Armação dos Buzios (commonly called “Buzios”) is one of the most popular beach towns in the state of Rio de Janeiro. Famous for its beaches, cobbled streets, and laidback vibes, it was Brigitte Bardot’s favorite Brazilian town in the 1960s. On this basis, here are the best things to do in Buzios, Brazil.
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Welcome to Buzios: A Beautiful Beach Town in the State of Rio de Janeiro
Before the 1960s, Buzios was nothing more than a little fishing village.
In 1964, the French actress Brigitte Bardot visited Buzios and fell in love with the town. Her visit was well-documented and somewhat put the village on the map.
Since then, Buzios has become a popular tourist destination for wealthy Cariocas and Argentinians. The city is known as an upscale beach resort in Brazil. Nevertheless, it retains most of its small-town charm.
Today, Buzios is a peninsula with 23 beaches, lots of boutique hotels, restaurants, and nature activities.
Located around three hours by bus from Rio de Janeiro, it’s an excellent weekend excursion.
On this basis, here are the top things to do in Buzios, Brazil.
The peninsula of Armação dos Buzios
The Best Things to do in Buzios, Brazil
Buzios tourism is all about beaches, but there are many other activities. Here’s what to do in Buzios.
Head to the Beach
There are over 20 beaches in Buzios, so you are spoilt for choice.
In the center, the best one is arguably Praia João Fernandes, but it gets crowded on most days. A bit further out, you’ll find Praia Tartaruga, another excellent option.
Finally, Geriba Beach is my favorite. It’s around 20 minutes by car from the center, but the journey is worth it.
Go Paragliding
Around half an hour from the center lies Tucuns Beach, a scenic spot away from the crowds. On this beach, you can go paragliding over the entire peninsula.
Paragliding is one of the top things to do in Buzios – as you’ll have a birdseye view over the area.
Learn How to Surf
Before Buzios became a popular tourist destination, surfers had long discovered the area. You’ll find the best surfing in Buzios on Tucuns Beach – as well as Geriba. There are classes on both beaches for all levels.
Check out the Brigitte Bardot Statue and Promenade
French actress Brigitte Bardot was the first high-profile Buzios tourist. To some extent, she put the town on the map, which is why they named a promenade after her.
The Orla Brigitte Bardot is a nice place for a walk, and next to the statue, you can watch the local fishermen go about their days.
Brigitte Bardot statue / Shutterstock
Go on a Buzios Boat Trip
Boat trips to the neighboring towns of Cabo Frio and Arraial do Cabo are popular excursions from Buzios.
The boats leave in Buzios harbor and take you to the historic town of Cabo Frio – as well as lots of turquoise bays and stunning beaches.
Book your Buzios boat trip online here.
Visit the City’s Century-Old Church
Igreja de Sant’Ana dates from the 1700s – when Portuguese settlers came to the region. The church still holds masses and is one of the few colonial structures in Buzios.
The church itself is a beautiful spot, but it’s also an excellent location to watch the sunset.
Enjoy the Nightlife in Rua das Pedras
Rua da Pedras is Buzio’s primary nightlife strip. You’ll find numerous bars, restaurants, and coffee shops here. Be aware that this street gets crowded when cruise ships arrive and leave.
Picture / Unsplash
Where to Stay in Buzios
One of the best places to stay in Buzios is the area of João Fernandes, close to several of the best beaches in Buzios.
In this neighborhood, you’ll find lots of small boutique hotels and a few larger ones. I stayed at Pousada Amancay, a small boutique hotel with lovely rooms and breathtaking beach views.
Alternatively, you can stay close to Orla Brigitte Bardot, the city’s fishing promenade. You’ll find lots of restaurants and shops here as well as beaches.
Find more places to stay in Buzios here.
Classic VW Beetle in Buzios / Shutterstock
Buzios Travel Guide: Know Before You Go
To make the most out of your Buzios sightseeing trip, here are some FAQs for your visit.
How to Get to Buzios
Buzios doesn’t have an airport. The closest one is in Rio de Janeiro, around three hours away.
The easiest way to get to Buzios is by bus from Rio. The Company “1001” offers the journey every hour from the Rodoviaria Novo Rio in downtown Rio.
Could you do a Rio to Buzios day trip? You could, but you’d spend six hours on a bus. Better go for at least two full days.
Is Buzios, Brazil Safe?
Buzios is one of the safest beach towns in Brazil, but it’s still Brazil. Apply common sense and always guard your belongings, especially on the beaches.
By following standard South American precautions, your visit should remain trouble-free.
The Best Time to Visit Buzios
Buzios is packed during the summer months of December, January, and February. If you come here during the Carnival season, book your place to stay in advance – as many hotels won’t have vacancies.
A great time to come is during the shoulder months of November, March, and April. During these months, it’s still warm but not as crowded as during peak season.
