Big city Brazil
Explore the bright lights of cosmopolitan Brazil
-
Brasilia
Brazil’s much-maligned capital is one of the world’s greatest examples of modernist architecture, but is often at the bottom of visitors’ must-see destinations... -
Rio de Janeiro
Is there another city on earth that can match Rio's beauty? Mountain peaks, lush forests, beautiful beaches and playful inhabitants make Rio a must-see on any Brazilian itinerary... -
Paraty
A picturesque colonial-era town nestled on a beautiful stretch of Atlantic coast and backed by forested mountains... -
Rio de Janeiro
Is there another city on earth that can match Rio's beauty? Mountain peaks, lush forests, beautiful beaches and playful inhabitants make Rio a must-see on any Brazilian itinerary... -
São Paulo
Sprawling São Paulo is Brazil’s biggest city, economic powerhouse and cultural centre...
Begin your tour of Brazil’s big cities in capital Brasilia, best-known for its stunning architecture representative of Oscar Niemeyer. Look out for the 60m high arches of Juscelino Kubitschek bridge. Next, travel to Rio de Janeiro to explore the famous Copacabana beach, Sugarloaf mountain and downtown Rio. Make sure to experience Rio’s famed nightlife, whether a simple caipirinha on the beach or a samba club to until the early hours. Wind down in the coastal town of Paraty, where you can see colonial architecture and go snorkelling in the Bay of Paraty. End your trip in cultural Sao Paulo’s museums, galleries and restaurants.
Key information
| Destinations | Rio de Janeiro, Paraty, Brasilia, São Paulo |
|---|---|
| Activity | Beach, Nature & Wildlife, Culture |
| Physical Level | Easy |
 Season |
January - December |
This itinerary would cost from $2,927 per person with our Brazil specialist.
Suggested itinerary
See the architectural grandeur of Brasilia
Day 1–2 in Brasilia
Brazil’s much-maligned capital is one of the world’s greatest examples of modernist architecture, but is often at the bottom of visitors’ must-see destinations. That’s a shame, as purpose-built Brasilia is a centre of avant-garde design. The city is set out like a crucifix, with its architectural sites laid out along the grand Eixo Monumental.
Explore colourful Rio de Janeiro
Day 3–5 in Rio de Janeiro
Is there another city on earth that can match Rio's beauty? Mountain peaks, lush forests, beautiful beaches and playful inhabitants make Rio a must-see on any Brazilian itinerary. From the famous beaches of Copacabana to edgy Botofago, Rio is the perfect bookend to a Brazil trip.
Spend several days exploring Brazil’s bustling coastal city — and home to the world’s biggest carnival. Visit the city’s famed beaches and diverse neighbourhoods, as well as the urban rainforest of Tijuca Forest. Ride the rack railway up Corcovado Mountain to see up-close the 30m-high statue of Christ the Redeemer — perhaps one of the most recognisable icons of Brazil. Then drive through Santa Teresa neighborhood to explore the area’s history and beautiful 19th and early 20th century mansions.
Don't miss
Visit Rio’s vibrant beaches
The 4km-long Copacabana beach is one of the city’s most popular, offering a vibrant and bustling atmosphere. For a less touristy experience try some of the lesser-celebrated beaches, including Barra da Tijuca Beach and Joatinga Beach.
Climb Sugarloaf Mountain
Take a relaxed cable car ride up to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views of Guanabana Bay, Corcovado Mountain, Santa Cruz Fortress and Rio-Niteroi Bridge.
Visit colonial Paraty
Day 6–8 in Paraty
A picturesque colonial-era town nestled on a beautiful stretch of Atlantic coast and backed by forested mountains.
Paraty offers a mix of small-town colonial Brazil and excellent wildlife watching — complete with beaches and a bay made for watching sunsets. Explore the 17th century Portuguese architecture including the waterfront Capela de Santa Rita, a whitewashed church built in 1722, and the larger First Church of Our Lady of the Remedies.
Don't miss
Explore Paraty’s islands and beaches
Paraty is surrounded by some stunning beaches, some of which can only be accessed by boat. To explore further afield, take a day cruise out to some of the nearby islands and enjoy freshly-caught fish in a local restaurant.
Return to Rio and transfer to São Paulo
Day 9 in Rio de Janeiro
Head back to Rio de Janeiro to take a flight on to São Paulo.
Taste big city life in São Paulo
Day 10–12 in São Paulo
Sprawling São Paulo is Brazil’s biggest city, economic powerhouse and cultural centre. It’s not the prettiest of cities, but it has something for everybody, from Brazil’s best museums and restaurants to an unparallelled music and clubbing scene. Sampa (as it’s known by locals) is intimidating in size, but get used to navigating this giant and you’ll soon see why this cosmopolitan city is so intoxicating.
Where to stay
Classic
Pousada do Cais
Located opposite the wharf and only 900 yards from Praia do Pontal Beach, Pousada do Cais offers stylish accommodation in the heart of Paraty's pretty historic centre. Comfortable rooms feature parquet floors and timber furnishings, with select suites offering ocean views and balconies.
Classic
Mirador Rio Copacabana Hotel
Situated just 700 yards from Copacabana Beach, Mirador Rio offers guests comfortable rooms, a buffet breakfast, restaurant serving local and international cuisine, sauna and fitness centre and an outdoor swimming pool boasting panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro.
Deluxe
Miramar Hotel by Windsor
Located opposite Copacabana Beach, the Miramar Hotel by Windsor features luxurious accommodation in the heart of one of Rio's most popular neighbourhoods. Guests can enjoy the outdoor green granite pool with panoramic views of the coast, fully-equipped gym, rooftop bar and restaurant.
Book this itinerary
This route booked with one of our specialist tour operators would cost from $2,927pp. Pricing varies by accommodation class, and can be tailored to suit your budget.
Pricing is typically inclusive of hotels, transfers, meals, and all guided excursions and activities.
Other itineraries you might like
Rio To Lençóis Maranhenses And Beyond
Nine day beach, lagoon and lake itinerary
Approx. 9 days
Amazon and Pantanal itinerary
10 day itinerary to Brazil's natural wonders
Approx. 10 days
Afro-Brazilian Bahia and Rio
The best of Bahia with Rio stopover
Approx. 10 daysYour adventure awaits
Speak to Brazil Green Travel for expert advice
