Tiradentes is one of the most charming colonial towns in Brazil. It is set amidst the beautiful, lush Serra de Jose mountain range 205 mi/330 km northwest of Rio de Janeiro, where hiking trails weave through the mountains. Aside from the magnificent baroque church Igreja Matriz de Santo Antonio, with its resplendent interior, this small town boasts many artists' workshops as well as boutiques that sell traditional foods and handicrafts. It is also a magnet for foodies with its many reputed and innovative restaurants.
Only 7 mi/12 km away, Sao Joao del Rei is another of Minas Gerais' historically interesting colonial towns, with its share of splendid churches and mansions. If you're traveling between the two towns on a weekend, take the 19th-century steam train, Maria Fumaca, which weaves its way through the countryside, passing the ruins of old gold mines.
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