Searching for your next destination?

Explore the states of Brazil with detailed regional travel guides, plus find travel guides for the top destinations in each state. Discover the unique charm of each state and plan your perfect trip. Home > States of Brazil States of Brazil Regional Travel Guides Learn about the states of Brazil in these regional travel guides, including top attractions, regional cuisines and famous dishes, and the festivals and events held in each state. Plus, find detailed travel guides for the top destinations in each Brazilian state, including where to stay, destination tips, detailed transport guides on how to get there and how to get around. Goias Central-West Brazil Capital City: Goiás is inland and known for ecotourism in the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park and thermal springs in Caldas Novas. Read More Minas Gerais South-East Brazil Belo Horizonte Capital City: Minas Gerais is an inland state recognised for its historic colonial mining towns like Ouro Preto and Tiradentes. Tourism is also focused on its distinct gastronomy. Read More Sergipe North-East Brazil Aracaju Capital City: Sergipe is Brazil’s smallest state, with coastal attractions including Aracaju’s beaches and the São Francisco River canyon at Xingó. Read More Paraiba North-East Brazil Joao Pessoa Capital City: Paraíba offers historic sites in João Pessoa, the easternmost point of the Americas at Ponta do Seixas, and quiet beaches along its coastline. Read More Mato Grosso do Sul Central-West Brazil Capital City: Mato Grosso do Sul attracts tourists to the Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland, known for wildlife viewing, and to the clear rivers and caves of Bonito for snorkelling and diving. Read More Federal District of Brazil Central-West Brazil Brasilia Capital City: Federal District contains Brasília, Brazil’s capital, with modernist architecture by Oscar Niemeyer and planned urban design attracting visitors interested in political and architectural tourism. Read More Santa Catarina Southern Brazil Florianopolis Capital City: Santa Catarina combines Atlantic beaches such as those on Florianópolis Island with European-influenced towns like Blumenau, known for hosting German festivals such as Oktoberfest. Read More Rio Grande do Norte North-East Brazil Natal Capital City: Rio Grande do Norte offers a full range of coastal attractions including snorkeling at coral reefs, surf beaches, swimming with dolphins, and the sand dunes of Genipabu Read More Alagoas North-East Brazil Maceio Capital City: Alagoas is a small northeastern state known for its clear-water beaches and coral reefs, and is home to the popular beach towns of Maragogi and São Miguel dos Milagres Read More Pernambuco North-East Brazil Recife & Olinda Capital City: Pernambuco is a diverse state home to the colourful colonial city of Olinda, the natural pools of Porto de Galinhas, the cultural festivals of Recife, and the inland São João festivities in Caruaru Read More Ceara North-East Brazil Fortaleza Capital City: Ceará is known for its long sandy beaches, consistent wind conditions ideal for kitesurfing, and tourism centres like Jericoacoara and Canoa Quebrada. Read More Amazonas Northern Brazil Manaus Capital City: Amazonas is Brazil’s largest state by area, located in the Amazon rainforest with tourism centred on ecotourism, river cruises, and the city of Manaus serving as a gateway to the jungle Read More Para Northern Brazil Belem Capital City: Pará features the Amazon River and rainforest access through the city of Belém, as well as Ilha do Marajó with river beaches and unique buffalo culture. Read More Maranhao North-East Brazil Capital City: Maranhão is home to Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, where seasonal rain creates freshwater lagoons among white sand dunes, and the colonial city of São Luís. Read More Parana Southern Brazil Curitiba Capital City: Paraná is known for Iguaçu Falls, one of the world's largest waterfall systems, and the preserved Atlantic Forest that can be visited in the state's National Parks. Read More Rio Grande do Sul Southern Brazil Porto Alegre Capital City: Rio Grande do Sul attracts visitors to the wine region of Serra Gaúcha, alpine-style towns like Gramado and Canela, and coastal areas such as Praia do Cassino. Read More Bahia North-East Brazil Salvador Capital City: Bahia is known as being the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture with unique cuisine, Salvador’s colonial architecture, and the longest coastline of any Brazilian state. Its inland attractions include Chapada Diamantina National Park. Read More Sao Paulo State South-East Brazil Sao Paulo Capital City: São Paulo is Brazil’s most populous state, and home to the city of São Paulo, Brazil's economic centre. It is famous for cultural institutions like the Sao Paulo Museum of Art (MASP), the Japanese Liberdade district, and the Costa Verde (Green Coast). Read More Rio de Janeiro State South-East Brazil Rio de Janeiro Capital City: Rio de Janeiro is famous for its iconic landmarks including the Christ the Redeemer statue, Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, and for its parties - hosting massive Carnival and New Years Eve celebrations. Read More Need more inspiration for your trip to Brazil? Where to watch the 2026 World Cup in Rio de Janeiro Festivals & Events The 10 best weekend trips from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Tourist Attractions The 10 best day trips from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Tourist Attractions Best Beaches in Ilhabela: What to Visit and How to Choose Tourist Attractions 1 2 3 4 5

Discover Brazil's best destinations with over 45 comprehensive travel guides. Discover hidden gems in Brazil and plan your perfect adventure. Travel Guides for Brazil's Best Destinations Whether you're looking for the best beach vacation spots in Brazil, thrilling adventure sports, or a vibrant food scene, I have a perfect destination in Brazil for you. With landscapes ranging from rainforest to pristine beaches, together with deep cultural traditions and diverse culinary experiences, the country offers endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Choose a destination below to see a practical travel guide with detailed instructions on how to get there, the top things to see and do, where to stay, and important things to know before you go. Filter by State Select State Filter by Location Type Select Location Type Filter by Activities Select Activity Lencois Maranhenses Maranhão Do you know what happens when it rains over pristine, white sand dunes? This unique national park has the answer. Read More Chapada Diamantina Bahia Swimming in waterfalls, hiking, rock-climbing: Everyone agrees - there's magic in the air here Read More Arraial D'Ajuda Bahia This tourist town combines beautiful beach with plenty of shopping, restaurants, and lively nightlife. Read More Belem ‎Pará Fishing villages lie along the northern coast, at the mouth of the Amazon River. Read More Caraiva Bahia Take a canoe to cross the river to Caraiva and unwind like never before on miles of deserted white sandy beach. Read More Trancoso Bahia Walk for miles along tranquil beaches where the river meets the sea Read More Ubatuba São Paulo From the hills covered by the Atlantic Rainforest to the rolling waves by the sea, Ubatuba is a tropical paradise Read More Florianopolis Santa Catarina This island city has 42 beaches, numerous hiking trails, and fantastic nightlife Read More Iguazu Falls Paraná The widest waterfall in the world sits on the border of Brazil and Argentina Read More Ilhabela São Paulo A sanctuary for nature, Ilhabela has 360 waterfalls, beautiful beaches and dense jungle Read More Salvador Bahia Discover the vibrant rhythms of Salvador, where Afro-Brazilian culture is reflected in the historic Pelourinho district, capoeira performances, and traditional Bahian cuisine Read More Boipeba Bahia Take a break among the coconut plantations, or explore the natural beauty of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Read More Ilha do Mel Paraná Hike to Lighthouse Hill for panoramic views, visit Encantadas Cave, and relax on tranquil beaches. Read More Ilha Grande Rio de Janeiro Long, sandy beaches and crystal clear waters - take a hike or boat ride to see this Island's best attractions Read More Itacare Bahia Learn to surf in Itacaré, or relax with a coconut on one of it's remote pristine beaches Read More Porto Alegre Rio Grande do Sul Experience the cultural heartbeat of Southern Brazil Read More Pipa Rio Grande do Norte Spot dolphins while you learn to surf below Pipa's stunning cliff-lined beaches Read More Ouro Preto Minas Gerais A hilly historic town turned university city, with lively nightlife Read More Rio de Janeiro Rio de Janeiro Culture and history. Beaches and nature. Cuisine and nightlife. Rio de Janeiro proves you really can have it all. Read More Morro de Sao Paulo Bahia Morro de São Paulo offers an enticing balance of tranquil beach days, nightlife, and nature Read More Curitiba Paraná Explore one of Brazil’s most sustainable cities, known for its green spaces and urban planning. Read More Joao Pessoa Paraíba Discover the serene beauty of João Pessoa, where white-sand beaches and a laid-back vibe lead you to the most eastern point in the Americas Read More Maceio Alagoas Maceió is the gateway to the Alagoas, a string of beaches with calm clear water and natural pools. Read More Belo Horizonte Minas Gerais Eat and drink in the birthplace of Pão de Queijo, and visit the world's largest open-air museum Read More Paraty Rio de Janeiro See the historic town's colored buildings in the reflection of flooded cobblestone streets Read More Brasilia Federal District Brasília, the capital of Brazil, is known for it's white modern architecture designed by Oscar Niemeyer. Read More Maragogi Alagoas Boat out to the natural pools or relax on the white sands of Antunes beach Read More Gramado Rio Grande do Sul This mountain resort town is known for European-style architecture, Christmas festivals, and chocolate shops Read More Porto Seguro Bahia The gateway to the beaches of Southern Bahia, Porto Seguro has cheap sunset markets and some beautiful beaches of it's own. Read More Fernando de Noronha Pernambuco A remote Brazilian island paradise off the coast of Pernambuco, with crystal-clear waters, volcanic rock formations, and the best scuba-diving in Brazil Read More Natal Rio Grande do Norte Ride the sand dunes of Genipabu and enjoy Ponta Negra beach with its iconic Morro do Careca dune. Read More Jericoacoara Ceará There are few places with a more spectacular sunset than windy Jericoacoara. Watch it from the top of the dunes, or down by the ocean. Jeri is also hotspot for kitesurfing and adventure sports. Read More Novo Airao Amazonas Novo Airão is a small town in Amazonas, Brazil. Novo Airao is the gateway to the Anavilhanas National Park, a vast river archipelago with over 400 islands, flooded forests, and aquatic ecosystems along the Rio Negro. Read More Cabo Frio & Buzios Rio de Janeiro Cold blue water. Hot white sand. They call this the Brazilian Caribbean. Read More Presidente Figueiredo Amazonas Presidente Figueiredo is known as the “Land of the Waterfalls” for its more than 100 waterfalls and caves nestled deep in the Amazon rainforest Read More Barra Grande Bahia Take a boat to this secluded paradise on the Maraú Peninsula, where golden beaches, natural pools, and lush Atlantic Forest create the perfect tropical escape. Read More Guarda do Embau Santa Catarina A magical place to camp overlooking deep blue waters and rolling hills. Read More Recife & Olinda Pernambuco Explore Recife's historic Old Town with its rivers and bridges, and enjoy the vibrant beach and nightlife in Boa Viagem. Read More Fortaleza Ceará The gateway to a number of Brazil's most beautiful beaches has some tranquil spots of its own Read More Ilheus Bahia Learn about Ilhéus' chocolate heritage at the Cocoa Museum, explore the colonial downtown, and savor local seafood. Read More Sao Paulo São Paulo The business capital of Brazil is home to the best international cuisine the country has to offer. Read More Tiradentes Minas Gerais Known for its cobblestone streets, baroque churches, and the Maria Fumaça steam train, Tiradentes is a hotspot for cultural and gastronomy festivals. Read More Santarem & Alter do Chao Para The white sand beaches on the Tapajós River and Lago Verde earned Alter do Chao the nickname "The Caribbean of the Amazon" Read More Chapada dos Veadeiros Goias Hike, swim, repeat. Towering waterfalls and refreshing clear waters. Read More Manaus Amazonas The gateway to the Amazon jungle. Read More Porto de Galinhas Pernambuco Snorkel in Porto de Galinhas' famous natural tide pools teeming with colorful marine life Read More Aracaju Sergipe Visit the giant turtles at the Projeto TAMAR turtle sanctuary Read More Pantanal Mato Grosso & Mato Grosso do Sul The best wildlife in Brazil can be see here, in the world's largest wetlands Read More Canoa Quebrada Ceará Iconic red sand cliffs line this beautiful beach, which is a hotspot for paragliding. Read More Amazon Jungle Amazonas Embark on a thrilling adventure into the heart of the Brazilian Amazon, where unparalleled biodiversity and untouched wilderness await. Read More

Check out this free detailed travel guide for Fernando de Noronha. Find out how to get there, things to see & do, where to stay, and other insider tips. Skip to: Top Things to See & Do Where to stay How to get there How to get around Things to know before you go Brazil's North-East Region The Ultimate Brazil Travel Guide: Fernando de Noronha See all states > Pernambuco > Fernando de Noronha A remote Brazilian island paradise off the coast of Pernambuco, with crystal-clear waters, volcanic rock formations, and the best scuba-diving in Brazil Fernando de Noronha is an archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 350 kilometres off the northeast coast of Brazil. It consists of 21 islands and islets, with only the main island being inhabited. The archipelago is part of the state of Pernambuco and covers about 26 square kilometres. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , it is known for its ecological significance and high marine biodiversity. The islands are of volcanic origin, formed around 12 million years ago. The rugged landscape includes cliffs, basaltic rock formations and the prominent Morro do Pico, the highest point on the island at 321 metres. Offshore, the volcanic base supports a fringing reef system that shelters coral, sponges and other marine organisms. The underwater visibility is often excellent, making Fernando de Noronha one of the best places in Brazil for diving and snorkelling. Tide pools, caves and natural rock pools add to the geological diversity. Fernando de Noronha is home to a variety of wildlife, including spinner dolphins, green and hawksbill sea turtles, reef sharks, and numerous tropical fish species. On land, visitors may encounter iguanas, teju lizards and seabirds such as the frigatebird and masked booby. The islands are managed jointly by the State Government of Pernambuco and the Brazilian environmental agency ICMBio , which enforces conservation laws, regulates park access and oversees research. Activities within the National Marine Park are strictly controlled to ensure the long-term preservation of the ecosystem. Access to the islands is strictly regulated through environmental fees and visitor limits to protect the natural habitat. Skip to: Top Things to See & Do Where to stay How to get there How to get around Things to know before you go Top 10 Things to See & Do in Fernando de Noronha Snorkel at Baía do Sancho – Accessed by ladder through a cliff, this beach offers some of the clearest water and abundant marine life including turtles and reef fish. Hike the Atalaia Trail – A guided trek through the national park that ends at a natural tide pool where snorkelling is permitted with limited daily access. Dive at Pedras Secas – One of the most popular scuba diving sites in Brazil, featuring underwater rock formations, tunnels and frequent sightings of reef sharks and rays. Watch spinner dolphins at Baía dos Golfinhos – Visit early in the morning from the Mirante dos Golfinhos viewpoint to see hundreds of dolphins entering the bay. Take the boat tour around the island – Departing from Porto de Santo Antônio, this tour circles the island with stops for snorkelling and dolphin watching. Visit the Tamar Project Visitor Centre – Learn about sea turtle conservation efforts on the island and attend free nightly talks or turtle hatchling releases during the season. Relax on Praia do Leão – A quieter beach known for its turtle nesting sites, with a strong current not suitable for swimming but excellent for scenic walks. Climb up to Forte dos Remédios – Explore the historic Portuguese fort near Vila dos Remédios with views over the coastline and occasional cultural events. Take a sunset dip at Praia da Conceição – Popular for its social beach bars, especially at sunset with Morro do Pico in the background. Surf at Cacimba do Padre – Best between December and March, this beach hosts surf competitions and offers consistent waves for experienced surfers. How long to spend in Fernando de Noronha It is recommended to spend at least 5 days in Fernando de Noronha to have the opportunity to explore the island's top beaches. Where to stay in Fernando de Noronha Accommodation in Fernando de Noronha is more expensive than on the mainland, and consists mostly of pousadas (guesthouses). There are several areas to stay in Fernando de Noronha, including Vila dos Remédios, Boldró, and Praia do Cachorro. Vila dos Remédios is the main village with most accommodation, restaurants, and shops, and serves as the transport hub. It's the most convenient place to stay for those who plan to explore various different areas areas of the island and do not have their own transport. Several of the island's beaches also have accommodation. Boldró and Praia do Cachorro offer closer access to beaches and some attractions but have fewer services and require walking or local transport to reach Vila dos Remédios. Find accommodation for your stay in Fernando de Noronha, or check out some of my recommendations below: Luxury Stays in Fernando de Noronha Pousada Maravilha - 5 star luxury accommodation overlooking Praia do Sueste ( see prices ) Pousada do Mirante - 5 star luxury pousada by Praia do Boldró ( see prices ) Pousada do Vale - a boutique luxury pousada by Praia do Cachorro ( see prices ) Pousada Filó - luxury pousada with private pools nearby Praia do Meio and Praia da Conceição ( see prices ) Pousada Moana - boutique pousada conveniently located by the main road at the turn off to Praia da Conceição ( see prices ) Apartments & Bungalows Flat do Tubanoronha - two bedroom house by Vila dos Remédios ( see prices ) Casa Azure - one bedroom house by Praia da Conceição ( see prices ) Casa da Ilha - one bedroom house conveniently located by the main road for those who want to explore the whole island ( see prices ) Pousadas (guesthouses) Vila Matilde Noronha - basic rooms in Vila dos Remédios ( see prices ) Estação Noronha - basic rooms in Vila dos Remédios ( see prices ) Casa Pitanga - basic rooms in Vila dos Remédios ( see prices ) Where is Fernando de Noronha, Brazil Quick Facts about Fernando de Noronha Population of Fernando de Noronha 3,341 people (2025) Nickname People from Fernando de Noronha are called noronhenses . Closest airport Fernando de Noronha (FEN) Main bus terminal Porto (harbour) and Sueste (south) Main port Santo Antônio Port Where to stay How to get to Fernando de Noronha The only way to reach Fernando de Noronha by plane is to fly from the mainland of Brazil. There are no international flights, and there are currently direct flights to the island from just two cities in Brazil: Recife and Sao Paulo . Note: several sites state that you can fly directly from Natal and Fortaleza - this information is not up to date ( see flight availability ). It is also possible to reach the island by private or chartered yachts, but this requires booking through agents on the mainland. Top tours in Recife How to get around Fernando de Noronha The island has one main road that connects the main village of Vila dos Remédios to other key locations including beaches and the airport. Aside from the main road, most roads on the island are unpaved. There are a number of ways to get around Fernando de Noronha, including taking the public bus, bicycle, or renting a car. Car and electric bicycle rental are both available on the island. Taxis are available 24 hours, and are run by one company called Nortax. You can flag down a taxi on the street, call them, or message the them on Whatsapp - this is the better option for foreigners who don't speak Portuguese as you can use a Translation app to message them. Though some taxis accept card, not all do, so it's best to carry cash. Uber and other ridesharing apps are not available in Fernando de Noronha. One fun and unique way to get around the island, giving you complete flexibility, is to rent a buggy. The price starts from R$ 300 per day (24 hours), and increases during the peak season. A public bus service is scheduled to operate every 30 minutes, though actual timing is unreliable. The bus runs from 5am to 10pm between the north and south of the island. The busses in Noronha have two directions: porto (harbour) and sueste (south). The bus fare is R$5, paid in cash to the driver. Bring correct change. Things to know before you go to Fernando de Noronha Fees, tickets, and tour guides Visitors must pay an Environmental Preservation Fee (TPA). The daily fee starts at around R$100 per day, but the rate increases for longer stays. You can check the current rates and pay in advance on the official government website , or pay at the airport. A National Marine Park access fee of R$373 for foreigners and R$186 for Brazilians, is required to enter most of the island's popular sites such as Baía do Sancho, Atalaia, and Baía dos Porcos. The ticket is valid for 10 days and can be purchased in person or online . Access to some trails and beaches requires advance booking through the island’s official visitor website or at the ICMBio visitor centre. These include Capim Açu, Abreu, Atalaia, Pontinha Caieira, Atalaia Pontinha Caieira, Morro São José. In addition, a number of trails require you to be accompanied by a certified tour guide. These include Capim Açu, Pontinha Caieira, Atalaia Pontinha Caieira, and Morro São José for swimming. Is Fernando de Noronha safe for tourists Fernando de Noronha is considered a safe destination for visitors. The atmosphere is relaxed, and it is a very different experience compared to larger Brazilian cities. As with any trip, it is still sensible to follow a few simple precautions, but these are more about peace of mind than real risk. A few tips to stay safe in Fernando de Noronha: Keep an eye on your belongings at the beach, or ask someone to watch them if you go for a swim Don't walk around with large amounts of cash, carry only the cash you need for the day or a credit card At night, stick to the main streets or paths where other visitors and locals are walking Ask your pousada or host if you are unsure about the best routes or areas to explore Travel insurance for Fernando de Noronha Travel insurance is not just a nice-to-have, it is an important safety-net that can prevent a stressful incident from turning into an expensive disaster. The reality is that unexpected events can happen on any trip. Even something as simple as missing a connecting flight can lead to unexpected accommodation and transport costs. If you become unwell, medical bills in another country can quickly become expensive. Without insurance, you have to handle all of this on your own in an unfamiliar environment, possibly in a language you do not speak. I have personally relied on travel insurance multiple times, including when I had belongings stolen in Europe, fell sick while travelling in Asia, and had flights cancelled. In each case, the support I received meant I could focus on solving the problem instead of worrying about costs. For a small daily cost, you can be covered for a wide range of scenarios, from theft to delayed flights and medical emergencies. Having one phone number to call and a company that deals with the problem for you is worth far more than the price of the policy. I personally use Safety Wing , and I recommend them to friends, family, and anyone travelling internationally. You can get a quote here. More travel tips for Fernando de Noronha The number of daily visitors is restricted to protect the ecosystem, so flights, accommodation, and tours should be booked well in advance. Only the main island is inhabited. Boat tours are required to visit the surrounding islets. Bring cash, as some places may not accept cards and there are few ATMs on the island. Cash is required for the bus and some taxis. Internet access is limited in some areas and mobile signal may be weak outside the main village. Sunscreen must be reef-safe. Regular sunscreen is discouraged due to environmental regulations. Resources for planning your trip to Fernando de Noronha Disclaimer: Some of my guides contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase a ticket through these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the blog and allows me to keep providing helpful content. Thank you for your support! Need more inspiration for your trip to Brazil? Where to watch the 2026 World Cup in Rio de Janeiro Festivals & Events The 10 best weekend trips from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Tourist Attractions The 10 best day trips from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Tourist Attractions Best Beaches in Ilhabela: What to Visit and How to Choose Tourist Attractions 1 2 3 4 5 Where do you want to go next? Lencois Maranhenses Maranhão Caraiva Bahia Chapada Diamantina Bahia Trancoso Bahia Arraial D'Ajuda Bahia Ubatuba São Paulo Belem ‎Pará Florianopolis Santa Catarina

If you are in Rio de Janeiro during the World Cup, you are in for a treat. Even if you're not into football (soccer), the atmosphere is not to be missed. Brazilians create some of the best crowds in the world. They cheer, sing, support their team from start to finish, and are genuinely fun to be around. The energy during a World Cup match is something special, whether you're watching with locals at a neighbourhood bar or in the middle of a packed street party. If you're wondering where the best places are to watch World Cup matches, the answer is: almost anywhere. Bars, restaurants, event spaces, and even many public areas will be showing the games. If you're after a good vibe, you can choose between watching at a bar for a more relaxed, sit down experience, or joining one of the many parties and events that will incorporate watching the games into their regular events. Save this post - it will be updated with game schedules & venues throughout the event! Skip to: Brazil's Group C Schedule Bars showing specific matches Friday 19/06 Saturday 13/06 More coming... Follow this post for updates throughout the series Bars showing the World Cup in Copacabana Bars showing the World Cup in Centro & other areas Bars showing the World Cup in Barra da Tijuca Brazil's Group C Schedule (local time in Rio) Saturday 13 June 19:00 Brazil vs Morocco Friday 19 June 22:00 Brazil vs Haiti Wednesday 24 June 19:00 Scotland vs Brazil Where to watch World Cup Games in Rio de Janeiro This schedule will be updated for future matches as venues release their event schedules. Schedule for Friday 19/06 15:00 | Casa Cazé TV | Pier Mauá 16:00 | Village Superbet | Jockey Club 16:00 | Arena Copa | Praia de Copacabana 16:00 | Porco Amigo Fan Fest | Sambotica, Praça Mauro Duarte, Botafogo 17:00 | Baródromo na Copa | Rua Dona Zulmira 41 17:00 | Brasil na Copa e Mãe no Copo: Pagode do Compasso do Tempo | Mãe Joana, Botafogo 17:00 | Energia pra Torcer: Thiaguinho | Caminho Niemeyer 17:00 | Samba + Transmissão do Jogo | Jurema Bar 17:00 | Arena Passeio | Passeio Público 17:00 | Arena Senado | Rua do Senado 1 17:00 | Alzirão | Rua Alzira Brandão 18:00 | Samba Leve | Mureta da Lapa 18:00 | Golearte com Summer Eletro Bloco | Circo Voador 18:00 | Base da Copa | Base do Samba 19:00 | Copa Que Elas Querem com Samba Que Elas Querem | Beco da Cultura 19:00 | Jogos no Labuta | Labuta Bar, Rua do Senado 19:00 | Grupo Nó na Madeira + Galocantô | Beco do Rato 19:00 | Dia de Jogo é na Cozinha | Cozinha da Lapa 19:00 | Arena Itanhangá | Ilha Itanhangá 19:00 | Baile da Paixão | Espaço Luiz Gama, Rua da Constituição 54 19:00 | Parque Bondinho Arena Fest: Bloco das Gaúchas | Parque Bondinho 20:00 | Vinil na Calçada: Daniel Cairoli + Jogo do Brasil | Prainha Discos Schedule for Saturday 13/06 10:00 | Casa Cazé TV | Pier Mauá 12:00 | Copa do Baródromo | Rua Dona Zulmira 41 12:00 | Brasil na Copa e Mãe no Copo | Mãe Joana, Botafogo 12:00 | Telão e Samba | Largo da Prainha 13:00 | Village Superbet | Jockey Club 14:00 | Arena Senado | Rua do Senado 1 14:00 | Arena Cardosão com Sambotica e Sinfônica Ambulante | Quadra do Cardosão 14:00 | Feijuca com Samba | Jo&Joe, Largo do Boticário 15:00 | Baile da Lua: Arraiá na Copa | Bar Que Beleza, Rua da Relação 55 15:00 | Porco Amigo Fan Fest | Praça Mauro Duarte 15:00 | Arena Itanhangá | Ilha Itanhangá 15:00 | Energia pra Torcer + Ludmilla | Caminho Niemeyer 15:00 | Samba do Sacramento + Cabra Guaraná + Xepa + Transmissão do Jogo | Destilaria Maravilha 16:00 | Morro de Torcer | Mirante do Arvrão 16:00 | Copa no Telão: DJ Jales | Pavilhão Lapa 16:00 | Canela de Velho | Casa Savana 16:00 | Colher de Pau | Mureta da Lapa 16:00 | Se Essa Rua Fosse Copa com Pagode Pop | Beco da Cultura 16:00 | Arena Copa | Praia de Copacabana 16:00 | Arena LadoB | Quadra do Guararapes 16:00 | Base da Copa | Base do Samba, Praça da Bandeira 17:00 | De Sainha: Baile da Dabren Especial Copa do Mundo | Mauacvba, Praça XV 17:00 | Samba + Transmissão do Jogo | Jurema Bar 17:00 | Arena Passeio: Arruda + Pagode do Maui + Roda do Passeio | Passeio Público 18:00 | Golearte com Bloco Marimbondo Não Respeita + DJ Lencinho + Digital Mandinga | Circo Voador 18:00 | Samba dos Guimarães com Convidados | Largo dos Guimarães 19:00 | Jogos no Labuta | Labuta Bar, Rua do Senado 19:00 | Jogo do Br: DJ Laryh com Especial Sade | Discotecagem Prainha Discos 19:00 | Arlindinho das Antigas com Transmissão do Jogo | Beco do Rato 20:00 | Tamborzão Nights | Espaço Luiz Gama 22:00 | RnBaile | Casa Savana Bars that will show World Cup Games Aside from these specific events that have been scheduled so far, if you are looking for a bar to watch the games, the bars below will consistently show Brazil's matches. Where to watch the World Cup in Copacabana 📍 Fan Zone Oficial da Copa Orla de Copacabana – Posto 4 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Arena Copacabana Avenida Atlântica – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Os Imortais Bar Rua Ronald de Carvalho, 147 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Caju Gastrobar Praça Demétrio Ribeiro, 97, Loja C – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Praia Skol – Copacabana Av. Atlântica, Quiosques 27 e 28 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Boteco Belmonte Rua Domingos Ferreira, 242 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Espetto Carioca Av. Atlântica – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Real Chopp Rua Barata Ribeiro, 319 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Bossa Rio Rua Domingos Ferreira, 215 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Pavão Azul Bar Rua Hilário de Gouveia, 71 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Boteco Rios Copacabana Rua Bolívar, 8 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ Where to watch the World Cup in Centro & other areas 📍 Casa CazéTV Pier Mauá – Praça Mauá – Centro, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Baródromo Rua Dona Zulmira, 41 – Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Village Superbet Jockey Club Brasileiro – Praça Santos Dumont, 31 – Gávea, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍 Buxixo Choperia Av. Maracanã, 760 – Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro – RJ Where to watch the World Cup in Barra da Tijuca 📍 Boteco Colinda Arena Show New York City Center – Av. das Américas, 5000 – Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro – RJ 📍Arena Uptown Uptown Barra Av. Ayrton Senna, 5500 - Barra da Tijuca

If you want a Friday night that feels local, one of my favourite free Forro events in Rio de Janeiro is held each Friday in the neighbourhood of Laranjeiras. Every Friday, Praça São Salvador fills up with live forró, dancing, and a crowd that is mostly Brazilian with a handful of foreigners. The vibe is welcoming, wholesome, and attracts people of all ages. About the Friday night forro in Laranjeiras, Rio de Janeiro 💃🕺 📍 Praça São Salvador, Laranjeiras 🕕 Free dance class from around 6:30pm in Brazilian time 🎵 Live forró band from around 8pm to 10pm 💰 Free entry, donation only Free Forro dance class for beginners There is a free beginner's forro dance class before the band starts. Officially it begins at 6pm, which in Brazil means closer to 6:30pm. The class is open to everyone and is a good way to learn the basics before the dancing starts. What to expect at the Forro After the class, a live band plays from around 8pm until 10pm, with plenty of space for dancing in the square. If you're a woman, you can usually just stand around the edge of the square and someone will likely ask you to dance. If you're a man, you'll need to do the asking. The event itself is free, although donations for the band are appreciated. One of the great parts of this event is the casual outdoor location. Praça São Salvador is surrounded by botecos, so it's easy to grab dinner or a few drinks before or after. Inside the square you'll also find plenty of vendors selling snacks, caipirinhas, craft beer, and other drinks. Because it finishes relatively early, it's also a great way to start a Friday night before heading somewhere else afterwards. Want to learn more about Forro dancing? See my post: What is Forro? Traditional music and dance from Brazil More resources for planning your trip to Brazil

Rio de Janeiro itself a city full of things to do. Nevertheless, if you live in Rio or are visiting for a longer trip, you may start itching for a weekend getaway. Like Rio itself, the surrounding area has countless opportunities for adventure, from mountain ranges to beaches, to delightful historic towns. Along the coast, areas like Região dos Lagos and Ilha Grande are perfect for boat trips, snorkelling, and beach hopping. Inland, mountain regions such as Visconde de Mauá and Nova Friburgo are perfect for this craving rivers, waterfalls, and walking trails. There are also towns like Paraty and Petrópolis where you can combine historic sites with some time outdoors. Top 10 trips from Rio de Janeiro to do this weekend These are my personal top 10 weekend trips from Rio de Janeiro. 1. Itatiaia National Park and Penedo Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~170 to 200 km Travel time: ~2.5 to 3 hours Itatiaia National Park is Brazil’s first national park, created in 1937, and is divided into two main areas with different landscapes. The lower section has forest trails, rivers, and waterfalls such as Véu da Noiva, where you can walk short distances and swim in natural pools. The upper section is higher in altitude and more exposed, with rocky terrain and peaks like Agulhas Negras, one of the highest points in the state, which requires guided climbing or hiking depending on the route. A short drive away, Penedo provides a base with restaurants, small shops, and accommodation, along with easy access to additional waterfalls such as Cachoeira de Deus and Três Bacias. 2. Petrópolis Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~70 km Travel time: ~1 to 1.5 hours Petrópolis is a mountain city developed as the summer residence of the Brazilian imperial family, and many of its main sites are linked to that period. The Imperial Museum, housed in the former palace of Dom Pedro II, displays furniture, documents, and the imperial crown within landscaped grounds. Nearby, the Cathedral of Saint Peter of Alcantara contains the tombs of the imperial family, and the Quitandinha Palace is a large historic building originally constructed as a casino hotel. Over a weekend, you can also visit Casa de Santos Dumont, the former residence of the aviation pioneer, and explore parts of Serra dos Órgãos National Park nearby for short hikes. 3. Região dos Lagos (Arraial do Cabo, Cabo Frio, Búzios) Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~160 to 190 km Travel time: ~2.5 to 3.5 hours The Região dos Lagos is a coastal area is known for its clear turqoise water, sand dune, and a diversity of beaches with different conditions. In Arraial do Cabo, the focus is on boat trips that stop at beaches like Praia do Farol and Prainhas do Pontal do Atalaia, where water visibility is high and suitable for snorkelling. Cabo Frio has long, accessible beaches such as Praia do Forte, backed by dunes and stronger wind. In Armação dos Búzios, you'll find multiple smaller beaches like João Fernandes and Geribá. Buzios is the more popular choice for those looking for lively nightlife and restaurants. 4. Itatiaia National Park and Penedo Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~170 to 200 km Travel time: ~2.5 to 3 hours Itatiaia National Park is Brazil’s first national park, created in 1937, and is divided into two main areas with different landscapes. The lower section has forest trails, rivers, and waterfalls such as Véu da Noiva, where you can walk short distances and swim in natural pools. The upper section is higher in altitude and more exposed, with rocky terrain and peaks like Agulhas Negras, one of the highest points in the state, which requires guided climbing or hiking depending on the route. A short drive away, Penedo provides a base with restaurants, small shops, and accommodation, along with easy access to additional waterfalls such as Cachoeira de Deus and Três Bacias. 5. Conservatória Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~140 km Travel time: ~2.5 to 3 hours Conservatória is a small inland town known for its association with Brazilian serenade music. The main activity is walking through the town centre, where houses display plaques with song lyrics and historical references to composers and performers. In the evenings, organised serenades take place, with musicians moving through the streets and stopping at specific locations to perform. During the day, you can visit small museums such as the Museu da Seresta, which documents the history of this musical tradition, or explore nearby farms and rural areas. The town has a compact layout with guesthouses, restaurants, and cafés concentrated around the centre. A weekend visit allows time to experience both the daytime setting and the evening performances, which are the main draw. 6. Vassouras (Vale do Café) Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~120 km Travel time: ~2 to 2.5 hours Vassouras is part of the Vale do Café, a region that was central to Brazil’s coffee production in the 19th century. The main activity is visiting preserved estates, known as fazendas, where you can tour original buildings, see period furniture, and learn how coffee was produced and transported during the imperial era. Some estates offer guided visits that include demonstrations and meals based on traditional recipes. In the town centre, Praça Barão de Campo Belo and surrounding streets include colonial buildings, small museums, and churches linked to the same period. The landscape around Vassouras is made up of rolling hills and former plantation land, which can be seen while moving between estates. 7. Ilha Grande Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~150 km to Angra + boat transfer Travel time: ~2.5 to 3 hours drive + 30 to 90 minutes by boat Ilha Grande is a car free island covered by Atlantic Forest, where movement is by foot or boat between beaches. Most visitors stay in Vila do Abraão, which acts as a base for boat trips and trail access. You can hike to beaches such as Lopes Mendes, known for its long stretch of sand and strong surf, or follow shorter trails to nearby spots like Praia Preta and Cachoeira da Feiticeira, which combines a waterfall with a swimming area. Boat tours circle the island, stopping at multiple beaches and snorkelling points with clear water. Alternatively, stay in Angra dos Reis, where tour operators run island hopping trips through the surrounding bay, which contains over 300 islands. 8. Nova Friburgo Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~140 km Travel time: ~2.5 to 3 hours Nova Friburgo is set in the Serra do Mar and provides access to mountain terrain, forest trails, and elevated viewpoints. One of the main areas to explore is Parque Estadual dos Três Picos, the largest state park in Rio, where you can hike to viewpoints, walk forest trails, and access peaks such as Pico da Caledônia, which has a staircase route leading to panoramic views over the region. Within and around the town, there are rivers and waterfalls, swimming spots, as well as rural farms and local food producers. The town itself has a small centre with markets and restaurants. Camping is well established in the region, especially around areas like Lumiar, São Pedro da Serra, and near Parque Estadual dos Três Picos. There are multiple designated campgrounds with basic infrastructure. Low light pollution makes it a perfect spot to look at the night sky. 9. Visconde de Mauá Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~280 km Travel time: ~5 to 6 hours Visconde de Mauá is a mountain region near the border with Minas Gerais, made up of small villages such as Maringá and Maromba, with activities centred around rivers and waterfalls. The area sits within the Serra da Mantiqueira and includes parts of Itatiaia National Park, Brazil’s first national park. You can follow short trails to waterfalls like Cachoeira do Escorrega, where smooth rock forms a natural slide into a pool, or walk between multiple falls along the Rio Preto. Many sections of river are accessible directly from the roadside, making it easy to move between swimming spots. The villages have a small number of restaurants and shops. 10. Paraty and Trindade Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~250 km Travel time: ~4 to 5 hours Paraty is a preserved colonial town where the historic centre is built with stone streets and whitewashed buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The main activity is exploring the town on foot, visiting churches, small museums, and restaurants set within the old streets. From the waterfront, schooner and speedboat trips run daily, stopping at islands and beaches in the bay where you can swim and snorkel in clear water. A short drive south leads to Trindade, a smaller coastal area with beaches and trails. Here you can walk between Praia do Meio, Praia do Cachadaço, and the natural pool known as Piscina Natural do Cachadaço, which is formed by rocks and accessed via a short trail. Inland from Paraty, there are also waterfalls and cachaça distilleries that offer tours and tastings. Serra da Bocaina National Park Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~220 to 270 km (access varies) Travel time: ~4 to 5 hours Serra da Bocaina National Park is a large protected area covering mountains, forest, and sections of historic routes between the coast and inland regions. The park includes parts of the old Gold Trail (Caminho do Ouro), a route used during the colonial period to transport goods between Paraty and inland areas. You can hike sections of this trail through forest, crossing stone paths, rivers, and historic infrastructure. The park is also known for waterfalls such as Cachoeira de Santo Izidro, which has a high drop and designated swimming areas below. Access points are spread out and often reached via dirt roads, with some areas requiring a guide or local transport. Over a weekend, the focus is on longer hikes, visiting waterfalls, and moving through less developed parts of the Atlantic Forest rather than staying in a single town. Visconde de Mauá Distance from Rio de Janeiro: ~280 km Travel time: ~5 to 6 hours Visconde de Mauá is a mountain region near the border with Minas Gerais, made up of small villages such as Maringá and Maromba. The area sits within the Serra da Mantiqueira and includes parts of Itatiaia National Park, Brazil’s first national park. You can follow short trails to waterfalls like Cachoeira do Escorrega, where smooth rock forms a natural slide into a pool, or walk between multiple falls along the Rio Preto. Many sections of river are accessible directly from the roadside, making it easy to move between swimming spots. The villages have a small number of restaurants and shops, and are connected by short drives or walking paths. More resources for planning your trip to Brazil