What to do in Belo Horizonte: top tips & must-see attractions
January 20, 2025
- Brazil
Naomi van Hagen
Content
Some countries are simply a must-visit in your lifetime, and Brazil is one of them. From watching the sunrise over Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro to swimming in the lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses for the first time, these are experiences you’ll never forget. Add the colonial charm of Paraty, the jungle of Ilha Grande, and the colorful cultural cities of Salvador and Olinda, and you’ll understand why a road trip through Brazil feels like a series of bucket list moments. But Brazil is so vast that you might wonder: where should you start, and which places are truly unmissable? In this article, we share the most beautiful places in Brazil. Want a complete itinerary at your fingertips? Check out our ultimate Brazil itinerary for even more travel inspiration!
1. Rio de Janeiro: the vibrant beachside metropolis
Who doesn’t know the city? Rio de Janeiro, the incredible metropolis where vibrant city life meets tropical beaches. Naturally, this destination belongs on any list of the most beautiful places in Brazil. Here, you can feel the energy of Brazil in every street, on every square, and with every sunset over the city.
Famous highlights like Christ the Redeemer, the iconic Copacabana Beach, and the cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain are absolute must-sees. These are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. But Rio de Janeiro is much more than the major attractions. Attend a legendary football match, dance samba on the streets, and enjoy a caipirinha at sunset in Ipanema. A visit to Rio is truly unforgettable!
Many travelers start their journey through Brazil in Rio de Janeiro, and you can too! Plan the starting point of your trip with our top tips for sights and activities in Rio de Janeiro.
2. Paraty: charming colonial town on Brazil’s coast
The moment I discovered Paraty, I was instantly in love. This picturesque colonial town is steeped in history and culture, while being surrounded by lush jungle, waterfalls, and idyllic beaches, a combination you won’t find anywhere else. Paraty is located between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, making it a popular stop on a Brazil road trip. Once you arrive, you immediately feel the unique mix of history, nature, and adventure.
Wander through the historic center with its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming cafés. Then set out to explore the lesser-known beaches, such as Praia do Meio, Praia do Cachadaço, and Praia do Trindade, each offering a touch of extra paradise.
Want to know the best way to explore this charming town and which activities you absolutely shouldn’t miss? Check out our detailed guide on things to do in Paraty for all our personal tips and advice.
3. The Amazon: Brazil’s most stunning destination and the heart of the jungle
When it comes to the most beautiful places in Brazil, the Amazon cannot be missed. This is the country’s green heart: a dense, mysterious jungle teeming with life. Staying in a jungle lodge, waking up to the calls of howler monkeys, cruising along the mighty Amazon River, and spotting caimans and pink dolphins: a trip to this region feels like a true expedition.
The best base for exploring the Amazon is Manaus, the city right in the heart of the jungle. From here, you can join multi-day tours that take you deep into the wilderness. You’ll experience how fragile yet immense this ecosystem is, and gain a unique insight into the traditions of the local communities that have lived here for centuries. A visit to the Amazon is intense, adventurous, and unforgettable, often the highlight of any Brazil road trip.
4. Ilha Grande: one of Brazil’s most beautiful destinations with beach and jungle
This car-free island is one of Brazil’s most beautiful destinations and feels like pure tropical magic. Wander along deserted beaches, swim in turquoise lagoons, and hike jungle trails leading to iconic spots such as Praia Lopes Mendes and Pico do Papagaio. By day, take a boat tour to hidden bays or trek through the rainforest, and by night, explore the charming village of Abraão with its cozy bars and boutique shops. Ilha Grande is the ultimate Brazilian paradise. So enchanting that you’ll want to stay for days.
Discover why Ilha Grande is so special in our complete guide to Ilha Grande, Brazil with travel tips and insider advice.
5. Lençóis Maranhenses: surreal sand dunes and crystal-clear lagoons
One of Brazil’s most stunning destinations lies hidden in the country’s northeast: Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. Imagine an endless desert of white sand dunes, dotted with thousands of bright blue and green lagoons. This natural wonder feels almost otherworldly and can only be reached by 4×4. The best time to visit is during the rainy season (May to September), when the lagoons are full and perfect for a refreshing swim. An experience you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
Want to know which lagoons are the most beautiful, the activities you can’t miss, and the best places to stay around Lençóis Maranhenses? Check out our guide to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park and get ready for one of the most unique experiences on your trip through Brazil.
6. Ouro Preto: colonial charm in the mountains of Brazil
When you think of Brazil, you probably imagine Carnival, samba, and the bustling metropolis of Rio de Janeiro. And yes, the country is full of paradisiacal beaches where you can relax, swim, and soak up the sun. But did you know that Brazil also has charming colonial towns that look like they’ve been lifted straight from a postcard? One of these gems—and truly one of the most beautiful places in Brazil—is the historic town of Ouro Preto in the state of Minas Gerais.
Think of steep streets lined with colorful houses, Baroque churches lavishly adorned with gold, and squares where the country’s turbulent history almost feels tangible. It’s like an open-air museum, but with a raw, lively edge. Here, you can wander for hours, get delightfully lost, and soak up Brazil’s rich culture.
Want to add Ouro Preto to your Brazil itinerary? Check out our tips for Ouro Preto and discover why this historic town is an absolute must-visit on your Brazil road trip.
7. Salvador: a colorful city full of culture and music
Salvador de Bahia is arguably one of the most beautiful places in Brazil, and certainly one of the most vibrant. Think colorful colonial streets, squares that could be straight out of a movie set, and a mix of African and Portuguese influences you feel in the music, dance, and local cuisine. Here, you can enjoy acarajé from a street stall, hear drums echoing through the historic Pelourinho district, and witness the city’s history come alive in its Baroque churches and monuments.
Salvador is a city with soul. Behind its vibrant colors lies a rich, yet sometimes painful history. It’s precisely this depth that makes a visit so striking. Here, you can experience culture in all its forms—from the colonial heritage to the Afro-Brazilian traditions that remain alive and thriving today.
A visit to Salvador can be perfectly combined with a few days of ultimate relaxation on Morro de São Paulo. Just a few hours by boat will take you to this tropical island with swaying palm trees and powder-white beaches. It's an ideal spot to unwind after all the excitement of the city.
Discover all our tips in our complete travel guide to Salvador da Bahia and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of this city.
8. Olinda: historic town full of art and carnival vibes
Wander through winding streets filled with pastel-colored houses, hear live music from every corner, and suddenly find yourself face-to-face with a giant carnival figure. That’s Olinda, a place in Brazil where history and creativity come together. This colonial town is rightfully recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It brims with culture, bursts with art, and surprises you with some of Brazil’s most beautiful sights. It’s the kind of destination that adds a touch of extra magic to your trip. Discover all our tips for Olinda: from the best things to do to the most charming places to stay.
9. Foz do Iguaçu: the most impressive waterfalls in Brazil
It’s as if nature went all out here: at Foz do Iguaçu, water thunders down with deafening force across no fewer than 275 waterfalls. Together, they form one of the largest waterfall systems in the world and perhaps Brazil’s most spectacular natural attraction. These breathtaking waterfalls span the border with Argentina and are surrounded by lush rainforest, creating an unforgettable setting.
The best views are from the Brazilian side, where you can admire the full expanse of the waterfalls. Stroll along the walkways, feel the mist on your face, and be awed by the sheer power of nature. For the true adventurers, boat tours are available that take you right up close to the falls.
What makes it even more special is that the border with Argentina lies right next to the park, allowing you to explore the Iguaçu Falls from the other side as well. Two countries, two perspectives, one unforgettable experience.
A versatile Brazil road trip
Do you want to plan your dream trip to Brazil based on these must-see destinations? We’re happy to help with a personalized travel plan! During a non-binding video call, we’ll listen to your wishes and provide tips on Brazil’s highlights: from the samba and beaches of Rio de Janeiro, the colonial charm of Paraty, and the colorful streets of Salvador, to the breathtaking dunes and lagoons of Lençóis Maranhenses. Prefer us to handle everything for you? As your personal travel consultants, we’ll create a tailor-made itinerary so all you have to do is enjoy an unforgettable roundtrip through Brazil.
Naomi van Hagen
Curious, creative and passionate about travel, I’m always on the lookout for unique destinations where culture, gastronomy and adventure come together. As a travel blogger, I share personal stories and insider tips from countries like Brazil, Greece, Indonesia, Thailand and Peru, from hidden gems and rich traditions to unforgettable culinary experiences. My blogs are based on real travel experiences and in-depth local knowledge. Ready to plan your own adventure? As a personal travel consultant, I’ll help you create a tailor-made trip that perfectly suits your travel dreams.
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