Trancoso is one of the most coveted destinations on the Brazilian coast. With its chilled yet sophisticated atmosphere, the old fishing village attracts visitors from every corner of the world who often end up so passionate about this place, that never leaves – quite similar to what happened with the founders of Bahia Homes actually, but we will leave this story for another post.
Surrounded by a wild landscape, Trancoso has a busy charming old town full of restaurants and bars offering endless possibilities and activities to its visitors. The local hospitality is also a feature that promises to make you feel at home from day one.
If you are heading there and wants to know more about what to do in Trancoso, you came to right place as we will give you now a complete guide for your days in this paradise.
Sun, sea and sand: the perfect beach life
It doesn’t come as a surprise that with so many beautiful and unexplored beaches around, the best thing to do in Trancoso is to enjoy the sun and the sea.
Besides the most famous ones such as Rio da Barra, Nativos, Itapororoca and Coqueiros, there are also other must-see destinations nearby, like the Espelho Beach, Caraíva and Corumbau.
A great tip is to visit these nearby beaches during a boat trip. You can take a private or go on a group and the tour includes some incredible hidden beaches, as well as many stops along the way to dive or appreciate the landscape.
Another option for the more adventure ones is to trek from Trancoso to Espelho and/or Caraiva. The walk lasts the whole day and, at the end, you can choose to sleep there or to take a taxi or boat back home.
Check it out here a list with the best beaches in the region.
Horse Riding
There is nothing better than a horse ride to explore Trancoso’s nature. There are many places to see and routes to take and you can choose to do it on your own or with a guide. This is also a great activity for children, who can take lessons on horse riding during their holidays.
Don’t forget to read our post on what to do with children in Trancoso.
Exploring Trancoso’s beach by bicycle
Another activity that’s becoming more and more popular among tourists and locals is to explore the beaches around Trancoso by bicycle. The bikes are prepared for the sand and this is an excellent way of exploring the region on your own pace.
Enjoying Brazil’s trendiest NYE
Trancoso’s New Year’s Eve is considered by many the best one in Brazil. During the whole week of festivities, thousands of people from all over the world transform this once quiet village into a bustling destination. There are just so many activities and parties going on, that you should better get prepared for the best season of your life.
Play Golf
Did you know Trancoso hosts the biggest golf course in Latin America? The Terravista Golf Course is located inside the luxurious Terravista Condo, and sits on top of Trancoso’s iconic cliffs, offering breathtaking views to the sea.
The guests of the condo can also enjoy many other facilities, such as swimming pools, restaurants and bars, private airport, among others.
Bahia Homes has many properties available for sale and rent inside the Terravista Condominuim. To see them all, check this link.
A stroll around the famous Quadrado
Quadrado is the historical city center and the heart of Trancoso. There, you can find the famous São João Batista church, the colourful colonial houses and many bars, restaurants and shops.
At the end of the day, don’t think twice and head to Quadrado to meet everyone else. That’s the place where friends, couples and families go for a drink, a stroll or just to chitchat. Kids can also enjoy a football game at Quadrado’s pitch, which happens every day in the afternoon in front of the church.
Learn more about this landmark in here and don’t forget to check our houses available for rent in the Quadrado.
Boat ride
One of the nicest things to do in Trancoso is to explore the area by boat. The tour takes you to see the cliffs from a different perspective, visit many hidden beaches and even stop for diving in the corals.
Understanding the local culture through the regional festivities
Founded by Portuguese Jesuits over 400 years ago, Trancoso is one of the oldest villages in Brazil. Anyone that wants to learn more about the traditions and history of this place, should choose to visit it during one of the famous local festivities, such as the Saint Sebastião’s day, on the 20th of January 20, or the Saint Brás’s day, celebrated on the 2nd and 3rd of February.
During these holidays, natives gather on the famous Quadrado to celebrate with traditional music and dance in a colorful party.
Another must-see event for those who enjoy culture is the Festa de São João in June, perhaps the most celebrated holiday in the region.
Kayaking the Trancoso River
Kayaking the Trancoso River is a great activity that puts you in touch with the wide nature that surrounds Trancoso. During the trip, you will get to know a large part of the river, the Atlantic Forest and will go all the way down until reaching the Nativos and Coqueiros Beach.
Festival Música em Trancoso (Trancoso Music Festival)
This is an important yearly event that showcases Broadway musicals, rock and classical music concerts and even a free masterclasses. The Música in Trancoso takes place at the L’Occitante Theaters and gathers many renowned artists from all over the world.
The schedule for the 2018 event has already been announced and it’s expected to be one of the best editions so far! See all the details in here.