Paraty: the most charming Brazilian town
Paraty is a jewel.
The whole Brazil trip started exactly because I saw a picture of Paraty on Instagram and fell in love.
How to get there
There is no airport in Paraty, so basically the only way to get there is by land.
Getting to Paraty is not the easiest or most convenient. It is 4 hours’ drive away from the two major airports in the area: Rio and Sao Paulo but it is more than worth it!
You could hire a car and drive or book a private or shared transfer from either starting points.
We arrived from Sao Paulo and then left for Rio and we found that the Sao Paulo’s road to Paraty, although incredibly scenic, was also more bent and challenging for delicate stomachs. It didn’t help that our driver felt a little Lewis Hamilton.
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September, but we were there in March and the weather was perfect.
The town
Founded in 1667, Paraty was once a bustling port town that played a crucial role in Brazil’s gold trade. It is easy to see today, through the well-preserved historic centre, where the influence of Portuguese colonial architecture is evident in every building, that this town did enjoy some glorious times. The iconic whitewashed houses with their brightly painted doors and windows create a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely walk.
Don’t forget your camera—every corner of Paraty is Instagram-worthy!
I think I took hundreds of photos!
Every street features colourful colonial buildings, artisan shops, cafes and restaurants and a boho vibe.
But there is more.
Beyond the historical charm, Paraty is surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
The coastline is dotted with idyllic beaches, each offering a unique experience.
Praia do Pontal is the town’s beach and perfect for families, while the more secluded Praia da Lula is ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.
Do hop on a boat tour to explore the nearby islands and hidden coves, where you can swim, snorkel, and soak in the sun. Every hotel will offer you one.
We went on one, after being unsure, they are all pretty similar, offering stops at nearly the same spots and they offer lunch onboard with veg option.
We thoroughly enjoyed it, it was well organized, plenty of stops with enough time to enjoy the beaches and it was visually stunning.
I do recommend it, if you want to explore a little further afield.
Paraty is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a vibrant hub of cultural activities.
The town hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the renowned Paraty International Literary Festival (FLIP) and the Paraty Cachaça Festival, celebrating the town’s famous sugarcane spirit. These events draw locals and visitors alike, creating a lively atmosphere filled with music, art, and gastronomy.
Speaking of gastronomy, Paraty is a food lover’s paradise.
The town boasts a diverse culinary scene, where you can indulge in everything, including traditional Brazilian dishes. Be sure to try the local cachaça, a sugarcane spirit that is often enjoyed in a refreshing caipirinha.
Super recommended:
Van Gogh Hamburgeria: delicious vegan (and not) burgers
Quintal verde– and Casa Coupe’: great ambiance and delightful traditional food, even for vegan/vegetarians.
Follow our Brazilian itinerary: our next stop, the idyllic island of Ilha Grande.
