The ultimate Brazil 7 day travel itinerary: Plan a one week trip to Brazil

Brazil, the largest country in South America and the fifth largest in the world by both area and population, offers an incredible diversity of experiences for travelers. Although you'll only scrape the surface with a 7-day trip, it's a great way to dip your toe into this incredible country.

The 5th largest country in the world, Brazil is home to over 215 million people Brazil, over 7,400 kilometers (4,600 miles) of Atlantic coastline, and some of the world's most iconic natural and cultural landmarks, including Christ the Redeemer.

In just 7 days, explore the cities of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, witness the thunderous power of Iguazu Falls, and unwind in the historic beach town of Paraty. This super fast 7 day Brazil travel itinerary packs in a taste of Brazil's urban adventures, natural wonders, and pristine beaches to make the most your quick one week Brazilian adventure - and you'll be sure to leave already planning your next trip.

Brazil one week travel itinerary: The 7 day highlights tour

This super quick travel itinerary for Brazil is perfect for those who only have a short time to explore Brazil, but still want to pack in all of Brazil's highlights.

Rio de Janeiro → Paraty → São Paulo → Foz do Iguaçu

Days 1–3: Rio de Janeiro

Read my guide to the 15 best things to do in Rio de Janeiro Find accommodation deals in Rio de Janeiro

Day 1: Arrive in Rio & visit a museum

Morning: Arrive early in Rio de Janeiro, and check into a hotel or guesthouse in Copacabana or Ipanema. Have breakfast and get ready for your first day in Brazil.

Visit Museu do Amanhã (Museum of Tomorrow), a striking modern science museum focused on sustainability and the future. Then walk along Boulevard Olímpico, located right out the front of the museum, home to large-scale street art including Kobra’s colorful mural.

Afternoon: Head to the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa and have lunch in a beautiful garden cafe. Explore its colonial mansions and artisan studios. Take a ride on the iconic Santa Teresa Tram.

When you're finished exploring, head to the beach and spend the last hours of the day having a swim and sipping a fresh caipirinha on the beach. Then head to Arpoador, the point in between Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, to watch the sunset.

Evening: Head out for dinner at a traditional churrascaria (Brazilian BBQ) at Churrasco Palace. If you feel like a drink afterwards, head to Leblon to Liz Cocktail Co, or head to Pedra do Sal for samba on Monday nights.

Day 2: Christ the Redeemer, Centro, & Sugarloaf

Morning: Start with an early morning visit to Christ the Redeemer before the crowds arrive. Take the train up to the top, where you can take in sweeping views of Rio de Janeiro from the top of Corcovado mountain.

Afternoon: Join a walking tour - either a private guided or one of the many popular free options, to explore downtown Rio’s main cultural and historical sites. Highlights include the Escadaria Selarón (the colorful Selaron Steps), the Arcos da Lapa aqueduct, the Catedral Metropolitana, and more.

Finally, head to Sugarloaf Mountain and take a cable car to the top in time to see the sunset.

This is a big day of sightseeing! Take the stress off by booking a full-day tour to see all of Rio's best sites:

Evening: Relax with a drink and dinner back in Ipanema or Copacabana. If you still have energy, head out to a samba bar to see some local live music.

Day 3: Botanic Gardens and travel to Paraty

Morning: For your final morning in Rio, unwind in the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico), a peaceful 137-hectare space with over 6,000 species of plants. Stroll through orchid greenhouses, bamboo groves, and quiet trails while spotting birds and monkeys.

Or, for a free and equally beautiful alternative, head to Parque Lage, located right nearby, features forested walking trails, gardens, and a 19th-century mansion with an open courtyard café.

Afternoon: Take the 4-hour Costa Verde bus to Paraty, or save time by booking a private transfer with hotel pick-up and drop-off. Sit on the left side for stunning ocean views. When you arrive, settle into your pousada and explore Paraty’s historic center on foot - no cars allowed!

Days 4–5: Paraty

Check out my full 3-day Paraty itinerary Find accommodation deals in Paraty

Day 4: Snorkeling and island-hopping

Morning: Take a schooner tour around the Paraty Bay, with stops for snorkeling and swimming at Praia da Lula, Ilha Comprida, and other idyllic islands. Most tours include lunch on board and fresh tropical fruit.

Afternoon: Return in the mid to late afternoon and spend some time relaxing on Praia do Pontal. Sip on fresh coconut water while watching the local fishermen.

Evening: Wind down with sunset drinks near the harbor. Paraty’s laid-back nightlife often includes live forró or samba music spilling from open-air bars.

Day 5: Waterfall & Cachaca Jeep Tour

Full day: Wake up in Paraty's historical center and grab breakfast - maybe a pão de queijo and strong Brazilian coffee.

Then, head out on a half-day jeep tour through the Atlantic rainforest. This tour includes visits to several stunning waterfalls like Pedra Branca and Tobogã Falls, where you can swim in natural pools or try sliding down the smooth rock. There is a restaurant located by the waterfalls serving up local cuisine for lunch.

The tour also includes a visit to a local cachaça distillery. You’ll learn how Brazil’s famous sugarcane liquor is made and enjoy tastings of flavored varieties, from cinnamon to fruit-infused blends.

Evening: Stroll through the cobblestone streets as the golden hour lights up the streets. Stop by artisan shops and grab a caipirinha from a local bar. For dinner, try a restaurant with live samba music and seafood-focused dishes.

Travel: Board a comfortable 7-hour overnight bus to Sao Paulo.

Day 6: São Paulo Layover

Read my guide to the 10 best things to do in Sao Paulo Find accommodation deals in Sao Paulo

Day 6: Explore São Paulo in one day

Morning: Arrive in Sao Paulo early in the morning. Check your bags into a cheap & secure luggage storage and head to Avenida Paulista. Visit MASP (Museum of Art of São Paulo), one of Latin America's top art museums.

Lunch: Head to the Sao Paulo Municipal Market for a massive mortadella sandwich or pastel de bacalhau. Wander through the market to taste tropical fruits, juices, and other artisanal products.

Afternoon: Wander through Vila Madalena, an artsy neighborhood known for its street murals at Beco do Batman, indie shops, and cafes. Have an early dinner before heading to the airport.

Evening: Fly to Foz do Iguaçu. Check in to your hotel near the park entrance and get ready for a day of waterfalls. Consider staying at the Hotel das Cataratas, a luxury hotel located inside Iguaçu National Park, giving you exclusive after-hours access to the falls.

Note: If you don't want to spend the day in Sao Paulo, you can head straight to the airport to fly to Foz do Iguazu in the morning. Spend your extra afternoon in Foz do Iguazu visiting the bird park, the Itaipu Dam, or taking an unforgettable helicopter ride over the falls (tickets).

Day 7: Foz do Iguaçu (Iguazu Falls)

See my full Foz do Iguaçu 3-day itinerary Find accommodation deals in Foz do Iguacu

Day 7: Explore Iguazu Falls

Option 1: Take a full-day tour of the Brazilian and Argentinian sides of the falls

This option is ideal for those who will fly home from Foz do Iguacu

Morning: Head out for a full-day tour of the Brazil and Argentinian side of the falls. Taking a tour will help you see both sides in one day, but it is also possible to do this on your own. Alternatively, you can spend the morning

This day’s adventure begins with a pickup from Foz do Iguaçu and a van ride to the iconic Iguaçu National Park. Upon arrival, you'll embark on a guided four-hour exploration of the park’s Brazilian side, where panoramic viewpoints offer incredible views of the falls.

Then, cross the border to see the Argentinian side of the falls. For those seeking extra adrenaline, an optional boat cruise brings you thrillingly close to the base of the falls - be prepare to get soaked. The day ends with a return transfer, dropping you off at either Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil) or Puerto Iguazú (Argentina) depending on your preference.

Option 2: Brazilian side of Iguazu Falls, Bird Park & a Catamaran Dinner

This option is ideal for those who will travel on to Argentina after Brazil, and can see the Argentinian side another day

Morning: Head out for a half-day trip to explore the Brazilian side of the falls. Taking a tour will help you see both sides in one day, but it is also possible to do this on your own. Alternatively, you can spend the morning

Afternoon: Walk to Parque das Aves, one of Latin America’s most remarkable bird parks with a diverse range of native birds. Explore the immersive walk-through aviaries showcasing over 1,000 birds such as toucans, macaws, flamingos, and harpy eagles.

Evening: Return to your hotel to freshen up. For your final dinner in Brazil, visit a nearby churrasco restaurant. Or, for something extra special, treat yourself to a magical experience with dinner aboard a catamaran. Sail along the Paraná River, enjoying a relaxing atmosphere with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. As the sun sets, you’ll dine under the stars. Tickets do sell out so it's best to book in advance.

More resources for planning your trip to Brazil

• Find cheap bus, ferry, and private transfer tickets on Bookaway, where you can make reservations ahead of time from abroad. For more information on traveling by bus, read my full guide to taking long-distance busses in Brazil.

• Book your accommodation on Booking.com, with thousands of options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly backpacker hostels, there's something for everyone

• Don't forget to read my packing check-list for Brazil

• Finally, read this post to find out 10 things you should do before you travel to Brazil!

The ultimate 2 month travel itinerary for Brazil

Buy Now