Planning
Getting Around Paraty: The Town Without a Car
The center is car-free and everything is close. On foot, by water-taxi or by bus — how to get around Paraty stress-free (and why you may not need to drive at all).
Good news if you'd rather not drive: Paraty is compact and the historic center is entirely car-free. For most of a trip, you don't need a vehicle — just a good pair of shoes and, now and then, a boat.
On foot in the center
Everything in the historic center — restaurants, shops, churches and the tour departure points — is a few minutes' walk apart. The streets are uneven cobblestone, so wear sturdy shoes and take it slow. Strollers and wheeled suitcases struggle; favor a backpack or a baby carrier.
Boats and water-taxis
The bay's beaches and islands are reached by schooner, speedboat or water-taxi — leaving from the town pier or from Paraty-Mirim and Laranjeiras. For beaches like Praia do Sono, a water-taxi skips the trail. Agree on the price and the return time before you board.
Bus, taxi and car
Local buses link the center to Trindade, Praia Grande and other roadside beaches, cheaply (bring cash). Taxis and apps exist but supply is limited — arrange ahead at night. If you arrive by car, leave it in the lots at the center's edge and continue on foot.
Do you need a car?
For a center-based stay with boat tours and the jeep circuit (which already includes transport), a car is more hassle than help — it can't enter the center and just sits parked. It only pays off if you want to explore several roadside beaches on your own, like Trindade and Ubatuba.
