3-Day Itinerary in Paraty: What to Do and Visit

Paraty is one of those places where history, nature, and slow living come together beautifully. This colonial gem on Brazil’s Costa Verde is framed by mountains and rainforest, with cobblestone streets that feel unchanged for centuries. Days here drift between exploring historic squares, hopping on boats to discover tropical islands, and cooling off in waterfalls hidden in the Atlantic Forest. Evenings are all about candlelit dinners and a glass of cachaça straight from the source.

Three days is just enough to fall for Paraty’s magic — here’s how to make the most of it.

Day 1: Colonial Charm & Sunset by the Sea

Historic Center
Start your trip wandering the UNESCO-listed historic center. With whitewashed houses, brightly painted doors, and uneven cobblestones, it feels like walking into another era. Duck into artisan shops, pop into a café for strong Brazilian coffee, and let yourself get lost in the charm of its streets.

Igreja de Santa Rita & the Waterfront
Paraty’s postcard-perfect church sits right by the bay. Stop here for photos and then continue along the waterfront, where colorful fishing boats sway gently in the tide.

Dinner & Sunset Drinks
As the sun sets, grab a table at one of the restaurants in the historic center. Many serve fresh seafood with a side of live music. For a drink with a view, head to a bar near the pier and watch the evening colors melt into the bay.

Tip: Pack flat shoes — those cobblestones are beautiful but tricky after dark.

Day 2: Islands & Beaches by Boat

Boat Tour of the Bay
Paraty’s coastline is dotted with islands and hidden beaches that you can only reach by boat. Spend the day on a schooner or private speedboat, stopping at spots like Praia da Lula, Praia Vermelha, and Ilha Comprida. Swim in crystal-clear waters, snorkel with colorful fish, and enjoy a caipirinha served onboard.

Lunch on an Island
Many boat tours include a stop for lunch at a rustic beachside restaurant where the fish is as fresh as it gets. Order moqueca (a Brazilian seafood stew) or grilled shrimp — both pair perfectly with the ocean breeze.

Back to Town for a Relaxed Evening
After a full day at sea, keep it light at night: a simple dinner and maybe some live samba in one of the historic center’s cozy bars.

Tip: Don’t forget sunscreen and cash — some of the best island restaurants don’t take cards.

Day 3: Waterfalls, Distilleries & Forest Trails

Waterfalls of the Serra da Bocaina
On your last day, head inland to explore Paraty’s lush surroundings. A popular choice is Pedra Branca Waterfall or Tobogã, where you can literally slide down the rocks into a natural pool.

Cachaça Distilleries
Paraty is famous for its cachaça (Brazil’s sugarcane spirit). Many distilleries offer tastings — a fun way to learn about local traditions and bring home a bottle as a souvenir.

Evening Stroll in the Historic Center
End your trip the way it began: back in Paraty’s charming streets. Pick a restaurant lit by lanterns, enjoy your final seafood feast, and toast to three unforgettable days.

Tip: If you’re driving, many waterfalls and distilleries are along the Estrada Paraty-Cunha — a scenic road through the forest.

Where to Stay in Paraty

Where you stay will shape your experience. You can choose a colonial-style villa in the heart of the historic center, a house overlooking the bay, or a retreat surrounded by lush greenery just outside town.

At WhereInRio & Beyond, we curate exclusive villas and vacation homes in Paraty — ideal for couples, families, or groups of friends. Whether you want to be close to the beaches, the historic center, or hidden in the Atlantic Forest, our properties combine comfort, privacy, and world-class amenities.

Discover the Best of Paraty with WhereInRio & Beyond

Three days in Paraty will give you a taste of its magic — from mornings wandering cobblestone streets to afternoons on hidden beaches and nights filled with music and candlelight. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and soak in both history and nature.

Make your stay as memorable as the destination itself with one of our handpicked villas — your home base to experience Brazil’s Costa Verde at its very best.

FAQ – Paraty Travel Guide

1. How do I get to Paraty?

Paraty is about 250 km from Rio de Janeiro (4–5 hours by car) and 300 km from São Paulo (around 5 hours). Private transfers and buses are also available.

2. What’s the best time to visit Paraty?

May to September offers pleasant, drier weather. The summer months (December–March) are hotter and livelier, with festivals and events.

3. How many days do you need in Paraty?

Three days cover the essentials — historic center, boat tour, and waterfalls. For a slower trip, stay 5–7 days and add hikes in the Serra da Bocaina or day trips to Trindade.

4. Is Paraty safe?

Yes, Paraty is generally safe, especially in the tourist areas. Just use common sense — keep an eye on belongings at the beach and avoid deserted areas late at night.

5. What should I not miss in Paraty?

A boat trip around the bay, wandering the historic center, trying local cachaça, and cooling off in the waterfalls are musts.