Brazil's South-East Region
Ouro Preto Travel Guide
A hilly historic town turned university city, with lively nightlife
Ouro Preto, located in Minas Gerais, is a former colonial mining town known for its baroque architecture and significant role in Brazil’s 18th-century gold rush. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring landmarks such as the Church of São Francisco de Assis, designed by artist Aleijadinho, and the Inconfidência Museum. Ouro Preto is also famous for its steep, cobblestone streets and well-preserved historic buildings, making it a major cultural and historical destination. It is conveniently located just 2 hours from Belo Horizonte.
Top 5 Things to See & Do in Ouro Preto
Explore the historic town center
Visit Igreja de São Francisco de Assis
Tour the Mina du Veloso
Discover the Museu da Inconfidência
Hike to Pico do Itacolomi
Closest airport
Aeroporto Internacional de Confins / Tancredo Neves (CNF)
Main bus terminal
Terminal Rodoviário de Ouro Preto
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Main ports
How to get to Ouro Preto
The closest airport to Ouro Preto is located in Belo Horizonte, with regular international and domestic connections. It is also easy to reach Ouro Preto by bus from Belo Horizonte and other locations in Minas Gerais.
How to get to Ouro Preto from Belo Horizonte
From Belo Horizonte, there are regular busses to Ouro Preto departing from Terminal Rodoviário de Belo Horizonte. The trip takes around 2 hours.
How to get to Ouro Preto from Rio de Janeiro
The fastest way to get to Ouro Preto from Rio is to fly to Belo Horizonte and take a bus. However, if preferring to travel by land, there is an overnight bus that runs directly from Rio's Novo Rio bus terminal to Ouro Preto. The trip takes around 8.5 hours.
How to get around Ouro Preto
Many of the Ouro Preto's main sights can be reached on foot. Busses and taxis also operate within Ouro Preto. Buses and trains connect Ouro Preto with the nearby town Mariana 12km away - while the train ride is considerably more expensive it offers an exceptionally scenic trip through the mountains. Tickets can be purchased online. [note: the train has been suspended and it is unclear if/when it will resume operations].
Things to know before you go
Ouro Preto, nestled in the mountains of Minas Gerais, is one of the Brazil's most captivating colonial towns. Once the epicenter of Brazil’s gold rush in the 18th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its well-preserved Baroque architecture. The town's name, Ouro Preto, means Black Gold.
Historical and Architectural Significance
Ouro Preto’s streets are lined with stunning examples of Baroque and Rococo architecture, with churches, public buildings, and houses that have stood the test of time. The town is home to some of Brazil’s most famous Baroque churches, including the Church of São Francisco de Assis, designed by the renowned architect and sculptor Aleijadinho, and the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, built by and for African slaves. These churches are repositories of incredible art, with paintings that tell stories of the town’s religious and cultural history.
Cultural Experiences
Ouro Preto is a hub of cultural activities. The Museu da Inconfidência, housed in the former colonial town hall, offers insights into the Inconfidência Mineira, a revolutionary movement that sought Brazil’s independence from Portuguese rule. The Casa dos Contas, once a treasury and mint, now serves as a museum showcasing colonial-era artifacts, including tools used in gold mining. Entrance to both museums is free.
Another unique experience is the Mina da Passagem, one of the world’s largest gold mines open to tourists. Here, you can descend into the mine’s tunnels via a trolley and explore the underground chambers. Tickets cost R$220 for adults and must be paid in cash.
Natural Surroundings
Ouro Preto is surrounded by the natural landscapes of the Serra do Espinhaço mountain range. There are forests, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails just a short distance away. Visitors can explore the Parque Estadual do Itacolomi, where the Itacolomi Peak offers panoramic views of the region.
