Brazil is one of the most popular countries to visit in South America with spectacular tourist attractions. One of the most fascinating aspects of Brazil is the cities, some are really old and historic, other absolutely beautiful whilst others are super modern and make New York City look small!
These are some of the most popular cities destinations to add to your Brazil itinerary.
1. Rio de Janeiro
Famous throughout the world for its carnival, music and football, Rio is undoubtedly one of the world’s great cities. Stroll along Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, take in the fabulous view from the Corcovado Christ Statue, watch a football match at the amazing Maracana stadium and enjoy a caipirinha in some of the world’s best bars. Is there a more beautiful city to visit when on a tour in South America? We don’t think so.
2. Sao Paulo
The de facto commercial and industrial capital of Brazil, Sao Paulo is a huge mega-city that just keeps on giving… It’s not really on the tourist trail but give it some time and you’ll learn to love ‘Sampa’ with all your heart! Home to Brazil’s burgeoning fashion industry, you can enjoy some of the most stylish bars and clubs you’ll find anywhere, and enjoy the best sushi outside of Japan! If you are looking for internships abroad, or keen to work in Brazil, São Paulo is one of the best cities to go.
3. Salvador
Salvador is known throughout Brazil for its music and its strong Afro-Brazilian heritage, which give it a different history and character to other Brazilian cities. The history is still visible in the lovely colonial centre, but Salvador also has some great beaches and what is becoming known as the “thinking man’s” carnival – what’s not to like? Salvador is a popular destination to teach English in Brazil.
4. Florianopolis
Right down in the south, Florianopolis is one of the most modern of Brazilian cities and it’s also the country’s undisputed surfing capital – the waves here are long and high and enough to satisfy the most demanding surfer! Even if surfing isn’t your thing, however, Florianopolis’ laid back charm has beguiled many a visitor.
5. Sao Luis
Sao Luis is one of Brazil’s prettiest colonial towns and is also surrounded by miles of lovely beaches and the rolling desert sand dunes of the Lencois Maranhenses National Park. With the World Heritage Site of Alcantara just across the bay, it’s a lovely place to relax, enjoy the warm waters and the relaxed pace of life, and just enjoy some of the Real Brazil.
6. Fortaleza
Fortaleza is generally acknowledged to be the ‘capital’ of northern Brazil and this large city is one of the few to offer direct flights from the UK. Even if you’re only arriving or leaving and just staying for a night, good city beaches and good contacts with the rest of the country make this a great introduction to the country! This is also a popular place to find volunteer projects in Brazil.
7. Brasilia
There really is nowhere quite like Brasilia. A huge new city built completely from scratch in the middle of the jungle, with the main streets in the shape of an aeroplane! You couldn’t make it up, but they did. Especially if you have any interest in contemporary architecture, this weird but suprisingly fun city just has to be seen.
8. Recife
At first sight, Recife looks like many Brazilian cities – all tower blocks and skyscrapers, and not an obvious one for the tourists. But actually you have some of Brazil’s best colonial architecture in nearby Olinda, and some of Brazil’s best beaches just a short drive out of town, particularly the lovely and award-winning Porto de Galinhas.
Whether you want a short holiday, a backpacking adventure or take a gap year to Brazil, there really are so many amazing destinations to see. One of the best ways to see all the main highlights is to book tours of Brazil, local and international operators offer trips to all areas of the country.