Make the pilgrimage to Inhotim, an artist's paradise created by mining tycoon, Bernardo de Mello Paz. Witness the extraordinary scale of this sculpture park as you peruse 5,000 acres of botanical gardens and lush green countryside dotted with works by the likes of Doug Aitkens and Anish Kapoor. Not only will you see innovative art but also a bewildering array of flora, including over 1,000 species of palm trees.

Visit Ouro Preto, one of the prettiest colonial towns in Minas Gerais, with a wealth of architecture virtually untouched since the mining era. UNESCO-credited for its baroque splendour, stroll down its cobbled streets lined with attractive whitewashed mansions, gem shops and lavish churches. You'll visit a couple of colonial masterpieces such as the highly ornate St. Francis of Assisi Church, the opera house and the Virgin Mary of Carmel Church.

While Tiradentes may be on your list for history, its cobbled colonial streets are also an esteemed foodie mecca. Visit this under-the-radar culinary capital during its August food festival where every year, world-class chefs flock to showcase their sensational culinary skills. As well as phenomenal food, you can spend time mooching around the antique shops and charming boutiques.