Ouro Preto Itinerary 7 Days: A Journey Through Colonial Brazil (2026)

Arrive in Ouro Preto and check into your accommodation. Begin your journey at the heart of the city, Praça Tiradentes. This bustling square is named after the leader of the Inconfidência Mineira, a revolutionary movement for Brazil's independence. Admire the grand colonial buildings that line the square, including the Museu da Inconfidência and the Mineralogy Museum. Spend the afternoon exploring the Museu da Inconfidência, which houses artifacts from the 18th-century and tells the story of the independence movement. Afterward, wander through the nearby streets, soaking in the atmosphere of the city. For dinner, choose one of the charming restaurants around the square, such as 'O Passo Pizzajazz', known for its delicious pizzas and live music.

Today is dedicated to the artistic genius of Aleijadinho. Start your day at the Igreja de São Francisco de Assis, one of the most famous churches in Ouro Preto and a masterpiece of rococo architecture. Admire the intricate soapstone carvings on the facade and the beautiful paintings inside, all created by Aleijadinho and his workshop. After visiting the church, explore the nearby Handicrafts Market (Feira de Artesanato). Here you can find a wide variety of local crafts, including soapstone sculptures, jewelry, and textiles. It's a great place to buy souvenirs and support local artisans. In the afternoon, visit the Museu do Oratório, a small museum dedicated to private chapels and oratories, showcasing a unique aspect of Brazilian religious art. For dinner, try 'Bené da Flauta', a restaurant with a romantic atmosphere and a menu of traditional Minas Gerais dishes.

Delve into Ouro Preto's gold rush history with a visit to a former gold mine. The Mina da Passagem, located between Ouro Preto and Mariana, is the largest publicly accessible gold mine in the world. Take a trolley down into the mine and learn about the harsh conditions faced by the miners. Alternatively, visit one of the smaller mines within Ouro Preto, such as the Mina do Chico Rei. In the afternoon, seek out some of the city's best viewpoints for breathtaking panoramic photos. Head to the Igreja de São Francisco de Paula or the Morro da Queimada for stunning vistas of the city's rooftops and the surrounding mountains. As the sun sets, the city lights begin to twinkle, creating a magical scene. For a casual dinner, try one of the many 'comida a quilo' restaurants, where you pay by the weight of your food.

Take a day trip to the nearby town of Mariana, the first capital of Minas Gerais. You can reach Mariana by a scenic train ride from Ouro Preto (check the schedule in advance as it doesn't run every day) or by a short bus or taxi ride. Mariana is a charming colonial town with its own beautiful churches and historic buildings. In Mariana, visit the Praça Minas Gerais, which is flanked by the impressive churches of São Francisco de Assis and Nossa Senhora do Carmo. Explore the Museu de Arte Sacra, which houses a rich collection of religious art. Don't miss the old gold mine, Mina da Passagem, which is located between the two cities. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in Mariana before returning to Ouro Preto in the late afternoon.

Spend the day exploring more of Ouro Preto's many churches and museums. Visit the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Pilar, which is said to contain the second-largest amount of gold of any church in Brazil. Admire the opulent baroque interior and the impressive collection of silverware in the attached museum. Next, visit the Casa dos Contos, a former tax collection house that now serves as a museum about the region's economic history. In the afternoon, catch a performance or take a tour of the Teatro Municipal de Ouro Preto, one of the oldest theaters in the Americas. For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at 'Restaurante Contos de Réis', located in a beautifully restored colonial mansion.

Escape the city for a day and explore the natural beauty surrounding Ouro Preto. Hike in the Parque Estadual do Itacolomi, a state park that protects the region's unique flora and fauna. The park offers several trails of varying difficulty, including a hike to the top of Itacolomi Peak for stunning views. Alternatively, visit one of the many waterfalls (cachoeiras) in the area. The Cachoeira das Andorinhas is a popular choice, with a beautiful waterfall and natural swimming pools. Pack a picnic and spend the day swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the tranquility of nature. In the evening, return to Ouro Preto for a farewell dinner at a restaurant of your choice.

Enjoy a final Brazilian breakfast and spend the morning doing some last-minute souvenir shopping. Revisit the Handicrafts Market or explore the many small shops scattered throughout the city. Pick up some local cachaça, soapstone carvings, or other unique mementos of your trip. Depending on your flight or bus schedule, you may have time for one last stroll through the charming streets of Ouro Preto. Reflect on your journey through this historic city before heading to the bus station or airport for your departure.