Ouro Preto, Brazil is a city that feels frozen in time, drawing visitors with its vast collection of ornate baroque architecture and steep, colorful streets. Once the heart of Brazil’s gold rush, Ouro Preto’s cobblestone lanes, tiled roofs, and elaborate churches give a glimpse into its colonial past. Its unique, UNESCO-listed cityscape is framed by rolling green mountains and a pleasantly cool climate, making every corner a photo opportunity.
The city is renowned for sites like the Church of São Francisco de Assis and the Church of Nossa Senhora do Pilar, with interiors crammed with gilded woodwork and ceiling paintings. The old mines, such as Mina da Passagem and Chico Rei Mine, allow intrepid travelers to venture underground for a taste of what made this city so wealthy hundreds of years ago. The central Praça Tiradentes is always buzzing with students, locals, and tourists, acting as a prime hub for people-watching and local events.
Ouro Preto lives and breathes culture; its university and vibrant student population infuse youthful energy into a town rooted in tradition. Travelers often spend time enjoying artisanal shops, sampling traditional Minas Gerais cuisine, or joining festivals like Carnaval or the Holy Week processions. Walking is essential—bring comfortable shoes for the city's hills—and you’ll find friendly locals eager to share Ouro Preto’s history over a cup of rich coffee or a plate of pão de queijo.
Most accommodations are converted colonial houses or simple but charming guesthouses, putting you close to the main attractions. Getting around is primarily on foot, although local taxis are available to help with steeper climbs. Dining ranges from casual bakeries to atmospheric restaurants serving hearty regional dishes like feijão tropeiro and tutu de feijão.
Ouro Preto is best visited in the dry winter months from May to August for cooler weather and festivals. However, the lush surrounding landscapes are especially green in the rainy season. Avoid long weekends and Brazilian holidays if you prefer a quieter experience, as the city fills up with visitors from Belo Horizonte and beyond.
The city is renowned for sites like the Church of São Francisco de Assis and the Church of Nossa Senhora do Pilar, with interiors crammed with gilded woodwork and ceiling paintings. The old mines, such as Mina da Passagem and Chico Rei Mine, allow intrepid travelers to venture underground for a taste of what made this city so wealthy hundreds of years ago. The central Praça Tiradentes is always buzzing with students, locals, and tourists, acting as a prime hub for people-watching and local events.
Ouro Preto lives and breathes culture; its university and vibrant student population infuse youthful energy into a town rooted in tradition. Travelers often spend time enjoying artisanal shops, sampling traditional Minas Gerais cuisine, or joining festivals like Carnaval or the Holy Week processions. Walking is essential—bring comfortable shoes for the city's hills—and you’ll find friendly locals eager to share Ouro Preto’s history over a cup of rich coffee or a plate of pão de queijo.
Most accommodations are converted colonial houses or simple but charming guesthouses, putting you close to the main attractions. Getting around is primarily on foot, although local taxis are available to help with steeper climbs. Dining ranges from casual bakeries to atmospheric restaurants serving hearty regional dishes like feijão tropeiro and tutu de feijão.
Ouro Preto is best visited in the dry winter months from May to August for cooler weather and festivals. However, the lush surrounding landscapes are especially green in the rainy season. Avoid long weekends and Brazilian holidays if you prefer a quieter experience, as the city fills up with visitors from Belo Horizonte and beyond.
Expected Weekly Budget
$800-$1200 USD (per person, excluding flights)
Known For
Things to Do
- Tour the city’s historic baroque churches
- Explore the underground gold mines
- Stroll through Praça Tiradentes and the old town
- Visit the Museum of Inconfidência
- Sample local Minas Gerais cuisine
- Take a scenic hike in the surrounding Serra do Ouro Branco
- Join traditional festivals or local markets
- Browse artisanal crafts and jewelry shops
Notable Sites
- Church of São Francisco de Assis
- Church of Nossa Senhora do Pilar
- Museu da Inconfidência
- Mina da Passagem
- Chico Rei Mine
- Praça Tiradentes
- Casa dos Contos
- Museum of Sacred Art
General Advice
Ouro Preto is best explored at a relaxed pace, giving you time to absorb the intricate details of its architecture and the stories layered in each winding street. The hills can be challenging, so bring sturdy, comfortable footwear and plan your sightseeing to minimize unnecessary climbing. Locals are friendly and helpful even if you don’t speak Portuguese—learning a few phrases is still recommended. Be sure to taste traditional food, explore side streets for artisanal finds, and allow extra time during festival seasons for larger crowds and livelier city life.
Security & Safety
Ouro Preto is generally considered very safe, especially compared to larger Brazilian cities, but standard precautions apply. Pay attention to your belongings, particularly in busy tourist areas or on crowded public transport. At night, stick to well-lit, central streets, and avoid isolated pathways. Pickpocketing in main squares or inside churches is rare but possible during festivals or heavy events. If exploring outside the city (like rural walks or mine tours), go with reputable guides and always inform your accommodation of your plans.
Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes—many streets are steep and cobbled.
- Carry cash, as some restaurants and shops don’t accept cards.
- Try local cheese and sweets from artisanal shops.
- Book accommodations well ahead if visiting during Carnaval or Holy Week.
- Be ready for changing weather; carry a light jacket year-round.
- Plan church visits for mid-morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
- If touring the mines, check entry schedules and go with official guides.
- Use local buses or taxis for trips to mines or neighboring towns.
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Traveler Comments
Visited in March 2024
Walking through Ouro Preto felt like stepping into another era. The churches are incredible, especially São Francisco de Assis. There are a lot of hills, so pack light and wear good shoes. I enjoyed the street food and lively atmosphere around Praça Tiradentes.
Stayed in August 2023
My husband and I came during winter and loved the cool weather and lack of crowds. We spent hours exploring old mines and admiring the gilded altars inside Pilar church. The whole city has this vibrant student vibe—felt very different from anywhere else we’ve been in Brazil.
Visited in October 2023
We traveled with our two teens, and they loved the mine tours! The city is compact and felt very safe. A few places didn’t take cards, and dining was sometimes a bit slow, but the scenery and history were totally worth it.
Traveled here in January 2024
Came for the architecture but stayed for the food and artsy shops. The hills caught me off guard—legs got a real workout. Don’t miss the local markets on weekends; there’s so much to discover!
Visited in June 2024
Absolutely fascinating city! We timed our visit during the Festa de São João and the celebrations were unforgettable. The views over the rooftops at sunset are gorgeous. It can get chilly at night so bring a sweater.
Stayed in February 2024
Staying in a colonial guesthouse set the mood for our entire trip. The history is everywhere—from museums to street corners. We joined a walking tour and learned so much about the independence movement.
Visited in November 2023
Our family of four had a great time. Our kids were amazed by the gold in Pilar church! Restaurants were fun but can be busy on weekends. Local sweets were a big hit with everyone.
Traveled here in July 2023
I went solo and found it easy to meet other travelers and students. Took a day trip to Mina da Passagem—definitely worth it. Be prepared to do a lot of walking; taxis were helpful for the really steep climbs.
Visited in September 2023
You can spend hours just admiring the churches and people-watching in the plaza. Some museums don’t have much English signage, but staff are helpful. The atmosphere is relaxed yet full of life.
Stayed in April 2024
We fell in love with Ouro Preto! The Holy Week processions were a cultural highlight, and the whole town turned into a living stage. Try feijão tropeiro at a local spot—so tasty!
Visited in December 2023
Ouro Preto is visually stunning, but the steep streets were tough for my elderly parent. Most places are accessible, but it’s not ideal if you have mobility issues. Still, the art and history kept us busy for days.
Traveled here in May 2024
The local artisans' jewelry and soapstone carvings are incredible. We bought so many gifts! Every street feels like a postcard. Being part of the cultural festivals made our experience truly unforgettable.
Visited in September 2023
Exploring with friends after a work conference was the best part of my trip. The museums are fascinating. I wish there were more late-night dining options, but the town’s cozy pubs made up for it.
Visited in October 2023
Loved how walkable the city was, even if my calves disagreed! The student energy mixes well with all the history. Streets can get packed with tour groups on weekends, so I tried to head out early.
Stayed in July 2023
The best part was the lively bar scene at night and chatting with locals. I felt totally safe. Highly recommend sampling cachaça and local minero cheeses.
Traveled here in November 2023
I came for the history, and Ouro Preto delivered. The old mines were eye-opening. I did wish for more signage in English, but the guides were excellent. Stayed in an adorable pousada walking distance to everything.
Visited in May 2024
Lots to see and do, but it’s not super accessible if you have trouble with hills. Main attractions get crowded by mid-morning so I started exploring early. Coffee culture here is fantastic.
Visited in June 2024
Perfect mix of culture, food, and scenery. Our guide at Chico Rei Mine brought history to life for our kids. Local crafts are amazing—I recommend saving space in your bag for souvenirs.
Stayed in February 2024
We loved the colonial guesthouse we stayed in, so quaint and close to everything! It can be pricey compared to other Brazilian towns, but totally worth it for a few days. The atmosphere is like nowhere else.
Traveled here in August 2023
Ouro Preto’s nighttime city lights are magical. Local bakeries are perfect for quick snacks between museums. Sundays are quieter—nice for wandering the side streets without crowds.
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