The Best Weekend Trips from Rio de Janeiro: 5 Quick Escapes You’ll Love
- Dre
- Jul 7
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 13
1. Paraty
Distance from Rio: ~4 hours by car
Why Go: Colonial charm + waterfalls + boat tours
Step back in time in this beautifully preserved colonial town along the Costa Verde. Paraty is known for its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and historic churches—but the surrounding natural beauty is just as impressive. Spend your weekend island-hopping, visiting waterfalls in the Serra da Bocaina mountains, or kayaking through the mangroves.
Top Experiences:
Take a schooner boat tour around the bay
Visit Cachoeira do Tobogã (a natural rock slide)
Explore the old town on foot and enjoy local cachaça
2. Ilha Grande
Distance from Rio: ~3.5 hours (car + ferry)
Why Go: No cars + stunning beaches + nature trails
Ilha Grande is a paradise for beach lovers and hikers. With no cars allowed, this island remains beautifully preserved and tranquil. You’ll find some of Brazil’s most pristine beaches, like Lopes Mendes, and scenic jungle hikes through the Atlantic Rainforest.
Top Experiences:
Hike to Lopes Mendes Beach
Snorkel or dive in the Blue Lagoon (Lagoa Azul)
Visit the ruins of an old prison and aqueduct
3. Petrópolis
Distance from Rio: ~1.5–2 hours by car
Why Go: Mountain air + royal history + romantic charm
Known as the Imperial City, Petrópolis was the summer retreat for Brazilian royalty. Located in the Serra dos Órgãos mountains, it’s perfect for a cooler, more relaxed weekend filled with history and European-inspired architecture.
Top Experiences:
Tour the Imperial Museum (former royal palace)
Stroll through the gardens of the Crystal Palace
Enjoy a beer tasting at the Bohemia Brewery
4. Búzios
Distance from Rio: ~3 hours by car
Why Go: Chic beach town + nightlife + boutique vibes
Once a sleepy fishing village, Búzios rose to fame after Brigitte Bardot’s visit in the 1960s. Now, it’s a cosmopolitan coastal town with over 20 beautiful beaches, great seafood, and upscale shops and restaurants.
Top Experiences:
Visit Geribá Beach for surfing or Ferradura for calm waters
Dine and people-watch along Rua das Pedras
Take a boat tour to see the coastline from the sea
5. Teresópolis
Distance from Rio: ~2 hours by car
Why Go: Waterfalls + hiking + nature
Perfect for nature lovers, Teresópolis is part of the Serra dos Órgãos National Park and offers fantastic hiking, cooler temperatures, and dramatic mountain peaks. It’s less touristy than Petrópolis but just as charming.
Top Experiences:
Hike the Dedo de Deus (God’s Finger) trail
Picnic at Parque Nacional da Serra dos Órgãos
Explore the artisanal food and craft markets
🚗 Tips for Weekend Travel from Rio:
Leave early on Fridays to avoid traffic out of the city.
Consider car rentals or private transfers for flexibility, especially to places like Ilha Grande and Búzios.
Pack for mixed weather—rain is common, especially in mountainous areas.
Whether you're craving a quiet nature retreat, historical discovery, or beach-hopping adventure, these weekend trips from Rio de Janeiro prove you don’t have to go far to find something extraordinary.
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