5 Best Hotels in Paraty, Side Trips from Rio

Split between two colonial houses joined by a central plunge pool surrounded by white daybeds, this intimate guesthouse—set in prime position overlooking Paraty's main bay—is like staying in the private home of a very stylish friend. There's nothing better than waking up to homemade banana cake, having tea in the atmospheric library, or sipping caipirinhas at the bar before strolling Paraty's vibrant cobblestone streets. Friendly, highly knowledgeable staff will advise and arrange on how to spend your time, from secret beaches to the best boat trips and horse rides through the jungle.

Arguably one of the most enthralling places to stay in Paraty, this spacious, expertly run colonial guesthouse combines exquisite design with a first-class spa, all-day breakfast, and a resplendent library that celebrates Paraty's literary heart. The spacious rooms, decorated with book-themed artworks, have tasteful, brightly colored contemporary fixtures, but what really makes a stay here special is the large heated pool in the courtyard.

Book well in advance if you want to stay during the town's famous literary festival, held in July, as this is the place Brazil's creative elite clamor to stay.

The name means the Prince's pousada and it's really owned by the great-grandson of Emperor Pedro II. This inn at the edge of the Centro Histórico has rooms decorated in colonial style that face either the interior garden or the swimming pool, which is set in a pleasant courtyard. The aptly named "Pousada of the Prince" is painted in the yellow and green of the imperial flag, and its quiet, colorful public areas are decorated with photos of the royal family.

Its central location a block from the main square, interior courtyard complete with swimming pool, and colorful interiors make this colonial pousada a good local base. Rooms are spacious and come with comfy beds, while downstairs, the vibrant bar and on-site Italian restaurant Pippo are an added convenience.

Expect a rustic, yet relaxing experience at one of Paraty's oldest guesthouses, where high-ceilinged rooms are decorated in 19th-century colonial style and set around an orchid-filled courtyard garden and swimming pool. While the rooms don't have TVs, there's a living room with a home theater. Close to the beach and with its own pool, the inn is ideal for sun lovers.