60 Best Places to Visit in Brazil: Ultimate Travel Guide

Brazil, the largest country in South America, offers an incredible diversity of experiences for travelers. From the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro to the pristine beaches of Fernando de Noronha and the vast wilderness of the Amazon rainforest, Brazil’s attractions are as varied as they are spectacular. This comprehensive guide highlights 60 of the best places to visit in Brazil, showcasing the country’s natural wonders, cultural treasures, and hidden gems that make it a dream destination for adventurers, beach lovers, and culture enthusiasts alike.

Before diving into our list of the best places to visit in Brazil, it’s worth noting that staying connected during your travels is essential for navigation, translation, and sharing your experiences. Get an Egypt eSIM to stay connected throughout your Brazilian adventure, ensuring you have reliable internet access even in remote locations.

Iconic Brazilian Cities

1. Rio de Janeiro

The “Marvelous City” is often the first stop for visitors to Brazil, and for good reason. Rio de Janeiro combines stunning natural beauty with vibrant urban culture. The iconic Christ the Redeemer statue stands atop Corcovado Mountain, offering panoramic views of the city below. Copacabana and Ipanema beaches are perfect for sunbathing and people-watching, while the annual Carnival celebration showcases Brazil’s passion for music, dance, and festivities. Don’t miss a cable car ride to Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking sunset views or exploring the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa.

2. São Paulo

Brazil’s largest city is a cosmopolitan metropolis and the country’s cultural capital. São Paulo boasts world-class museums like the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP) and Pinacoteca, along with a diverse culinary scene that ranges from high-end restaurants to vibrant street food markets. The city’s architecture spans from colonial-era churches to modernist masterpieces, while neighborhoods like Vila Madalena showcase impressive street art. For shopping enthusiasts, the luxury boutiques on Oscar Freire Street and the massive Municipal Market offer distinct experiences.

3. Salvador

As Brazil’s first capital, Salvador in Bahia state offers a fascinating blend of African, Portuguese, and indigenous influences. The colorful historic center of Pelourinho is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and numerous churches adorned with gold. Salvador is considered the center of Afro-Brazilian culture, evident in its cuisine, music, and religious practices. Don’t miss experiencing a capoeira performance or sampling local delicacies like acarajé (deep-fried bean patties filled with shrimp).

The colorful historic district of Pelourinho in Salvador, a UNESCO World Heritage site

4. Brasília

Brazil’s purpose-built capital is a showcase of modernist architecture and urban planning. Designed by architect Oscar Niemeyer and urban planner Lúcio Costa in the 1950s, Brasília features distinctive buildings like the Cathedral of Brasília with its hyperboloid structure and the National Congress with its twin towers and bowl-shaped chambers. The city’s layout resembles an airplane when viewed from above, with different sectors dedicated to specific functions. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate this UNESCO-listed planned city.

5. Recife

Known as the “Brazilian Venice” due to its numerous waterways and bridges, Recife offers a mix of historic sites and beautiful beaches. The city’s historic center features colonial buildings, while the nearby town of Olinda is known for its well-preserved Portuguese architecture and vibrant Carnival celebrations. Recife’s urban beaches like Boa Viagem provide opportunities for relaxation, though swimmers should heed warnings about sharks. The city is also famous for its frevo music and dance tradition.

Natural Wonders of Brazil

6. Amazon Rainforest

The world’s largest tropical rainforest covers a significant portion of northern Brazil, offering unparalleled biodiversity and adventure opportunities. Manaus serves as the primary gateway to the Brazilian Amazon, where visitors can take river cruises, stay in jungle lodges, and explore the meeting of the waters where the Rio Negro and Amazon River flow side by side without mixing. Wildlife spotting might include pink river dolphins, sloths, toucans, and countless other species. Indigenous community visits provide cultural insights into traditional ways of life.

The mighty Amazon River surrounded by dense rainforest, home to incredible biodiversity

7. Pantanal

While less famous than the Amazon, the Pantanal is actually the world’s largest tropical wetland and offers Brazil’s best wildlife viewing opportunities. During the dry season (May to September), animals concentrate around shrinking water sources, making it easier to spot jaguars, capybaras, giant anteaters, and hundreds of bird species. Visitors can explore by boat, horseback, or safari vehicle from eco-lodges throughout the region. The northern Pantanal (accessed via Cuiabá) is known for jaguar sightings, while the southern region (accessed via Campo Grande) offers more diverse landscapes.

8. Iguaçu Falls

Straddling the border between Brazil and Argentina, Iguaçu Falls comprises 275 individual waterfalls spanning nearly 3 kilometers. The Brazilian side offers panoramic views of this natural wonder, while walkways bring visitors close enough to feel the spray from the thundering cascades. The most impressive section is Devil’s Throat, a U-shaped waterfall dropping 82 meters. The surrounding national park features Atlantic Rainforest trails where visitors might spot toucans, coatis, and butterflies. Helicopter tours provide a spectacular aerial perspective.

9. Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

This unique landscape features vast white sand dunes interspersed with crystal-clear freshwater lagoons that form during the rainy season (January to June). The contrast between the pristine sand and turquoise pools creates a surreal, otherworldly scenery that’s perfect for photography. Visitors can hike across the dunes, swim in the refreshing lagoons, and witness stunning sunsets that transform the landscape. The park is accessible from the town of Barreirinhas, typically via 4×4 tours.

10. Chapada Diamantina National Park

Located in Bahia state, this dramatic mountain range features table-top plateaus, deep valleys, waterfalls, and caves. Highlights include the Smoke Waterfall (which appears to evaporate before reaching the ground), the Blue Pool and Enchanted Pool (caves with crystal-clear water that glows blue when sunlight hits it), and Pai Inácio Peak with its panoramic views. The park offers numerous hiking trails ranging from easy walks to multi-day treks. The colonial town of Lençóis serves as the main gateway.

Beautiful Beach Destinations

11. Fernando de Noronha

This archipelago of 21 islands off Brazil’s northeast coast is widely considered to have the country’s most beautiful beaches. With limited visitor numbers to protect its pristine environment, Fernando de Noronha offers uncrowded beaches, exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities, and abundant marine life including dolphins, sea turtles, and rays. Baía do Sancho is frequently ranked among the world’s best beaches, accessible via a ladder through a cliff crevice. The islands’ volcanic landscape adds to their dramatic beauty.

The pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters of Fernando de Noronha archipelago

12. Florianópolis

This island city in southern Brazil boasts 42 beaches catering to every preference, from the surf breaks of Joaquina to the calm waters of Jurerê. The island combines natural beauty with a high quality of life, offering hiking trails, lagoons, and traditional fishing villages alongside modern amenities. During summer (December to February), the island becomes a popular party destination, while the shoulder seasons offer a more relaxed atmosphere. The historic center on the mainland side features colonial architecture and seafood restaurants.

13. Jericoacoara

Once a fishing village, “Jeri” has developed into a laid-back beach destination while maintaining its charm with sandy streets and no street lights. The town is famous for its massive dune overlooking the ocean, where crowds gather to watch spectacular sunsets. Activities include windsurfing, kitesurfing, sandboarding, and horseback riding along the coast. Nearby, the Blue Lagoon (Lagoa Azul) offers calm, warm waters perfect for swimming. The journey to reach this remote paradise adds to its appeal.

14. Búzios

This sophisticated beach resort on a peninsula east of Rio became famous after Brigitte Bardot visited in the 1960s. Búzios features more than 20 beaches, each with its own character—from the popular Geribá with its surf scene to the sheltered João Fernandes ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The cobblestone Rua das Pedras is lined with upscale restaurants, boutiques, and galleries. Boat tours around the peninsula provide access to secluded beaches and viewpoints.

15. Porto de Galinhas

Located in Pernambuco state, this beach destination is known for its natural pools formed by coral reefs at low tide. Visitors can take jangada (traditional rafts) tours to these pools to swim among colorful fish in crystal-clear waters. The main beach features soft white sand and palm trees, while the village offers handicraft shops and seafood restaurants. Nearby Maracaípe Beach is popular with surfers, and Muro Alto Beach features a natural sea wall creating a calm lagoon.

Historical and Cultural Sites

16. Ouro Preto

This well-preserved colonial town in Minas Gerais state was the center of Brazil’s 18th-century gold rush. Ouro Preto’s steep cobblestone streets are lined with baroque churches, ornate fountains, and colonial mansions. The town is known for the works of Aleijadinho, Brazil’s most celebrated baroque sculptor. The Museum of Betrayal (Museu da Inconfidência) documents the failed independence movement that began here. Despite its historical significance, Ouro Preto maintains a lively atmosphere thanks to its large student population.

The historic colonial architecture of Ouro Preto, a UNESCO World Heritage site

17. Paraty

This preserved Portuguese colonial town on the Costa Verde between Rio and São Paulo features whitewashed buildings with colorful doors and windows. Paraty’s historic center is closed to vehicles, and its stone streets are periodically flooded by high tides—a design feature that helped clean the streets in colonial times. Beyond its architectural charm, Paraty is surrounded by Atlantic Rainforest, beaches, and islands. The town hosts literary and cultural festivals throughout the year and is known for its artisanal cachaça production.

18. Olinda

Just north of Recife, this colonial gem offers panoramic views from its hilltop setting. Olinda’s historic center features colorful houses, baroque churches, and monasteries dating back to the 16th century. The town is known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and workshops. Olinda’s Carnival celebration is considered more authentic and less commercial than those in larger cities, featuring giant puppet parades and traditional music. The town’s relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for wandering.

19. São Luís

The capital of Maranhão state is the only Brazilian city founded by the French. Its historic center features over 3,000 colonial buildings adorned with distinctive Portuguese azulejo tiles. São Luís is considered the Brazilian capital of reggae music, with a unique local interpretation of the genre. The city serves as a gateway to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park and is known for its Bumba Meu Boi festival, which blends African, indigenous, and European cultural elements.

20. Manaus Opera House (Teatro Amazonas)

This opulent theater in the heart of the Amazon symbolizes the wealth generated during the rubber boom of the late 19th century. Built with materials imported from Europe, including Italian marble and French glass, the theater features a dome covered with 36,000 ceramic tiles in the colors of the Brazilian flag. The interior showcases detailed paintings depicting Amazonian landscapes and mythology. Regular performances and guided tours allow visitors to appreciate this unexpected cultural landmark in the rainforest.

Island Getaways

21. Ilha Grande

This car-free island paradise off the coast between Rio and São Paulo offers pristine beaches, hiking trails, and lush Atlantic Rainforest. Once home to a prison, Ilha Grande remained undeveloped until relatively recently. Lopes Mendes Beach, a 3-kilometer stretch of fine white sand, is considered one of Brazil’s most beautiful. The island features over 100 beaches accessible by boat or trail, abundant marine life for snorkeling and diving, and the opportunity to spot wildlife like howler monkeys and toucans.

The pristine beaches and lush rainforest of Ilha Grande, a car-free paradise

22. Ilhabela

This “beautiful island” lives up to its name with 85% of its territory protected as a state park. Located off São Paulo state, Ilhabela offers beaches ranging from accessible town beaches to remote coves reached by 4×4 or hiking trails. The island features over 360 waterfalls, excellent sailing conditions, and some of Brazil’s best scuba diving sites, including shipwrecks. The main town combines colonial architecture with upscale restaurants and boutiques.

23. Morro de São Paulo

Located on Tinharé Island in Bahia state, this car-free village offers a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches simply numbered First, Second, Third, and Fourth. First Beach is closest to the village and most lively, while Fourth Beach offers tranquility and natural pools at low tide. The village features colorful buildings, sandy streets, and a relaxed pace where wheelbarrows replace taxis for luggage transport. Sunset at the fortress overlooking the village is a daily ritual.

24. Boipeba

Less developed than neighboring Morro de São Paulo, Boipeba offers tranquility and pristine nature. The island’s main village, Velha Boipeba, features simple guesthouses and restaurants serving fresh seafood. Beaches like Cueira and Bainema offer kilometers of nearly empty sand, while mangroves provide opportunities for kayaking and wildlife observation. The island’s limited development and absence of cars contribute to its peaceful atmosphere.

25. Itaparica

The largest island in Todos os Santos Bay near Salvador combines historical significance with beach relaxation. The town of Itaparica features colonial architecture and a fortress, while the island’s western side offers calm beaches with views of Salvador across the bay. Less touristy than other island destinations, Itaparica provides an authentic glimpse of coastal life and is easily accessible by ferry from Salvador.

Adventure Destinations

26. Bonito

This ecotourism destination in Mato Grosso do Sul is famous for its incredibly clear rivers where visitors can snorkel among colorful fish. The limestone-filtered waters of the Rio da Prata and Rio Sucuri offer visibility up to 50 meters, creating the sensation of floating in an aquarium. Other activities include cave explorations, waterfall rappelling, and forest hikes. Bonito’s sustainable tourism model requires guides for most activities, helping preserve its natural beauty.

The crystal-clear rivers of Bonito offer incredible snorkeling experiences among colorful fish

27. Chapada dos Veadeiros

This national park in Goiás state features ancient rock formations, waterfalls, and natural pools on a high plateau. The park is known for its quartz crystals that give the landscape a magical quality, especially when they reflect sunlight. Hiking trails lead to attractions like the 120-meter Vale da Lua (Moon Valley) with its sculpted rock formations and the 120-meter Santa Barbara waterfall. The nearby town of Alto Paraíso serves as a base for exploration and attracts mystics drawn to the region’s supposed spiritual energy.

28. Jalapão State Park

This remote region in Tocantins state offers a diverse landscape of golden sand dunes, red rock formations, cerrado (savanna) vegetation, and crystal-clear springs. The Fervedouros (bubbling springs) create natural pools where the water pressure makes it impossible to sink. Other attractions include the Cachoeira da Velha waterfall and the Rio Novo for rafting adventures. The park’s isolation requires proper planning but rewards visitors with pristine landscapes and few other tourists.

29. Serra da Capivara National Park

This archaeological treasure in Piauí state contains the largest concentration of prehistoric rock paintings in the Americas, dating back up to 25,000 years. The park features hundreds of rock shelters with thousands of paintings depicting hunting scenes, ceremonies, and daily life. Beyond its archaeological significance, the park offers hiking trails through a unique caatinga (dry forest) ecosystem with distinctive flora and fauna adapted to the semi-arid conditions.

30. Chapada dos Guimarães

Located near Cuiabá, this national park features dramatic red sandstone cliffs, canyons, and waterfalls. The Véu de Noiva (Bridal Veil) waterfall drops 86 meters into a lush valley, while the Cidade de Pedra (Stone City) offers surreal rock formations shaped by erosion. The park sits at the geographic center of South America and provides habitat for cerrado wildlife, including macaws and maned wolves. Hiking trails range from short walks to challenging treks.

Off the Beaten Path Destinations

31. Alter do Chão

Often called the “Caribbean of the Amazon,” this village on the Tapajós River features white-sand beaches that emerge during the dry season (August to December). The most famous is Ilha do Amor (Love Island), accessible by a short boat ride or even by walking during low water. The surrounding area offers opportunities for jungle treks, visits to local communities, and boat trips to spot river dolphins. Despite growing popularity, Alter do Chão maintains its relaxed Amazonian village atmosphere.

The “Caribbean of the Amazon” – white sand beaches at Alter do Chão on the Tapajós River

32. Lençóis

This charming colonial town serves as the gateway to Chapada Diamantina National Park but deserves attention in its own right. Founded during the diamond mining boom, Lençóis features colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and a laid-back atmosphere. The surrounding area offers swimming holes, waterfalls, and caves within easy reach of town. Local guides can arrange excursions ranging from easy walks to multi-day treks through the Chapada Diamantina region.

33. Jijoca de Jericoacoara

While Jericoacoara beach gets most of the attention, the surrounding area offers additional natural wonders. Nearby Lagoa do Paraíso features hammocks suspended over crystal-clear water, while Tatajuba’s shifting sand dunes create an ever-changing landscape. The Mangue Seco mangrove forest provides habitat for diverse bird species. Exploring this region beyond the main beach reveals quieter spots and diverse ecosystems.

34. Pipa

This former fishing village in Rio Grande do Norte has developed into a laid-back beach destination popular with Brazilian and international visitors. Pipa’s main beach is backed by dramatic cliffs, while Dolphins Bay (Baía dos Golfinhos) offers frequent sightings of spinner dolphins. The town combines rustic charm with quality restaurants and boutiques. Nearby Madeiro Beach provides excellent surfing conditions, while ecological sanctuaries protect nesting sea turtles.

35. Maragogi

Often called the “Brazilian Caribbean,” this beach destination in Alagoas state is famous for its natural pools that form at low tide about 6 kilometers offshore. These “galés” allow visitors to snorkel among coral reefs and colorful fish in calm, clear waters. The coastline features coconut palm-lined beaches with powdery white sand and calm waters. Less developed than some coastal destinations, Maragogi offers a more relaxed atmosphere.

Wildlife Watching Destinations

36. Anavilhanas Archipelago

This network of hundreds of islands in the Rio Negro forms the world’s largest river archipelago. The flooded forests, channels, and lakes create diverse habitats for Amazon wildlife, including pink river dolphins, caimans, and numerous bird species. Visitors can explore by boat, kayak, or forest trails from lodges in the area. During the low-water season, beaches emerge on the islands, while the high-water season allows boats to navigate deeper into the flooded forest.

Pink river dolphins in the Anavilhanas Archipelago, the world’s largest river island system

37. Abrolhos Marine National Park

Located off the coast of Bahia, this marine park protects the largest coral reef system in the South Atlantic. Between July and November, humpback whales migrate to these waters to breed and calve, offering excellent whale-watching opportunities. The park encompasses five islands where visitors can observe large seabird colonies. Diving and snorkeling reveal unique mushroom-shaped coral formations found nowhere else in the world.

38. Mamirauá Sustainable Development Reserve

This pioneering conservation area in the Amazon protects várzea (seasonally flooded forest) ecosystems and their wildlife while supporting sustainable resource use by local communities. Visitors staying at the floating lodge can observe pink river dolphins, sloths, monkeys, and hundreds of bird species. The reserve offers a unique opportunity to learn about community-based conservation and traditional Amazonian lifestyles while exploring a less-visited ecosystem.

39. Praia do Forte

This beach town north of Salvador is home to the TAMAR Project, which protects sea turtles along Brazil’s coast. Visitors can learn about conservation efforts and, during the hatching season, may witness baby turtles making their way to the sea. Beyond turtle conservation, the area offers beautiful beaches, natural pools at low tide, and the ruins of Garcia D’Ávila Castle, one of Brazil’s oldest structures. The village combines traditional architecture with eco-friendly development.

40. Parque das Aves (Bird Park)

Located near Iguaçu Falls, this bird sanctuary houses over 1,300 birds from 150 species, primarily from the Atlantic Rainforest region. Visitors can walk through immersive aviaries where toucans, macaws, and other colorful birds fly freely. The park focuses on conservation and rehabilitation of injured and confiscated birds, offering educational experiences about Brazil’s avian diversity. Some exhibits allow visitors to enter the birds’ habitats for close encounters with these magnificent creatures.

Unique Landscapes

41. Aparados da Serra National Park

Located on the border between Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina states, this park features some of Brazil’s most dramatic landscapes. The Itaimbezinho Canyon drops 720 meters with near-vertical walls extending for 5.8 kilometers. Hiking trails offer viewpoints of the canyon and waterfalls that plunge into the abyss. The region’s unique ecosystem combines elements of Atlantic Rainforest and high-altitude grasslands, creating diverse habitats for wildlife.

The dramatic Itaimbezinho Canyon in Aparados da Serra National Park

42. Chapada dos Guimarães

This plateau region near Cuiabá features red sandstone formations, canyons, and waterfalls. The park’s most famous attraction is the 86-meter Véu de Noiva (Bridal Veil) waterfall, which plunges into a lush valley. The Cidade de Pedra (Stone City) area offers surreal rock formations shaped by erosion. Located at the geographic center of South America, the park provides habitat for cerrado wildlife and offers hiking trails with panoramic views.

43. Pedra Azul State Park

Located in Espírito Santo state, this park is named after its distinctive 1,822-meter blue-hued granite dome. The rock appears to change color throughout the day, from blue-gray to golden depending on the light. Surrounding the main formation are Atlantic Rainforest fragments, waterfalls, and natural pools. Hiking trails lead to viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the unusual landscape, which is particularly photogenic at sunrise and sunset.

44. Ubajara National Park

This park in Ceará state protects a unique ecosystem where the dry caatinga meets humid forest in a dramatic escarpment. The park’s centerpiece is the Ubajara Cave with its impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, accessible via a cable car that descends 535 meters into the valley. Hiking trails lead to waterfalls and viewpoints overlooking the escarpment, while the visitor center explains the region’s geological and ecological significance.

45. Chapada das Mesas National Park

This lesser-known national park in Maranhão state features table-top mountains, waterfalls, and natural swimming pools. The park’s most famous attraction is the Cachoeira de Santa Bárbara, where water cascades over red rocks into emerald pools. The region’s cerrado vegetation supports diverse wildlife, while rock formations offer opportunities for climbing and rappelling. The nearby town of Carolina serves as a base for exploring this off-the-beaten-path destination.

Charming Coastal Towns

46. Arraial do Cabo

Often called the “Brazilian Caribbean,” this fishing village east of Rio offers some of the country’s clearest waters and whitest sand beaches. Boat tours visit beaches like Farol Beach and the natural pools at Prainhas do Pontal do Atalaia, while the town itself maintains a laid-back atmosphere. The meeting of tropical and Antarctic currents creates diverse marine ecosystems, making this a premier destination for diving and snorkeling in Brazil.

The “Brazilian Caribbean” – Arraial do Cabo’s pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters

47. Trancoso

This former fishing village in Bahia has developed into an upscale beach destination while maintaining its rustic charm. The town’s Quadrado (square) features colorful houses surrounding a grassy commons with a white church overlooking the sea. Below the cliffs, beaches like Praia dos Nativos and Praia do Espelho offer golden sand and warm waters. Trancoso attracts celebrities and fashionable Brazilians but still provides authentic cultural experiences, especially during local festivals.

48. São Miguel dos Milagres

Part of Alagoas state’s “Coral Coast,” this tranquil village offers pristine beaches without the crowds found at more developed destinations. At low tide, natural pools form along the coast, perfect for snorkeling among coral and colorful fish. The laid-back atmosphere, absence of high-rise buildings, and focus on sustainable tourism make this an ideal spot for travelers seeking relaxation in a natural setting. The nearby Manatee Conservation Center offers insights into efforts to protect these endangered marine mammals.

49. Itacaré

This surf town in Bahia combines beautiful beaches with Atlantic Rainforest preservation. The town’s historic center features colorful buildings and a relaxed vibe, while beaches like Praia da Concha offer calm waters and Praia do Resende provides excellent surfing conditions. Hiking trails through the forest lead to secluded beaches like Prainha and Jeribucaçu. The region is also known for its cacao production, with opportunities to visit farms and learn about chocolate making.

50. Caraíva

This car-free village at the mouth of the Caraíva River offers a glimpse of coastal Brazil before development. Accessible only by boat or 4×4, Caraíva features sandy streets, simple pousadas, and fresh seafood restaurants. The meeting of river and ocean creates diverse ecosystems, while nearby beaches offer solitude and natural beauty. Solar power and limited connectivity make this a true escape from modern life, though basic amenities are available for visitors.

Urban Escapes

51. Curitiba

Known as Brazil’s most livable city, Curitiba is famous for its urban planning, public transportation system, and green spaces. The Botanical Garden features a French-style garden and a massive greenhouse inspired by London’s Crystal Palace. The Oscar Niemeyer Museum showcases contemporary art in a distinctive eye-shaped building, while the Wire Opera House sits in the middle of a lake in Pedreiras Park. The city’s innovative “Linha Turismo” bus connects major attractions in a convenient circuit.

The iconic greenhouse at Curitiba’s Botanical Garden, inspired by London’s Crystal Palace

52. Belo Horizonte

The capital of Minas Gerais state offers a blend of modernist architecture, cultural attractions, and renowned cuisine. The Pampulha Complex, designed by Oscar Niemeyer, includes the distinctive São Francisco de Assis Church with its curved concrete form. The city’s Central Market buzzes with activity as vendors sell local specialties, including cheese, cachaça, and crafts. Surrounding the city, the Serra do Curral mountains provide hiking opportunities and panoramic views.

53. Porto Alegre

The capital of Brazil’s southernmost state reflects the region’s European immigrant heritage and gaucho (cowboy) traditions. The historic Mercado Público houses food stalls and restaurants serving local specialties, while the Iberê Camargo Foundation museum showcases contemporary art in an award-winning building. The city’s parks and the Guaíba Lake waterfront provide spaces for the traditional chimarrão (mate tea) ritual that defines the region’s culture.

54. Belém

This gateway to the Amazon at the mouth of the Pará River offers a unique blend of riverine culture and colonial heritage. The Ver-o-Peso Market, one of Brazil’s oldest, showcases Amazonian fruits, fish, crafts, and medicinal plants. The Estação das Docas waterfront complex houses restaurants and shops in restored warehouses, while the Mangal das Garças ecological park recreates Amazonian ecosystems. The city is famous for its cuisine, which incorporates indigenous ingredients like açaí and jambu.

55. Vitória

The capital of Espírito Santo state spreads across an island and the mainland, connected by bridges. The city combines beaches, mountains, and mangroves with urban amenities. The historic center features colonial buildings and the Metropolitan Cathedral, while the Camburi beachfront promenade offers views of the bay and surrounding mountains. Nearby, the Convento da Penha sits atop a 154-meter hill, providing panoramic views of the city and coastline.

Unique Cultural Experiences

56. São Luís do Maranhão

The only Brazilian state capital founded by the French, São Luís features a historic center with over 3,000 colonial-era buildings adorned with distinctive Portuguese azulejo tiles. The city is known as Brazil’s reggae capital, with a unique local interpretation of the genre. Cultural traditions like Bumba Meu Boi blend African, indigenous, and European influences in colorful festivals. The city serves as a gateway to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park and offers insights into northeastern Brazilian culture.

Colonial buildings adorned with Portuguese azulejo tiles in São Luís do Maranhão

57. Parintins

This island city in the Amazon hosts the Boi Bumbá Festival, Brazil’s second-largest folklore festival after Carnival. For three days in June, the town divides into supporters of the Garantido (red) and Caprichoso (blue) teams, who compete with elaborate performances telling Amazonian legends and addressing environmental themes. The 35,000-seat Bumbódromo arena fills with passionate fans, while the rest of the year, the city offers a glimpse of everyday Amazonian life.

58. Cachoeira

This colonial town in Bahia’s Recôncavo region played an important role in Brazil’s independence movement and preserves strong Afro-Brazilian traditions. The town’s baroque churches and colonial mansions create a historic atmosphere, while religious celebrations like the Festa da Boa Morte (Festival of Good Death) showcase Candomblé traditions. The nearby São Francisco River provides scenic beauty, and the weekly market offers local crafts, including the region’s distinctive pottery.

59. Tiradentes

Named after a national hero of Brazil’s independence movement, this perfectly preserved colonial town in Minas Gerais features cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings with colorful trim, and baroque churches. The town has become a culinary destination, with restaurants serving traditional Mineiro cuisine using local ingredients. Artisan workshops produce handcrafted furniture, textiles, and silverwork. The annual film festival and winter food festival attract visitors from across Brazil.

60. Pirenópolis

Founded during the gold rush, this historic town in Goiás state combines colonial architecture with natural attractions like waterfalls and crystal-clear rivers. The town is famous for its Festa do Divino celebration, featuring the Cavalhadas—a medieval-inspired tournament where horsemen represent Christians and Moors. Local craftspeople create distinctive silver jewelry and folk art, while the surrounding cerrado landscape offers hiking and bird-watching opportunities.

Planning Your Trip to Brazil

Brazil’s incredible diversity means there’s something for every type of traveler, from pristine beaches and rainforest adventures to vibrant cities and cultural experiences. When planning your visit, consider focusing on one region to minimize travel time and maximize experiences, as distances between destinations can be vast. The best time to visit varies by region, with the dry season (May to September) ideal for the Amazon and Pantanal, while coastal areas are pleasant year-round, with fewer crowds outside the December-February high season.

Remember that staying connected is essential for navigating this enormous country, translating Portuguese, and sharing your experiences. Get an Egypt eSIM to stay connected throughout your journey. And to make the most of your budget, be sure to check out the best deals for flights and hotels well in advance of your trip.

Whether you’re drawn to the rhythms of Rio, the biodiversity of the Amazon, or the tranquility of remote beaches, Brazil offers unforgettable experiences that will leave you eager to return and explore more of this fascinating country.

Sunset over Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, a perfect end to a Brazilian adventure