Paquetá Island Rio de Janeiro
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Paquetá Island Rio de Janeiro

4.6
·1k reviews·, Brazil

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful vibe.

CrowdLow
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Paquetá Island Rio de Janeiro

Paquetá Island Rio de Janeiro

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful vibe.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A beautiful and safe little island, easy to visit by ferry, offering a peaceful escape from Rio."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Car-Free Charm

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.

Instagram
Guanabara Bay Views

Guanabara Bay Views

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

Reddit
Historical Architecture

Historical Architecture

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

Reddit
Brazil's Baobab Trees

Brazil's Baobab Trees

See the only baobab trees in Brazil, ancient giants adding to the island's unique allure.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Escape the City Buzz

Paquetá Island offers a tranquil escape from Rio's hustle. It's a car-free paradise, perfect for a relaxed day trip. Plan for a 70-minute ferry ride each way, so factor that into your timing. Instagram

Island Exploration Essentials

While the island is small, exploring by bike or rickshaw is key. The beaches aren't ideal for swimming, but the historical charm and peaceful atmosphere are the main draws. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful vibe.
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Romantic sunset views.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Itinerario de Rio de Janeiro en 5 días por tu cuenta sin pagar tour, en este itinerario a Rio de Janerio puedes conocer lo mas importante de este destino como El Cristo Redentor y las hermosas playas de Rio de Janeiro. Día 1️⃣ 📍Cristo Redentor 📍Parque Lage 📍Jardin Botanico 📍Playa Vermelha 📍Pan de Azucar Día 2️⃣ 📍Escaleras de Selarón 📍Arcos de Lapa 📍Catedral Metropolitana de Rio 📍Barrio Santa ...
@kimydeviaje
352.8K likes • 3.7M views

🚢 Ferry Ride Fun

The 70-minute ferry from Praça XV is part of the adventure! Grab snacks and enjoy the bay views. Instagram+1

🚲 Bike or Rickshaw

Rent a bike or hire a rickshaw to explore the island's charming streets and sights. Instagram+1

Be mindful, but have fun 😌 CARNAVAL 2025 tips part one posted! #fyp #riodejaneiro #pedradosal #pedradosalrj #nightlife #travel #traveltiktok #traveltips #brazi #brazilian #braziltravel #riotravelers #usefullifetips
@yesimavirgohowdiduguess
225.2K likes • 2M views
How to Get to Paquetá Island: By Ferry from Praça XV: - Ferry Service: The ferry departs from the Praça XV terminal in downtown Rio de Janeiro. - Travel Time: The ferry ride takes about 70 minutes to reach the island. - Frequency: Ferries typically run every hour or two, but it’s best to check the latest schedules on the official website or app. - Tickets: You can buy tickets at the terminal,...
riobeyondtourism
12 likes • 679 views

🏖️ Beach Note

The beaches aren't ideal for swimming, so focus on exploring the island's history and scenery. Reddit

🍦 Sweet Treat

Don't miss the good ice cream place near the ferry terminal! Reddit

✨A MELHOR FORMA DE CONHECER A ILHA DE PAQUETÁ 🚲☀️ Muito charmosa, a Ilha de Paquetá carrega muita história e possui um clima bucólico, que nem de longe faz você pensar que se trata de um bairro do Rio de Janeiro. É uma excelente opção pra quem deseja curtir um dia diferente na Cidade Maravilhosa. O passeio de bike é com certeza uma das melhores alternativas pra conhecer o lugar. Para ir até lá,...
desvendagem
94 likes • 2.7K views

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. Instagram+1

🚲 Bike or Rickshaw

Rent a bike or hire a rickshaw to explore the island's charming streets and sights. Instagram+1

🏖️ Beach Note

The beaches aren't ideal for swimming, so focus on exploring the island's history and scenery. Reddit

🍦 Sweet Treat

Don't miss the good ice cream place near the ferry terminal! Reddit

🕰️ Time Your Visit

A few hours is often enough, but a full day allows for a more relaxed exploration. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

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

Peaceful car-free atmosphere
Scenic bay views
Historical charm

What People Dislike

Beaches not for swimming
Limited dining options

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. Instagram+1

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. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

The ferry journey to Paquetá Island from Praça XV in Rio de Janeiro takes about 70 minutes each way. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

There is no entrance fee to visit Paquetá Island. The cost is associated with the ferry transportation to and from the island. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

🎫 🧭 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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Expect typical Brazilian fare, likely including seafood, local dishes, and casual cafe-style food. Reddit

📸 📸 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. InstagramReddit

The golden hours, both sunrise and sunset, offer beautiful lighting for photography on Paquetá Island, especially for capturing the bay views and romantic atmosphere. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Paquetá Island is a great option for families looking for a safe and relaxed day trip from Rio. The car-free environment means kids can explore more freely, and renting bikes is a fun activity for all ages. Instagram While the beaches aren't for swimming, the island offers plenty of space to run around, discover historical sites, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Pack some snacks and water, and consider a rickshaw ride for a novel experience. InstagramReddit

❤️ Couples and Romantics

For couples seeking a tranquil and picturesque escape, Paquetá Island is ideal. The island's serene ambiance, coupled with the beautiful views of Guanabara Bay, makes it a perfect spot for a romantic day out. Reddit Enjoy a leisurely bike ride, explore the charming streets, and time your visit to witness a stunning sunset over the bay. Reddit While dining options are casual, the overall atmosphere is conducive to quiet conversations and shared moments. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Solo travelers will find Paquetá Island to be a safe and welcoming destination for a peaceful retreat. The car-free nature makes it easy to navigate independently, and the relaxed pace allows for introspection and enjoyment of the scenery. Reddit You can easily spend a few hours or a full day exploring at your own pace, perhaps enjoying a good ice cream near the ferry terminal or simply people-watching. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Getting to Paquetá Island: The Ferry Experience

The journey to Paquetá Island is an integral part of the experience, offering a scenic escape across Guanabara Bay. The primary mode of transport is the ferry departing from Praça XV in downtown Rio de Janeiro. This ferry ride typically lasts around 70 minutes, providing ample time to soak in the coastal views and the bustling activity of the bay. Instagram Many travelers find the ferry trip itself to be a relaxing prelude to the island's tranquility, with vendors often selling snacks and drinks onboard. Instagram

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. Instagram 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. Instagram

Exploring Paquetá: A Car-Free Haven

Once you arrive on Paquetá Island, you'll immediately notice its defining characteristic: it's entirely car-free. This creates a unique, peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from the urban energy of Rio. Instagram The main ways to explore are by renting a bicycle or hiring a local rickshaw. Biking allows you to cover more ground at your own pace, while a rickshaw offers a more guided and relaxed tour of the island's nooks and crannies. Instagram+1

The island is dotted with historical buildings, including centuries-old houses, a charming church, and even the remnants of an old fortress. Reddit 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. Reddit It's a place to wander, discover hidden corners, and simply enjoy the slower pace of life. Instagram

The History and Legends of Paquetá Island

Paquetá Island is steeped in history and folklore, contributing to its enchanting allure. The island's name is believed to derive from the Tupi language, meaning 'many scallops,' hinting at its past abundance. Reddit It was once a popular retreat for Rio's elite and holds a significant place in Brazilian literature, famously being the setting for the romantic novel 'A Moreninha' by Joaquim Manuel de Macedo, which was later adapted into a film. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

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