Nestled along Brazil’s southeastern coast, Paraty is a place where time seems to stand still. Just a four-hour drive from the chaos of Rio de Janeiro, this colonial town feels like stepping into a painting—its vibrant streets, centuries-old buildings, and lush surroundings creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Paraty isn’t just beautiful; it’s a place rich with history, mystery, and adventure. Over three days, I wandered through its cobblestone streets, sailed to untouched beaches, and tasted the flavors that make this town so unique.
A Step Back in Time: Discovering Paraty’s Historic Center
From the moment I arrived, Paraty felt different. The first thing I noticed was the way the city breathes its history—every building, every street corner, every stone on the ground has a story to tell. Established in 1667, Paraty was once one of the most important ports in Brazil. Gold and precious stones mined in Minas Gerais passed through here on their way to Portugal, making this town a vital link in the country’s colonial trade. But its history isn’t just one of wealth and prosperity. It is also deeply tied to the transatlantic slave trade, with enslaved Africans playing a crucial role in the construction of the city.
Walking through Praça da Matriz, the heart of the historic center, I was surrounded by colonial architecture that has remained intact for centuries. The Igreja da Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, a striking 18th-century church, dominates the square. It took nearly 80 years to complete—local legend has it that every time workers attempted to finish its towers, misfortune would strike, delaying its completion.
The town's layout was also intentional. The streets were built at a slight incline to allow seawater to flow in during high tides, naturally cleaning the pathways. It’s an ingenious piece of engineering that gives Paraty its nickname, the Brazilian Venice. As I strolled along Rua da Lapa, I couldn’t help but wonder about the Freemasonry symbols that were once carved into its walls—markings that have since been covered by layers of paint, leaving only whispers of their existence.
Staying in a Colonial Gem
For my stay, I chose a hotel housed in an 18th-century colonial home. The moment I stepped inside, it felt like I had traveled back in time. The place had once been a slave house, its past evident in the preserved details of the structure. After slavery was abolished, it was purchased by a wealthy family and later transformed into a hotel by its current owners. The suite I stayed in had a private balcony overlooking the bay—one of the most breathtaking views I’ve ever had from a hotel room.
The room itself was elegant yet simple, furnished with period-inspired decor that maintained the home’s historic charm. At 617 reais per night (around $108 USD), it felt like a bargain for the experience. Breakfast was served in a lush courtyard, where I was greeted by curious little birds eager to share my meal.
The Taste of Paraty: Cachaça and Culinary Delights
Paraty isn’t just famous for its history and scenery; it’s also known for cachaça, Brazil’s traditional sugarcane spirit. The town has a long tradition of distilling this potent drink, dating back to the colonial era. Once a major hub for sugar production, Paraty became one of the most important cachaça producers in Brazil. Today, it’s home to some of the finest artisanal distilleries in the country.
Of course, no day of exploring would be complete without a good meal. For lunch, I found a cozy spot serving traditional picadinho—tender beef in a rich sauce, served with rice, fried eggs, and, of course, farofa (toasted cassava flour). I also tried fried bananas, a sweet and savory combination that perfectly complemented the meal.
As I wandered back through the streets, I passed local artisans selling handmade jewelry and indigenous crafts. Before the Portuguese arrived, this region was home to the Guarani people, and their influence is still present today. Many of the souvenirs sold in Paraty are crafted using traditional indigenous techniques, preserving a culture that predates colonial rule.
Ending the Day in Paraty
As the day drew to a close, I found myself overwhelmed by the richness of Paraty’s history and the charm of its streets. The exploration, the stories, and the flavors of the city had left a deep impression on me. My feet ached from wandering through the cobblestone streets, and the cachaça tasting had started to take effect, leaving me pleasantly drowsy.
Returning to my hotel, I took one last look at the bay from my balcony, the twinkling lights reflecting on the water, creating a perfect scene to end the evening. With the promise of more adventures awaiting in the coming days, I allowed exhaustion to take over, sinking into the comfort of my historic room, eager for what lay ahead.
