Paraty

Paraty needs 2 days: touring the colonial historic center, with irregular stone streets that intentionally flood at high tide and 18th-century mansions, on one, and sailing among the more than 60 islands and beaches of Paraty Bay on the other. May-September brings the driest weather, avoiding summer rains. It's mid-to-high priced, with boutique lodging in the center's restored mansions. It was a key port on the colonial Gold Route to Portugal in the 18th century, and its historic center, closed to car traffic, is one of Brazil's best-preserved Portuguese colonial ensembles.