Ponte dos Contos
A picturesque stone bridge in Ouro Preto's historic center, flanked by colonial buildings and offering lovely views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Ponte dos Contos
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque stone bridge in Ouro Preto's historic center, flanked by colonial buildings and offering lovely views.
"Linda ponte ladeada de prédios históricos e um riacho abaixo."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Ouro Preto's hills are steep! Cobblestone streets require sturdy, comfortable footwear for exploring the Ponte dos Contos and beyond.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Capture the Ponte dos Contos in its best light during sunrise or sunset for stunning photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ponte dos Contos Charm
Centro Histórico, Ouro Preto
A picturesque stone bridge framed by historic buildings, offering lovely views and a glimpse into Ouro Preto's past.
Casa dos Contos Museum
Adjacent to Ponte dos Contos
Explore Brazil's monetary history and colonial architecture in this significant former mint and treasury.
Horto dos Contos
Near Ponte dos Contos
Ouro Preto's historic green lung, offering a peaceful escape with beautiful views of the city and the bridge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hills
Timing is Key for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Ouro Preto's hills are steep! Cobblestone streets require sturdy, comfortable footwear for exploring the Ponte dos Contos and beyond.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Capture the Ponte dos Contos in its best light during sunrise or sunset for stunning photos.
🚶♀️ Explore the Surroundings
Don't just see the bridge; explore the nearby Casa dos Contos and Horto dos Contos for a fuller experience. 
💧 Watch for Waterfalls
During rainy seasons, small waterfalls can be seen near the Ponte dos Contos, adding to the charm.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Ouro Preto's hills are steep! Cobblestone streets require sturdy, comfortable footwear for exploring the Ponte dos Contos and beyond.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Capture the Ponte dos Contos in its best light during sunrise or sunset for stunning photos.
🚶♀️ Explore the Surroundings
Don't just see the bridge; explore the nearby Casa dos Contos and Horto dos Contos for a fuller experience.
💧 Watch for Waterfalls
During rainy seasons, small waterfalls can be seen near the Ponte dos Contos, adding to the charm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Ponte dos Contos for its picturesque beauty, highlighting the charming stone bridge set against historic buildings and a flowing stream. It's often described as one of the most beautiful streets in Ouro Preto, offering lovely views, especially towards the Horto dos Contos. While the bridge itself is a visual delight, some reviews also mention the excellent service at nearby establishments.
"Uma das ruas mais bonitas do centro histórico"
Filipe Gomide Carelli
"Linda ponte ladeada de prédios históricos e um riacho abaixo"
João Gabriel Almeida
"É uma ponte com uma vista muito bonita só Horto dos Contos."
Ruben Carneiro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ponte dos Contos is located in the heart of Ouro Preto's historic center, easily accessible by foot from most accommodations. If arriving by car, be aware that parking can be challenging in the narrow streets. Many visitors park outside the main historic area and walk in. +1
Yes, Ouro Preto is highly walkable, but be prepared for steep hills and cobblestone streets. Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring areas like Ponte dos Contos.
Walking is the best way to soak in the atmosphere. Consider guided walking tours to learn about the history of sites like Ponte dos Contos and the surrounding colonial architecture.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ponte dos Contos is a public bridge and can be viewed and crossed freely. Entry to the adjacent Casa dos Contos museum may require a ticket.
Opening hours for the Casa dos Contos museum can vary. It's best to check their official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information.
The Horto dos Contos is a public park and generally free to enter, offering beautiful views and a green space within the historic center.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridge itself offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially with the historic buildings flanking it. The view from the Horto dos Contos towards the bridge is also highly recommended.
Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the warm tones of the colonial architecture.
Photography rules inside museums can vary. It's advisable to check signage or ask staff upon arrival regarding photo policies within the Casa dos Contos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the historic center of Ouro Preto, including areas near Ponte dos Contos, has many charming restaurants and cafes offering local Minas Gerais cuisine.
Don't miss trying 'pão de queijo', 'feijão tropeiro', and 'frango com quiabo' – classic dishes from Minas Gerais. Many eateries near Ponte dos Contos will serve these.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Casa dos Contos museum, while historical, might be more engaging for older children interested in history and coins. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as exploring Ouro Preto involves a lot of walking uphill. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) to capture the warm, soft light that bathes Ouro Preto, making the stone and plaster facades glow. Experiment with different angles from the bridge itself, from the banks of the stream, and from the elevated viewpoints in the Horto dos Contos for diverse perspectives. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Ponte dos Contos
+1Today, the Ponte dos Contos stands as a beautiful reminder of Ouro Preto's rich past. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a charming vista that encapsulates the city's unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. The presence of the nearby Horto dos Contos, a historic botanical garden, further enhances the area's appeal, providing a tranquil green space adjacent to the bustling historic center.
+1Visitors often remark on the bridge's aesthetic appeal, noting how it's beautifully flanked by colonial-era buildings and overlooks a small stream. It’s a quintessential Ouro Preto scene, perfect for a leisurely stroll and capturing memorable photographs. The area around the bridge is also known for its charming cafes and restaurants, making it a central point for exploration.
Exploring the Contos Complex
The Horto dos Contos, once the second botanical garden in Brazil, has been revitalized and now serves as a public park. It provides a serene escape with walking paths and offers a unique perspective overlooking the Ponte dos Contos and parts of the city. This green space is a testament to the city's efforts to preserve its historical and natural heritage.
+1Together, these sites form a cohesive historical and cultural experience. Walking from the Horto dos Contos down to the Casa dos Contos, crossing the Ponte dos Contos, and perhaps visiting the nearby fountain, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the layered history of Ouro Preto. It’s a journey through the city’s economic, social, and environmental past.
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