
Paquetá Island Rio de Janeiro
A tranquil, car-free island in Guanabara Bay, offering historical charm and a peaceful escape from Rio de Janeiro.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful vibe.

Paquetá Island Rio de Janeiro
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful vibe.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil, car-free island in Guanabara Bay, offering historical charm and a peaceful escape from Rio de Janeiro.
"A beautiful and safe little island, easy to visit by ferry, offering a peaceful escape from Rio."

🚢 Ferry Ride Fun
The 70-minute ferry from Praça XV is part of the adventure! Grab snacks and enjoy the bay views.
🚲 Bike or Rickshaw
Rent a bike or hire a rickshaw to explore the island's charming streets and sights.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Car-Free Charm
Wander through a peaceful, car-free island where time seems to stand still. Explore by bike or rickshaw for a unique experience.

Guanabara Bay Views
Enjoy scenic vistas of Guanabara Bay from this charming island, a perfect spot for a romantic sunset.

Historical Architecture
Discover centuries-old houses, a historic church, and even the ruins of an old fortress.

Brazil's Baobab Trees
See the only baobab trees in Brazil, ancient giants adding to the island's unique allure.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Escape the City Buzz
Island Exploration Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry Ride Fun
The 70-minute ferry from Praça XV is part of the adventure! Grab snacks and enjoy the bay views.
🚲 Bike or Rickshaw
Rent a bike or hire a rickshaw to explore the island's charming streets and sights.
🏖️ Beach Note
The beaches aren't ideal for swimming, so focus on exploring the island's history and scenery.
🍦 Sweet Treat
Don't miss the good ice cream place near the ferry terminal!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry Ride Fun
The 70-minute ferry from Praça XV is part of the adventure! Grab snacks and enjoy the bay views.
🚲 Bike or Rickshaw
Rent a bike or hire a rickshaw to explore the island's charming streets and sights.
🏖️ Beach Note
The beaches aren't ideal for swimming, so focus on exploring the island's history and scenery.
🍦 Sweet Treat
Don't miss the good ice cream place near the ferry terminal!
🕰️ Time Your Visit
A few hours is often enough, but a full day allows for a more relaxed exploration.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Paquetá Island is praised as a beautiful, peaceful, and safe car-free haven offering a welcome respite from Rio's bustle. Visitors appreciate the historical charm, scenic bay views, and the unique experience of exploring by bike or rickshaw. However, some find the beaches unsuitable for swimming and the dining options limited, suggesting it's best for a short, relaxed visit.
"This is a beautiful island to visit. A very peaceful area to go if you need some peace from Rio. You can walk or take a bike around the island."
David Geraghty
"Lovely little car-free island in the center of the Rio bay. A short ferry ride from Rio takes about an hour each way which is well worth the trip. It is filled with historical buildings including a church and hospital. Many of the houses are centuries old. We got a ride in a motorbike with an open cabin which was a fantastic mode of transport to view the island. On the other side can see another island with an grand house that used to be lived in by the former president I am told. Also an ancient tree (Rio's oldest I think the driver said) about 500 hundred years old!"
Simon Clark
"The ferry is a fun trip and it's a nice day trip from Rio, but as the beaches aren't good for swimming and there aren't great restaurants it's pretty quiet. There's not a lot to do, we walked around the southern part of the island and it's pretty but not necessarily worth the effort if you're short on time. We took the 9am ferry and were ready to leave by noon but took the 2:30 return. There is a pretty good ice cream place right by the terminal."
Michelle Mitton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Paquetá Island is by ferry from the Praça XV terminal in downtown Rio de Janeiro. The ferry ride takes approximately 70 minutes. Ferries typically run every hour or two, so it's advisable to check the latest schedules.
The ferry ticket price is very reasonable, often costing less than 10 Brazilian Reais for a single or return trip, making it an affordable day trip option.
No, Paquetá Island is a car-free zone. Only service vehicles are permitted, so you'll need to explore the island on foot, by bicycle, or by hiring a rickshaw.
The ferry journey to Paquetá Island from Praça XV in Rio de Janeiro takes about 70 minutes each way.
While the ferry from Praça XV is the primary and most recommended method, some sources mention boat trips. However, the ferry is the most direct and frequent option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the ferry to Paquetá Island can be purchased at the Praça XV terminal on the day of your travel. It's generally not necessary to book in advance unless you have specific concerns about weekend crowds.
There is no entrance fee to visit Paquetá Island. The cost is associated with the ferry transportation to and from the island.
Ferry services typically run every hour or two. It's best to check the official schedule for the most up-to-date operating hours, as they can vary.
Information on specific discounts for the ferry to Paquetá Island is not widely available. It's recommended to inquire at the Praça XV terminal for any potential concessions.
While it's always good to have some cash, credit card acceptance at ferry terminals can vary. It's advisable to carry some Brazilian Reais for the ferry tickets and any small purchases on the island.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Paquetá Island is known for its peaceful, car-free atmosphere. You can explore historical buildings, rent bikes, walk along scenic paths, and enjoy the views of Guanabara Bay. It's a great place for a relaxed day trip.
The beaches on Paquetá Island are generally not considered ideal for swimming due to water quality. The island's appeal lies more in its historical charm and tranquil environment.
You can get a good feel for Paquetá Island in a few hours, but a full day allows for a more leisurely exploration of its historical sites and scenic spots.
Since the island is car-free, the best ways to get around are by renting a bicycle or hiring a local rickshaw. Walking is also a pleasant option for shorter distances.
Paquetá Island is generally considered a safe and peaceful destination, especially compared to some busier areas of Rio de Janeiro. It's a good option for those seeking a secure environment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are several restaurants and cafes on Paquetá Island offering local cuisine. While not a culinary hotspot, you can find pleasant spots for a meal or a snack.
While Paquetá Island offers a romantic atmosphere, especially at sunset, the dining options are more casual. It's a great place for a relaxed meal rather than a fine dining experience.
Information on specific vegetarian or vegan options is limited. It's advisable to inquire at the restaurants directly or be prepared for simpler, more traditional Brazilian dishes.
There's a good ice cream place near the ferry terminal, and some cafes offer snacks. For a full meal, you can dine on the island, but bringing some snacks is also a good idea, especially if you plan to spend the whole day.
Expect typical Brazilian fare, likely including seafood, local dishes, and casual cafe-style food.
📸 📸 Photography
Paquetá Island offers numerous photo opportunities, from its charming colonial architecture and colorful houses to the scenic views of Guanabara Bay and the unique baobab trees. The car-free streets also make for interesting shots.
The golden hours, both sunrise and sunset, offer beautiful lighting for photography on Paquetá Island, especially for capturing the bay views and romantic atmosphere.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in urban and populated areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone on Paquetá Island to avoid any issues.
Key landmarks for photos include the historic church, the ancient baobab trees, the ruins of the old fortress, and the picturesque streets lined with colorful houses.
A versatile camera with a good lens for landscapes and street photography would be ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the scenic bay views, while a standard zoom is useful for street scenes and details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
❤️ Couples and Romantics
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Getting to Paquetá Island: The Ferry Experience
Ferry services usually run every hour or two, but it's always wise to confirm the latest schedules, especially if you're planning your visit on a weekend or holiday. The ticket price is quite affordable, making it an accessible day trip for most visitors. This ferry journey is not just transportation; it's an opportunity to see Rio from a different perspective before arriving at the peaceful shores of Paquetá.
Exploring Paquetá: A Car-Free Haven
The island is dotted with historical buildings, including centuries-old houses, a charming church, and even the remnants of an old fortress. While the beaches are not ideal for swimming, the island's beauty lies in its serene streets, lush greenery, and the presence of Brazil's only baobab trees, adding a touch of exoticism. It's a place to wander, discover hidden corners, and simply enjoy the slower pace of life.
The History and Legends of Paquetá Island
Beyond its literary connections, the island boasts a rich architectural heritage, with many houses dating back centuries. You can explore historical structures like the Church of São Roque and the ruins of an old fortress, offering glimpses into its past. The presence of Brazil's only baobab trees adds another layer of uniqueness, these ancient giants standing as silent witnesses to the island's long history.
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