Planning a trip to Brazil usually leads people to our gorgeous coastal cities like Rio de Janeiro or big cities like Sรฃo Paulo. If you want to leave the obvious route and get to know a different side of this country, let me introduce you to Ouro Preto. There are many things to do in Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, even if it is a small city. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980, which makes plenty of people come over.
Well, I think it is one of the most beautiful towns in South America, steeped in the rich history of our colonial era and surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the mountains of Minas Gerais. This former colonial mining town became famous for its cobblestone streets and Baroque churches. Visitors consider it a true gem of Brazil!
Brazil was a colony of Portugal and this city was the center of the Portuguese crownโs gold rush era. Ouro Preto offers visitors a journey through 18th-century buildings, cultural landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, indulging in traditional food like pรฃo de queijo, or taking a guided tour of its main attractions, Ouro Preto is worth visiting for history buffs, nature lovers, and adventurers alike.
This article will help you put together a perfect itinerary, making the most of each day in town! So let’s go over the top eight things to do in Ouro Preto, Brazil!
1. Discover Ouro Pretoโs Historic Center
The historic center of Ouro Preto is a living museum of colonial architecture and 18th-century charm. Begin at Praรงa Tiradentes, the heart of the city, where the bronze statue of Tiradentes honors Brazilโs independence hero. This main square is surrounded by colonial buildings, including the Museu da Inconfidรชncia, which recounts the story of the Inconfidรชncia Mineira revolt.
Wandering through the cobblestone streets, you’ll pass colorful colonial houses, public buildings, and historic churches that tell the story of Ouro Pretoโs history under Portuguese rule. Almost all of the best things to do in Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, are within walking distance of each other! Because of that, you need to wear your best sneakers when out exploring, bring a water bottle for hydration, and some snacks along!
2. Marvel at Baroque Churches and Cultural Landmarks
Ouro Preto is renowned for its Baroque churches, which feature Brazilian Baroque architecture at its finest. Donโt miss the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, designed by Antonio Francisco Lisboa, also known as Aleijadinho. The intricate carvings and works of art in this historic building are breathtaking.
Another must-see is the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, built by African slaves during the 17th and 18th centuries, reflecting the cityโs colonial past and rich cultural heritage.
For more stunning architecture, visit the Basรญlica Nossa Senhora and the Municipal Theater of Ouro Preto, one of the oldest theaters in Brazil. Each of these churches will have its own working hours, so do a quick Google search before heading over.
3. Explore the Gold Rush Era in Ouro Pretoโs Mines
Ouro Preto, once called โBlack Goldโ due to its massive gold deposits, was the epicenter of Brazilโs gold rush. You can dive into this history head first with a visit to Mina da Passagem, one of the largest former gold mines open to tourists. Visitors descend into underground chambers via a trolley and learn about the mineโs role during the gold rush era.
For more insight on a different side of history, explore the Casa dos Contos, a historic building that once served as a tax house for the Portuguese crown. This museum delves into the history of Brazilโs slave quarters and colonial economy. It is open from Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 AM to 4 PM. On Sundays, it closes at 2 PM.
4. Immerse Yourself in Natural Beauty
Beyond its fame for being a historic 18th century town, Ouro Preto is surrounded by natural beauty that will captivate any nature lover. Every visitor considers exploring the natural surroundings one of the best things to do in Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais. You can take a short hike to Cachoeira das Andorinhas, a serene waterfall nestled in the surrounding mountains, for a small taste of natural adventures.
For a more extensive adventure perfect for those who want a deeper experience, visit Parque Estadual do Itacolomi, where you can trek through lush greenery, admire panoramic views, and discover native flora and fauna. If any of these activities are part of your itinerary, don’t forget to get a good insurance policy just in case.
5. Visit Iconic Museums and Cultural Landmarks
One of the best things to do in Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, is hitting up museums. The Museu da Inconfidรชncia in the center of town offers a deeper understanding of Ouro Pretoโs revolutionary past. Meanwhile, the Aleijadinho Museum houses some of Antonio Francisco Lisboaโs (aka Aleijadinho’s) most famous works of art, showcasing the brilliance of Brazilian Baroque architecture.
For geology enthusiasts, the Mineralogy Museum is a definite must-see. Itโs filled with sparkling gems and minerals mined from the state of Minas Gerais, showcasing the regionโs natural treasures. After all, it used to be Brazil’s mining capital in colonial times.
6. Savor Local Food and Drinks
Foodies always love coming to Brazil because there are always new and exciting things to try. You will definitely fall in love with the traditional food of Minas Gerais. Start your day with freshly baked pรฃo de queijo, a regional favorite that is ever present in breakfast buffets. For meals like lunch or dinner, indulge in hearty dishes like feijรฃo tropeiro or tutu de feijรฃo, both beans-based dishes.
For dessert, try doce de leite, Minasโ famous milk-based treat. It is a paste made of milk and sugar, which is then slowly cooked until it caramelizes. For a memorable dining experience, visit Benรฉ da Flauta, a beloved local restaurant with views of the surrounding mountains. It is possible to make reservations so consider doing that to avoid having to wait for a table.
7. Shop at Local Markets and Craft Fairs
Did you know that craft fairs are a staple of almost every Brazilian town? Yes, even in those that aren’t very touristic. Ouro Pretoโs local street markets are the perfect place for finding unique souvenirs and artisan crafts. Browse soapstone carvings, jewelry, and handmade textiles at the Feira de Artesanato near Praรงa Tiradentes.
These small local goods are perfect mementos of your visit to this colonial city, they are also the perfect things to take back as souvenirs for your people back home. Most vendors will accept digital forms of payment nowadays, but you should always take some cash just in case.
8. Take a Day Trip to Sรฃo Joรฃo del-Rei and Beyond
It may seem a little contradictory, but one of the best things to do in Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, is to explore the area around it. Consider extending your adventure with a day trip to Sรฃo Joรฃo del-Rei, another beautiful historic colonial city in Minas Gerais state. Known for its 18th-century buildings and cultural landmarks, this charming town is a highlight for history buffs.
If you have a little more time and a rental car, plan a road trip to the Inhotim Museum, a sprawling outdoor art and botanical garden near Belo Horizonte. If you don’t want to drive, there are plenty of local companies that do both of these itineraries. You can always ask the place you’re staying at for recommendations.
Practical Tips for Visiting Ouro Preto
Now that we have talked about what to do in town, let’s look at some more practical tips for planning your trip. After all, what is the point of having a perfect itinerary if you don’t have much idea about the rest of your trip?
- Best Time to Visit: Ouro Preto is a town full of steep streets, which are somewhat difficult to navigate when it gets rainy. You are sure to have the best time anytime between April and September since it is the dry season.
- Transportation: Reaching Ouro Preto is easy even if you stay in the state capital, buses connect Ouro Preto with Terminal Rodoviรกrio de Belo Horizonte. Once you arrive in town, most main sites are walkable. There are local cab companies to use if walking isn’t your speed.
- Local Guides: I highly recommend that you hire an English-speaking guide! It will help you make the most of your trip because it saves you from having to figure out the order of things and how to get there. Many guides offer tailored tours of the historic sites and surrounding nature, so just do your research before choosing your guide.
- Accommodation: There are plenty of options to pick from when it comes to your accommodation. You should book a stay in one of the colonial houses or guesthouses in the center of Ouro Preto for an unforgettable experience.
Ouro Preto is a must-visit destination that combines the rich history of Brazil with stunning natural beauty and a vibrant cultural heritage. From its Baroque churches and historic sites to its underground mines and scenic surroundings, this former gold rush town has something for everyone. Plan your trip now to explore one of South Americaโs most enchanting places!
And if you need some extra help with that, head over to Brazil City Guides! We have a complete Ouro Preto Travel Guide waiting for you.
