Ouro Preto (Brazil) : Comprehensive Travel Guide

Why Ouro Preto is an Unforgettable Destination

Stepping into Ouro Preto is like traveling back in time. The city’s steep, winding cobblestone streets, lined with impeccably preserved colonial architecture, whisper tales of immense wealth, artistic genius, and revolutionary fervor. It is more than just a beautiful town; it is a profound cultural experience, a place where history is not confined to museums but is etched into every balcony, church facade, and public square.

A Living Museum of Colonial Brazil

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980, Ouro Preto is recognized for its outstanding universal value. This isn’t merely a title; it’s a testament to the city’s role as the epicenter of the 18th-century Brazilian Gold Rush. The vast fortunes extracted from the surrounding mines funded the construction of a city that became a masterpiece of Baroque art and architecture. What makes Ouro Preto remarkable is the integrity of its preservation. The original urban layout, with its organic, hilly topography, remains largely unchanged, offering an authentic glimpse into Brazil’s colonial past. Walking through its streets feels less like visiting a tourist destination and more like exploring a meticulously conserved, open-air museum.

The Artistry of Aleijadinho

The soul of Ouro Preto’s artistic identity can be attributed to one man: Antônio Francisco Lisboa, known as Aleijadinho (“the Little Cripple”). A brilliant, self-taught sculptor and architect of mixed heritage, Aleijadinho developed a highly expressive and unique style that blended European Baroque and Rococo influences with a distinctly Brazilian sensibility. Despite a degenerative disease that progressively crippled his body, he continued to create masterpieces, reportedly having his tools strapped to his arms when he could no longer hold them.

His genius is not confined to a single gallery but is woven into the very fabric of the city. From the dramatic soapstone prophets at the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus de Matosinhos in nearby Congonhas to the magnificent facade and pulpits of the Igreja de São Francisco de Assis in Ouro Preto, his work is an essential part of the landscape. As you explore the city’s churches and monuments, the story of Aleijadinho will unfold, revealing the passion and resilience behind some of Brazil’s greatest artistic treasures.

A Vibrant University Town

While history forms its foundation, Ouro Preto is far from being a static relic. The city pulses with a youthful, creative energy, thanks to the presence of the Federal University of Ouro Preto (UFOP). Students from all over Brazil fill the city’s cafés, bars, and public spaces, creating a lively contrast to the colonial backdrop. This dynamic is most evident in the unique institution of the “repúblicas” — large, communal houses run by students, each with its own history, traditions, and distinct personality. These repúblicas are the driving force behind many of the city’s festivities, most notably its world-famous Carnaval. Unlike the massive parades of Rio, Ouro Preto’s Carnaval is a massive street party, fueled by student-organized “blocos” that snake through the historic streets, making it one of the most energetic and celebrated university carnivals in the country.

Planning Your Trip to Ouro Preto

Best Time to Visit

Ouro Preto’s charm is present year-round, but the experience can differ significantly depending on the season. The city has two distinct periods: a dry, mild winter and a warm, rainy summer. Choosing when to go depends on your tolerance for crowds, rain, and your interest in local festivities.

The most pleasant time for weather is during the dry season, from April to September. You can expect sunny days, clear blue skies, and cooler evenings, creating ideal conditions for exploring the city’s steep streets on foot. The winter months of June and July are particularly popular.

The rainy season, from October to March, sees warmer temperatures but also frequent and sometimes heavy afternoon thunderstorms. While the rain can disrupt plans, the city is often lusher and less crowded outside of major holidays.

Beyond weather, consider timing your visit to coincide with one of Ouro Preto’s vibrant festivals:

• Carnaval (February/March): Unlike the massive parades of Rio, Ouro Preto’s Carnaval is famous for its lively street parties (blocos) organized by the university’s student fraternities (repúblicas). The historic streets fill with costumed revelers, creating an energetic and unforgettable atmosphere.
• Semana Santa (Holy Week): In the week leading up to Easter, Ouro Preto hosts one of Brazil’s most traditional and beautiful Holy Week celebrations. The streets are decorated with intricate carpets of flowers and sawdust for solemn religious processions that wind through the colonial center.
• Festival de Inverno (Winter Festival): Held in July, this festival transforms Ouro Preto and the nearby city of Mariana into a hub of culture. The schedule is packed with concerts, theater performances, art exhibitions, and workshops, attracting artists and visitors from all over Brazil.

How Long to Stay

The time you dedicate to Ouro Preto will shape the depth of your experience. While a brief visit is possible, the city rewards those who take the time to wander its winding lanes and absorb its history.

• The Quick Visit (2 full days): With two days, you can cover the main highlights. This allows enough time to visit the central Praça Tiradentes, explore the most famous churches like São Francisco de Assis and Matriz do Pilar, and tour one or two key museums, such as the Museu da Inconfidência.
• The Immersive Experience (3-4 days): A longer stay of three to four days allows for a more relaxed pace. You can explore beyond the main square, discover lesser-known chapels, spend an afternoon in a mine, and fully appreciate the city’s viewpoints at different times of day. This timeframe also comfortably accommodates a half-day or full-day trip to the neighboring historic town of Mariana.

What to Pack

Packing for Ouro Preto is about preparing for its unique terrain and variable climate. Comfort should be your priority.

• Comfortable, Sturdy Walking Shoes: This is the single most important item to pack. Ouro Preto is a city built on steep hills, and its streets are paved with large, uneven cobblestones (pés de moleque). Good traction and ankle support are essential for navigating the city safely and comfortably.
• Layers of Clothing: Due to the altitude, temperatures can fluctuate significantly. A warm day can quickly turn into a cool evening. Pack light shirts, long-sleeved tops, a fleece or sweater, and a light jacket to adapt to changing conditions.
• Rain Gear: If you are visiting during the summer months (October to March), a compact umbrella and a waterproof jacket are indispensable for dealing with the frequent afternoon downpours.
• Sun Protection: The sun can be strong at this altitude. A hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are necessary year-round to protect yourself while you explore.

Getting There and Getting Around

Nestled in the mountains of Minas Gerais, Ouro Preto is a journey back in time. While it feels a world away, reaching this colonial gem is straightforward, though navigating its steep, historic streets requires a bit of planning.

Arriving in Ouro Preto

Most travelers will begin their journey from Belo Horizonte, the state capital and the region’s main transportation hub.

By Air

The closest major airport is Belo Horizonte’s Confins International Airport (CNF). It serves numerous domestic and a few international flights. From the airport, you will need to continue your journey to Ouro Preto by bus or car, a trip of approximately 140 kilometers (about 87 miles).

By Bus from Belo Horizonte

This is the most popular, cost-effective, and scenic way to reach Ouro Preto. The bus company Pássaro Verde operates frequent and comfortable services from the main bus terminal in Belo Horizonte (Rodoviária). The journey takes around two hours, winding through the beautiful green hills of Minas Gerais and offering a wonderful introduction to the region’s landscape. Tickets can be purchased online or at the terminal.

By Car

Renting a car in Belo Horizonte provides the flexibility to explore the surrounding historic towns and natural parks at your own pace. The drive itself is beautiful, primarily along the BR-356 highway. However, be prepared for the challenges of driving within Ouro Preto. The streets are extremely narrow, steep, and paved with irregular cobblestones. Parking is scarce and often difficult to find, making it more practical to park at your accommodation and explore the historic center on foot.

Navigating the City

Once you’ve arrived, the city’s unique topography dictates how you’ll get around. Embracing the pace of the 18th century is part of the experience.

On Foot

Without a doubt, walking is the best way to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Ouro Preto. The historic center is compact, and its treasures are best discovered by meandering through its winding alleys and squares. However, it is crucial to understand that the city is built on a series of very steep hills. A good level of physical fitness is highly beneficial. The charming but uneven cobblestones, known as pés-de-moleque (literally “urchin’s feet”), demand sturdy, comfortable walking shoes with excellent grip. For those seeking more strenuous adventures, check out our guide to the best hikes in Brazil.

Local Buses and Vans

For destinations outside the immediate historic center, such as the bus station or certain neighborhoods, a network of local buses and vans provides an affordable option. They navigate routes that would be exhausting to walk and offer a glimpse into the daily life of the city’s residents.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps

When your legs need a rest or you need to get to a specific viewpoint or restaurant in the evening, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available. They are a practical solution for conquering the steepest hills or for returning to your pousada after a long day of exploration.

Hiring a Local Guide

To truly understand the depth of Ouro Preto’s history, hiring an accredited local guide is an excellent investment. A knowledgeable guide can bring the stories of the Gold Rush, the Inconfidência Mineira, and the genius of Aleijadinho to life. They can navigate the city efficiently, provide access to churches that may have irregular hours, and offer insights that you would never find in a guidebook, transforming your visit from a sightseeing tour into a profound cultural experience.

Must-See Attractions and Things to Do

The Iconic Churches of Ouro Preto

The soul of Ouro Preto is enshrined within its magnificent churches, each a testament to the immense wealth, faith, and artistic fervor of the gold rush era. To walk among them is to witness the evolution of Brazilian Baroque art. Many churches charge a small entrance fee, which contributes to their essential preservation.

Igreja de São Francisco de Assis: Widely considered the zenith of Brazilian colonial art, this church is the masterwork of Antônio Francisco Lisboa, Aleijadinho. He was responsible not only for the building’s overall design but also for the intricate soapstone carvings on the facade, including the spectacular frontispiece. Inside, the ceiling paintings by Mestre Ataíde create a heavenly atmosphere, making this a truly unmissable artistic collaboration.

Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Pilar: Prepare to be overwhelmed by the sheer opulence of this church. Its interior is drenched in an estimated 400 kilograms of gold leaf, covering every possible surface in an explosive display of late Baroque grandeur. The intricate carvings and gilded details are a direct reflection of the unimaginable wealth extracted from the surrounding mines, designed to inspire awe in all who enter.

Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário dos Pretos: Standing in stark contrast to the city’s other churches, this one is notable for its unique, curved facade and circular floor plan. Financed and built by the enslaved African population on their days off, it is a powerful symbol of their faith and resilience. The interior is more modest, yet its distinct architecture and poignant history make it one of Ouro Preto’s most significant sites.

Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Conceição de Antônio Dias: This vast church is one of the oldest in the city and serves as the final resting place for its most famous artist. The tomb of Aleijadinho can be found within its walls. The church also houses the Museu Aleijadinho in its sacristy, displaying a collection of his works and other sacred art pieces, providing deeper context to the man who so profoundly shaped the city’s identity.

Museums and Cultural Centers

Beyond the churches, Ouro Preto’s museums offer fascinating windows into the political, economic, and scientific history that defined colonial Brazil.

Museu da Inconfidência: Housed in the imposing former Municipal Palace and Jail on the main square, this is arguably Brazil’s most important historical museum. It meticulously chronicles the Inconfidência Mineira, an ill-fated 1789 uprising against Portuguese colonial rule. The museum provides a somber and detailed account of the movement and its heroes, most notably Tiradentes, offering essential context for understanding Brazilian identity. If you’re interested in Brazil’s unique history and culture, you might find our article on reasons to visit Brazil insightful.

Museu de Ciência e Técnica da Escola de Minas: Located in the former Governor’s Palace, this museum belongs to the prestigious Federal University’s School of Mines. It holds an astounding collection of minerals, gemstones, and crystals from Brazil and around the world. The exhibits on metallurgy, mining history, and astronomy offer a different perspective on the source of the region’s wealth and its scientific legacy.

Casa dos Contos: This “House of Tales” or “House of Accounts” has a layered history, having served as a residence, a treasury for weighing gold, and a prison for members of the Inconfidência Mineira. Today, it functions as a museum detailing the economic and fiscal history of the captaincy of Minas Gerais, showcasing everything from gold smelting equipment to period currency. For more on the financial aspects of travel in Brazil, consult our guide to currency in Brazil.

Museu do Oratório: This small, beautifully curated museum is dedicated to a unique form of religious art: the oratory, or private portable altar. The collection features hundreds of examples ranging from grand, elaborate pieces to tiny, travel-sized shrines, showcasing the deep personal devotion that was woven into daily life during the colonial period.

Historic Squares and Viewpoints

To truly appreciate Ouro Preto’s stunning urban landscape, you must experience it from both its bustling center and its panoramic viewpoints.

Praça Tiradentes: This is the social, political, and geographical heart of Ouro Preto. Flanked by the Museu da Inconfidência and the Museu de Ciência e Técnica, the square is dominated by a statue of the revolutionary martyr it is named after. It’s the perfect starting point for any tour, a place to orient yourself, people-watch from a café, and absorb the city’s historic atmosphere.

Mirante da UFOP: For the classic postcard photograph of Ouro Preto, make your way to this viewpoint located near the Federal University. From here, the city unfolds below you in a breathtaking cascade of whitewashed houses, red-tiled roofs, and the spires of countless churches, all nestled dramatically among the rolling hills. It’s an essential stop for any visitor. If photography is a passion, you might also enjoy our photography destination guide to Lençóis Maranhenses.

Morro de São Sebastião Viewpoint: Offering a slightly different but equally stunning perspective, this viewpoint provides a wider panoramic sweep of the city and its surrounding landscape. It’s a particularly rewarding spot to visit late in the afternoon, as the setting sun casts a warm, golden light over the historic rooftops, creating a truly magical scene.

Beyond the Main Sights: Unique Experiences

While the churches and museums form the backbone of any visit to Ouro Preto, the city’s soul is also found in its surrounding hills, its craft-filled markets, and its deep connection to the earth. To truly understand the forces that shaped this unique destination, venture beyond the primary attractions and immerse yourself in these distinctive experiences.

Descend into a Gold Mine

To comprehend the immense wealth and profound suffering that built Ouro Preto, you must go to the source. A visit to a former gold mine provides a powerful, tangible connection to the city’s past. Several mines are open to the public, each offering a different perspective on the Gold Rush era.

• Mina da Passagem: Located on the road between Ouro Preto and Mariana, this is often cited as the world’s largest gold mine open to tourists. The descent is an experience in itself, made via a rickety-seeming but safe funicular trolley that takes you deep into the earth. Inside, vast caverns open up to reveal underground lakes with crystal-clear water. The scale of the operation here is truly impressive.
• Mina do Chico Rei: This smaller mine, more centrally located within Ouro Preto, tells a more personal and poignant story. Legend says it was owned by Chico Rei, an enslaved African king who, along with his tribe, bought his freedom with gold painstakingly extracted from this very mine. It offers a more intimate and somber look at the brutal conditions of 18th-century mining.

What to expect during a mine tour

Visiting a mine is a memorable experience, but it’s wise to be prepared. The temperature underground is consistently cool and damp, a stark contrast to the often warm and sunny weather outside, so a light jacket is recommended. The tunnels can be narrow with low ceilings, and the environment can feel enclosed. Those with significant claustrophobia should consider this before descending. The guides provide hard hats and share fascinating details about geological formations and the harrowing history of the miners who toiled within these walls.

Explore the Local Markets

The artistic legacy of Minas Gerais is not confined to its churches. The region’s rich mineral resources gave rise to a vibrant craft tradition that continues today. Exploring the local markets is a perfect way to find a meaningful souvenir and witness this artistry firsthand.

• Feira de Artesanato de Pedra-Sabão: Situated conveniently near the iconic Igreja de São Francisco de Assis, this bustling open-air market is the best place to find works made from soapstone (pedra-sabão), the same soft stone Aleijadinho famously used for his sculptures. You’ll find everything from small decorative boxes and chess sets to elaborate fountains and religious figures, all carved by local artisans.
• Finding local souvenirs: Beyond soapstone, keep an eye out for other regional treasures. Minas Gerais is a major producer of gemstones, and you can find beautiful jewelry and raw stones like imperial topaz and emeralds. Bottles of artisanal cachaça, the potent sugarcane spirit, make for an excellent local gift. You will also find a wide array of religious art, from wooden saints to intricate oratories, reflecting the area’s deep Catholic roots.

Take a Day Trip to Mariana

Just 12 kilometers from Ouro Preto lies Mariana, the first capital of Minas Gerais. Quieter and more compact than its famous neighbor, Mariana offers a charming and less-crowded glimpse into the colonial past, making it an ideal day trip.

How to get there

The journey can be as memorable as the destination. The most scenic option is the Trem da Vale, a historic steam train that winds through the beautiful valley connecting the two cities. The train runs on weekends and holidays, offering stunning views along the way. Alternatively, frequent public buses and taxis provide a quicker and more flexible option for the short trip.

Key sights in Mariana

Once in Mariana, the historic center is easily explored on foot. Don’t miss Praça Minas Gerais, a stunning square flanked by two magnificent twin churches, São Francisco de Assis and Nossa Senhora do Carmo, and the former city hall and jail. A short walk away, you’ll find the old pillory (pelourinho) and the impressive Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Assumption (Catedral Basílica da Sé), which features a magnificent German-built organ from 1701.

A Taste of Minas Gerais: Food and Drink

A journey through Ouro Preto is incomplete without indulging in the rich, comforting flavors of comida mineira. The cuisine of Minas Gerais is rooted in colonial history, making use of local ingredients to create hearty, soulful dishes that have become staples across Brazil. Here, food is an experience, meant to be savored slowly, much like the city itself.

Must-Try Mineiro Dishes

The local gastronomy is characterized by its use of pork, beans, corn, and an abundance of local cheeses. After a day of walking Ouro Preto’s steep hills, these classic dishes provide the perfect reward.

• Tutu à Mineira: A quintessential Minas Gerais dish, this is a creamy purée of cooked beans thickened with manioc (cassava) flour. It’s typically served alongside braised cabbage (couve), pork cracklings (torresmo), and sausage.
• Feijão Tropeiro: Named after the “tropeiros” (cattle drovers) who traversed the region, this robust dish combines beans with toasted manioc flour, sausage, collard greens, eggs, and bacon. It’s a complete and satisfying meal in one bowl.
• Pão de Queijo: While found throughout Brazil, the “cheese bread” from Minas Gerais is considered the gold standard. Made from tapioca flour and local cheese, these small, airy puffs are naturally gluten-free and have a delightfully chewy texture. They are a perfect snack at any time of day.
• Doce de Leite: The region is famous for its sweets, and none is more beloved than doce de leite. This slow-cooked milk and sugar paste is rich, creamy, and can be enjoyed on its own, with a slice of fresh cheese, or as a filling in countless desserts.

Recommended Restaurants

Ouro Preto offers a range of dining experiences, from traditional taverns tucked away on quiet streets to more refined establishments with views over the colonial rooftops.

For Authentic Local Cuisine

Restaurants like O Passo Pizzajazz offer a unique combination of excellent Mineiro dishes and live music in a charming, historic building overlooking the Igreja de São Francisco de Assis. Bené da Flauta, located just off Praça Tiradentes, is another classic choice, known for its traditional recipes served in an elegant, colonial atmosphere.

For a Budget-Friendly Meal

Look for restaurants offering “comida por quilo” (food by weight). These self-service buffets feature a wide array of local dishes, allowing you to sample many different flavors at an affordable price. You simply fill your plate and pay based on its weight.

For a Special Occasion

For a more elevated dining experience, Contos de Réis, located within the historic Casa dos Contos, provides a sophisticated menu that reinterprets Mineiro classics. The setting is as memorable as the food, offering a deep connection to the city’s history.

Cafés and Cachaçarias

Minas Gerais is one of Brazil’s most important coffee-producing regions, and taking a break for a strong, locally grown coffee is a daily ritual. Many small cafés around Praça Tiradentes offer the perfect spot to rest and watch the world go by.

Equally important is cachaça, the sugarcane spirit that is the base for Brazil’s national cocktail, the caipirinha. Ouro Preto and its surroundings are home to numerous artisanal distilleries. Visiting a local cachaçaria to sample different varieties—from unaged, fiery versions to smooth, barrel-aged spirits—provides a genuine taste of the region’s agricultural heritage.

Where to Stay in Ouro Preto

Historic Pousadas

To fully immerse yourself in the city’s colonial atmosphere, consider staying in a traditional Brazilian guesthouse, or pousada. Unlike a standard hotel, a pousada is typically a smaller, often family-run establishment that offers a more intimate and personal experience, akin to a charming inn or bed-and-breakfast.

Many of Ouro Preto’s most sought-after pousadas are housed within meticulously restored 18th-century mansions. Staying in one of these converted colonial homes is an experience in itself, allowing you to sleep amidst period furniture, creaking wooden floors, and internal courtyards that whisper tales of the Gold Rush era. They provide a direct connection to the history that permeates every cobblestone in the city. Notable examples include the Pousada do Mondego, located directly on Largo de Coimbra with views of Aleijadinho’s work, and the elegant Solar do Rosário, which features a pool and more extensive facilities within its historic walls.

Boutique Hotels and Mid-Range Options

For travelers seeking a balance between historic charm and modern conveniences, Ouro Preto offers a fine selection of boutique hotels and mid-range accommodations. These establishments are often situated within the historic center, providing easy access to the main attractions while ensuring a comfortable stay with amenities like updated bathrooms, air conditioning, and professional service.

These hotels artfully integrate contemporary design elements into their colonial structures, creating a sophisticated and comfortable environment. They represent an excellent choice for those who appreciate the atmospheric setting of a historic building but prefer the predictable comforts and services of a modern hotel.

Budget-Friendly Hostels and “Repúblicas”

Ouro Preto is a welcoming destination for backpackers and solo travelers, with several well-regarded hostels offering affordable dormitory beds and private rooms. These are not only cost-effective but also serve as social hubs, making them ideal for meeting fellow travelers and sharing tips and stories from the road.

For a truly unique and local experience, one might look into the city’s famous student houses, or “repúblicas”. These are large, communal homes run by students of the Federal University of Ouro Preto. While primarily for students, some repúblicas occasionally rent out spare beds to travelers, especially during festival periods like Carnaval. A stay in a república offers an unfiltered glimpse into the city’s vibrant student culture, though it comes with the expectation of a lively, and not always quiet, atmosphere. Availability is often informal and not guaranteed, but it remains a distinctive feature of Ouro Preto’s lodging landscape.

Essential Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip

Safety and Security

Ouro Preto is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, particularly within its well-trodden historic center. The town’s relaxed, academic atmosphere contributes to a sense of security. However, like any popular tourist area, it is wise to practice standard safety precautions. Keep your valuables secure and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places like Praça Tiradentes or during festivals.

Navigating the city’s steep, uneven cobblestone streets requires your full attention, especially at night when lighting can be inconsistent. A small flashlight can be a useful tool after sunset. While violent crime is rare, it is always best to stick to well-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings.

One common issue to be aware of is the prevalence of unofficial guides. You may be approached by individuals offering tours or historical explanations. While some may be knowledgeable, they are often unlicensed and may provide inaccurate information or be overly persistent. For a reliable experience, it is best to hire a registered guide through your hotel, a reputable tour agency, or the official tourist information center.

Money and Costs

The official currency of Brazil is the Brazilian Real (BRL), often symbolized as R$. While major hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Ouro Preto accept credit and debit cards, carrying some cash is essential. Smaller establishments, craft stalls, and particularly the entrance fees for many of the churches and museums, often require payment in cash.

ATMs are available, primarily around Praça Tiradentes, but it’s a good practice to withdraw money during the day from machines located inside a bank for added security. When planning your budget, remember to account for the cumulative cost of attraction entries. While each individual fee is modest (typically R$10 to R$20), visiting several churches and museums can add up. Planning which sites are priorities can help manage your expenses effectively.

Health and Comfort

The physical demands of exploring Ouro Preto should not be underestimated. The constant walking up and down steep hills, combined with the strong Brazilian sun, makes staying hydrated crucial. Always carry a bottle of water with you to avoid dehydration and fatigue.

Comprehensive travel insurance is a non-negotiable part of planning any trip to Brazil. Ensure your policy covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and theft. While the local healthcare facilities can handle minor issues, a good insurance policy provides peace of mind for any unforeseen circumstances.

Basic Portuguese Phrases for Travelers

While you can get by with English in many tourist spots, learning a few basic Portuguese phrases will be greatly appreciated by locals and will enrich your interactions. Here are a few to get you started:

• Olá / Oi – Hello / Hi
• Bom dia / Boa tarde / Boa noite – Good morning / Good afternoon / Good night
• Por favor – Please
• Obrigado / Obrigada – Thank you (said by a male / said by a female)
• Com licença – Excuse me (to pass by)
• Desculpe – Sorry
• Quanto custa? – How much does it cost?
• A conta, por favor – The bill, please
• Você fala inglês? – Do you speak English?