4 Best Hotels in Petropolis, Side Trips from Rio

This family-run inn set just outside of Petrópolis offers one of the most charming and authentic accommodation experiences in the area. Alongside the flower-filled garden, the farmhouse style cooking is a highlight—the emphasis is on using the freshest ingredients, some of which are grown in the hotel's own herb and vegetable gardens—with spectacular, abundant breakfasts, stews, and high teas served at a big communal table.

Occupying a tastefully restored 1875 neoclassical building and smaller outlying houses amid Petrópolis's historic center, this elegant hotel provides stylish, comfortable accommodations. The buildings, which retain many original features, were constructed according to the wishes of Princesa Isabel and the gleaming-white setting has lost none of its aesthetic appeal over the years, and the palatial grounds are immaculately maintained (young children will love the gardens and fishpond). Nice touches include the chocolate crowns placed nightly on guests' pillows, and the fact that breakfast can be enjoyed at any time or place.

If you want to feel like a member of the Brazilian imperial family, this place is the place to go. Sitting in a valley with walking trails winding through colorful bougainvillea trees, this cozy pousada has six well-appointed suites decorated in a classical style with imperial influences. Guests have access to a pool, a sauna, and a well-equipped gym, as well as an excellent restaurant that's open to nonguests and comes highly acclaimed by national food critics.

A 10-minute walk from downtown, this Bavarian-style inn has a lobby with a fireplace, a comfortable restaurant and bar area, and cozy, rustic rooms that have marshmallow-soft beds and a view to the mountains. The breakfast is outstanding. The lovely gardens have a pool and spectacular views of the city.