Vitoria - Espirito Santo

When it comes to tourism, you cannot visit Vitória and not visit Vila Velha and vice versa. The two cities are connected by bridges, the most famous being the so-called third bridge, which is only 3.3 km long. So, be sure to visit the two neighboring cities, which together have a lot of beauty and history to tell.

Vila Velha is one of the most visited places in Espírito Santo, as it has good beaches for leisure both for families and groups of friends, in addition to having historical sites in the Center that date back to the time of the discovery of Brazil!

Vitória, which is actually part of an archipelago, is the capital of the state of Espírito Santo. There are the largest ports in the region, wide beaches in extension, in addition to greater infrastructure such as hotels, restaurants and bars. Here you will find tips for a weekend that covers both cities at once!

You can start your tour of Vila Velha in a very rewarding way: going up one of the several trails that lead to the top of Morro do Moreno. The more adventurous hike at night to catch the sunrise, but if that is your goal, the ideal is to be accompanied by someone who already knows the path or is well informed about the details of the path, as in addition to dangerous, there are several ways to get lost. Arriving at the top, it is possible to have a privileged view of the city, in addition to observing other people abseiling, climbing and paragliding when the wind is favorable.

The entrance to the hill can be done through several paths, including the part facing Vitória, but the main one is through Praia da Costa. On the way from Praia da Costa to Praia da Sereia, there are signs indicating where to turn to go up the hill. It is also possible to climb this dirt trail by bicycle.

Bananal beach

Bananal Beach Morro do Moreno Vila Velha

This calm beach, little frequented by locals and unknown to tourists, is located on the way up Morro do Moreno, so I recommend that you go for a swim on this beach right after the trail goes down. If you choose to go just to the beach, it is easier to get there by car, but it is also possible to walk.

When you go down to the sand, you can already see that it is a very short beach. Everyone seems to know each other there, but don't worry because they will welcome you very well. I highlight the Lounge das Meninas bar, which is right at the entrance to the beach. You can sit right there and start by ordering a fruit drink.

secret beach

Secret Beach in Vila Velha Espírito Santo

As with Praia do Bananal, the day was very cloudy when I visited Praia Secreta. My tip is that you at least stop by there to discover this little piece of sea hidden inside a small stone portal, which you would never imagine would be the entrance to a beach. It is also on the way up Morro do Moreno, on the left side of the road. Keep an eye on this stone portal or ask someone who seems to be from the place, as many capixabas still don't know this paradise - and they don't know what they're missing!

Night in the Bermuda Triangle, in Vitória

After spending the morning and afternoon in Vila Velha, cross the bridge to breathe new air! There, next to Praia do Canto, is the complex of bars known as Triângulo das Bermudas. We chose to spend the night at a bar called Ensaio Botequim. If you like having a drink or a beer listening to live music, this is the place! Take a look at the bar's page to see the schedule that changes according to the day – when I went, the attraction was a band playing classic rock!

There is a large list of beers and drinks and three giant drink options.

Santa Luzia Lighthouse

This lighthouse was inaugurated in 1871. After being closed for 10 years, the Lighthouse opened its doors again at the end of last year for visitors after carrying out accessibility and safety works. From there, it is possible to have a privileged view of Vitória Bay.

The visitation can be done from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9am to 5pm free of charge.

Penha Convent

View of Penha Convent in Vila Velha

The Penha Convent, or Nossa Senhora da Penha Sanctuary, is located on top of a cliff, 500 meters from the sea, and 154 meters above sea level. From up there, it is possible to see the city of Vila Velha and part of Vitória. This, together with the history of the Convent, makes it the biggest tourist spot in Espírito Santo, being one of the oldest sanctuaries in Brazil. It began to be built in 1558 at the request of Friar Pedro Palácios, a Spaniard who arrived at Prainha, a beach where fishing boats predominate today, just below the hill of the Convent.

There are rumors that Friar Palácios lived in a cave at the base of the mountain, where he left an image of Our Lady. Three times it happened that this image disappeared from the base and appeared at the top, where the Convent actually is today.

In about 15 minutes, you arrive at the lookout, after passing through several religious images such as paintings and sculptures. Don't forget your water bottle to make the most of the climb, which is short but tiring.

Arriving at the lookout point, it is possible to get a good idea of the layout of the city, especially if you haven't done the Morro do Moreno trail. The third bridge, which appears in the photo below, connects Vitória to Vila Velha and is super important for the daily commute of people who work in the neighboring city.

Now that you've got all the tips, all you have to do is set up the itinerary, choose the accommodation using BITBOOK.NET, pack your suitcase and throw yourself into the charm of this amazing place.

I have no doubt that you will have unforgettable days. If you have any questions, leave them in the comments and we'll be happy to answer them!

Safe travel and enjoy this amazing place!