4 day itinerary for Ouro Preto, Mariana, Tiradentes And Congonhas

Itinerary

You’re in for a treat exploring the beautiful towns of Ouro Preto, Mariana, Tiradentes, and Congonhas. Each of these places is rich in history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Let’s dive into a delightful 4-day itinerary that includes parks, religious sites, and museums!

## Day 1: Ouro Preto – The Jewel of the Gold Rush

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Try some pão de queijo (cheese bread) and coffee.
• Museu da Inconfidência: Head to this museum, which is housed in a former colonial prison. It showcases the history of the Inconfidência Mineira, a movement for independence from Portuguese rule.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Traditional Restaurant: Enjoy a hearty meal at a local restaurant. Don’t miss the chance to try some traditional mineira cuisine!
• Church of São Francisco de Assis: Visit this stunning baroque church, known for its intricate woodwork and beautiful paintings by Aleijadinho.
• Parque Natural Municipal da Serra do Ouro Preto: Spend your afternoon in this lovely park. Enjoy a leisurely hike and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Evening:

• Dinner in the Historic Center: Stroll through the charming streets of Ouro Preto and find a cozy spot for dinner. The ambiance is magical at night!

## Day 2: Mariana – A Step Back in Time

Morning:

• Breakfast in Ouro Preto: Grab a quick breakfast before heading to Mariana.
• Catedral da Sé: Start your day in Mariana with a visit to this beautiful cathedral, which is a prime example of colonial architecture.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Eatery: Enjoy a meal at one of Mariana’s quaint restaurants.
• Museu Arquidiocesano de Arte Sacra: Explore this museum that houses a collection of sacred art, including paintings and sculptures from the colonial period.
• Parque Natural Municipal da Cachoeira do Campo: Spend your afternoon in this park, where you can enjoy nature trails and the beautiful waterfall.

Evening:

• Dinner in Mariana: Try some local dishes and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this charming town.

## Day 3: Tiradentes – A Charming Colonial Town

Morning:

• Breakfast in Mariana: Fuel up for the day ahead.
• Visit the Main Square (Praça da Liberdade): Take a leisurely stroll around this picturesque square, surrounded by colonial buildings.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Bistro: Enjoy a meal at one of the charming bistros in Tiradentes.
• Museu de Sant’Ana: Visit this museum dedicated to the art of the popular saint, featuring beautiful pieces of folk art.
• Parque Estadual do Ibitipoca: Spend your afternoon exploring this stunning park, known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and lush greenery. It’s a bit of a drive, but the scenery is worth it!

Evening:

• Dinner in Tiradentes: Enjoy a lovely dinner in this quaint town, perhaps trying some local wines.

## Day 4: Congonhas – A Spiritual Journey

Morning:

• Breakfast in Tiradentes: Start your day with a hearty breakfast.
• Basílica do Senhor Bom Jesus de Matosinhos: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its stunning baroque architecture and the twelve prophets sculpted by Aleijadinho.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Congonhas: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, sampling more of the delicious mineira cuisine.
• Museu de Congonhas: Explore this museum that showcases the history and culture of the region.
• Parque da Matriz: Spend some time in this lovely park, perfect for a leisurely stroll and relaxation.

Evening:

• Dinner in Congonhas: Wrap up your trip with a delightful dinner, reflecting on the beautiful experiences you’ve had over the past few days.

Tips:

• Transportation: Consider renting a car for flexibility, as these towns are relatively close but not always well-connected by public transport.
• Local Guides: If you can, hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the history and culture of each place.
• Stay Hydrated: Don’t forget to drink plenty of water, especially if you’re hiking!

Enjoy your adventure through these historical gems! Each town has its own unique charm and stories to tell. Safe travels! 🌍✨