12 Best Places To Visit In Brazil

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

Brazil is one of the most remarkable countries in the world. With its breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture and diverse wildlife, it offers travelers plenty of exciting experiences to explore. In this article, we list 12 of the best places to visit in Brazil for a unique and unforgettable holiday. From its spectacular beaches to its fascinating historical sites, there are plenty of activities and tourist attractions to keep you entertained throughout your stay.

1. Rio De Janeiro

Home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks and stunning beaches, Rio de Janeiro, the second major city in Brazil, is a must-see for anyone visiting Brazil. From exploring Christ The Redeemer atop Corcovado Mountain or taking a swim at Copacabana Beach, there are plenty of exciting adventures waiting for visitors in this vibrant city.

The city is also home to some of the country’s most renowned museums and cultural centers, such as The National Historical Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from all over South America. Not far away lies one of Rio de Janeiro’s biggest landmark: Sugarloaf Mountain.

This massive granite monolith rises above the city s lush landscape, offering spectacular views of the city and surrounding area. Rio de Janeiro is also home to a wide variety of international dining options, including one of the city s most famous restaurants: Churrascaria Palace.

Copacabana Beach in Rio is one of the most iconic tourist destinations in Brazil. This beach is renowned for its picturesque views and lively atmosphere. It's a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming, making it a perfect place to spend a day soaking up the culture.

With its white sand, crystal clear waters and stunningly unique backdrop of the Corcovado mountain range, Copacabana beach offers some of the most beautiful sights that Brazil has to offer. Visitors can also enjoy various activities such as surfing, volleyball or simply strolling along the shoreline watching some of Rio's famous street performers.

2. Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is the largest city in Brazil and a great place to go. It's the financial capital of Brazil and home to many top tourist attractions, from its vibrant cultural scene to its unique food offerings. Travelers looking for things to do in Sao Paulo should take note that this Brazilian city has plenty of activities for all kinds of visitors.

Whether you want to experience high-end shopping or visit some of the country's most beautiful scenery. From relaxing strolls around Ibirapuera Park to nightlife adventures in Vila Madalena, Sao Paulo offers an exciting mix of experiences that will make your trip to Brazil memorable.

The São Paulo Museum of Art is one of the top cultural things to see in Brazil. Located in downtown São Paulo, the museum offers a stunning variety of artwork from local and international artists. It houses over 8,000 works spanning more than a century including paintings, sculptures, photographs and installations by renowned Brazilian masters such as Tarsila do Amaral, Di Cavalcanti and Iberê Camargo.

Visitors to the museum can also explore collections featuring works from European masters like Picasso and Chagall, as well as contemporary pieces by artists like Vik Muniz and Beatriz Milhazes. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious about Brazil it’s artistic heritage, a visit to this iconic museum is sure to be one of your top visits while travelling Brazil.

3. Brasilia

If you are planning a trip to Brazil, there is no better place to start than the country’s capital city of Brasilia located in the center of Brazil. This UNESCO World Heritage site is filled with culture and history, as well as some of the most breathtaking views in the world.

No trip to Brasilia would be complete without visiting the iconic Cathedral of Brasília. This beautiful modernist church is one of architect Oscar Niemeyer’s greatest works, symbolizing peace and unity through its striking design. Inside visitors can find stunning stained glass windows that reflect light into its main hall, making it an awe-inspiring sight.

Parque Municipal do Itiquira is a unique and beautiful park located in Brasilia. This spectacular natural area offers visitors an opportunity to explore its lush tropical forests, enjoy the stunning panoramic views from atop its cliffs, take part in some exciting outdoor activities and visit the Itiquira waterfall, standing at 168 meters making it the highest waterfall in the whole of Brazil.

Day trippers can explore the 8.5 kilometers of trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, ranging from meadows to dense jungles. The park offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, kayaking on one of its many lakes or rivers, fishing in one of its crystal-clear streams and swimming in various pools located throughout the park.

The Juscelino Kubitschek Memorial is a must-see for any traveler visiting Brasilia. The memorial stands as a tribute to President Juscelino Kubitschek, who played an important role in the construction of the city. The memorial consists of two parts: a museum and a monument.

The museum contains artifacts from his life and presidency, including photographs, documents and memorabilia that tell the story of his career and legacy. Outside, you can can view the iconic Monumental Axis with its 52 columns representing each state of Brazil.

4. Iguazu Falls

The Iguazu Falls, located in the Brazilian state of Parana and extending into neighboring Argentina, are one of the most impressive wonders of South America. The towering cascades reach a height of 80m and span a width of 2.7km, making them nearly twice as wide as Niagara Falls and one of the world's largest water falls. 

They consist of approximately 275 individual waterfalls and are capable of producing enormous amounts of energy, rivaling that produced by large hydroelectric plants. The falls were even declared a Natural World Heritage Site in 1984 by UNESCO and have since become one of the top places to go in Brazil for tourists from all over the world.

Garganta del Diablo, or Devil's Throat, is one of the most breathtaking sites in Brazil. Located just outside of Iguazu National Park, this natural wonder features a series of powerful waterfalls that plunge over the edge of a basaltic canyon. The combined width of these falls totals an impressive 2,700 meters (8,860 feet), making them one of the widest waterfalls in the world.

The thundering power and sheer beauty of this wonder make it an unforgettable experience for visitors from all over the globe. The name Garganta del Diablo is derived from its U-shaped horseshoe shape which resembles a throat or mouth. This formation was created over time by erosion caused by powerful currents and rainwater running through Iguazu National Park’s subtropical jungle environment.

5. Ouro Preto

Ouro Preto, a colonial town in Minas Geraisa is located in the southeastern part of the country. Here, when you visit the city you will find an array of incredible attractions that are sure to make your time there unforgettable. Start your journey with a visit to the historic city center, which is lined with cobblestone streets and ornate churches from centuries ago.

The Main Cathedral, or Matriz Church, was built in 1795 and features intricate tile work and an impressive statue inside its grand arches. You can also explore nearby fortresses such as Tiradentes Fort and São José da Borda do Campo Fort – both offer great views over the valley below.

Museu Casa Guignard in Ouro Preto is an incredible place for visitors to explore the beauty and history of Brazil. The amazing architecture alone makes Museu Casa Guignard worth a visit; it was built in 1810 and has been beautifully preserved as one of the country’s most important cultural sites.

Guests can take a guided tour through the museum where they'll learn about its rich heritage, view artworks from some of Brazil's greatest painters, and explore its architecturally significant rooms. This one-of-a-kind museum is sure to be an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after your trip to Brazil ends.

The Basilica Nossa Senhora do Pilar is a beautiful church located in the historical city of Ouro Preto. The basilica, built around 1739, is dedicated to Our Lady of the Pillar, one of the oldest Marian cults. It is a stunning example of ornate architecture and boasts numerous interesting features such as paintings depicting important moments from Mary's life and 18th-century sculptures.

While visiting you can also admire a huge main altarpiece with figures made out of precious stones that adorn its three naves. An additional highlight is the impressive bell tower with statues representing four Evangelists that overlooks the basilica from above.

6. Fortaleza

Fortaleza, the capital of the Brazil Ceara state, is a vibrant and lively city along the Atlantic with approximately 16mi (26km) of coastline. Here you can enjoy the best of Brazilian culture - from its beautiful beaches to its museums and art galleries. The Beira-Mar Avenue is one of the best places and not to miss when visiting Fortaleza.

The waterfront promenade is full of restaurants, bars and shops that stay open late into the night. From here, visitors can take in stunning views of Iracema Beach and the nearby rocky cliffs.

One of the city's most popular beaches is Meireles Beach, where you can swim and snorkel in the warm waters. The beach is also known for its stunning sunsets. For a great view of Fortaleza and its surroundings, head to Morro Doce Park. From here, you can see the mountains and the city's historic center.

If you want to learn more about the history of this area, make a visit to the Fortaleza's Historical Center. This is a popular spot for visitors who want to explore the city's past. It's also the site of the Fortaleza Zoo, which is home to more than 100 animal species.

The Mangrove swamps at Parque Ecol gico do Coc in Fortaleza are some of the most beautiful and unique ecosystems in South America. Located along the northeast coast of Brazil, this park is a haven for fauna and flora and offers some of the best views and nature experiences you can find in Brazil.

Visitors to the park can enjoy a guided tour through mangrove forests that are home to numerous species of birds, amphibians, reptiles and mammals. You can also take boat rides on the brackish lagoon to spot exotic marine life including sea turtles, sharks and dolphins.

With its diverse flora and fauna, stunning scenery and variety of animal species, Parque Ecol gico do Coc is an ideal destination for nature lovers looking for an unforgettable experience.

7. Paraty

Paraty is a stunningly beautiful coastal town in Brazil located in the state of Rio de Janeiro. It has a rich history, as it was once an important port for gold and diamonds during the 18th century. Since then, it has retained its charm with cobblestone streets and colonial architecture that makes it one of the most beautiful places in Brazil to visit. Here are some of the best places in Brazil to explore when visiting Paraty:

On top of the list is Praia do Pontal, a pristine beach lined with palm trees and white sand. With its crystal clear waters and secluded area for relaxation there’s no better spot to soak up some sun! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can head over to nearby Búzios Island where you can explore vast rainforest trails or take a boat ride around the island’s cliffs and coves.

Located close to the city center are the Jabaquara Mangroves, a natural wetland that’s home to an abundance of animals and plants. Boasting a diverse array of birds, reptiles, monkeys, and other animals living among mangrove-lined creeks and lagoons, this incredible ecosystem is a must-see for any traveler visiting Paraty. Visitors can take boat trips through the mangroves with tour guides who will point out some of the many species found there.

8. Recife

Recife, the capital of Brazil it's northeastern state of Pernambuco, is a vibrant city filled with culture and sights to explore. Visitors are sure to be delighted by its stunning beaches, colonial architecture and lush green parks. For those looking for a beach experience without leaving the city limits, Boa Viagem Beach is an ideal destination.

At this popular spot locals and tourists come together to enjoy swimming in the warm ocean waters or simply relaxing in the sun-soaked sand. Nature lovers will be awestruck by Jardim Jaqueira Park - which boasts over 500 species of plants - as well as Santo Aleixo Island with its mangrove swamps used for commercial fishing expeditions.

Casa da Cultura in Recife is known for its impressive collection of artwork and artifacts from various cultures. The Casa da Cultura cultural center provides visitors with an opportunity to experience Brazilian culture up close and personal in an interactive way.

The stunning architecture of the building itself will take your breath away as you enter its doors. Inside, you can explore several floors featuring exhibits on topics ranging from folkloric music to traditional crafts. There are also live performances taking place regularly which give tourists an immersive cultural experience that can’t be found anywhere else in Brazil.

The Instituto Ricardo Brennand in Recife, located in the heart of Pernambuco, was founded by businessman and philanthropist Ricardo Brennand in 1990 and it houses an impressive collection of over 15,000 objects from all around the world. These artifacts range from ancient Greek sculptures to valuable artworks from renowned artists such as Miró, Renoir and Picasso.

The building itself is surrounded by lush gardens and courtyards, as well as a library containing thousands of books about Brazilian culture and history.

9. Manaus

Manaus, the capital city of Brazil it’s Amazonas state, is a place like no other. From the majestic Amazon rainforest to the vibrant nightlife of Rio Negro Avenue, it’s no wonder Manaus is one of Brazil’s most popular tourist destinations.

The heart of Manaus is home to some incredible historical sites that can be found nowhere else in the world. One of these is the former residence of the Brazilian president, the Palacio Rio Negro. It was built in 1879 and is surrounded by a lovely tropical garden with more than 300 species of plants that were brought from all over Brazil. The palace was commissioned by the Amazonas state government in 1872 and underwent many changes throughout the years, and is now used as a museum and library.

The Mercado Adolpho Lisboa market showcases local artisans selling everything from hand-crafted furniture to traditional jewelry. An array of colorful fabrics adorn the walls and ceilings throughout the marketplace, creating a lively atmosphere for visitors.

The market has been around since 1885, when German businessman Adolpho Lisboa opened it as a supply store for rubber barons. Today, visitors can find an eclectic blend of goods from across Brazil such as tropical fruits and vegetables, spices and herbs, handicrafts and clothing items. There are also plenty of food stalls where you can enjoy traditional Amazon dishes like tacacá soup or jambu salad.

The Rio Negro Bridge in Manaus is one of the most iconic and important bridges in Brazil. Spanning a distance of 3.5 kilometers (2.2mi), it connects North and South America, making it an essential part of both continents’ respective histories. Built over the Amazon River in 2010, this bridge is a symbol of Brazil’s growth and development as a nation. It’s also an impressive architectural feat – its imposing design was conceived by renowned French architect Alexandre Chan and Brazilian engineer Antônio Estevão de Oliveira Junior.

Visiting the Rio Negro Bridge offers visitors to Manaus an experience like no other – breathtaking views out over the river from either side, along with access to some of the city’s best restaurants, bars and entertainment options nearby.

The Anavilhanas Archipelago located near Manaus, is one of Brazil’s most amazing natural attractions. The archipelago consists of hundreds of islands that are covered in lush tropical rainforest and connected by an intricate network of rivers.

This unique landscape makes for some spectacular sightseeing opportunities, including plenty of wildlife and bird watching. Visitors to the area can explore a variety of different habitats, from mangrove forests and savannahs to flooded forests and lakes.

10. Sao Luis

Sao Luis, the capital of Maranhao state and often referred to as the “Lisbon of South America”, is home to picturesque beaches, lush rainforests and fascinating historical sites. The first stop on your itinerary must be Praia do Calhau. This serene beach in the north of Brazil is lined with coconut palms and its crystal clear waters make it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.

The nearby fishing village of Raposa is also worth exploring - sample local dishes from seafood restaurants or stroll around its cobbled streets for an authentic experience. For more spectacular views of Sao Luis' coastline, you can take a boat ride along Bacanga Bay where you can see dolphins leaping out of the water.

The Lençóis Maranhenses National Park which covers a 70 kilometers long section between the city of São Luís and the border of the state of Piaui, is a beautiful place to visit and explore the country's diverse wildlife.

This national park located on the northern coast of Brazil offers breathtaking scenery, incredible beaches and some of the best bird watching in all of South America. It's also one of the most important conservation areas in Brazil, protecting a huge number of species that live within its boundaries.

The primary attraction at Lencois Maranhenses National Park are its two main lagoons - Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde - which are connected by waterways and canals that run through sand dunes. Visitors can take part in guided boat tours, exploring small islands as well as mangrove swamps filled with exotic animals such as caimans, monkeys and sloths.

The Palacio dos Leoes, located right on the seafront in the old historical area of Sao Luis, is one of the most majestic places to visit in the country. This impressive palace was built by the Portuguese during their rule and has been well-preserved since its completion in 1780. It is a symbol of Brazilian history and culture, full of grandeur and beauty. The architecture of Palacio dos Leoes is truly awe-inspiring.

From its towering pillars to its intricate stonework and detailed carvings, visitors can't help but be entranced by this remarkable structure. Inside, you will find various artifacts from the colonial period that tell stories about the city's past. And you can also explore the gardens filled with fragrant flowers and lush vegetation for an even more enjoyable experience.

11. Pantanal

The Pantanal region is home to an incredible array of wildlife and stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore unique places such as the breathtaking Cuiabá River, take a boat tour around the World Heritage Site-listed Brazilian Wetlands, or travel to nearby cities like Corumbá for incredible jungle safaris.

When traveling to Brazil, the Museu de Historia do Pantanal should be at the top of your list. This museum takes visitors on a journey through the history and culture of this area, one of South America’s largest wetland regions.

Located in Campo Grande, this museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts and documents that showcase the importance and beauty of this region. Guests are invited to explore traditional art forms, ancient ruins and other historical sites while learning about sustainable development practices.

The Museu de Historia do Pantanal also offers interactive exhibits featuring videos, photographs and audio recordings that provide an in-depth look into life in this region. You will learn about local customs such as fishing techniques or explore how different cultures have interacted over time with their environment.

The Fazenda San Francisco ranch in Pantanal is a must-visit for anyone traveling to this region of Brazil. Located in the western part of the country, this expansive cattle ranch is situated in an area of lush tropical forests and savannahs.

Visitors can take advantage of opportunities to explore the natural beauty of this unique landscape, as well as sample local culture and regional cuisine. The main things to do at the Fazenda San Francisco ranch are its horseback riding tours, designed to give visitors an up-close look at native fauna like capybara and armadillo.

Guided hikes through the rainforest will allow you to discover hidden waterfalls and observe exotic birds like toucans, parrots, and macaws in their natural habitat.

12. Salvador

Salvador, capital of the state of Bahia and the largest city in this part of Brazil is truly a captivating city to explore. It’s full of vibrant culture, gorgeous landscapes and colorful architecture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you won’t want to miss out on some of the amazing attractions in this exciting destination.

Start your journey by visiting the Santo Antonio Fort, where you can take in stunning views of the bay and experience this beautiful city’s impressive history. For something more laidback and relaxing, head to Flamengo Beach for its pristine waters or Farol da Barra Lighthouse for unbeatable sunset views.

One of the major landmarks in Salvador is the São Francisco church. This 17th century baroque style monument stands out against the bright, colorful buildings that line the streets. Inside its ornate walls lie centuries old frescoes, grandiose arches and intricately carved details that take visitors back in time to witness a piece of Salvadors history with their own eyes.

The old church also houses some artifacts related to its local culture such as religious sculptures and paintings from various eras.

Salvador is also home to a stunningly beautiful church called the Igreja da Ordem Terceira do Carmo (Carmelite Church). Located in the heart of the city, this 16th century Baroque style building was declared a national historical monument in 1938.

It contains some of the most incredible pieces of art and architecture from the colonial period, and inside, visitors can marvel at its grandiose façade with ornate sculptures and detailed engravings, as well as its intricate interior design with large open spaces and impressive ceiling frescoes. 

The main attraction of this church is its magnificent altar which is considered one of the best examples of ornate artwork around. Visitors can also take advantage of guided tours which will provide an insight into its long history involving both Portuguese settlers and African slaves.