Home to verdant rainforests, white sandy beaches and the world's most decorated national football team, Brazil is a captivating South American destination. Sunseekers can soak up the lively atmosphere of Rio's Ipanema beach, attend a world-famous Carnival festival, explore the Amazon rainforest and marvel at spectacular waterfalls. To see some of the most scenic landscapes in the world, visit one of these top places to visit in Brazil.
Rio de Janeiro 
Credit: www.bigstock.com Aerial view of Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro (prices and hotel photos)
The beating heart of Brazil, Rio de Janeiro is a city like no other, where you'll find lush mountains, beautiful beaches and a vibrant nightlife. Admire some of the city's most iconic attractions, such as Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain and Copacabana Beach, then visit less touristy spots like hiking the 111-mile TransCarioca Trail and Arpoador for sunset views. It's time to visit one of the largest Carnival celebrations in the world that includes colourful costumes, parades, dancing and street parties.
Foz do Iguaçu 
Credit: bigstock.com Iguacu Falls
Foz do Iguaçu (Hotel prices and photos)
You visit Foz do Iguaçu for a reason, and that is to see the country's most beautiful natural wonder, Iguazu Falls. It is one of the largest waterfalls in the world and you will be drawn in by the sheer power of the series of cascades plunging into the Iguazu River. It straddles the border between Brazil and Argentina and features hundreds of waterfalls, but make sure you see the 262-foot Devil's Gorge. Hop on one of the tyres to see the spectacle up close.
São Paulo 
Credit: bigstock.com São Paulo
São Paulo (prices and hotel photos)
Nicknamed the 'concrete jungle', São Paulo is not only the largest city in Brazil, it is one of the largest cities in the world. Located in the south-east of Brazil, it is known for its impressive skyscrapers, delicious cuisine and vibrant cultural scene. Get a dose of culture by exploring its collection of art galleries, museums and international restaurants, then connect with nature in one of the public parks or part of the Atlantic rainforest. You'll find plenty of places to stop until you buy, while Praca Roosevelt is where to find trendy bars and nightlife.
Salvador Credit: bigstock.com Salvador, Brazil
Salvador (prices and hotel photos)
If you're interested in history, Salvador will draw you in with its beautiful historical centre dotted with pastel-coloured buildings, churches, museums and shops. Located on the coast of All Saints Bay, Salvador also offers access to picturesque beaches, such as Porto de Barra, Flamengo and Stella Maris, where you can swim and surf. Head to the Pelourinho for food and entertainment, or simply sit back and photograph its colourful colonial buildings, small cobblestone alleys and churches with gilded wood and Baroque elements.
Recife 
Credit: bigstock.com Boa Viagem Beach, Recife
Recife (prices and hotel photos)
Recife is called the 'Venice of Brazil', known for its variety of waterways and bridges. Nestled between tropical forests, rivers and peninsulas, it captivates travellers with its historic centre, beautiful beaches and lively cultural attractions. Stroll through the city centre to discover buildings dating back to the 16th century, visit opulent designer shops, view Brazilian and European artworks at the Instituto Ricardo Brennand, then sunbathe at Boa Viagem Beach, which is sheltered by coral reefs.
Olinda 
Credit: bigstock.com Igreja do Carmo, Olinda
Olinda (hotel prices and photos)
Considered one of the best-preserved colonial cities in Brazil, Olinda, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was founded in the early 16th century by Portuguese settlers. The small colonial city is located on the Atlantic coast, perched on a hill surrounded by lush vegetation and the historic centre area is dotted with colourful houses clinging to the hillside, as well as baroque churches, museums and restaurants. It is now considered an arts centre, where creative types can explore a variety of art galleries, craft studios and workshops.
Paraty 
Credit: bigstock.com Blue skies in Paraty
Paraty (prices and hotel photos)
A pretty town at the southern tip of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Paraty is known for its Portuguese colonial architecture and variety of natural wonders. An idyllic destination with access to tropical forests, waterfalls and coastal mountains, Paraty is also home to a beautiful historical centre with cobbled streets and multicoloured buildings. Explore defensive forts boasting original walls, admire the beach at Barra do Corumbê and take a scenic boat ride to Praia da Lula, Praia Vermelha and Praia de Santa Rita for snorkelling adventures.
Fortaleza 
Credit: bigstock.com Fortaleza, Brazil
Fortaleza (prices and hotel photos)
Famous for its cultural attractions, picturesque beaches and shopping opportunities, Fortaleza is the fifth largest city in Brazil. Beach lovers can visit Meireles, Mucuripe, Iracema and the local Praia do Futuro and explore Centro, the historic part of the city, then visit Praia de Iracema to join the lively nightlife. Pick up souvenirs at Mercado Central de Fortaleza, visit General Castelo Branco's Mausoleum and take a day trip to see the beaches, rolling dunes and picturesque fishing villages up and down the Ceará coast.
Buzios 
Credit: bigstock.com Azedinha Beach in Buzios
Buzios (prices and hotel photos)
The perfect day trip from Rio de Janeiro, Buzios is only two hours north of Brazil's most popular city. Considered a sun-seeker's paradise, it boasts more than 20 beaches where you can enjoy the outdoors. Sunbathe along the coast or enjoy a day of surfing, diving and boat tours. Consisting of three communities, you can explore Ossos, Manguinhos and Armacao to get a taste of each of their different personalities, giving you the chance to experience some of Brazil's most spectacular landscapes.
Brasilia 
Credit: bigstock.com Brasilia, Brazil
Brasilia (prices and hotel photos)
Built in the 1960s, Brazil's capital is a fully planned city in the form of an aeroplane. Each section of the plane's design is a different district, from residential to government, culture and commerce. Admire the unique architecture throughout the city, including the Cathedral of Brasilia, which boasts a glass roof with hands reaching up to heaven, then explore the Plaza of the Three Powers to see the Supreme Court, Congress and the Presidential Palace. After sightseeing, relax at the Parque Municipal do Itiquira to admire the 551-foot Itiquira waterfall.
Manaus 
Credit: bigstock.com Aerial view of the port of Manaus
Manaus (Prices and hotel photos)
Serving as the gateway to the Amazon rainforest, Manaus is located in north-west Brazil, on the banks of the Negro River. Get a dose of culture at the Amazonas Opera House and the Rio Negro Palace and then marvel at the nearby natural phenomena known as the 'Meeting of the Waters', where the two rivers, the Negro River and the Solimões River, run side by side without mixing completely. See an exhibition of local fruit, vegetables and herbs at the Mercado Municipal Adolpho Lisboa, admire French architecture at the Amazonas Theatre and discover the Amazon jungle at the Museu da Amazonia.
