10 Places to Spend Carnival in Brazil

Discover here and now, 10 unforgettable places to spend Carnival in Brazil, (And Why They’re Worth the Hype!).

Hello everybody, Bia here.

Ala la O, Ô, Ô, Ô Ô Ô, mas que calor O, O, O, O.

Just memorize this phrase and you’re ready to spend Carnival in Brazil.

You’ll practically be considered a Brazilian.

Besides being one of the oldest and most popular Carnival songs in Brazil, it’s probably what you’ll feel on your skin:

Heat, lots of heat and lots of energy too, but don’t worry, nothing that a nice cold beer or a caipirinha can’t solve.

So, let’s get to know some great options for you to spend an unforgettable Carnival in Brazil.

And, between us, with the USD at almost 7 x 1, everything gets better.

P.S., try not to use the expression 7 x 1 in Brazil, it brings back bad memories to us.

Otherwise, let’s go Ala, la Ô, Ô, Ô Ô…. Lets go to…

10 Places to Spend Carnival in Brazil

Brazil’s Carnival is one of the world’s most vibrant celebrations, where cities transform into stages of music, dance, and cultural extravagance.

Whether you’re drawn to historic traditions or electrifying modern parties, Brazil has a Carnival destination for every taste.

Here are 10 must-visit places to celebrate Carnival in Brazil.

Choose HERE your preferred location and come enjoy the summer or Carnival in Brazil.

1. Ouro Preto: The Historical Gem of Carnival

Ouro Preto, nestled in the hills of Minas Gerais, offers a unique Carnival experience steeped in history and tradition.

What to Expect:

• Street Bands (Blocos): Local student organizations, known as blocos, host themed street parties.
• Colonial Architecture: Carnival unfolds against the backdrop of 18th-century baroque churches and cobblestone streets.
• Affordable Options: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, many blocos are free to join.

Pro Tip: Get Here The Best Accommodations For Your Trip.

2. Olinda: The Artistic Heart of Carnival

Olinda, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Pernambuco, boasts one of the most creative and colorful Carnivals in Brazil.

Why Olinda is Special:

• Giant Puppets: Towering bonecos gigantes (giant puppets) parade through the streets.
• Frevo and Maracatu: Energetic dances rooted in Afro-Brazilian traditions dominate the music scene.
• Free-for-All: Unlike some cities, there are no ticketed events; all festivities are open to everyone.

Don’t Miss: Watching the sunrise from Alto da Sé after a night of dancing.

Get Here The Best Options For Carnival in Olinda – Pernambuco Brazil.

3. Salvador: The Capital of Axé Music

Salvador, Bahia, is the epicenter of Afro-Brazilian culture and home to one of the liveliest Carnivals.

Highlights:

• Electric Trios: Mobile stages with bands like Ivete Sangalo and Claudia Leitte draw millions.
• Blocos and Camarotes: Join a bloco to dance alongside the trio or enjoy the luxury of VIP camarotes.
• Cultural Depth: Experience traditional afoxé and samba reggae performances.

Insider Tip: Book tickets for popular blocos and camarotes months in advance.

Get Here Your Full Trip to Spend an Unforgettable in Salvador – Bahia

4. Rio de Janeiro: The World’s Carnival Capital

When it comes to Carnival, Rio de Janeiro is iconic.

Why It’s Famous:

• Sambadrome Parades: Watch world-class samba schools compete in a breathtaking spectacle of music and costumes.
• Blocos de Rua: Over 500 street parties take place across the city, including the famous Cordão da Bola Preta.
• Stunning Venues: From beaches to mountain views, every corner of Rio is picture-perfect.

Bucket List Moment: Dance with locals at the Céu na Terra bloco in Santa Teresa.

Get Here All That You Need to Your Rio de Janeiro´s Carnival.

5. São Paulo: The Rising Star of Carnival

São Paulo’s Carnival has grown exponentially, offering a mix of traditional and contemporary festivities.

Why Choose São Paulo:

• Street Carnival: Blocos like Monobloco and Baixo Augusta attract massive crowds.
• Sambadrome: São Paulo’s samba schools rival Rio’s, with stunning floats and costumes.
• Inclusivity: The city celebrates diversity with LGBTQ-friendly events and accessible venues.

Fun Fact: São Paulo’s Carnival was crowned the fastest-growing in Brazil.

Get Here All For Your Trip To São Paulo´s Carnival.

6. Recife: Where Tradition Meets Passion

Recife, Olinda’s twin city, complements its neighbor with a more traditional yet equally energetic Carnival.

Key Features:

• Galo da Madrugada: The world’s largest bloco kicks off Carnival in Recife on Saturday morning.
• Riverfront Revelry: Parties spill onto the banks of the Capibaribe River.
• Cultural Performances: Witness cavalo-marinho and maracatu dancers in their full glory.

Top Tip: Combine Recife with Olinda for the ultimate Carnival experience.

Get Here All For Your Trip.

7. Florianópolis: The Island of Magic

Known as Floripa, this southern island blends natural beauty with a vibrant Carnival scene.

Why Visit:

• Beach Parties: Celebrate Carnival on stunning beaches like Jurerê Internacional.
• Diversity: The LGBTQ+ Carnival party at Pop Gay is a major highlight.
• Samba Schools: Join the city’s samba parade for a taste of traditional Brazilian Carnival.

Best Spot: Lagoa da Conceição transforms into a Carnival hotspot.

8. Belo Horizonte: The Newcomer on the Block

Belo Horizonte (BH) has quickly become a Carnival hotspot, with its street parties attracting millions.

What’s Unique:

• Local Blocos: From Baianas Ozadas to Então, Brilha!, BH’s bloco scene is thriving.
• Community Spirit: The Carnival here feels intimate and inclusive.
• Craft Beer Bonus: BH’s renowned breweries keep the drinks flowing.

Why BH is Rising: Its laid-back vibe and creative blocos make it a favorite among younger crowds.

9. Manaus: The Amazonian Carnival

Manaus offers a Carnival experience unlike any other, set in the heart of the Amazon rainforest.

Unforgettable Features:

• Samba in the Jungle: Manaus’ samba schools perform in a uniquely Amazonian style.
• Cultural Fusion: Experience indigenous music and dance alongside samba rhythms.
• Exotic Setting: The city’s proximity to the rainforest makes it a nature lover’s paradise.

Don’t Forget: Take a boat tour to explore the Meeting of the Waters after the festivities.

10. Porto Seguro: Brazil’s Party Capital

Porto Seguro in Bahia combines Carnival with beachside revelry.

Reasons to Go:

• Beach Parties: Dance to axé music at sunset on pristine beaches.
• Arraial d’Ajuda: A short trip away, this bohemian village hosts its own charming Carnival.
• Youthful Energy: Porto Seguro’s Carnival is popular with college students and young travelers.

Insider Tip: Arrive early for esquentas (pre-Carnival warm-ups) along Passarela do Álcool.

It doesn’t matter which of the 10 Places to Spend Carnival in Brazil you choose, just came and try once in your life.

Read also our: Guide to Rio de Janeiro Carnival 2025

FAQs About Carnival in Brazil

1. What is the best city for Carnival in Brazil?

Rio de Janeiro is often considered the best due to its iconic parades and global recognition, but each city offers a unique experience.

2. When is Carnival in Brazil?

Carnival typically occurs in February or early March, culminating on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday.

3. Is Carnival in Brazil family-friendly?

Yes! Cities like Ouro Preto and Florianópolis offer family-friendly events, but always research specific blocos in advance.

4. How do I join a bloco?

Simply show up and join the crowd! Some blocos require shirts or tickets, so check beforehand.

5. Is Carnival safe for tourists?

Yes, but be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas. Stick to well-lit streets and travel with a group when possible.

6. What should I wear to Carnival?

Colorful outfits, costumes, and comfortable shoes are a must.