How to get to Paraty

Paraty is a charming colonial town on the Green Coast, standing as one of the most vibrant historical gems that Brazil has to offer. When planning how to get to Paraty, travellers can choose the most convenient logistics option: from flying into major nearby airports followed by a transfer, to a scenic journey by bus or rental car. This unique open-air museum is easily accessible for tourists wishing to combine a beach holiday with an immersion into the atmosphere of past centuries.

Although the town has its own airport, Paraty (JPY), it primarily accommodates small aircraft and a limited number of regional flights (for example, from Azul Conecta). You will not find direct international flights here, so the air route usually passes through the country's major aviation hubs.

The most popular option is flying into Rio de Janeiro, which is located closest to the resort. Tourists can use the Galeão International Airport or the domestic Santos Dumont Airport. An equally convenient arrival point is São Paulo: its airports, Guarulhos and Congonhas, receive a vast number of flights from all over the world. From both metropolises, you can reach the historical centre via comfortable ground transport.

There is no direct railway connection to Paraty, as there is no operating train station in the town or its vicinity. Passenger trains in Brazil run extremely rarely and are not a popular method of travel between states for tourists. Therefore, planning a route exclusively by rail to this region is impractical.

Major nearby cities, such as Rio de Janeiro, São José dos Campos, or the neighbouring Angra dos Reis, also lack convenient railway connections to the coast for travellers. Even if you find yourself in one of these transport hubs, the final leg of the journey to the historical centre will still have to be covered by bus or car.

Travelling by bus is one of the most scenic ways to reach this colonial corner while enjoying views of the famous Costa Verde coastline. The most in-demand service departs from Rio de Janeiro: covering about 250 kilometres, the bus is on the road for approximately 4–5 hours, allowing passengers to comfortably watch the changing tropical landscapes through the window.

If you are planning a trip from neighbouring Angra dos Reis, the journey will take just one and a half to two hours, as the towns are separated by less than 100 kilometres. There is also a regular service established with the major centre of São José dos Campos, from where the route is about 200 kilometres long, passing through mountain sections, and lasts around 4 hours.

A journey by car along the Costa Verde coast will provide unforgettable impressions from the changing tropical landscapes. The most popular route runs from Rio de Janeiro: covering about 250 kilometres along the famous BR-101 highway, you will reach your destination in approximately 4–5 hours. If your starting point is Angra dos Reis, the picturesque road, slightly less than 100 kilometres long, will take just one and a half to two hours.

An alternative route from São José dos Campos, extending about 200 kilometres, will require around 3.5–4 hours of driving, part of which will pass through winding sections. For those who do not plan to rent a car, a convenient solution would be booking a taxi or private transfer. These services are widely available in the region and ensure maximum comfort, as well as the opportunity to make stops at the most beautiful places along the way.

To ensure your trip to Paraty is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant memories, it is worth considering a few important nuances in advance. We have prepared a list of practical recommendations that will help you better navigate this unique corner of which Brazil is so proud.

1. Clothing and Footwear. The climate here is tropical and humid, so give preference to light, natural fabrics. It is critically important to choose the right footwear: the historical centre is paved with large, uneven cobblestones ("pé-de-moleque"), on which it is impossible to walk in heels. Comfortable sandals or trainers are your best choice.
2. Getting Around the Town. The historical part of the town is closed to cars, so walking will be the main method of movement. For trips to distant beaches or waterfalls, you can use taxis, local buses, or rent a boat ("escuna") at the port.
3. Money and Payment. The official currency is the Brazilian Real. Although cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants, cash is necessary for paying for small souvenirs, street food, and boatmen services. ATMs exist, but there are not many, so it is better to carry a supply of small banknotes.
4. Health and Safety. Paraty is a relatively safe tourist town, but standard precautions are advisable: watch your belongings on the beaches and avoid unlit streets at night. Be sure to use repellents (mosquitoes can be active, especially in nature) and sunscreen with a high protection factor.
5. Language Barrier. The main language is Portuguese. In the tourism sector, many understand English or Spanish, but by learning a few basic phrases in Portuguese (for example, "Obrigado" — thank you), you will earn special appreciation from the locals.
6. Local Etiquette. Brazilians are very friendly and welcoming. It is customary to greet people when entering a room and say goodbye when leaving. Life here flows at a relaxed rhythm, so service in restaurants may be unhurried — treat this with understanding and patience.
7. What to Avoid. Do not drink tap water; always buy bottled water. Also, try not to plan important walks in new shoes during high tides, when ocean water enters directly onto the city streets.
8. Unique Feature. Be sure to check the tide schedule. The streets of the historical centre are designed so that water enters the town, creating an amazing mirror effect. This is not a flood, but an ancient engineering concept for cleaning the streets and an ideal moment for creating the most atmospheric photos.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid everyday inconveniences and fully focus on the beauty of the colonial architecture and the natural riches of the region. Preparation is the key to ensuring your holiday passes easily and without a care.