Paraty Travel Guide: Discover Brazil’s Colonial Coastal Treasure

Nestled between lush Atlantic rainforest and the emerald waters of the Costa Verde, Paraty is a picturesque colonial town in the state of Rio de Janeiro. With its cobblestone streets, 18th-century architecture, secluded islands, and vibrant arts scene, Paraty is one of Brazil’s most enchanting travel destinations.
 

Whether you're a history lover, nature enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing beach escape, Paraty offers the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and serenity.

📍 Quick Facts About Paraty

Location: Rio de Janeiro state, ~250 km from Rio and São Paulo

Population: ~45,000

Founded: 1597 (officially in 1667)

Best time to visit: April to December (drier months)

UNESCO Status: World Heritage Site (mixed cultural and natural)

🏛️ Top Things to Do in Paraty

1. Stroll the Colonial Old Town (Centro Histórico)

The historic center of Paraty is a car-free zone filled with:

Whitewashed colonial houses

Ornate churches and chapels

Art galleries, boutiques, and cafés

📸 Must-see spots:

Church of Santa Rita (Igreja de Santa Rita) – from 1722

Rua do Comércio – vibrant and full of life

Casa da Cultura de Paraty – cultural exhibits and events

🧱 Be prepared to walk slowly — the cobblestones are original and uneven, but charmingly authentic.

2. Take a Boat Tour to Islands and Beaches

Paraty is surrounded by over 65 islands and 100 beaches, accessible via schooner or speedboat. Half-day and full-day tours are available.

🌊 Highlights include:

Praia da Lula – turquoise waters and soft sand

Ilha Comprida – perfect for snorkeling

Saco do Mamanguá – Brazil’s only tropical fjord

🚤 Private boat rentals are available for a more exclusive experience.

3. Explore the Waterfalls and Nature Trails

Paraty’s rainforest backdrop hides beautiful waterfalls and natural pools.

🏞️ Top spots:

Cachoeira do Tobogã – natural stone waterslide

Poço do Tarzan – swim under a rope bridge

Caminho do Ouro – historic Gold Trail with guided hikes

🌿 Ideal for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers.

4. Visit a Cachaça Distillery (Alambique)

Paraty is famous for cachaça, Brazil’s sugarcane spirit used in caipirinhas.

🥃 Visit local distilleries such as:

Alambique Engenho D’Ouro

Cachaçaria Paratiana

Pedra Branca Distillery

Most tours include tastings of aged cachaça and fruit-infused liqueurs.

5. Enjoy the Local Art Scene

Paraty has a thriving community of artists, musicians, and writers.

🖼️ Explore:

Independent art galleries

Handicraft shops (ceramics, woodwork, jewelry)

Cultural festivals throughout the year

🖌️ Don’t miss Paraty em Foco (Photography Festival) and FLIP (International Literary Festival).

🌊 Best Beaches Near Paraty

Praia do Sono: Remote and peaceful; reached via hiking or boat

Trindade: Bohemian beach village with natural pools and surf spots

Praia da Lula: Popular stop on boat tours

Praia Vermelha: Calm waters and fishing boats

🏝️ Tip: Take a day trip to Trindade for both forest hikes and pristine beaches.

🎉 Events & Festivals in Paraty

Paraty is vibrant year-round but especially during these festivals:

📅 These events bring culture lovers from all over the world — book accommodations early!

🏨 Where to Stay in Paraty

🏯 Historic Center (Centro Histórico)

Charming, walkable, near restaurants and nightlife

Boutique pousadas in colonial buildings

🌴 Jabaquara Beach Area

Quieter, beachfront stays

Good for families and nature access

🌄 Serra da Bocaina/Forested Area

Jungle lodges and eco-resorts

Perfect for a retreat in nature

Recommended Hotels & Pousadas

🌟 Luxury: Pousada Literária de Paraty, Casa Turquesa

💰 Mid-range: Pousada Porto Imperial, Sandi Hotel

💵 Budget: Hostel Sereia do Mar, Chill Inn Paraty

📌 Tip: Choose based on whether you want history, beach, or nature.

🍲 What to Eat in Paraty

Paraty’s cuisine is heavily influenced by seafood, Afro-Brazilian traditions, and artisanal flavors.

Local Dishes to Try

Moqueca de peixe – fish stew with coconut milk and dendê oil

Camarão na moranga – shrimp cooked inside a pumpkin

Pastel de camarão – shrimp pastries

Açaí bowls – perfect after a beach day

🦐 Many restaurants serve dishes using local banana flour, cassava, and cachaça-infused sauces.

Best Restaurants in Paraty

🍽️ Banana da Terra – upscale Brazilian cuisine

🐟 Punto Divino – Italian + seafood, romantic vibe

🧆 Quintal das Letras – rustic-chic setting and slow food

🌮 Thai Brasil – unique mix of Thai and Brazilian flavors

🍰 Manuê Sucos Naturais – juices, smoothies, vegan snacks

🧁 Try brigadeiros and cachaça truffles for dessert.

🍹 Nightlife in Paraty

Paraty is more about culture and cocktails than clubs and chaos.

Bars with live samba & forró

Beach bonfires in Jabaquara

Craft cocktail lounges in Old Town

Street musicians and capoeira shows

🎷 For a chill night out, grab a drink at:

Casa Coupê

Paraty 33

Livraria das Marés

✈️ How to Get to Paraty

Paraty does not have a major airport, but it's accessible by road from Rio and São Paulo.

🚌 From Rio de Janeiro (250 km)

Duration: ~4.5 to 5 hours

Transport:

Private transfer or taxi

Intercity bus from Novo Rio Terminal (Costa Verde line)

🚗 From São Paulo (290 km)

Via the beautiful Serra do Mar / Rodovia Rio-Santos (BR-101)

Great for a road trip with stops along the coast

✈️ Nearest airports:

Rio (GIG) or São Paulo (GRU, CGH)

🌿 Responsible Travel in Paraty

Paraty is part of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest biome, one of the most biodiverse on Earth.

Travel responsibly:

Avoid plastic waste; bring reusable bottles

Support community-led tours and artisans

Stay at eco-lodges or certified sustainable pousadas

Follow trail signs and avoid littering in nature areas

🌱 By choosing responsible travel, you help protect Paraty’s unique environment and heritage.

📌 Final Thoughts: Is Paraty Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Paraty is one of the few places in Brazil where you can walk through 17th-century streets, hike to hidden waterfalls, sail to tropical islands, and enjoy world-class cuisine – all in one day.

Whether you're in search of art, culture, nature, or just peace, Paraty delivers a complete and authentic Brazilian experience.

✅ Quick Paraty Travel Checklist

🧴 Sunscreen & bug spray

👟 Walking shoes (for cobblestone and trails)

💵 Brazilian Real (cash useful at markets)

📸 Camera or waterproof phone case

📘 Portuguese phrasebook or app

🧥 Light jacket (evenings may be cooler)

✨ Book Your Trip to Paraty Today!

From the lush forest trails to the charm of colonial streets, Paraty promises unforgettable moments, soul-stirring beauty, and deep cultural roots. Don’t miss the chance to experience one of Brazil’s most beloved and unique destinations.