations in the world like this one)
• visit the História e Museu da Cultura Cariris Paraibanos museum

So, that was it for our amazing 12 cities you should visit in Brazil! There are plenty of amazing places to visit throughout the country, and I hope we were able to give you a little taste of some of the locations you could include in your next trip!

While you are here, I think we might interest you with these:

Where To Go From Rio: 19 Places for Amazing Short Trips – if you are already familiar with the city of wonders, how about getting to know a few of the amazing locations you can visit just outside Rio de Janeiro? Click here to get to know 19 of them!

Travel to Brazil for cheap: 19 tips for a budget-friendly trip – worried that your tight budget might spoil your trip to Brazil? Well, worry no more, my friend, because we have 19 good news for you! Click here and check out how you could make your trip much more budget-friendly!

South Brazil Itinerary: travel through the REAL South – the South is the biggest region in Brazil, and therefore, houses some pretty amazing destinations waiting for you to visit. Click here and take a look at our itinerary suggestions so you can get to know the real south of Brazil!

Cover Photo: people enjoying a night out at Campos do Jordão, São Paulo – Credit: WikiCommons | Deni Williams

Bruno Reguffe

What's up, everyone! I'm Bruno, and I'm a nutritionist living in Rio de Janeiro. I've been a longtime friend of Ana's, and I'm excited to help her expand on all things Brazilian with y'all, as well as sharing some of our culture and a few personal experiences while living in the country!

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Discover the World

10 Most Amazing Destinations in Southern Brazil

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on November 2, 2023

Long a favorite getaway spot for residents of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay, the southern tip of the Brazil is fast becoming a popular destination for visitors from every corner of the globe. With attractions that range from pristine beaches and awe-inspiring waterfalls to historic ruins and modern museums, it’s easy to understand the region’s growing appeal. Exploring the relatively small area is surprisingly easy as well. Largely inhabited by people of European descent, most destinations in Southern Brazil boast a high standard of living, a strong infrastructure and a well-developed hospitality industry. With its temperate climate, delightful cuisine and abundance of recreational activities, Southern Brazil a wonderful place to spend a memorable vacation.

10. Porto Alegre [SEE MAP]

The state capital of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre is situated along the banks of Guaiba estuary where five rivers spill into a mammoth freshwater lagoon. The large metropolis is one of the prosperous in Brazil, and it’s one of the most culturally rich cities as well. With its expansive collection of photographs and archeological artifacts, the Joaquim José Felizardo Museum is a must-see for any visitor interested in the city’s historic past. Unfortunately, crime levels in the city are concerning and the downtown area is clearly seedy, even during the day.

9. Balneario Camboriu [SEE MAP]

Nestled against steep hills on the coast of Santa Catarina state, Balneário Camboriú is one of the most popular beach resorts in Southern Brazil. Often compared to Copacabana, the city features a long line of high-rise hotels, clubs and bars that stretches along the entire length of the arcing shoreline. Like Rio de Janeiro, Balneário Camboriú has a large-scale statue of Christ standing atop a hill overlooking the city. A complex with restaurants, shops and playgrounds are clustered around the base of the 10-story-high statue. Known for its lively nightlife, Balneário Camboriú boasts family-friendly attractions too, including a zoo, aquarium and a botanical garden.

8. Sao Miguel das Missoes [SEE MAP]

Located in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, the small town of São Miguel das Missões is home to what remains of the 17th-century mission of the same name. The picturesque ruins are the best preserved of the seven Jesuit missions that were built in the land of the Guaranis during the 17th and 18th centuries, in order to convert the natives to Christianity. Now protected as part of an historic park, São Miguel is prized for the beauty of its surroundings as well as for the mission’s graceful architectural style. Statuary unearthed in archeological digs is on display at the nearby Mission Museum, which was designed by renowned Brasilia architect Lucío Costa.

7. Blumenau [SEE MAP]

Located in the state of Santa Catarina, Blumenau was largely settled by Germans in the 1800s, and its old-world Bavarian atmosphere is still its star attraction. The city’s Oktoberfest is the biggest in Brazil, filled with beer-drinking street parties that rival Rio de Janeiro’s Carnaval in size. Blumenau’s German-inspired cuisine and architecture, however, attract sightseers year round. Charming half-timbered buildings abound in the quaint Vila Germânica historic district where German bands play and eateries serve everything from hot dogs to smoked pork chops and ham hocks.

6. Aparados da Serra National Park [SEE MAP]

Encompassing broad swaths of land along the border between the states of Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina, Brazil’s first national park was established to protect the region’s spectacular canyons. The breathtaking Itaimbezinho is the park’s main attraction. A short walk from the visitor center leads to the rim of this canyon, offering views of seasonal waterfalls plunging into the deep valley below. During the dry season, hardy adventurers can hire a professional guide and spend an entire day tramping along the river bed that runs through the canyon’s base.

5. Curitiba [SEE MAP]

The capital of the state of Paraná and its largest city, Curitiba is both a jumping-off point for excursions in the area and a city worth exploring in its own right. With its extensive public transportation system, pedestrian-only zones and abundance of green spaces, Curitiba is considered a model of environmental sustainability. Curitiba boasts restored historic architecture like the Old City Hall and the colonial buildings of Largo da Ordem. To take in some natural beauty, visit the Botanical Garden where you can stroll through the palace-like greenhouses, the labyrinthine French gardens and the Botanical Museum.

4. Ilha do Mel [SEE MAP]

The coastline of Southern Brazil features hundreds of beautiful beaches, but few compare to the pristine stretches sand found on Ilha do Mel. Thanks to its designation as an ecologically protected zone, the island located off the shores of the state of Paraná remains untouched by modern development. No cars are allowed on Ilha do Mel, but the island is crisscrossed with a network of foot paths and trails. The number of daily visitors is limited too, ensuring that everyone enjoys an uncrowded experience. When not sunning, swimming or surfing, a scenic lighthouse, grotto and 18th-century Portuguese fort located on the island invite exploration.

3. Morretes [SEE MAP]

Located on the banks of the Rio Nhundiaquara in the state of Paraná, Morretes offers visitors a picturesque view of life in colonial Southern Brazil. Many of the structures built here during the 1700s remain largely intact, particularly those along the cobblestone promenade that parallels the river. The colonial town is best known for its restaurants and for the local dish barreado, a tasty meat stew cooked in a ceramic pot. Morretes is often visited as a side strip from Curitiba, and the popular Paranagua-Curitiba Railway tour passes through the town as well.

2. Florianopolis [SEE MAP]

Founded as a port city by the Portuguese in the 1700s, Florianópolis is best known today for the beautiful island of Santa Catarina that lies within the city’s boundaries. More than 40 sandy beaches hug the shores of this resort island, offering endless opportunities for water sports from surfing and scuba diving to parasailing and sand-boarding. Connected to the ocean by a canal, the Lagoa da Conceição is a popular destination too. Gorgeous views make the large saltwater lagoon the perfect spot for leisurely strolls. The island’s best restaurants, shops and night spots are found in this upscale area too.

1. Foz do Iguacu [SEE MAP]

No visit to Southern Brazil is complete without a visit to the majestic Iguaçu Falls located at the point where the borders of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay meet. Located just a short drive from Foz do Iguaçu, the nearest city, the mammoth waterfall has been described as “Niagra on Viagra.” Depending on the season, between 275 and 350 falls tumble together in tiered cascades over the steep cliffs in a thunderous roar. Hiking trails offer panoramic vistas of the falls and close-up views of the lush forest fed by the constant spray. Boat rides take thrill-seeking passengers near to the base of some of the falls.

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

The 10 Best Historic Sites in Brazil

Discover the best historic sites in brazil, from the national historical museum to the ruins of sao miguel das missoes..

Kyle Hoekstra

24 nov 2020, @kylehoekstra.

There are plenty of incredible sites, museums and monuments in Brazil to whet your appetite for historical travels. They include National Historical Museum, which was founded in 1922 and contains over 300,000 items relating to Brazil’s history, the prehistoric remains in Serra da Capivara National Park, and the 18th century Jesuit church at Sao Miguel das Missoes.

Our list of the best historic sites in Brazil is your passport to the South American country’s fascinating history.

1. Sao Miguel das Missoes

Sao Miguel das Missoes was founded in the 18th century by the Jesuits or the ‘Society of Jesus’ and intended to convert the indigenous Guarani population to Christianity.

Very little remains of Sao Miguel das Missoes, most of this historic site having been destroyed in 1768 as part of a campaign to expel the Jesuits. The church, of which some ruins remain, had actually already been ravaged by a fire in 1760.

2. Carandiru Prison Museum

Known locally as ‘Casa de Detencao’, the House of Detention, Carandiru Prison in São Paulo was designed by Samuel das Neves in 1920. In October 1992, a revolt over inhumane conditions led to what became known as the Carandiru Massacre. The Policia Militar do Estado de São Paulo stormed the cell blocks, killing 102 prisoners.

The prison was demolished in 2002. The Paulista Penitentiary Museum in the north of the city occupies the one remaining cell block. It aims to preserve the documentation which tells the story of one of the world’s most brutal prisons.

The 21,000-plus collection includes detailed paintings, sculptures and furniture made by prisoners in creative workshops as well as objects ‘that help to reassemble the daily lives of the prisoners’, including rudimental tattoo machines and makeshift weapons.

3. National Historical Museum of Brazil

The National Historical Museum of Brazil, or the Museu Histórico Nacional in Portuguese, is situated in the historic centre of Rio de Janeiro on the site of a Portuguese fortification, arsenal and prison. The buildings were opened to the public in 1922.

Inside the museum, visitors will be able to see the throne of Dom Pedro III (1825-1891), the last monarch of imperial Brazil, and luxuriously ornamented imperial coaches. The museum also features expansive oil paintings of the Paraguayan War, which lasted from 1864 to 1870.

4. Ingá Stone

The Ingá Stone is a rock formation near the Ingá River in northeast Brazil which includes symbols and glyphs thought to have been produced by the pre-Columbian indigneous inhabitants of the region. The meaning of the carvings remain uncertain, but may allude to astronomy, animals and fruits.

The first reports of rock art in the state of Paraíba were made by European settlers in the 16th century. The rock art at Ingá are the most representative group of a particular type of engraving tradition in Brazil. The stone retains symbolic significance for the descendants of the indigenous population of the region.

5. Christ the Redeemer

Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor) is a 30 metre high statue overlooking Rio de Janeiro. It is mounted upon an 8 metre pedestal and the 700 metre high mountain of Corcovado. It was constructed between 1922 and 1931 and is a Brazilian cultural icon and global symbol of Christianity.

Christ the Redeemer was created by French sculptor Paul Landwoski and Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, working with French engineer Albert Caquot. It weighs 635 metric tons. The face of the Christ the Redeemer statue was created by Gheorghe Leonida, a Romanian sculptor living in Paris hired by Landowski.

6. Football Museum

The Football Museum in São Paulo, Brazil is dedicated to the country’s passionate embrace of football. It contains multimedia displays designed to summon the excitement of the sport. It’s devoted to the practice and wider history of football and was inaugurated in 2008 with Brazilian former football star Pelé in attendance.

The Football Museum is close to the centre of São Paulo. It’s housed inside the Pacaembu Stadium, which was built in 1940 and is one of Brazil’s oldest football stadiums. It features a large exhibit devoted to different editions of the World Cup from 1930 onwards.

7. Museu Afro-Brasil

Museu Afro-Brasil is dedicated to the history of African people in Brazil’s colonial and modern history, and explores aspects of Afro-Brazilian culture. The museum collects objects connected to the subjects of Africa, labour, slavery, religion, history, memory and art.

Its collection of artwork includes important works by Afro-Brazilian artists and its collection of Afro-descendant art is the largest in the Americas. The museum is located in the major Ibirapuera Park in São Paulo.

8. Serra da Capivara National Park

The canyons of Serra da Capivara National Park feature over 500 shelters and caves as well as early evidence of human habitation. It was designated a World Heritage Site in 1991 after the park was created to protect the prehistoric remains located in the area. The Capivara mountain range was densely populated before significant European influence in the Americas.

The park is situated in Piauí, a northeastern state of Brazil, and its landscape is characterised by canyons and the thorny shrublands known as the Caatinga. Archaeological sites in the park include Pedra Furada, Toca de Pena, Baxao de Esperanca and Sitio de Meio.

9. Historic Centre of Salvador

The Historic Centre of Salvador is a location in the Brazilian city of Salvador that retains impressive Renaissance buildings, brightly coloured houses and sober allusions to the fact that this site was one of the first slave markets in the Americas.

The Historic Centre of Salvador is a destination for dining, music and nightlife. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and has been a national heritage site since 1984. Many of the buildings have been renovated: over 800 buildings have restored facades and interiors.

10. Ouro Preto

Ouro Preto is a city in Minas Gerais, Brazil and an important former colonial mining town that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ouro Preto was founded in the late 17th century and was originally known as Vila Rica (“Rich Town”), for its role in the Brazilian Gold Rush which started in the 1690s.

The municipality became known as Ouro Preto (“Black Gold”, for the local gold that is covered with iron oxide) on 23 May 1823 when the village was distinguished as a city. Ouro Preto features well-preserved Portuguese colonial architecture in its city centre, which is relatively unmarked by modern urban development.

10 Best Places To Visit In Brazil, From São Paulo To Iguazu

B razil is the largest country in South America by land area, so it comes as no surprise that exploring this vast destination requires covering significant ground. Most people are familiar with Rio de Janeiro, which is famous for housing one of the Seven Wonders of the New World, Christ the Redeemer.

But beyond Rio de Janeiro is a rich combination of islands, wetlands, nature, and bustling cities waiting to be discovered. These are 10 of the best places to visit in Brazil from Iguazu falls all the way to the city of São Paulo.

Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls (Foz do Iguaçu) are one of the seven new natural wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Straddling the border of Brazil in the state of Paraná and Argentina in the province Misiones. Iguazu Falls is a magnificent collection of over 275 waterfalls.

80% of the falls are on the Argentina side and only 20% are on the Brazilian side, so it’s worthwhile to cross over into Argentina while visiting this destination.

Travelers can also make a quick day trip to Ciudad del Este in Paraguay to do some shopping from Iguazu Falls.

Pantanal Wetlands

The Pantanal wetlands in Brazil are a nature photographer’s dream destination. Home to the largest tropical wetland area in the world, Pantanal is primarily in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul .

Jaguars hunt caiman in the Pantanal, so taking a guided tour of the region for a couple of days of attempting to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a popular thing to do.

São Paulo city is the capital of the Brazilian state of the same name and is one of the most populous cities in the entire world. As an industrial hub and cultural center for the country, it’s a must-visit stop on any tour of Brazil.

• Shopping at Mercado Municipal and visiting the São Paulo Art Museum are just a couple of the things to do here.

Related: Don't Break The Bank: Here Are the Top 10 Most Affordable Hotels In Brazil

Rio De Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is a coastal city in Brazil that is famous for its stunning coastline where it's easy to spend a full week . Areas like Copacabana and Ipanema beaches attract visitors from around the world.

The top attraction in Rio de Janeiro is Christ the Redeemer, an Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ that was designed by a French sculptor named Paul Landowski. The statute was built by a Brazilian engineer named Heitor da Silva Cost. Standing at the base of the statute offers an awe-inspiring view of the city and coastline below.

Plan a visit to Rio de Janeiro in February for a chance to experience Carnaval , the biggest street party of the year.

Fernando De Noronha

Fernando de Noronha is an archipelago off the northeast coast of Brazil. Its largest island has a protected national marine park and ecological sanctuary which, on their own, are worth the visit. The rugged beaches and crystal blue waters are popular for swimming, scuba diving, and spotting wildlife like sea turtles and dolphins.

Related: 10 Dishes You Must Try In Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

The Amazon rainforest is an expansive biome that stretches across various countries in South America including Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Guyana, Colombia, and Suriname.

When in Brazil, travelers can go to the city of Manaus in the state of Amazonas to begin their Amazonian adventure.

Most people might not realize that the city of Brasília is the capital of Brazil. It became the federal capital in 1960 and clean, sleek-looking city thanks to its white and modern architectural design. Strolling around Pontão do Lago Sul and visiting the Cathedral of Brasília are a couple of the top things to do here.

The largest city in the state of Paraná, and also its capital, Curitiba is a cultural hub and has many venues for performing arts events. It’s most famous for its Ópera de Arame - Vale da Música (in English, the Wire Opera) which is a performance venue capable of hosting more than 2,000 people.

Other attractions in the city include the scenic Botanical Garden of Curitiba and the Museu Oscar Niemeyer (celebrating the Brazilian architect).

Related: 10 Tips For Visiting Copacabana Beach, Brazil

Florianópolis

Florianópolis is the capital of Santa Catarina state in southern Brazil. The majority of the state is an island off the south coast of mainland Brazil, and the island is where Florianópolis is located.

For a beach destination, this is one of the best cities in the country to visit. Joaquina Beach and Jurerê are two of the must-visit spots.

Salvador is located in the northeastern Brazilian state of Bahia and is recognizable for its beautiful Portuguese colonial architecture. However, within the city, there is a rich Brazilian culture and a historic city center with cobblestone walkways and colorful homes.

Top things to do include visiting the Igreja e Convento de São Francisco (a historic church), the Elevador Lacerda (a unique elevator connecting the upper and lower city), and Itaipava Fonte Nova Arena (a sports stadium).