Things To Do
in Ouro Prêto
Ouro Prêto, Brazil, is a stunning colonial town known for its baroque architecture and rich history tied to the gold rush of the 18th century. Nestled in the mountains of Minas Gerais, the town offers cobblestone streets lined with ornate churches and colorful houses. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting tourists with its vibrant culture and artistic heritage.
Visitors can enjoy a mix of historical exploration and scenic beauty in this charming destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Church of Saint Francis of Assisi, designed by the famous architect Aleijadinho. Take in the intricate details and beautiful artwork.
Explore the Museu da Inconfidência to learn about the history of the Brazilian independence movement. Afterward, stroll through the picturesque Praça Tiradentes.
Enjoy dinner at O Passo pizzaria, famous for its artisanal pizzas and local beers. End your day with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets.
Visit the Parque Natural do Caraça for a morning hike, where you can see beautiful landscapes and possibly spot wildlife.
Return to Ouro Prêto and indulge in a traditional Minas Gerais lunch at Casa do Ouvidor, known for its hearty dishes.
Experience live music at a local bar, such as the Bar do Lopes, where you can enjoy Brazilian samba or MPB (Música Popular Brasileira) while sipping on caipirinhas.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal in a restaurant | $10 |
| ☕Coffee | $2 |
| 🍕Pizza | $8 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within city) | $5 |
| 🍺Local beer | $3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural and historical experience.
- Beautiful colonial architecture and scenic landscapes.
- Delicious traditional cuisine.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
- Some attractions may require an entry fee.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female)
- "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Ouro Prêto
Visit one of these nice places.
A masterpiece of baroque architecture, perfect for capturing intricate details and stunning facades.
The central square surrounded by historic buildings, offering great perspectives for street photography.
A viewpoint from which you can capture panoramic shots of the entire city and surrounding landscape.
Food in Ouro Prêto
Ouro Prêto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cheese bread rolls that are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, a staple in Minas Gerais.
Must-Try!
A traditional dish made with beans, manioc flour, and pork, often served with eggs.
A sweet, caramel-like dessert made from slowly cooked milk and sugar.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food vendors.
A craft fair where local artisans sell handmade food products and snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Brazilians often greet with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek; be polite and friendly.
Wait to be invited to start eating, and it’s polite to finish everything on your plate.
Dress is generally casual, but smart-casual is appreciated in restaurants and churches.
Safety
Tipping in Ouro Prêto
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; check the bill as some may include a service charge.
Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry cash for small purchases and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm temperatures and occasional rain; it’s a great time for outdoor activities.
Cooler temperatures with less rain make this an ideal time for exploring the town and hiking.
Cool and dry weather; perfect for indoor cultural activities and enjoying the local cuisine.
Mild temperatures and blooming nature; great for photography and enjoying outdoor festivals.
Ouro Prêto at Night
Hiking in Ouro Prêto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail leading to stunning viewpoints, perfect for moderate hikers.
Offers various trails through lush forests, with options for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Airports
How to reach Ouro Prêto by plane.
The nearest major airport is approximately 100 km away in Belo Horizonte, providing domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The population consists mainly of descendants of Portuguese colonists, contributing to the rich cultural heritage.
Ouro Prêto attracts a diverse range of visitors from Brazil and abroad, drawn by its history and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Ouro Prêto, with local teams and amateur clubs engaging the community.
Volleyball is popular among locals, with many playing in parks and organized leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ouro Prêto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but be sure to ask about meat stock in soups.
While traditional Brazilian food is often gluten-free, it’s wise to confirm with your server.