About the Port
Founded in the 17th century as a gold-shipping port, Parati preserves one of Brazil's best examples of Portuguese colonial architecture. Its historic center is closed to cars, and uneven cobblestone streets, often flooded at high tide, wind past whitewashed buildings trimmed in bright blue, yellow, and ochre. Steep, forested mountains rise just beyond the rooftops, framing the town against the Costa Verde coastline.
The compact old quarter sits within easy walking distance of the pier, making it simple to explore churches, art galleries, and artisan shops on foot. Cafes and small restaurants line the squares, while the surrounding bay offers boat trips to nearby islands and beaches. Parati's blend of preserved history and lush natural scenery makes it a rewarding stop for travelers drawn to colonial charm and coastal beauty alike.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Parati.
Wander the Colonial Old Quarter
Stroll the car-free cobblestone lanes past whitewashed, brightly trimmed buildings, ducking into small chapels and galleries. The entire historic center is walkable from the pier in minutes, so plan an hour or two to explore at a leisurely pace.
Take a Bay Boat Trip
Book a schooner or small-boat excursion out to the islands and secluded beaches scattered across Parati Bay. Half-day trips are easiest to arrange in advance, and many include a swim stop in clear, calm water.
Sample Local Cachaça
The region around Parati is famous for its handcrafted sugarcane spirit; look for tasting rooms and shops near the main squares offering samples straight from small-batch stills. A quick tasting pairs well with a coffee or snack at a nearby cafe.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Parati
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 14, 2027 | Azamara | Azamara Journey | 74 | $31,749 | |
| Jan 14, 2027 | Azamara | Azamara Journey | 34 | $12,329 | |
| Jan 25, 2027 | Azamara | Azamara Journey | 23 | $6,619 | |
| Feb 7, 2027 | Azamara | Azamara Journey | 10 | $2,809 | |
| Feb 14, 2027 | Oceania | Oceania Insignia | 33 | $17,449 | |
| Mar 7, 2027 | Oceania | Oceania Insignia | 12 | $4,499 | |
| Mar 7, 2027 | Oceania | Oceania Insignia | 33 | $12,299 | |
| Mar 17, 2027 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Eclipse | 11 | $9,520 | |
| Mar 25, 2027 | Silversea | Silver Endeavour | 23 | $15,680 | |
| Aug 17, 2027 | Seabourn | Seabourn Venture | 69 | $90,897 | |
| Aug 17, 2027 | Seabourn | Seabourn Venture | 94 | $104,998 | |
| Aug 29, 2027 | Seabourn | Seabourn Venture | 82 | $88,898 | |
| Aug 29, 2027 | Seabourn | Seabourn Venture | 57 | $64,797 | |
| Sep 16, 2027 | Seabourn | Seabourn Venture | 64 | $55,397 | |
| Sep 16, 2027 | Seabourn | Seabourn Venture | 39 | $33,297 | |
| Oct 1, 2027 | Seabourn | Seabourn Venture | 49 | $30,598 | |
| Oct 1, 2027 | Seabourn | Seabourn Venture | 24 | $11,899 | |
| Oct 9, 2027 | Seabourn | Seabourn Venture | 41 | $26,433 | |
| Oct 9, 2027 | Seabourn | Seabourn Venture | 16 | $8,499 | |
| Nov 3, 2027 | Scenic Cruises | Scenic Eclipse II | 11 | $9,366 |
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