historic center · Ilhabela, SP
Vila de Ilhabela e Igreja Nossa Senhora D'Ajuda
The island's colonial core, with old mansions, the 17th-century church of Nossa Senhora D'Ajuda and the Museu Náutico, on narrow streets that come alive at night. It is the starting point for schooner trips.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Vila de Ilhabela e Igreja Nossa Senhora D'Ajuda
The Vila is the historic center of Ilhabela, on the side of the island facing the mainland. It is the oldest part of town, with narrow streets, old mansions, the pier and the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora D'Ajuda e Bom Sucesso.
The settlement became a town in 1805 under the name Vila Bela da Princesa. The church grew out of a chapel built in the late 18th century and is still the religious center of the island. The town only took the name Ilhabela in 1944.
You explore on foot. Besides the church, you will find the old Jail and Courthouse building, the Casa de Cultura and the Rua do Meio, the shopping street, with local crafts. Boat trips along the island's coast leave from the pier.
At night the Vila gets livelier, with people strolling around and live music in some spots.
Before you go
Practical information
How much time to set aside
One to two hours lets you walk the streets, go up to the church and see the pier.
Best time
In the late afternoon, when the heat eases and the sun sets over the channel, running into the evening, the liveliest time in the Vila.
How to get there
It is in the center of Ilhabela, north of the landing for the ferry from São Sebastião, along the avenue that follows the coast. You can go by car or taxi, and in the center you can do everything on foot.
Tip
Combine your visit with a boat trip from the Vila pier and come back at night, when the streets are livelier.
A look at the place
Vila de Ilhabela e Igreja Nossa Senhora D'Ajuda in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Vila de Ilhabela e Igreja Nossa Senhora D'Ajuda
What is there to do in the Vila de Ilhabela?
Walk the streets of the historic center, visit the Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora D'Ajuda, and see the pier and the Rua do Meio, with shops and crafts.
How do you get to the Vila de Ilhabela from the ferry?
The Vila is north of the ferry landing, along the avenue that follows the coast. You can go by car or taxi.
What is the oldest church in Ilhabela?
The Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora D'Ajuda e Bom Sucesso, in the Vila, which grew out of a chapel from the late 18th century.
Is the Vila de Ilhabela lively at night?
Yes. At night the streets get busy and there is live music in some spots.