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Currently, Brazil’s Ministry of Tourism is conducting a comprehensive survey of 11 municipalities that beautifully preserve the nation’s architectural heritage. These breathtaking destinations are part of the Brazilian Tourism Map, an institutional tool designed to direct public policies and investments to strengthen the sector and welcome international visitors.
Cataloged Destinations and Regional Itineraries
Ouro Preto, in the state of Minas Gerais, and Olinda, in Pernambuco, proudly feature in the federal selection due to their stunning historic centers, both protected by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. The itineraries in these captivating cities include magnificent 16th and 17th-century churches, alongside world-class museums and vibrant art studios. In São Luís, Maranhão, sightseeing routes showcase an incredible collection of traditional Portuguese tiles and the deeply moving cultural celebration of Bumba Meu Boi.
- Paraty, in Rio de Janeiro, hosts the renowned International Literary Festival and maintains its charming 17th-century cobblestone streets.
- Petrópolis, nestled in the mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro, is home to the Imperial Palace and boasts spectacular 19th-century architecture.
- São João del-Rei, in Minas Gerais, operates a nostalgic passenger train offering a scenic railway journey to the historic town of Tiradentes.
Tourism in these charming municipalities generates vital direct revenue through the trade of cultural goods and a thriving network of welcoming local inns. In the state of São Paulo, towns like São Luiz do Paraitinga and Bananal feature historical structures from the grand coffee cycle, now operating as fascinating tourist sites registered by the National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (IPHAN). Local governments are also actively charting thrilling ecotourism routes and nature trails that seamlessly connect the historical downtown areas to lush ecological reserves.
The national transport network is currently receiving a significant boost from the government’s Discover Brazil Flying (Conheça o Brasil Voando) program, aimed at expanding air connectivity for travelers. Tourism industry surveys have mapped up to 30 colonial municipalities fully equipped with excellent hosting capacities across major states like Bahia, São Paulo, Minas Gerais, and Rio de Janeiro. The preservation of these vibrant cultural hubs sustains the local economy and guarantees a steady, welcoming flow of global visitors throughout the year.