Where to Stay in Paraty, Brazil 🇧🇷: 6 Best Areas Guide

Planning a trip to one of Brazil’s most enchanting colonial towns can feel overwhelming, but I’m here to make it simple for you. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about finding the perfect accommodation in Paraty, from the cobblestone streets of the historic center to the pristine beaches of Trindade.

You’ll discover detailed insights about 6 distinct areas, each with its own personality and appeal, plus practical tips on choosing the right neighborhood for your travel style and budget. What makes Paraty truly special is its magical blend of preserved colonial architecture, emerald-green Atlantic rainforest, and crystal-clear waters that create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Brazil – and at the end of this guide, you’ll find an interactive map with all recommended areas marked for easy planning.

Best Hotels in Paraty: 🏠

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Boutique Hotel Carpe Diem
• ✨ 5-Star: Pouso de Ícaro - Pousada no Centro de Paraty
• 🏨 4-Star: Casa Jardim Bangalôs
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Café e Prosa Centro Histórico
• 💸 Cheap: Villa dos Pássaros Paraty Hospedagem
• 🏢 Apartment: Pouso Sabiá Suítes
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Pousada Jardins Paraty
• 🏩 For Couples: Pousada Bartholomeu

Quick Guide to Best Areas to Stay: 📋

• 🏛️ Culture & Nightlife: Historic Center
• 🏖️ Beach Lovers: Jabaquara
• 💰 Budget & Nature: Trindade
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families & Peace: Cabore (Historic Center)
• 🌅 Tranquility & Views: Praia Grande
• 🚤 Water Activities: Pontal

1. Historic Center – Best Place to Stay in Paraty for Culture & Nightlife

Colonial charm. The historic center puts you right in the heart of Paraty’s UNESCO-listed old town, where cobblestone streets lead to art galleries and live music venues. I love how you can walk from your pousada to any restaurant or bar within minutes, making this the perfect base for culture lovers.

Top dining spots. For an upscale meal, Banana da Terra on Rua Dr Samuel Costa serves creative Brazilian cuisine using local ingredients. Their banana gnocchi is legendary, and they’re open Friday through Sunday from noon to 4pm, then daily from 7pm to midnight. For something more casual, Margarida Café at the beginning of the historic center offers colorful tapioca pancakes and Brazilian crepes.

Nightlife hub. After dark, the historic district transforms into Paraty’s entertainment center with cozy bars and traditional Brazilian music. The main square becomes alive with locals and travelers sharing caipirinhas at outdoor tables, creating an authentic Brazilian social atmosphere. Street performers often set up near the Igreja Santa Rita, adding to the evening’s charm.

Cultural immersion. Staying here means waking up to church bells and falling asleep to the sound of horse-drawn carriages on stone streets. You’ll find the best museums, colonial architecture, and cultural events right outside your door, plus easy access to boat tours departing from the nearby pier.

Local favorites. Thai Brasil on Rua do Comercio offers excellent Thai food with Brazilian twists, while Punto Divino on Rua da Matriz serves some of the best wood-fired pizzas in town with live music during summer evenings. For a quick bite, try the street food near the main square – you’ll find pão de queijo and coxinhas from local vendors.

Transportation perks. Everything is walkable from the historic center, eliminating the need for taxis or rental cars. The bus station and main pier are just a 10-minute walk away, making day trips to Trindade beaches or surrounding areas incredibly convenient.

Best Hotels in Historic Center

Luxury Hotels

• Casa Simone Pousada – This elegant colonial-style pousada offers sophisticated rooms with period furnishings and modern amenities, just steps from Paraty’s main historic attractions.
• Pousada da Marquesa – A beautifully restored 18th-century mansion featuring antique décor, spacious suites, and a charming courtyard garden in the heart of the old town.
• Casa Turquesa - Maison D´Hôtes – This intimate boutique hotel offers luxurious accommodations with French-inspired design, gourmet breakfast, and personalized service.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Pousada Bartholomeu – A comfortable mid-range option featuring well-appointed rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a lovely outdoor pool area.
• Casa da Matriz Centro Histórico – This charming pousada offers cozy rooms with colonial touches, complimentary breakfast, and easy walking access to museums and restaurants.
• Casas do Pátio Pousada & Bar – A welcoming property featuring comfortable suites, an on-site bar, and a central location perfect for exploring the cobblestone streets.

Best Budget Options

• Pousada Matriz – This budget-friendly option offers clean, simple rooms with shared facilities and a great location within walking distance of the main square.
• Café e Prosa Centro Histórico – A cozy guesthouse combining accommodation with a café, offering basic but comfortable rooms and continental breakfast.
• Pousada Arte Urquijo – An artistic budget hotel featuring colorful décor, friendly service, and affordable rates while maintaining proximity to historic attractions.

2. Jabaquara – Best Area to Stay in Paraty for Beach Lovers

Beach life vibes. Jabaquara sits right on the water, making it super easy to hit the sand whenever you want. I’ve spent lazy afternoons here watching fishing boats come and go while sipping coconut water from vendors who walk the beach selling fresh coconuts.

Local hangouts. The beach gets busy with locals on weekends, especially near Bar do Jabaquara which opens at 10am and serves cold beers. You’ll find families grilling fresh fish they caught that morning, and kids playing soccer right on the sand. The atmosphere is relaxed and authentically Brazilian.

Food scene. Restaurante Maré Alta serves amazing grilled fish with rice and beans, and they’re open Tuesday through Sunday from 11am to 9pm. For quick snacks, try the pastel de camarão from the beach vendors. Rebordosa, a beach-fronted bar and grill, offers excellent grilled chicken platters with potatoes, olives, and fresh vegetables – it’s buzzing by day and becomes tranquil by night with candlelit tables.

Water activities. The calm waters here are perfect for kayaking, and you can rent one from local stands near the main beach entrance. Stand-up paddle boards are also available, and the operators are usually there from 8am until sunset. The protected bay makes it ideal for beginners trying water sports.

Beach amenities. Local vendors offer umbrellas and chairs for daily rental, plus you’ll find seafood shacks and snack bars along the waterfront. The beach has a mix of rocky and sandy areas, so bring water shoes if you plan on exploring the tide pools.

Getting around. The area connects to downtown Paraty by a 15-minute walk along the waterfront path. You can also catch the local bus that runs every 30 minutes during the day – just flag it down near the bridge.

Best Hotels in Jabaquara

Luxury Hotels

• Casa Jardim Bangalôs – This upscale property features private bangalôs with garden views, outdoor pools, and tropical landscaping just minutes from Jabaquara beach.
• Casa de Férias Paraty – An elegant vacation home offering spacious accommodations with modern amenities and easy beach access for discerning travelers.
• Pousada Solar do Jabaquara – A sophisticated pousada featuring comfortable rooms with air conditioning, swimming pool, and beachfront location perfect for relaxation.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Pousada Cristhal Paraty – This mid-range option offers clean, comfortable rooms with good amenities and friendly service at reasonable rates near the beach.
• Flats Premium Jabaquara – Modern apartment-style accommodations with kitchenettes, air conditioning, and convenient location for self-catering travelers.
• Villa Tiê Paraty – A charming villa-style property offering comfortable rooms with local character and easy walking access to Jabaquara’s attractions.

Best Budget Options

• Pousada Tropicália Paraty – An affordable pousada with colorful tropical décor, basic but clean rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
• Pousada Sol Nascente – This budget-friendly option offers simple, comfortable accommodations with essential amenities and a convenient location near the waterfront.
• Porto Paraty Residencial – A no-frills guesthouse providing clean, basic rooms at very affordable rates with easy access to Jabaquara beach and local restaurants.

3. Trindade – Best Paraty Area to Stay for Budget & Nature

Nature paradise. Trindade feels like a completely different world, about 30 minutes south of Paraty by bus. The village sits between mountains and pristine beaches, and I love how everything moves at a slower pace here compared to the main town.

Budget-friendly spots. You’ll find the cheapest meals at Cantina do Curuca, where a plate of fish, rice, beans, and salad costs just R$18-25. They’re open daily from noon to 10pm, and the portions are huge enough to share. The village has several small restaurants serving similar local fare at budget prices.

Beach hopping. The famous Praia do Meio connects to natural pools during low tide – check the tide schedule at the visitor center near the bus stop. Praia Brava requires a 20-minute hike through the forest, but the untouched beach makes it worth every step. These beaches are part of Serra da Bocaina National Park.

Hiking trails. The trail to Piscina Natural takes about 40 minutes and costs R$10 entrance fee. The Natural Pools of Caixa D’Aço trail is another popular route, passing through Atlantic Forest vegetation with mountains in the background. For a more challenging hike, try the Trail to Cabeça do Índio, which offers stunning viewpoints.

Local experiences. Stop by Mercadinho da Vila for supplies – they sell everything from sunscreen to fresh fruits and snacks. The owners know all the best hiking trails and can draw you a simple map for free. The village maintains its fishing community character with local families still making their living from the sea.

Nature access. Serra da Bocaina National Park doesn’t charge entrance fees for most attractions, and there’s no time control for visitors. The park protects rich Atlantic Forest vegetation, and you’ll often spot tropical birds and small wildlife on the trails.

Best Hotels in Trindade

Luxury Hotels

• Pousada Cabeça do Índio - Trindade – This upscale eco-lodge offers stunning ocean views and comfortable accommodations surrounded by Atlantic Forest, perfect for nature lovers seeking luxury.
• Toca do Pato Pousada – An elegant beachfront property featuring well-appointed rooms with modern amenities and easy access to Trindade’s pristine beaches.
• Casa Beija-Flor Trindade – A charming boutique pousada with tropical garden settings, comfortable suites, and personalized service in a peaceful location.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Pousada Em Busca do Sol – This mid-range option offers cozy rooms with air conditioning, outdoor areas for relaxation, and convenient access to hiking trails and beaches.
• Pousada Hymbe – A comfortable pousada featuring clean, well-maintained rooms with essential amenities and a friendly atmosphere perfect for exploring the area.
• Pousada Recanto dos Pássaros – This nature-focused property offers peaceful accommodations surrounded by birdlife and tropical vegetation at reasonable rates.

Best Budget Options

• Samblumba Hostel Trindade – A backpacker-friendly hostel with dormitory and private room options, communal kitchen facilities, and a social atmosphere for meeting fellow travelers.
• Pousada Solstício De Verão – An affordable pousada offering simple but clean accommodations with basic amenities and easy walking access to Trindade’s main attractions.

4. Cabore – Where to Stay in Paraty for Families & Peace

Family neighborhood. Cabore feels like a real Brazilian neighborhood where families live their daily lives. Kids play in the streets while parents chat on their porches, and you’ll hear more Portuguese than English here. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the historic center along the river.

Local eateries. Dona Rosa’s lanchonete serves the best açaí bowls topped with granola and fresh fruit. She opens at 7am for breakfast and closes around 7pm, and her ham and cheese sandwiches are perfect for beach picnics. Café do Canal, an Italian restaurant popular with locals, serves excellent wood oven pizzas and is located along the river canal.

Brewery scene. Cervejaria Cabore overlooks the river and offers two types of craft beer – dark and clear – plus good food to pair with the drinks. The microbrewery has a relaxed atmosphere with outdoor seating, and you can watch the brewing process through plate glass windows. They’re open daily from noon until midnight.

Quiet streets. The area stays peaceful even during Carnival season, making it great for early morning walks or afternoon naps. You’ll find small grocery stores like Mercadinho do Cabore where you can buy basics without tourist prices. The residential feel means you’ll experience authentic daily Brazilian life.

Community vibe. The neighborhood bakery, Padaria Central, opens at 5am with fresh bread and strong Brazilian coffee. The owner speaks basic English and loves chatting with visitors. Igreja São Benedito anchors the neighborhood and often has community events.

Family amenities:

• Playground near Igreja São Benedito (free)
• Small beach with calm waters (5-minute walk)
• Ice cream cart that comes by at 4pm daily
• Mini market with fair prices
• Safe streets for evening walks
• River walking path perfect for strollers

Best Hotels in Cabore

Luxury Hotels

• Casa com 2 quartos a 1 km do Centro Histórico - Caborê – This spacious vacation home offers two bedrooms with modern amenities and a quiet residential setting just 1km from the historic center.
• Pousada Cana Caiana – An upscale pousada featuring comfortable accommodations with tropical garden views and easy access to both the historic center and local beaches.
• Casinha confortável próxima ao Centro – A comfortable small house offering privacy and modern conveniences in a peaceful neighborhood setting close to downtown attractions.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Pousada das Saíras – This mid-range pousada offers clean, comfortable rooms with air conditioning and a friendly atmosphere perfect for families exploring the area.
• Pouso Sabiá Suítes – A well-maintained property featuring suite-style accommodations with kitchenettes and modern amenities at reasonable rates.
• Pousada Sol e Mar – This family-friendly pousada offers comfortable rooms with good amenities and easy access to both beaches and historic attractions.

Best Budget Options

• Villa dos Pássaros Paraty Hospedagem – An affordable guesthouse surrounded by nature, offering simple but clean accommodations with a peaceful garden setting.
• Cozy Blue House – A charming budget option featuring colorful décor, basic amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere in a quiet residential area.
• Pousada Villa Verano – This budget-friendly pousada offers simple, clean rooms with essential amenities and friendly service at very affordable rates.

5. Praia Grande – Where to Stay in Paraty for Tranquility & Views

Peaceful setting. Praia Grande stretches for almost 2 kilometers with way fewer people than the main beaches. I come here when I need to think or just want to read a book without constant interruptions from beach vendors. The wide stretch of sand gives everyone plenty of space.

Sunset spot. The western-facing beach offers incredible sunsets, and locals gather at the small bar called Bar do Pôr do Sol starting around 5pm. Their grilled cheese sandwich is surprisingly good, and the bar has a laid-back vibe perfect for watching the sky change colors. Similar bars along Brazil’s coast typically open from 10am to 11pm daily.

Nature walks. The trail behind the beach leads to a small waterfall called Cachoeira da Praia Grande. It’s an easy 30-minute walk, and you can swim in the natural pool at the bottom – just watch out for slippery rocks. The trail passes through native vegetation and offers nice views back toward the coast.

Fishing culture. Early morning brings local fishermen preparing their nets and boats. They usually return around 11am with the day’s catch, which often ends up at the beachside restaurant Marisqueira do Grande for lunch. You can sometimes buy fresh fish directly from the boats.

Simple pleasures. The beach has basic facilities – one restaurant, one bar, and a small shop that sells drinks and snacks. Coconut water vendors walk the beach, and you can rent a beach chair and umbrella for the day. The lack of development is exactly what makes this area special for those seeking peace.

Transportation. Buses run hourly between Praia Grande and Paraty town center. There’s a small parking area if you’re driving, and the road is paved all the way to the beach. The area remains relatively undeveloped compared to other coastal spots around Paraty.

Best Hotels in Praia Grande

• Casa Mar Paraty – This oceanfront property offers elegant accommodations with stunning sea views, modern amenities, and direct beach access for a premium coastal experience.
• Pousada Recanto de Paraty – A sophisticated pousada featuring spacious rooms with tropical décor, swimming pool, and peaceful garden settings away from the crowds.
• Pousada Nativa Paraty – An upscale eco-friendly property offering comfortable suites with natural materials, outdoor spaces, and personalized service in a tranquil beachside location.

6. Pontal – Where to Stay in Paraty for Water Activities

Water sports hub. Pontal sits where the river meets the sea, creating perfect conditions for different water activities. The calm river side works great for beginners, while the ocean side offers more adventure for experienced people. This unique geography makes it a natural center for water sports.

Activity center. Marina do Pontal rents kayaks, boats, and fishing gear. They open at 7am and close at 6pm, and the staff speaks decent English if you need help with equipment. The marina offers both half-day and full-day boat rentals, with smaller boats available without requiring a license.

Fresh seafood. Restaurante Flutuante literally floats on the water and serves the freshest fish you’ll find anywhere. Their grilled dourado with garlic is excellent, and they’re open Wednesday through Monday from 11am to 9pm. The floating restaurant gives you a unique dining experience right on the water.

River exploration. Rent a small motorboat to explore the mangrove channels – it’s like a natural maze with birds and small islands. You don’t need a license for the smaller boats, and fuel costs make it affordable for half-day trips. The mangroves are home to various bird species and offer peaceful paddling routes.

Local fishing. Join the morning fishing trips that leave at 5:30am sharp from the main dock. Captain Eduardo runs regular trips including equipment, and you can keep whatever you catch for dinner. These excursions give you a taste of local fishing culture while trying your luck at catching dinner.

Street food scene. Clandestino Street Food operates a trendy riverside burger food truck with a lovely location and chilled atmosphere. They’re open Friday through Sunday from 8pm to 1am, serving both meat and vegetarian burgers alongside other Brazilian specialties.

Water activities at Pontal:

• River kayaking for beginners
• Ocean fishing with local captains
• Boat rentals without license needed
• Stand-up paddleboard lessons
• Mangrove exploration tours
• Swimming in calm river waters

Best Hotels in Pontal

Luxury Hotels

• Pousada Estrada Real – This upscale property offers elegant accommodations with sophisticated décor, modern amenities, and a prime location for exploring Pontal’s water activities.
• Leo's Clan Beach Hostel – Despite the hostel name, this property offers premium beachfront accommodations with stylish design and direct access to water sports facilities.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Pousada Cores Do Mar – This colorful mid-range pousada offers comfortable rooms with sea-themed décor, good amenities, and convenient location near water activity centers.
• SunriseBelaVista Pousada e Flats – A versatile property offering both pousada rooms and apartment-style flats with kitchenettes, perfect for longer stays and self-catering travelers.
• Pousada Antígona – This charming mid-range option features comfortable accommodations with local character and easy walking access to boat rental facilities.

Best Budget Options

• Encanto Paraty Beach – An affordable beachfront option offering simple but clean rooms with direct beach access and proximity to water sports equipment rentals.
• Pontal Flats – Budget-friendly apartment-style accommodations with basic kitchenettes and essential amenities, perfect for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.

FAQ about Visiting Paraty, Brazil

Where to find cheap places to stay in Paraty?

The best budget accommodations are in Trindade village, where you can find hostels and simple pousadas starting from R$40 per night. Vibe Hostel Paraty offers dorm beds in the heart of Paraty’s historic center, while Casa Mar Paraty provides affordable private rooms just a short walk from bars and restaurants.

Best time to visit Paraty for booking a hotel?

The best time to visit Paraty is during the dry season from May to September when hotel offers are more available and prices are reasonable. During this period, you’ll find the best deals on 3-star and 4-star hotels in Paraty, plus perfect weather to explore Paraty and enjoy boat trips.

How to get to Paraty from Rio de Janeiro?

The best way to get to Paraty from Rio de Janeiro is by bus, which takes about 4.5 hours and costs around R$45-60. You can also rent a car for more flexibility when exploring the surrounding Paraty area and making trips to Ilha Grande to Paraty.

Best 4-star hotel in Paraty historic center accommodation?

Pousada do Ouro is one of the most popular hotels in Paraty’s historic center, offering excellent service with a swimming pool and colonial charm. Sandi Hotel provides another great 4-star option in the old town of Paraty, featuring modern amenities while maintaining the historic atmosphere of the area.

Top things to do in Paraty during visit?

The colonial town of Paraty offers incredible boat trips around Paraty Bay, exploring historic churches, and visiting cachaça distilleries in the heart of Paraty. You can also attend the International Literary Festival of Paraty, hike to waterfalls, and enjoy the vibrant bars and restaurants scene.

Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro before Paraty?

Stay in Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana or Ipanema areas for easy access to the Paraty bus terminal and excellent hotels. These areas in Rio de Janeiro state offer great hotels with swimming pools and are perfect for combining your Rio and Paraty trip.

Best overall area to stay in Paraty town?

The Paraty historic center is the best overall area to stay for first-time visitors to the village of Paraty. Hotels located in this area put you just a few meters from the main attractions, and you can choose where to stay based on your budget and travel style.

Price for 3-star hotel versus 4-star hotel options?

The price for a 3-star hotel in Paraty ranges from R$180-280 per night, while a 4-star hotel typically costs R$320-500. Popular hotels like Apple House Paraty offer mid-range pricing, while luxury options in the state of Rio de Janeiro command premium rates during peak season.

Safest area to stay for verified travelers to Paraty?

The historic center of Paraty is the safest area to stay according to verified travelers to Paraty and local recommendations. This area of the city has good lighting, regular police patrols, and you’ll find the 11 best hotels in Paraty concentrated here for maximum security.

Best parking in Paraty for hotel guests?

Most great hotels in the area of Paraty offer parking solutions, though the historic center has limited street parking. I recommend choosing hotels and inns that provide private parking or staying in areas surrounding Paraty where parking is easier and you can still reach the town center within a short walk.