Tucked into the rolling hills of Minas Gerais, Ouro Preto is one of Brazil’s best-preserved colonial towns. With its cobblestone streets, baroque churches, and mountainous scenery, it feels like stepping into a Portuguese painting from the 1700s.
This guide will show you what to do, where to go, and why Ouro Preto is an essential stop for anyone interested in Brazilian history, architecture, and culture.
Why Visit Ouro Preto?
Ouro Preto (meaning “Black Gold”) was once the richest city in Brazil during the Gold Rush of the 18th century. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a living museum of colonial art, religion, and society.
What makes it special:
- Dozens of baroque churches and monuments
- A lively student population and cultural life
- Mountain landscapes with hiking and waterfalls nearby
- Strong links to Brazil’s independence movement
How to Get to Ouro Preto
- From Belo Horizonte (BHZ): ~100 km (2.5–3 hours by car or bus)
- Buses leave regularly from Belo Horizonte’s Rodoviária terminal
- Roads are scenic but winding—drive with caution
Tip: Once in town, explore on foot—cars are not ideal on steep cobblestone streets.
Top Attractions in Ouro Preto
1. Igreja de São Francisco de Assis
One of Brazil’s most beautiful churches, designed by the famed Aleijadinho and painted by Manuel da Costa Ataíde.
- Intricate woodwork and gold-covered altar
- Museum in the annex for sacred art lovers
2. Museu da Inconfidência
Located in the former city hall and prison, this museum tells the story of the Inconfidência Mineira, Brazil’s first independence movement.
- Exhibits include artifacts, documents, and personal effects of the revolutionaries
- The remains of Tiradentes, a national hero, are entombed here
3. Casa dos Contos
A colonial mansion turned museum focused on economics, slavery, and daily life during the gold era.
- Original prison cells and currency exhibits
- Free admission
4. Igreja do Pilar
The second-richest church in Brazil in terms of amount of gold used in its interior. A true example of excess in colonial religious art.
- Baroque to the extreme
- Attached museum of sacred art
5. Mina da Passagem
One of the oldest gold mines in the region, located a few kilometers outside the city.
- Descend into the mine via a manual trolley
- Guided tour includes history and geology lessons
Walking Tour of Ouro Preto
Start in Praça Tiradentes, the city’s main square, and stroll through:
- Rua Direita – Full of cafés, artisan shops, and historic façades
- The various slopes and stairways leading to panoramic viewpoints
- Local markets selling soapstone sculptures, sweets, and cheese
Wear comfortable shoes and take breaks often—this city is steep and full of charm.
Cultural Life and Events
Despite its small size, Ouro Preto has a dynamic cultural scene, largely thanks to its student population and the Federal University of Ouro Preto (UFOP).
Major events:
- Holy Week (Semana Santa) – Traditional religious processions and flower carpets
- Festival de Inverno de Ouro Preto – One of Brazil’s top art and music festivals (July)
- Carnival – A blend of tradition and student-led bloco parties
Where to Stay
Colonial Charm:
- Hotel Solar do Rosário – Historic and elegant
- Pousada do Mondego – Next to Praça Tiradentes, with colonial decor
Budget/Student-friendly:
- Pouso do Chico Rey – Clean and cozy
- Rock in Hostel – Great for young travelers and groups
Where to Eat
The Minas Gerais cuisine is hearty and flavorful, perfect for cooler mountain evenings.
Must-try dishes:
- Tutu de feijão – Beans with manioc flour
- Frango com quiabo – Chicken with okra
- Feijão tropeiro – Beans, cassava flour, sausage, and eggs
- Local sweets like doce de leite and goiabada cascão
Recommended restaurants:
- Bené da Flauta – Upscale with a view of São Francisco church
- O Passo Pizza Jazz – Colonial atmosphere, pizzas, and live jazz
- Chafariz – Traditional local dishes in a cozy setting
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apr–Aug | Dry and cool | Great for walking and festivals |
| Sept–Nov | Mild spring | Lush scenery and fewer crowds |
| Dec–Mar | Warm and rainy | Some afternoon storms, but vibrant events |
Holy Week and July’s Winter Festival are the busiest (and most beautiful) times.
Tips for Visiting Ouro Preto
- Bring cash for small purchases and street vendors
- Prepare for steep walking—avoid high heels and flip-flops
- Avoid driving in the city center
- Visit nearby towns like Mariana and Lavras Novas for day trips
- Learn a bit about Brazilian colonial history to better appreciate the sites
Why Ouro Preto Is One of Brazil’s Most Fascinating Cities
Ouro Preto is not just a historical site—it’s a place where art, architecture, and national identity converge. It’s a town frozen in time, yet alive with festivals, flavors, and cultural pride.
For travelers seeking depth, beauty, and a touch of gold dust, Ouro Preto is a destination that delivers history with heart.
✈️ I’m Miles Carter, a travel writer and explorer passionate about discovering stories that maps can’t show.🌍 From bustling cities to quiet mountain trails, I bring you practical tips, unique experiences, and honest travel advice to help you explore the world with purpose.📍 This blog is your compass to smarter, deeper, and more meaningful travel.
Let’s wander beyond the obvious.