Things To Do
in Ouro Prêto
Ouro Prêto is a charming colonial town in Brazil known for its well-preserved architecture and historic churches. The city was once a major hub for gold mining during the colonial period, and visitors can still see remnants of this rich history throughout the town. The picturesque cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and hilly landscape make Ouro Prêto a popular destination for tourists interested in Brazil's colonial past.
Art and culture thrive in Ouro Prêto, with many museums, art galleries, and festivals celebrating the town's heritage.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.80 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Praça Tiradentes, the city's main square, surrounded by historical buildings. Enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café to fuel up for the day.
Head to the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, renowned for its stunning baroque architecture and artworks. Don't forget to explore the arts and crafts shops nearby to pick up some souvenirs.
Unwind with a stroll through the cobblestone streets, taking in the beautiful colonial architecture. Try a local restaurant for some traditional Brazilian cuisine to end your day.
Visit the Museu da Inconfidência to learn about Brazil's independence and local history. The museum houses various artifacts and exhibits that showcase the region's past.
Explore the charming neighborhood of São Francisco de Assis, filled with colonial houses and historical significance. Make a stop at a local art gallery to admire works by indigenous artists.
Enjoy an outdoor concert or cultural performance if available in the square. Sample some delicious street food while mingling with locals and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with well-preserved colonial architecture
- Cultural significance, hosting events like the famous Festival de Inverno
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including mountains and waterfalls
- Vibrant local arts scene with crafts and traditional music
- Limited access to modern amenities and infrastructure
- Can be a challenge for those who don't speak Portuguese
- Tourist crowds during peak seasons may detract from local experiences
- Economic challenges and fewer job opportunities compared to larger cities
Best Activities in Ouro Prêto
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful natural landscapes and trails around Ouro Prêto by going on a hiking adventure in the nearby mountains.
Discover the rich history and architectural heritage of Ouro Prêto by visiting its historic churches, museums, and colonial buildings.
Enjoy an exhilarating mountain biking experience through the rural and scenic countryside surrounding Ouro Prêto.
Experience the thrill of river rafting in the rivers near Ouro Prêto, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ouro Prêto with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ouro Prêto
Visit one of these nice places.
A lookout point offering stunning panoramic views of Ouro Prêto and its historic buildings.
This church provides a picturesque backdrop for photography, especially with its impressive staircase and ornate façade.
A central square surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings, making it a great location for capturing the charm of Ouro Prêto.
Food in Ouro Prêto
Ouro Prêto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Feijoada is a hearty stew made with black beans, pork, and beef, often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices. It's a classic Brazilian dish, and visitors can savor authentic Feijoada at Restaurante Chafariz.
Must-Try!
Pão de Queijo, or cheese bread, is a beloved Brazilian snack made with cassava flour and cheese. Casa do Pão de Queijo is a popular spot to indulge in freshly baked Pão de Queijo.
Tutu à Mineira is a traditional mineiro dish featuring a flavorful blend of beans, cassava flour, and pork, often accompanied by rice, kale, and sausage. Dona Efigênia is renowned for its delectable Tutu à Mineira.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ouro Prêto better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Mercado Municipal is a bustling food market where visitors can sample a diverse array of local produce, traditional snacks, and artisanal delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to try pastéis (pastries) and fresh tropical fruits.
Praça Tiradentes features a vibrant street food scene with stalls offering enticing delicacies such as acarajé, a deep-fried bean and shrimp fritter, and queijadinha, a coconut and cheese-based sweet treat.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ouro Prêto, it is customary to show respect for elders through polite behavior, such as addressing them with titles like 'Senhor' or 'Senhora' and standing to greet them.
When visiting religious sites or historic areas, it is important to dress modestly out of respect for the local culture and traditions.
Greetings are an important part of Brazilian culture, and a warm handshake or a kiss on the cheek is common when meeting someone for the first time in Ouro Prêto.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ouro Prêto with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ouro Prêto
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ouro Prêto, Brazil, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated, especially in restaurants and for services such as tour guides or taxi drivers. A 10% tip is common in restaurants, but it may already be included in the bill as a service charge. It's always best to check the bill before leaving an additional tip.
Cash is widely used in Ouro Prêto, especially for small purchases and at local markets. However, major credit and debit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas. It's advisable to carry some cash for places that may not accept cards. ATMs are also readily available in the city for withdrawing Brazilian currency.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ouro Prêto.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is a great time to visit Ouro Prêto, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. It's a perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
During the rainy season, Ouro Prêto experiences frequent rainfall, which can affect outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, the lush greenery and vibrant atmosphere make it a unique experience for visitors.
Ouro Prêto at Night
Hiking in Ouro Prêto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park featuring various trails and natural landscapes, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
A scenic hiking trail that follows local rivers, showcasing diverse flora and fauna, as well as stunning views.
Hiking spots in the Serra de Ouro Preto offer challenging trails with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
A well-known trail leading to breathtaking views at the summit, offering a mix of historical context and natural beauty.
Although a bit further from Ouro Preto, this state park features incredible hiking trails with waterfalls, caves, and rich biodiversity.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ouro Prêto through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ouro Prêto by plane.
Located in Confins, approximately 100 km from Ouro Prêto, it serves as the primary international gateway for the state of Minas Gerais.
Located around 120 km from Ouro Prêto, it primarily serves domestic flights but has some international connections.
Located about 400 km from Ouro Prêto, it is one of the major international airports in Brazil, serving flights to various global destinations.
Situated approximately 650 km from Ouro Prêto, it is the largest international airport in Brazil, providing extensive global connections.
Located about 600 km from Ouro Prêto, it offers international flights and serves the Campinas region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Individuals of mixed race, commonly a mixture of European, African, and Indigenous ancestry.
Individuals identified as White, primarily of European descent.
Individuals identified as Black, primarily of African descent.
Indigenous peoples native to the region.
Individuals identified as Yellow, primarily of Asian descent.
The Soul of Ouro Prêto
Discover the essence of Ouro Prêto through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Ouro Prêto, with many local teams and a strong following among residents.
Basketball is also widely played, especially among the youth, with various local leagues and tournaments.
Volleyball enjoys popularity, particularly among women, with both beach and indoor variations being played.
Handball has gained traction in schools and local clubs, fostering a vibrant community around the sport.
Track and field events are promoted through school programs and local competitions, encouraging participation in running and jumping events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ouro Prêto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional mineiro cuisine often features meat-based dishes, several eateries in Ouro Prêto, such as Sabor & Sabor and Empório Sagarana, offer delectable vegetarian and vegan alternatives, including salads, soups, and veggie-based stews.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable options at restaurants like O Passo Pizza Jazz, which serves gluten-free pizzas, and Armazém do Café, known for its gluten-free baked goods and snacks.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ouro Prêto with these cultural adventures.
