Things To Do
in Além Paraíba
Além Paraíba is a riverside town in the Minas Gerais–Rio de Janeiro border region, perched along the Paraíba do Sul with glimpses of the Serra da Mantiqueira in the distance. The city blends colonial heritage, friendly locals, and a relaxed pace that invites strolls along the waterfront and through the historic center. It serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby waterfalls, parks, and small cultural sites.
Visitors are greeted by vibrant markets, cafés, and warm, hospitable energy that characterizes daily life here.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a scenic drive into Além Paraíba, taking in the lush green hills and winding roads that define the region. Check into a quaint pousada in the historic center and unwind with a cup of freshly brewed local coffee. Stroll through the neighborhood to get your first glimpse of colonial architecture and chat with friendly locals about the town’s heritage.
Head to the municipal market for a light lunch of pão de queijo and fresh tropical fruits. Explore nearby artisan stalls offering handcrafted souvenirs and sample regional cheeses and doce de leite. Wander along the main plaza, where you can admire statues and plaques commemorating the town’s founding.
Enjoy a riverside dinner featuring freshly caught fish grilled in banana leaves and regional sides. Watch the sunset over the Paraíba do Sul River as street lamps begin to glow. Cap off the night with live folk music at a local bar, dancing to traditional forró rhythms.
Kick off the day with a guided walking tour of the historic center’s colorful colonial buildings and narrow cobblestone streets. Stop at the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição to admire its baroque altarpiece and stained-glass windows. Learn about the town’s founding in the 19th century from an enthusiastic local historian.
Visit the Solar dos Mellos cultural center to see rotating art exhibitions and period furniture. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a family-run bistro, tasting dishes like feijão tropeiro and crispy torresmo. Afterward, pop into small galleries showcasing regional painters and sculptors.
Meet locals for a caipirinha workshop at an open-air café, learning the secrets of Brazil’s iconic cocktail. Sample different fruit infusions and learn to muddle with style. End the evening with a relaxed stroll under the glow of vintage streetlamps.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🛏️One night at a mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
| 🚶Local transit fare | $0.50-2 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-60 |
| 🎟️Movie or theatre ticket | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Beautiful riverside setting with easy access to nature
- Affordable costs and tasty Minas cuisine
- Compact center that's walkable and convenient
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some attractions require short drives or transport
- Weather can be rainy in summer affecting outdoor plans
- English may be limited in rural areas
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pode falar mais devagar?" - Could you speak more slowly?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Além Paraíba
Visit one of these nice places.
A lively central square with colonial buildings, daily markets, and people-watching opportunities, especially at sunrise and late afternoon.
A historic church with a classic facade and interior charm; great for architectural detail shots and atmospheric interiors.
Photogenic riverside bridge with reflective water during golden hour and calm mornings.
A lookout point over the valley where hills meet the river, perfect for panoramic cityscapes.
Food in Além Paraíba
Além Paraíba Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional queijo Minas cheese breads, hot and fresh, often found in bakeries and markets.
Must-Try!
A creamy bean stew often served with rice, farofa, and a fried egg or sausage; popular in Minas Gerais eateries.
Local Minas cheese paired with sweet, creamy doce de leite found in markets and delis.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for fresh produce, regional cheeses, pastries, and small bites to sample on the go.
Seasonal farmers market with fruit, vegetables, homemade jams, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple 'Bom dia/Boa tarde' and a handshake or cheek kiss among friends. Politeness and patience go a long way.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and public temples; speak softly and follow posted guidelines.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in markets or intimate settings.
Dispose of trash properly and keep noise to reasonable levels, especially late at night near residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Além Paraíba
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10% service charge may be included; if not, tipping 5–10% in cash is common. Small hotels may appreciate a few reais for luggage help or room service.
BRL cash is widely accepted; most restaurants and shops also take debit/credit cards. Some small vendors may prefer cash. Cards are typically accepted in larger venues and hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with frequent afternoon showers. Carry water, wear light clothing, and plan activities for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid peak heat.
Pleasant temperatures with milder humidity. Great for outdoor walks, photography, and alfresco dining.
Cooler evenings and comfortable daytime temperatures; layers recommended, especially along the riverfront at night.
Lush landscapes as vegetation revives; ideal for hikes and markets, with occasional rain showers.
Além Paraíba at Night
Hiking in Além Paraíba
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hiking with viewpoints over the valley; routes vary from easy strolls to moderate hikes.
Several trails in or around Itatiaia National Park offer alpine scenery, waterfalls, and wildlife; suitable for day hikes and multi-day trips.
Airports
How to reach Além Paraíba by plane.
A major international gateway; about a few hours’ drive from Além Paraíba depending on traffic, with frequent domestic and international connections.
A smaller city airport in Rio de Janeiro with frequent domestic flights; convenient for quick connections to other Brazilian cities.
Major regional hub near Belo Horizonte; serves international and domestic flights and can be an alternative gateway to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A welcoming community with strong family ties and a focus on local culture and markets.
Many residents work in commerce and services, contributing to a growing, friendly city vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across town with local matches and informal play in parks and community fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Além Paraíba.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer dairy- and egg-based options; request vegetarian dishes and pescatarian options as needed, and look for fresh salads, pão de queijo, and queijo Minas as staples.