Southeast

Main destinations in Southeast Brazil

Southeast Brazil is a region full of charms, with destinations that please all types of travelers. From vibrant metropolises to impressive natural landscapes, tourism in Southeast Brazil offers a variety of unforgettable experiences. Let’s explore some of the main destinations you can’t miss.

Rio de Janeiro

The Marvelous City is a true paradise for beach, nature, and culture lovers. With its famous beaches, Sugar Loaf Mountain, and Christ the Redeemer, Rio offers a unique immersion in the natural and cultural beauty of Southeast Brazil. The vibrant streets of neighborhoods like Copacabana and Ipanema, welcoming bars, and live music tell stories of a rich past.

The city is also a paradise for food lovers. Try typical dishes like feijoada and cod fritters in the numerous bars and restaurants. Don’t miss visiting the Sambadrome during Carnival and Maracanã Stadium for a football match. Rio de Janeiro is a destination that combines nature, culture, and fun in one place.

Learn more about the tourism in Rio de Janeiro

São Paulo

São Paulo is known for its bustling urban life and effervescent cultural scene. The city offers a unique experience with its world-class museums, such as MASP, and its diverse gastronomy. Additionally, São Paulo is famous for its nightlife and international events.

Cultural attractions, such as the Pinacoteca do Estado and Ibirapuera Park, are must-sees. The region is ideal for those seeking a combination of culture, gastronomy, and urban entertainment. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Paulista Avenue and try cuisine from various parts of the world.

Learn more about the tourism in São Paulo

Paraty

Paraty is one of the main tourism destinations in Southeast Brazil for history and nature lovers. Known for its well-preserved historic center and paradisiacal beaches, the city attracts visitors seeking tranquility and beauty. Visit the historic center and take a boat trip around the region’s islands.

Besides its colonial charm, Paraty offers attractions such as the Engenho D’Ouro Cachaça Distillery and Serra da Bocaina National Park. The city is the perfect destination for those seeking a combination of history, nature, and culture.

Learn more about the tourism in Rio de Janeiro

Ouro Preto

Ouro Preto is a jewel of the Brazilian colonial period and an important cultural center. The city offers a journey through time with its baroque churches, museums, and famous street carnival.

The region is ideal for those seeking a connection with the history and culture of colonial Brazil. Visit the Church of São Francisco de Assis, explore the Inconfidência Museum, and walk along the cobblestone streets. Ouro Preto is a must-visit destination for lovers of history and colonial architecture.

Tourism in the Brazilian southeast — Ouro Preto is a jewel of the Brazilian colonial period and an important cultural center.

Learn more about the tourism in Minas Gerais

What to do in Southeast Brazil

Tourism in Southeast Brazil offers a multitude of activities for all tastes. From exploring the rich urban culture to adventuring in nature, there’s always something exciting to do. Here are five unmissable activities to make the most of your trip.

Explore Rio de Janeiro’s beaches

Rio de Janeiro’s beaches are one of the most popular destinations for visitors to Southeast Brazil. With their golden sands and crystal-clear waters, the region offers a unique experience.

Copacabana: Enjoy Brazil’s most famous beach and take advantage of the bustling beachfront life.
Ilha Grande: Take a trip to this paradise island and dive into its crystal-clear waters.

Visit São Paulo’s museums

For art and culture lovers, São Paulo’s museums are the perfect destination. With an impressive variety of institutions, the city offers world-class cultural experiences.

MASP: Visit the iconic São Paulo Museum of Art and admire its collection of Brazilian and international art.
Pinacoteca do Estado: Explore this museum dedicated to Brazilian art, located in a beautiful historic building.

Discover the historic cities of Minas Gerais

Minas Gerais is the heart of colonial Brazil. Visit its historic cities for a true journey through time.

Ouro Preto: Explore the baroque churches and historic center of this UNESCO World Heritage city.
Tiradentes: Walk along the cobblestone streets and admire the well-preserved colonial architecture.

Explore Caparaó National Park

Caparaó National Park, on the border between Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo, is a paradise for nature lovers and ecotourism enthusiasts.

Pico da Bandeira: Hike to the third highest point in Brazil and enjoy breathtaking views.
Cachoeira Bonita: Visit this beautiful waterfall and relax in its refreshing waters.

Participate in cultural festivals

Southeast Brazil is known for its cultural festivals, which celebrate the region’s rich heritage. Participate in Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival or São Paulo’s Virada Cultural for an unforgettable experience.

Rio Carnival: Immerse yourself in Brazil’s biggest party, with its samba school parades and street blocks.
Virada Cultural: Enjoy 24 uninterrupted hours of free cultural attractions in São Paulo.

Tourism in southeastern Brazil offers a multitude of activities for all tastes.

Gastronomy in Southeast Brazil

The cuisine of Southeast Brazil is one of the most diverse in the country, reflecting the influence of various cultures that settled in the region. With Portuguese, African, indigenous, and immigrant influences from various parts of the world, Southeast Brazilian gastronomy offers a unique experience for visitors. In the context of tourism in Southeast Brazil, trying typical dishes is an unmissable activity that provides a true immersion in local culture.

Typical dishes to try

Feijoada: An iconic dish from Rio de Janeiro, made with black beans and various parts of pork.
Pão de queijo: A Minas Gerais delicacy, made with cassava flour and cheese.
Moqueca capixaba: A typical dish from Espírito Santo, made with fish, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
Virado à paulista: A traditional São Paulo dish, made with beans, fried banana, pork rinds, and fried egg.
Tutu à mineira: A common side dish in Minas Gerais, made with beans and manioc flour.

Tips for enjoying Southeast gastronomy

Typical restaurants: Visit restaurants specializing in regional cuisine in each state.
Municipal markets: Explore the municipal markets of large cities to try local delicacies.
Bars and pubs: Try traditional “bar food” in the bars of big cities.
Gastronomic events: Participate in festivals such as Rio Gastronomia or Festival Fartura in Belo Horizonte.

Exploring Southeast Brazilian gastronomy is an essential part of tourism in Southeast Brazil. Each dish tells a story and offers a new perspective on the region’s rich culture. Take advantage of these tips and dive headfirst into this unique culinary experience.

How to get to and move around Southeast Brazil

Tourism in Southeast Brazil starts with a good arrival. There are several options to get to the region, depending on where you’re coming from.

By plane

The fastest and most convenient way to get to Southeast Brazil is by plane. The region has international airports in all capital cities:

Guarulhos International Airport (GRU) in São Paulo
Galeão International Airport (GIG) in Rio de Janeiro
Confins International Airport (CNF) in Belo Horizonte
Vitória Airport (VIX) in Espírito Santo

By car

If you prefer a more flexible trip, arriving by car can be a great option. The main highways leading to Southeast Brazil are:

BR-116: Connects the south of the country to the southeast
BR-101: Cuts through the southeast coast
BR-040: Links Brasília to Rio de Janeiro, passing through Minas Gerais

By bus

For those who prefer to travel by bus, several companies operate interstate lines, connecting Southeast Brazil to other regions of the country.

Moving around Southeast Brazil

After arriving, it’s important to know how to get around to explore all the wonders that tourism in Southeast Brazil offers.

Car rental

Renting a car is one of the best options to explore Southeast Brazil with freedom. This allows you to visit more remote destinations and have flexibility in your itinerary.

Tips:

Book the car in advance to ensure better prices.
Check road conditions and plan your route.
Always have a GPS or updated map.

Public transportation

The large cities of Southeast Brazil have well-developed public transportation systems, including metro, trains, and buses.

Tips:

Use transportation apps to check schedules and routes.
In São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, the metro is an efficient option to avoid traffic.

Taxis and ride-hailing apps

Taxis and ride-hailing services, such as Uber and 99, are widely available in major cities and tourist areas.

Tips:

Always check the estimated fare before accepting.
Prefer official taxi stands in tourist areas.

Organized tours

For those who prefer convenience, many travel agencies offer organized tours to the main destinations in Southeast Brazil. These tours usually include transportation, guides, and tickets to attractions.

Tips:

Research and compare different agencies to find the best offer.
Check online reviews to ensure service quality.

How to get around in Brazil

Best time to visit Southeast Brazil

Tourism in Southeast Brazil happens all year round, but some periods are more suitable depending on what you’re looking for:

Summer (December to March)

If you want to enjoy the beaches and Carnival, summer is the best time. Temperatures are high, perfect for enjoying the coast.

Winter (June to August)

For those who prefer milder temperatures and want to enjoy cultural festivals, winter is ideal. It’s the best time to visit historic cities and participate in gastronomic events.

Fall and Spring (April to May and September to November)

These seasons are great for those seeking a balanced climate and fewer tourists. Temperatures are pleasant, and accommodation rates tend to be more accessible.

Rio de Janeiro in southeastern Brazil — Brasil ATM takes you to discover this incredible region, full of opportunities and experiences.

FAQ – Tourism in Southeast Brazil

Do I need a visa to visit Southeast Brazil?

If you’re Brazilian, you don’t need a visa. For foreigners, check the specific requirements of your country.

What’s the best time to visit Southeast Brazil?

Southeast Brazil can be visited all year round, but summer (December to March) is ideal for those who want to enjoy the beaches, while winter (June to August) is perfect for enjoying historic cities and cultural festivals.

What are the main typical foods of Southeast Brazil?

Feijoada, pão de queijo, moqueca capixaba, and virado à paulista are some of the dishes you should try. Southeast cuisine is rich in flavors and diverse influences.

How can I get around Southeast Brazil?

You can rent a car, use interstate buses, or hire tours with local agencies. In big cities, the metro and ride-hailing apps are good options.

Is it safe to travel in Southeast Brazil?

As in any big city, it’s important to take basic precautions. Be aware of your belongings, avoid displaying valuables, and prefer busier areas, especially at night.

Where can I withdraw money?

You can withdraw money from Brasil ATM’s ATMs, which are available in various cities in the Southeast. It’s always good to have cash for small purchases and in more remote locations.

What are the main tourist destinations in Southeast Brazil?

Some of the main destinations include Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Paraty, Ouro Preto, and Caparaó National Park. Each offers a unique experience.

Explore Southeast Brazil and discover a world of possibilities. Whatever your travel style, tourism in Southeast Brazil has something special waiting for you.