No other country has Brazil's vibrancy. There's so much life in the landscape and that feeds through into the reputation that Brazilians have for passion and joie de vivre. It infects their architecture, their art and culture, and their way of life. This is South America's largest and most varied country, boasting tropical rainforests, white sandy beaches, old colonial towns, mega modern city centres, and sprawling favelas. That's before we've mentioned the great Amazon river and the wealth of wildlife that abounds in this vast country. This passion and energy feeds through to their hospitality, and the range of the best places to stay in Brazil, from hip and happening city boutiques and design hotels, to extensive rural fazendas and cosy pousadas.
There are so many ways to experience Brazil. On so many budgets. Before planning your trip, decide what kind of holiday you want. Maybe you want to be whipped into a frenzy during Rio de Janeiro's Carnival, or try out the bossa nova cafés of Rio's Santa Teresa district, hiking up to Cristo Redentor for one of the world's most spectacular views in the world? Or maybe you simply want some sun, to join the beautiful Brazilians on one of their world famous, caipirinha-soaked beaches?
If it's beaches you've come for, do look beyond Copacabana or Ipanema. For starters, consider Santa Catarina, South America’s equivalent to Australia, where the majority of people’s free time is spent on one of a number of the most spectacular beaches on the continent. Or Bahia, with its sunshine, white sand, coconut palms and incredible diving.
Salvador da Bahia is Brazil's most African influenced city — you taste it in the food, see it in the traditions and hear it in the music. The city is often in festive spirit, with music and parties celebrating one thing or another spreading out onto the streets with their wonderful 17th and 18th century architecture. Salvador was Brazil's first capital, and the ancient mix of cultures — coming from Europe, Africa and the Americas — which gathered here still shows.
Or consider visiting Paraty, a gem hidden on the coast just to the west of Rio, a colonial town surrounded by untouched beaches, jungle and natural parks. This is a great place for snorkelling, fishing and just relaxing. Or Búzios, that stunning hippy favourite east of Rio turned luxurious tropical hideaway.
Fashionistas should head for São Paulo, a global city of epic proportions and Brazil’s cultural capital. With 20 million inhabitants, some rich, some very poor and lots of different cultures, São Paulo has a landscape to match this diversity. As well as culture and shopping, São Paulo is also known for its nightlife. And don’t miss the incredible markets and a stroll along the Rua Oscar Freire and Paulista Avenue on a Sunday.
If it’s adventure you seek, you should get out of the cities and into the lush interior. The national parks and incredible landscapes of Minas Gerais make for a wonderful backdrop, as does the Chapada Diamantina National Park in Bahia, 375,000 acres of tropical forest covering mountains and concealing waterfalls, natural swimming pools and caves. You can camp in the park but there are also plenty of more luxurious accommodation options. And then of course there’s the state of Amazonas, which has the incredible Amazon Rainforest, Anavilhanas and the Jaú National Park. And talking of waterfalls, Brazil shares the mighty Iguaçu Falls with Argentina on the border in the south, the largest waterfall system in the world. They are well worth a visit if you are here for the scenery. Just to the north are the world’s largest wetlands, the Pantanal, in the states of Mato Gross do Sul and Mato Grosso.
The best places to stay in Brazil are as varied as its landscapes and attractions. Use our guide and start to plan the trip of a lifetime to this extraordinary country.
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Rio de Janeiro State
This exclusive pousada is located opposite Lagoa de Araruama in São Pedro da Aldeia, Brazil. Elegant rooms are simply dressed, with local textiles and artwork adding Brazilian flavour; book a luxury suite for a cosy spa bath. Unwind by the pool before dining at the hotel restaurant; a charming stay.
Rio de Janeiro State (Barra de Guaratiba)
This seafront boutique hotel is located just outside of Recreio in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Suites are named after parts of a sail boat and feature a king-size bed, luxury linens and a private terrace; book the Tribord Suite for a hot tub. Unwind in the spa before a seafood dinner; a chic beach stay.
Bahia (Praia Boca Da Barra)
This stylish pousada sits at the end of Boca da Barra Beach overlooking Boipeba Island. Spacious suites feature traditional interiors, with local artwork and artisanal pieces; book a luxury bungalow for a balcony with a hammock and sea views. Unwind by the pool before dinner; a charming beach hotel.
Bahia (Barra Grande)
This sleek boutique hotel is set in Barra Grande, Bahia. Suites are bright and minimalist with crisp white linens and wooden accents; book the Sunset Villa for breathtaking views from a private pool. Unwind on the hotel's exclusive beach before dining at the gourmet restaurant; a VIP beach getaway.
Sao Paulo State (Catuçaba)
A glorious 1850s farmhouse in a beautiful valley setting. The perfect place for total relaxation, fresh air, organic produce, log fires, and countryside. Chic rooms and suites all in white with cerulean blue shutters. Fantastic food, full board. 10 rooms and 2 small villas sleep 4 each.
Sao Paulo State
This luxury resort is nestled next to Enseada Beach in Guarujá, Brazil. Choose from suites, apartments and private chalets with contemporary interiors and homely soft furnishings, most with a private balcony; book a chalet for family-sized living space. Dine at one of 6 eateries; a stylish getaway.
Rio de Janeiro (Copacabana)
A large hotel on the beach front in the Copacabana area. Luxurious rooms and suites, all contemporary with all the mod cons and spectacular sea views. Fantastic roof top terrace has a pool and lounge area, excellent Portugese restaurant, and well equipped spa and gym.
Rio de Janeiro (Rio de Janeiro State)
A serene, intimate pousada in Rio de Janeiro, offering an escape in the jungle with breathtaking views of Sugar Loaf and the sea. The decor blends African, Brazilian, and European design, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy a rooftop pool, bar, and a laid-back vibe. A perfect place to unwind.
Jericoacoara (Jijoca de Jericoacoara)
This stunning property is a step away from the beach in Jericoacoara National park. It features simple yet elegantly designed rooms each with their own balcony & colourful hammocks. The pool nestles in the tropical garden and after a beachside day, head for the spa to relax in comfort.
Jericoacoara
Peaceful and intimate, Casa de Areia is a luxurious vision of tranquility in the seaside town of Jericoacoara. Its rooms exude a simple elegance with warm, earthy colour schemes and stylish furnishings. Whether you're on the beach or by the pool, relaxation is guaranteed.
Trancoso
Eight rustic-chic bungalows individually decorated in ethnic style. It sits in the midst of a tranquil shady grove just minutes from the beach. A stylish beach retreat.
Trancoso (Quadrado)
This eco friendly pousada is situated in central Trancoso, less than a mile from the beach. It features contemporary rooms with a simple decor, a beautiful outdoor pool in the midst of a tropical garden and a hot tub. Be sure to enjoy their wonderful buffet breakfast each morning! A tranquil spot.
São Paulo
An elegant five-star hotel with a central position near Avenida Paulista. Spacious rooms and suites are decorated in muted hues with faux-French furnishings and 400-thread count Egyptian cotton sheets. With an indoor pool, well-equipped spa, and European restaurant — this is a sophisticated stay.
São Paulo (Sao Paulo State)
A stylish hotel in the Alto de Pinheiros district, ideal for both short and long stays. The sleek, cream-toned decor creates a calm, sophisticated atmosphere, while the suites come with fully equipped kitchens. On-site dining, a rooftop event space, and a gym complete the experience.
