Best things to do in Búzios
Find out more about those top places in Búzios
Búzios Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Sightseeing, and the Best Things to Do in Brazil’s Coastal Gem
Located just a few hours’ drive from Rio de Janeiro, the charming town of Búzios is one of Brazil’s most captivating places to visit. Perched on a slender peninsula that juts dramatically into the Atlantic Ocean, Búzios has evolved from a quiet fishing village into one of the country’s top attractions and most glamorous beachside resorts.
Once a hidden gem known mostly to locals, Búzios shot to international fame in the 1960s after French actress Brigitte Bardot fell in love with its rustic beauty. Since then, it has become a playground for the stylish and sun-seeking, offering a perfect blend of sightseeing, upscale leisure, and authentic charm.
Top Attractions in Búzios
1. Rua das Pedras (Stones Street)
This is the vibrant heart of Búzios—a lively pedestrian street lined with stylish boutiques, gourmet restaurants, cozy cafés, and buzzing bars. It’s the perfect spot to people-watch, shop for local art, or enjoy a sunset caipirinha.
2. Praia de João Fernandes
One of the most popular beaches in Búzios, João Fernandes is a must-visit for beach lovers. Calm waters, scenic cliffs, and plenty of beachside restaurants make it one of the best places to visit for a relaxing day in the sun.
3. Orla Bardot
A beautiful seaside promenade named in honor of Brigitte Bardot, complete with a bronze statue of the star herself. It’s a perfect place for sightseeing, enjoying ocean views, and watching traditional fishing boats bob in the water.
4. Ossos District
Located at the eastern tip of the peninsula, Ossos is the oldest and most atmospheric part of Búzios. Its narrow cobbled streets, colonial-era architecture, and Mediterranean flair make it one of the top things to do for travelers seeking a quieter, more romantic side of town.
Things to Do in Búzios
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Explore the Beaches: Búzios boasts more than 20 stunning beaches, each with its own vibe. Surfers will love Geribá Beach, while snorkelers should head to Ferradura or Azeda Beach for calm, crystal-clear waters.
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Take a Boat Tour: For panoramic views and access to secluded coves, hop on a schooner tour or rent a private boat to cruise around the peninsula—one of the most popular things to do in Búzios.
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Go Diving or Snorkeling: The clear waters and vibrant marine life around Búzios make it a top destination for underwater adventures.
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Hike to Mirante do Forno: For unbeatable views over the coastline, this short hike rewards you with one of the best sightseeing spots in the area.
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Enjoy the Nightlife: Búzios has a surprisingly lively scene after dark, with beach bars, nightclubs, and live music venues that cater to both locals and tourists.
Travel Guide Tips for Visiting Búzios
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Best Time to Visit: Búzios enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, but the best time for beach activities and sightseeing is during Brazil’s dry season from May to September.
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How to Get There: The easiest way to reach Búzios is by car or bus from Rio de Janeiro, approximately 3 hours away. Private transfers are also available for added comfort.
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Where to Stay: Búzios offers everything from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to charming pousadas tucked away in quiet corners of the peninsula. For easy access to nightlife, stay near Rua das Pedras. For peaceful beach vibes, consider João Fernandes or Ossos.
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Local Cuisine: Try regional seafood dishes like moqueca (fish stew), grilled shrimp, and pastel de camarão (shrimp pastries) at local beachside restaurants. The town also boasts excellent international fare thanks to its cosmopolitan visitors.
Final Thoughts: Why Búzios is One of Brazil’s Top Travel Destinations
Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or romantic places to visit, Búzios ticks every box. With its unique blend of historic charm, natural beauty, and chic ambiance, it’s no surprise that this former fishing village has become one of the most sought-after destinations on Brazil’s coastline.
Perfect for weekend getaways or longer beach escapes, Búzios offers endless things to do and unforgettable moments—making it a must-include in any Brazil travel guide.
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Rua das Pedras
A tour of the most popular street of Búzios in Rio de Janeiro - the Rua das Pedras is an unforgettable experience. This street got its name from the pavement which is made of stones. The Rua das Pedras is only about 600 m which places it as a small street and cars are not allowed to move along this street. At any time of the day, the street is always lively and it houses the best restaurants and the most exclusive luxury shops in Búzios which you should visit on your tour.
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Praia da Armação
Praia da Armação is one location where you can relax and breath in the cool air. This tranquil beach with its beautiful sights features restaurants and bars, a small church, alongside windsurfing and swimming.
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Praia da Ferradura
The Praia da Ferradura is one of the many relaxation places that you should visit during your tour where you can lay back and breath in the beach air. This horseshoe-shaped beach with its gentle water and amazing scenes also has kiosks where you can get all your snacks. Also, you can rent chairs, umbrellas and even kayaks during your visit.
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Praia João Fernandinho
The exciting feature of this beach is that it is very suitable for you especially if you do not want to be disturbed while on your tour. The Praia João Fernandinho is an isolated beach with a number of food kiosks and a modest stretch of sand for fishing, swimming, and other purposes.
