tourist attractions in curitiba brazil

12 Best Things to Do in Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil

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Known as one of the greenest cities in the world and a "laboratory of urban planning," Curitiba, the capital of the southern state of Paraná, Brazil , features a combination of cultural attractions, architectural marvels, and innovative design that make it a great destination. Travelers can experience the culture of Brazil by seeing a show at the unique Wire Opera House, sampling international foods and drinks in the Italian Woods (Bosque Italiano) neighborhood, taking a walking tour of the historic district, catching views of the city from a lookout tower, and enjoying other great activities in Curitiba.

Marvel at the Wire Opera House at Quarry Park

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Designed by architect Domingos Bongestabs, the striking Wire Opera House (Ópera de Arame) is a round structure constructed with steel and covered with transparent polycarbonate. Located in the middle of an artificial lake in Parque das Pedreiras , the opera house is surrounded by lush vegetation and waterfalls in a former quarry area only accessible by a small footbridge.

The Wire Opera House hosts a variety of operatic and other musical performances throughout the year as well as several cultural events and festivities. Performances take place on the open-air, 5,175-square-foot (481-square-meter) stage known as Espaço Cultural Paulo Leminski, named for a Curitiba poet.

Tour the Historic District

Curitiba's historic district in the São Francisco neighborhood features a number of 19th-century constructions such as the Red House (1891) as well as older structures like the Church of the Third Order of São Francisco das Chagas and the Casa Romário Martins, which date back to the 18th century.

Casa Romário Martins is considered the oldest building in Curitiba, and it has served as a residence, butcher shop, and a dry and wet warehouse throughout history but is a cultural space today. The nearby Memorial de Curitiba , a cultural center that houses art exhibits, plays, and musical presentations, contrasts sharply with the historic buildings around it, including the Red House to which it is connected.

Every Sunday, the Curitiba Historical Sector hosts an Art and Craft Fair featuring local creations and food. However, taking a walk down the main roadway in the district (Dr. Claudino dos Santos Street) is a perfect way to see some history and architecture any day of the week. 

Relax in the Botanical Garden

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The Botanical Garden of Curitiba is most recognizable for its iron and glass greenhouse inspired by London's Crystal Palace. However, the garden is also home to a treasure trove of native plants and a variety of other attractions including the Gerdt Hatschbach Botanical Museum, the Garden of Sensations, and a cultural center with works donated by artist Frans Krajcberg.

The garden's official name is Jardim Botânico Francisca Maria Garfunkel Rischbieter, honoring a pioneer urbanist who greatly contributed to the urban planning of Curitiba. Access to the garden is free and it's open daily with varying hours in the summer and winter.

Eat and Drink in the Santa Felicidade and Batel Districts

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Curitiba's restaurant district has a strong Italian heritage. Santa Felicidade is located northeast of the city and is centered around the Italian Woods (Bosque Italiano) Park, where the community hosts celebrations such as the Grape Festival, the Latin American Festival, and the Chicken, Polenta, and Wine Festival.

While you're in Santa Felicidade, eat well and enjoy a glimpse of early Italian immigration in a district dotted with vintage homes such as the Culpi House, the Geranium House, and the House of Paintings, which has original frescoes on the walls. Santa Felicidade is also a great place to see Paraná's symbol pine tree, Araucaria angustifolia , which resembles an ancient group of related conifers that lived in forests over 145 million years ago.

A little further southeast, the Batel district is also known for its authentic Brazilian restaurants and bars, including the award-winning Batel Grill , a top choice for churrasco (grilled meat).

Explore the Oscar Niemeyer Museum

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The Oscar Niemeyer Museum (Museu Oscar Niemeyer) is set against the verdant Pope John Paul II Woods in the northern part of the Civic Center (Centro Cívico) district of Curitiba. Occupying two buildings designed by Niemeyer, the museum is a sprawling construction in straight lines dating back to 1967 and also has the Annex, constructed in 2002 (known as the Eye).

The Eye is a stunning construction placed atop a 60-foot (18-meter) yellow pillar that houses a collection of visual artworks from artists local to Paraná and various other parts of Brazil . Some of the Eye's rooms are dedicated exclusively to photography, but you will also see paintings, sculpture, architecture, and design. The adjacent older building serves as an educational institute and home to several pieces of Niemeyer's art and design sketches.

Take in the View at the Panoramic Tower

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The 360-foot (109-meter) tall lookout tower known as the Panoramic Tower ( Torre Panorâmica ) rises high above the Mercês District and features a pristine observation deck with uninterrupted views of Curitiba. Although its primary function is a telecommunications tower, it is also the highest point in the city and houses the Telephone Museum on the ground floor. Buy tickets onsite and climb to the top of the winding staircase to glance at the city from above, then stop by the museum to see the history of cellular service in Curitiba on your way out.

Learn the History of Immigration at the Ukrainian Memorial

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At the end of the 19th century, more than 20,000 Ukrainians immigrated to Paraná and integrated with the people there to become a vital part of the cultural identity of Curitiba. To learn more about the history and impact the Ukrainian immigrants had on the city, stop by the Ukrainian Memorial in Parque Tingui where you can see a Byzantine-style wooden house and a replica of the St. Michael the Archangel Church in Mallet, a town about 143 miles (230 kilometers) from Curitiba. The memorial also features a permanent exhibition of Ukrainian icons, embroidery, and pêssankas (hand-painted eggs), as well as a gift shop.

Say a Prayer at the Curitiba Cathedral

Dedicated to Holy Mary, the Basilica, whose official name is the Catedral Basílica Menor de Nossa Senhora da Luz, is located at the Praça Tiradentes, the historic plaza that features a marker for the geodesic center of Curitiba. The cathedral was built between 1876 and 1893 on the site of an earlier church and still hosts mass throughout the week. Take a monthly guided tour of the cathedral, attend a Holy Mass any day of the week (hours vary), or stop by the Parish Shop on Monday through Saturday to pick up a souvenir from this elaborately decorated Roman Catholic cathedral.

Browse the Stores at Shopping Estação

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Curitiba has numerous shopping malls, but if you only have time to visit one, choose Shopping Estação in the north-central Rebouças District. "Station," the name of the mall, comes from the restored train station that houses it. Besides about 170 stores, one of the city's biggest food courts, and a train museum, the mall has a puppet theater. Stores and restaurants are open daily, but museums and recreational activities are closed on Mondays and holidays throughout the year.

Discover the Palácio Avenida During the Holidays

One of Curitiba's greatest attractions is the Avenue Palace in the Central District. Covering nearly 200,000 square feet (18,000 square meters), this historic structure created in 1929 once hosted a variety of shops, restaurants, offices, and the city's first exhibition hall, but it fell out of use in the 1960s when it was purchased by the Bamerindus Bank. The ground floor now serves as the headquarters for the Bradesco Bank, and its terrace houses the Avenida Theater (Teatro Avenida).

However, the best time to see the landmark is during the Christmas season when the bank-sponsored choir for underprivileged kids performs and the building has twinkling lights and holiday decorations. Listening to the children, live or on TV, as they sing Christmas carols standing at the building's many windows has become a holiday tradition in Brazil.

Get Lost in Nature at City Parks and Woodlands

Curitiba is a green city with various parks and bosques (woods), the best of which celebrate the city's multicultural heritage.

At the German Woods (Bosque Alemão) in the northern Pilarzhino district, don't miss the Philosophers' Tower for a great view of Curitiba or the Hansel and Gretel's House, which features live storytelling inside the adjacent library. Meanwhile, the Parque Tingui, named for the area's original indigenous people, has a Ukrainian church memorial. Additionally, visitors can see Polish wooden houses at Bosque João Paulo II, visited by Pope John Paul II in 1980, and relax with local families at Parque Barigui.

Take the Curitiba-Paranaguá Train Ride

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Whether you're ready to leave Curitiba behind and continue exploring Brazil or you'd like to take a quick day trip from the city to enjoy more of the countryside, the scenic Curitiba-Paranaguá train ride is an attraction in itself. Heading across the mountains of the Serra do Mar, the ride covers 62 miles (100 kilometers) and takes just over an hour to complete, but you can also continue onto the small 18th-century town of Morretes on any day except Sunday. Paranaguá is also one of the departing points to Ilha do Mel (Honey Island), one of Brazil's most beautiful islands, and a great port city if you're looking for authentic local seafood dishes.

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The Top 10 Things to Do in Curitiba, Brazil

The farther north you head in Brazil, the closer you get to the equator and sweltering heat. In the south of the country, however, you are treated to warm days, cool nights, and an area that so far has managed to avoid the stampede of global tourism. Enjoy authentic, organized and charming Curitiba and these great attractions in the capital of Parana.

One of the main attractions when visiting Curitiba lies just outside the big city, a relaxing 40-minute drive once you reach the city limits. In Morretes you can take a break from city life, stroll through quiet streets, and enjoy some of the most authentic food in Parana. The drive back is also part of the trip, as the roads to and from Morretes connect in a loop, so you are treated to different sights on the way home.

Morretes, Parana, Brazil

Serra Verde Express Train

Plan a day trip and take a ride on the Serra Verde Express Train. On this track, the ride and not necessarily the destination is what you come for. A traditional steam-engine train chugs along at perfect speed, on tracks that run through the thick greenery that surrounds the city, allowing you to peacefully enjoy the view and snap memorable photos of Pico do Marumbi —the highest natural point in the Parana state.

Ilha do Mel

Curitiba itself is not a coastal city but, once you reach its outskirts, you are a short and enjoyable drive from the tantalizing Brazilian coast. Let it direct you to the Island of Honey, in the Bay of Paranaguá—a tadpole-shaped island that is still scarcely inhabited but packed with gorgeous nature. Almost the whole island is rimmed with beaches and the thin, southern portion is home to a few hotels, pousadas and restaurants.

Ilha do Mel, Paranaguá, Parana, Brazil

Botanical Gardens

A short stroll from the center of Curitiba, the Botanical Gardens are a pressure release from the bustling activity downtown. Upon entering, the sounds of the city simply dissipate. The white-wire conservatory, the centerpiece of the gardens, is a renowned Curitiba landmark. The gardens have an open floor plan and with the water fountains make for a great place to bring a packed lunch.

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Jardim Botânico, Rua Engo. Ostoja Roguski, Curitiba, Brazil

Oscar Niemeyer Museum

Looking like an alien periscope, this museum is certainly one of the strangest buildings in all of Brazil , named after its architect, Oscar Niemeyer. A humongous space, split between two buildings, it is dedicated to exhibiting the beauty of architecture and design. It was inaugurated in 2002, when Niemeyer was at the grand age of 95.

Museu Oscar Niemeyer, Rua Mal. Hermes, 999 – Centro Cívico, Curitiba, Brazil

Opera House

Curitiba is well known for its contributions to Brazilian theater , as you can find places dedicated to the performing arts in many corners of the city, and none more famous than the Wire Opera House, known in Portuguese as Ópera de Arame. Constructed in the serene environment of Parque das Pedreiras , this unique, wire, shallow-domed building is an intimate setting for performances, as it currently houses just 1000 spectators.

Ópera de Arame, Rua João Gava, 970 – Abranches, Curitiba, Brazil

Holocaust Museum

With a strong German influence in the southern part of Brazil, the dark past of the country has been put on display in Curitiba, to help educate younger generations and visitors on one of the most horrific times in human history. The museum does a terrific job of holding nothing back, and showcases original documents and historic pieces that make this museum visit an impactful one.

Museu do Holocausto de Curitiba, Rua Cel. Agostinho Macedo, 248 – Bom Retiro, Curitiba, Brazil

Barigui Park

Filled with locals, the smooth, paved path through Barigui Park is the perfect place to strap on some rollerblades, rent a bicycle, or just walk through the crisp sunshine and lush greenery. It runs alongside a small stream that empties into a tranquil lagoon, which makes for the perfect foreground as you peer back towards the city in the distance.

Parque Barigui, Av. Cândido Hartmann – Bigorrilho, Curitiba, Brazil

Panoramic Tower

Curitiba is located on rather flat land, so getting a view of the city from a peak or hill is not easy. Luckily, you have the Panoramic Tower, which offers the best view of Curitiba. It is a 110-meter (360-foot) telecom tower made of glass, with public access, and allows for a spectacular, 360-degree view of the city.

Panoramic Tower, Rua Professor Lycio Grein Castro Vellozo, 191 – Mercês, Curitiba, Brazil

November 15

Rua XV de Novembro, also known as Flower Street, is the main avenue running through the center of the city. It connects some of Curitiba’s main attractions, such as Osorio Square and Santos Andrade Square. It is mainly pedestrianized, with a couple of crosswalks, and is lined with restaurants, cafés, shops, and street performers.

Rua XV de Novembro,Praça Gen. Osório, 89-109 – Centro, Curitiba, Brazil

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The Ultimate Curitiba Travel Guide: Explore Brazil Like a Local [2024]

Table of Contents

Curitiba TRAVEL GUIDE

Curitiba brazil: a quick look.

Curitiba is one of the main cities in Brazil and one of the best places to visit. Located in the country’s southern region, Curitiba is the capital of Paraná state and attracts visitors from many places. In this Curitiba travel guide, you will find everything you need to know, from pre-planning your trip to staying safe to visit the city and enjoy all it offers.

You will get a feel for everything you need to pack and the most popular areas to stay in. Curitiba is one of the most famous Brazilian destinations for national and foreign tourists due to the natural and culinary attractions found in the city. In addition, the favorable climate, historical monuments, and contact with nature are some of the reasons to visit the city known as the Ecological City of Brazil.

Side note: One of the main questions we get when planning a trip to our country is “when is the best time to visit Brazil ”, which you can read later. Now back to Curitiba!

As a native Brazilian , I guarantee that if you are looking for a place to relax and have fun while enjoying good food, you cannot miss the opportunity to visit Curitiba. In addition to having contact with nature, the options of activities found in the city are varied with parks, tours, museums, restaurants, fairs, markets, nightclubs, and more.

We Brazilians love good food, meetings with friends, and parties, and Curitiba is undoubtedly a place where you can find all of this. So if you want a place to enjoy with your friends or relax with family, Curitiba is the right destination. Below you will find the best areas to stay in per your goal for the trip, in addition to all the things to do.

Related article: For a more in-depth country guide, see our complete  Brazil travel guide .

Curitiba Brazil: Quick Travel Tips Before You Go

🛫 Airport: The airport in Curitiba, Brazil, is called Afonso Pena International Airport. The code used to identify this airport is CWB.

🤑 Currency: The currency of Brazil is known as the Brazilian Real, and the symbol R$ represents it.

🗣️ Language: In Brazil, people speak Portuguese as their primary language. However, English is often used in places where tourists visit, like hotels and tourist spots.

🕰️ Time Zone: Brasilia Standard Time (GMT-3). One hour ahead of EST and 4 hours ahead of PST. 

💵 Cost: Reasonable if you are arriving with stronger currencies like the US dollar, Euro, or Yen.

🛜 Internet: The city is fully covered with 5G internet. The internet speed isn’t super quick, but it’s not bad. It’s somewhere in the middle.

📄 Brazil Visa: As of now, If you are traveling from the United States, Canada, Australia, or Japan, then NO. This could change as of October 1, 2023. Track the status and details here . For EU Nationals, you do NOT need a visa, and you may not be affected by the Oct 1, 2023 change. You can see the details here .

🔌 Power Outlets: In Brazil, you’ll encounter two types of plugs: Types C and N. Plug Type C features a pair of round pins, while plug Type N includes two round pins and a larger grounding pin. It’s essential to bring a universal travel adapter to ensure compatibility with various outlets during your travels.

🔋 Power Grid: In Brazil, the power grid runs on a supply voltage of 127/220V and operates at 60 Hz. While a few newer hotels might have 220V, it’s not guaranteed everywhere. 

📳 Brazil SIM Card : If you are thinking, do I need a SIM card for Brazil? The answer is for sure, yes. They are inexpensive, and having one in any country you travel to is safer.  

🚘 Car Rentals: Getting a car rental in Brazil might seem a bit confusing, and some people might feel a little anxious about driving in a foreign place. Nevertheless, it might be the top way to move around, depending on your trip. 

Curitiba Brazil: Safety Travel Tips (Use Common Sense)

🍏 Food safety: Food is secure. However, it’s important to use your best judgment and avoid some street foods that might not appear appetizing.

💧 Water safety: Avoid tap water except for brushing your teeth. Filtered water and ice are perfectly fine alternatives. Most restaurants also use filters. Stick with filtered water or opt for bottled water to ensure your hydration needs are met. Consider using a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle for convenient access to clean and safe drinking water on the go.

👷‍♀️ Daytime safety: The most usual issue in tourist spots is small theft. Here are some tips. Forget about fancy outfits, bags, and accessories, especially jewelry. Keep your eyes up and not just on your phone. Only use your phone when you actually need to.

🦺 Nighttime safety: Use common sense like in any big city you visit. Keep valuable items out of your pockets, avoid walking alone at night, don’t take out your phone in public, skip jewelry, watches, and costly bags, and avoid using the subway during nighttime.  

👺 Avoiding scams: Safeguard your precious items. Get your sightseeing and concert tickets online, not from vendors on the street. Reserve cabs or Uber rides straight from your apps or hotel. Be mindful of where you take out money; do it at banks and not inside stores or subway stations. Always keep an eye on your drink.

Curitiba Brazil Travel Tips: A Locals Perspective

🏨 Best neighborhoods for tourists:  Santa Felicidade (Known for its restaurants, bars, and stores), Centro Histórico (Historic city center with monuments, churches, and street fairs), Batel (Noble neighborhood of the city, with accommodation options, restaurants, bars and commerce in general) Mercês (Historic residential neighborhood), Some other neighborhoods with fewer leisure options but worth a visit are Jardim Botânico and the Água Verde neighborhood

🎄 Top Brazilian holidays and traditions: Carnival, Festa Junina (June Festival), Independence Day (Sete de Setembro), Dia de Finados (Day of the Dead), Christmas, Tiradentes Day (Brazilian hero who fought for the independence of the country), Proclamation of the Republic

🍜 Local food to try: Carne de onça (Typical Curitiba food prepared with raw ground beef, garlic, onions, peppers and served with chives and mustard accompanied by black bread), cachorro quente, brigadeiro, coxinha, feijoada, pão de queijo, barreado, churrasco, joelho de porco (pork knee), pinhão, pierogi, pastel 

🍹 Local drinks to try (alcoholic): Cachaça, caipirinha, Catuaba, Chope (Brazilian beer style based on the German drink), Quentão (a drink widely consumed in Brazil, especially at June festivals, it is traditionally made with red wine and spices, also known as mulled wine. Some recipes are made with cachaça, with other types of wine, or even without alcohol)

🧉 Local drinks to try (non-alcoholic): Chimarrão (hot) and terere (cold), coconut water, guarana, acai juice, garapa or caldo de cana, Gengibirra (typical drink of the state of Paraná made from ginger, being marketed as a soda)

🚶‍♂️ Walkability: As Curitiba is a big city, it is easier to walk in the historic city center, where there is the XV de Novembro Street, the first exclusive pedestrian street in Brazil

🎉 Nightlife: The nightlife in Curitiba is excellent. The bars and clubs in Curitiba are considered one of Brazil’s best, with several exciting options to suit the city’s local population and tourists. They are mainly found in neighborhoods such as Batel and Largo da Ordem, which will be better covered in this Curitiba travel guide later on

😀 Friendly to foreigners: Yes, very welcoming.

🏥 Hospitals: As one of Brazil’s main capitals, Curitiba is home to some of the best hospitals in the country

🇺🇸 English speaking: In some places, mainly tourist spots, not everywhere.

Where is Curitiba Brazil Located?

Curitiba map .

Curitiba is located in Brazil’s southern region, the capital of the State of Paraná. It is the most populous city in the southern region and is well known for its well-organized urban structure with direct contact with nature.

For this reason, the city has become known as the most ecological city in Brazil, also earning nicknames such as Cidade Sorriso (Smile City), Cidade Modelo (Model City), and Capital of Araucárias (type of tree symbol of the city).

What State is Curitiba In? 

Curitiba is located in the southern region of Brazil, in the state of Paraná. Its state borders the states of São Paulo, Santa Catarina, and Mato Grosso do Sul, as well as Argentina and Paraguay. 

Paraná is a state known for being a major grain producer, having the fifth largest economy in Brazil, and being one of Brazil’s most complete tourist destinations with rivers, mountains, parks, waterfalls, and coastline. Paraná is also home to the famous city of Foz do Iguaçu, where we find the equally famous Iguaçu Falls. 

An interesting fact is that the state was once the largest coffee producer in the world.

The southern region of Brazil is the coldest in the country, with occasional snowfall in some cities during the winter. In other seasons of the year, temperatures in the region tend to be high, with a lot of humidity, as we’ll see later in this Curitiba travel guide.

What’s the Closest Airport to Curitiba Brazil?

The closest airport in Curitiba is Afonso Pena International Airport (Code: CWB). The airport is about 30 minutes from downtown Curitiba, so it is easy to get there. When flying in, you usually have a connection in either Sao Paulo or Rio De Janeiro.  

What is the Best Way to Get to Your Curitiba Hotel?

In this Curitiba travel guide, you’ll find some tips to get to your hotel quickly and safely. After arriving at Curitiba’s Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB), you have a few choices to reach your hotel.

The most straightforward and convenient approach to kick off your trip smoothly is to arrange a personal shuttle to your hotel. This way, you won’t need to worry about it when you land. 

Pro Tip: If you plan on using Uber, ensure you have a Brazil SIM card for your phone to work correctly. As a local Brazilian resident, I can guarantee that relying on free public WIFI for ride-share apps might not be ideal. 

You can opt for a taxi, but always verify that the meter is running to avoid scams. It’s a step you must take in every foreign country, and it’s not different here. 

Renting a car in Curitiba is also a good choice. Car rentals are available at the airport, making pickup easy. This is a good option if you plan on driving extensively around the city and nearby areas. For family trips, this works well too. However, if your plan involves spending the day drinking, private shuttles, and Ubers are a wiser choice.

How to Get Around Curitiba?

Ride Sharing (top choice): Ride-sharing services like Uber are popular in Curitiba. They are cheap and convenient. They’re perfect for navigating the city with the least amount of hassle. 

Rent a Car (top choice): Hiring a car offers ultimate freedom for your Curitiba adventure. This way, you can explore the city’s main attractions, such as parks, woods, museums, bars, restaurants, and art galleries. A rental car offers much more trip flexibility. Remember to bring your valid driver’s license and be prepared for right-side driving.

Take a Taxi:  In Curitiba, they are abundant and provide a hassle-free way to get around, though they may cost more. Always make sure the meter is on to prevent getting overcharged.

Get on a Bike: Curitiba has become a reference in urban mobility in Brazil, with several bike lanes to make it easier to get around the city on a bike. If you are interested, the website of the Municipal Institute of Tourism of the city offers a free guide with tours to be done passing through important points of the city. The website also has guidance in English ( Curta Curitiba Pedalando – Turismo Curitiba ).

Using a bike can be a great way to get to know the city’s beauties. However, unlike other cities in Brazil, Curitiba does not offer many bike rental options. Still, finding a place in the city center to rent a bike for a few hours to ride around the city and have fun is not difficult.

Tour by bus of the Tourism Line: Another option to get to know Curitiba is using one of the double-decker buses of the Linha Turismo (Tourism Line). This bus makes a tour of the city, passing by the main tourist attractions, among them parks, food districts, museums, historical architecture, theaters, viewpoints, and more.

You can purchase a bus boarding pass for unlimited boarding for 24 hours. With this, the visitor can disembark and enjoy the place of his choice, reboarding the next bus, available every 30 minutes. This card is purchased on the bus itself.

Public transportation (last choice): Curitiba has a good public transportation system, and it is less expensive, but unless you have to, this may not be the best choice for you.

When to Go to Curitiba?

In this Curitiba travel guide, we’ll help you decide when to go to Curitiba. Choosing the right time to visit Curitiba depends on your trip’s purpose. Keep in mind the seasons are different from those in the US and Europe, so be careful not to get confused when planning your visit.

As a Brazilian native of the southern region who visits the city frequently, I can say that predicting the weather is difficult for anyone visiting Curitiba. We say around here that it is possible to see all four seasons in one day in Curitiba. It is not difficult to see a beautiful sunny day with blue skies quickly turn into a stormy day. Not to mention the constant temperature change of hot and cold.

Curitiba Brazil Summer (December to March): If you want sun and festivals, this is your time to go. January and February are the hottest months in Curitiba. This is the best season for nightlife.

Summer Carnival: Carnival is one of the most popular festivals in the world. It falls in the Brazilian summer, usually in late February or early March. Curitiba can be an excellent option if you want to experience the craziness of it but not be in a big city like Rio. The town has parades of samba schools on the street and several other options for the most varied tastes, including rock festivals, geek festivals, and food spots.

Curitiba Brazil Fall (April and May): If you want a slower pace, autumn/fall offers nice weather and is less crowded. April is one of the best months to visit Curitiba.

Curitiba Brazil Winter (June to August): June and July are the coldest months of the year in Curitiba. Despite this, at this time of year, the capital becomes a great attraction for travelers who love the cold with several attractions. Among them are the numerous cafes and the most varied restaurants scattered throughout the city. For nature lovers, in Curitiba, the parks, gardens, and woods gain a unique charm due to the frost that covers the grass, a beautiful setting for photos.  In addition, the city offers winter festivals that unite music, food, and culture typical of the region.

Curitiba Brazil Spring (September to November):   I guarantee that if there is a Brazilian city worth visiting at this time of year, that city is Curitiba. With the blossoming of flowers, the various parks and woods in the town become a spectacle to admire. The main attractions during this year’s season are certainly the Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico) and Barigui Park (Parque Barigui).

Just to remind you and make your schedule easier. January and February are the warmest months, while the coldest months in Curitiba are June and July. Also, the driest months are between July and August, and the rainiest are between October and March.

Despite all this, you can’t go wrong with Curitiba regardless of when you choose to go. The city is a beautiful destination regardless of the time of year, as you’ll see in this Curitiba travel guide.

Where to Stay in Curitiba Brazil (By Neighborhood)

In this Curitiba travel guide, we’ll show you where to stay in town. There are a few different areas to stay in Curitiba, Brazil. The city has well-defined neighborhoods with accommodation options. 

Taking into account the location, the proximity to most tourist attractions, and the ease of finding bars and restaurants, the most suitable neighborhoods to stay in Curitiba are the Centro Histórico (families, couples, and solo travelers), Batel (solo travelers, families, and groups of friends), Centro Cívico (families, couples and solo travelers), Mercês (solo travelers, families, and groups of friends) and Santa Felicidade (solo travelers and families). The choice will depend on what kind of trip you are planning.

Identify the purpose of your trip based on who will be with you, and then use this Curitiba travel guide to find options that best suit your needs.

Centro Histórico  (Best for Families, Couples, and Solo Travelers) 

Centro Histórico (Historical Center) in Curitiba is ideal for families and solo travelers seeking a more relaxed experience. 

Staying downtown in Curitiba is more attractive for those who want a relaxing trip, knowing historical, architectural, and cultural sites and the various tourist attractions. This region is divided into an older part and a more modern and commercial part.

One of the highlights of this area is Largo da Ordem, known for its richness and cultural diversity, with museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars, and shops. On Sundays, Largo da Ordem hosts the famous Feirinha do Largo, a street fair where clothing, food, handicrafts, antiques, art, and more are sold.

However, the negative point is that the region does not inspire security at night, something common in other Brazilian capitals.

Batel (Best for Solo Travelers, Families, and Groups of Friends) 

Batel is a great area of Curitiba with exciting attractions both for those traveling alone and for those traveling with family or a group of friends, depending on what you are looking for.

Batel is an upper-class neighborhood of the city with the most expensive hotels. Still, it is a pleasant, safe area and close to the historical center, the location of various city sights. 

For those looking for a quiet trip, there are several stores and restaurants in this neighborhood, as well as beautiful squares and two large shopping malls.  

However, for those looking for parties, it is in the Batel neighborhood where you will find the best clubs and parties with a busy nightlife.

Centro Cívico (Best for Families, Couples, and Solo Travelers) 

Centro Cívico (Civic Center) is the neighborhood located north of the city downtown. It is an area where municipal and state government buildings are located, as well as important tourist spots such as the Oscar Niemeyer Museum, Iguaçu Palace, and the Holocaust Museum. 

This area is more geared towards walks, whether alone, as a couple, or with the family, with several squares, parks, and cafes.

Mercês (Best for Solo Travelers, Families, and Groups of Friends) 

Mercês is a calm part of Curitiba, perfect if you want a peaceful and restful experience. In this neighborhood, you will find good options for restaurants and cafes, besides having one of the city’s main tourist attractions, the Panoramic Tower, where you can see the city from above. 

It is also a neighborhood close to downtown. Also, there are good hostels in this area for those traveling in groups of friends.

Santa Felicidade (Best for Solo Travelers and Families) 

Santa Felicidade is a neighborhood of Italian descent in Curitiba. It is a calm place further away from downtown, famous for its Italian culture, with beautiful buildings, tree-lined streets, and great restaurants. 

A great food center in Curitiba is a good place to buy wines, cheeses, chocolates, etc.

Best Things to Do in Curitiba Brazil

With this Curitiba travel guide, discover and enjoy the best things the city has to offer:

• Tour of the Tourism Line (Linha Turismo) : The Linha Turismo is a panoramic bus that travels around the main tourist attractions in the city. Starting with this tour is a great way to begin discovering Curitiba.
• Discover the parks of Curitiba: A great way to enjoy and get to know Curitiba is to go to one of the more than 30 parks and forests in the city. I can assure you that they are beautiful and worth visiting. Some of the main points are the Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico), where you will find a beautiful glass dome, and Barigui Park (Parque Barigui), where you can see charismatic capybaras sunbathing or playing. 
• Get to know the Historical Center and visit the Museums of Curitiba : In the historic center of Curitiba, you will find the historical buildings that are part of the city’s identity. The main point here is Largo da Ordem. As for museums, anyone visiting Curitiba cannot miss the Museu Paranaense and the Museu Oscar Niemeyer, also known as MON. 
• Ópera de Arame and Pedreira Paulo Leminski : Those looking for shows and musical concerts can’t miss Opera de Arame and Pedreira Paulo Leminski.
• Train ride to the city of Morretes : In Curitiba, it is possible to find several tours, one of which is the train ride to the neighboring town of Morretes. The tour lasts 3 hours and passes through lush landscapes with lots of greenery and mountains.
• Go shopping : Between one tour and another, take the opportunity to go shopping in the city. Living in the region and knowing the climatic instability of Curitiba, I guarantee that the city specializes in offering excellent commercial spaces with fairs, shopping malls, and the Municipal Market.
• Nightlife in Curitiba : Curitiba offers many options for the night. With many bars and clubs, what’s not lacking in Curitiba is fun, especially in neighborhoods like Batel.
• Try the Restaurants in Curitiba: Something you cannot miss is the local cuisine for those visiting Curitiba. Due to its European heritage, mainly Italian, the city’s food is quite diverse and delicious. Restaurants with Italian food, such as the well-known Madalosso restaurant in the Santa Felicidade neighborhood, are an excellent choice.
• Visit the panoramic tower : This 109-meter-high tower allows visitors to see the city of Curitiba from above. I recommend going to the tower in the late afternoon so as not to miss the sunset seen from the heights.
• Visit Japan Square (Praça do Japão) : It’s a small square, but beautiful and charming. The square has a Japanese memorial, a Buddha monument, lakes, a lantern carved in stone, a house inspired by Japanese architecture, and a souvenir shop.

Best Curitiba Tours

There are several tours to do in Curitiba, which are a great way to get to know the city. A tour is the easiest and most cost-effective option unless you intend to rent a car in Curitiba. You don’t want to take Uber or taxis to see all this stuff as it adds up. 

💡 Pro tip: If having a car in Curitiba seems like a good fit for you, don’t forget another great option is renting a car . 

Below, you’ll find the best tours in Curitiba and its surrounding regions. The varied tours are a fast way to get a feel for the neighborhoods.

💡Pro Tip:   When visiting Curitiba, consider starting with a tour of the city (on a day with good weather, I would recommend the Linha Turismo bus tour, it’s a unique experience) to get to know the neighborhoods and the main tourist attractions in the city. This way, you will be able to plan better how you want to enjoy your trip. 

💡Pro Tip: Avoid booking tours from street vendors. Choose to book online instead, and it will be more budget-friendly for you.

Tours are a great and easy way for you to have a first contact with the city’s diversity, culture, and history, and in this Curitiba travel guide, we’ll show you the top tours in the town. 

Here are the top tours for Curitiba: 

• Linha Turismo (Tourism Line) Tour : In this Curitiba travel guide, we first recommend a tour by the Linha Turismo bus. This double-decker bus is open at the top so visitors can enjoy the ride with a panoramic view while passing by some of the main tourist attractions in Curitiba. 
• City Tour in Curitiba : With this tour, you can visit places and points of interest in Curitiba with the convenience of having the tour vehicle pick you up at your hotel. It is an excellent way to get to know the city.
• By Night Tour: This tour will take you to discover Curitiba’s night activities, with its restaurants, pubs, galleries, and typical pastry shops that form a riot of colors and movement at night. In addition, the tour passes through typical landscapes and specific locations in the city.
• Coffee Bike Tour : This tour made with bicycles takes the visitor to the best coffee shops in Curitiba. So if you like to ride a bike, this tour is for you.
• Curitiba Free Walking Tour : This tour is free, and it is up to the visitor to contribute any amount. It was created by tourism professionals in Curitiba to take the visitor to a deeper understanding of the city’s history with its habits and customs. 
• Kuritibike : The bike rental company also offers itineraries to get to know the city in a different and fun way.
• Train Tour : This is a train ride that departs from the city of Curitiba to the town of Morretes, passing through beautiful landscapes in the middle of the Atlantic Forest.
• Comida de Boteco (bar food) Tour : This tour cannot be missing from your travel itinerary. The tour is on foot, passing by bars knowing and trying the best local culinary specialties.
• Private Custom Tours : Sometimes, creating a private tour with your own itinerary can be better. This approach lets you move at your preferred speed without concerns about being in a group. 

Is Curitiba Safe for Tourists?

Yes, Curitiba is considered one of the safest cities in Brazil. That doesn’t mean that crime doesn’t happen like in any big city or tourist destination, and you must use common sense.

In this Curitiba travel guide, you will find some tips to help you stay safe during your visit.

Your biggest concern here is the typical petty crime (like theft) in the busy season and around the more popular landmarks. This situation could occur in any big city, and the likelihood of encountering this issue remains the same. 

The more pre-planning you do, the less of a target you are. 

💡Curitiba Travel Guide Pro Safety Tips: 

• Avoid the actions of criminals, not sporting chains, watches, medals, bracelets, and other jewelry. 
• Avoid walking through poorly lit streets or squares. 
• Separate in advance the money needed for small expenses, such as coffee, driving, etc. 
• If you think you are being followed, cross the street or enter a busy establishment to seek help.
• Avoid shopping alone.
• Prefer to pay by credit or debit card. So you don’t need to carry large amounts of cash. 
• Never publicly show money, especially in bars, restaurants, stores, cinemas, etc.
• Purses, wallets, or shopping bags must be carried close to the body and far from the edge of the sidewalk.

It’s always important to take normal precautions. Curitiba is one of the safest cities in the country, but it is always good to be careful. 

Its neighborhoods are well-patrolled, and residents are welcoming toward tourists. That said, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night or when visiting crowded tourist areas. 

Keep an eye on your stuff and avoid poorly lit or deserted areas. It’s always a good idea to check with locals or your hotel staff about any areas to avoid. 

Remember, your safety largely depends on being aware of your surroundings and making smart, PRE PLANNED decisions.

What is the Best Travel Insurance for Brazil?

This is a question that I get a lot, as travel insurance can get confusing. This is a critical part of your trip though so that you do not have to worry when visiting Curitiba or any other part of the world. 

Figuring out travel insurance can be overwhelming. However, having the right travel insurance coverage is essential for a stress-free trip to Curitiba, Brazil. The key is to make sure it is simple and flexible. 

To streamline this, we have broken down the best travel insurance companies out there in the industry that are all great but also serve different needs.  

Let’s explore what each of them brings to the table: 

✅ World Nomads : Best for comprehensive coverage, flexibility, AND adventure sports. Covers trip cancellation, emergency medical costs, and emergency medical transportation and protects your travel gear. 

✅ SafetyWing : This is for general travelers, frequent travelers,  and long-term digital nomads in Brazil. Provides lots of flexibility as far as start date, coverage extension, and automatic renewals. It also has limited home-country coverage. 

✅ Travel Insurance Master : Brazil travel insurance search tool, this is for people who really want to compare policies. 

Curitiba Travel Guide: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you drink the water in curitiba brazil.

The short answer is NO. 

In Curitiba, Brazil, it is best not to drink tap water, even if it is treated. And even if it has been filtered, tap water should only be used to brush your teeth, bath, etc. Other than that, prefer bottled water or a filtered water bottle you can refill for free.

In addition, most restaurants in Curitiba offer mineral water suitable for customer consumption and use it to make ice, so the water is safe to drink in these places. But, in case of doubt, consult the restaurant about the origin of the water. 

Also, remember the Brazilian sun can be intense and hot, so maintaining hydration is vital.

So Steps to Stay Safe With the Water Are: 

• If you’re in an Airbnb, consider boiling tap water if bottled water isn’t available.
• If you’re in a hotel, opt for bottled water, but keep in mind it could be costly.
• Opting for a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle ensures access to clean and safe drinking water wherever you go, making your stay hassle-free and environmentally friendly.

What’s the Curitiba Weather Like?

Curitiba, Brazil, is a humid subtropical climate, which means that the summer is not so hot, it can get rainy, and the winter has low temperatures, once the city is considered the coldest capital in Brazil.

During the summer, which is from December to March, temperatures range from 16°C to 25°C (61°F to 77°F). It is humid, so be prepared for that. This is the period when it may rain a bit more. 

In the winter (it does get colder than up North), which is from June to September, the temperatures are much more mild. They are about 10°C and 20°C (50°F to 68°F). There is less rain in the winter, but it still happens. 

During fall (April and May) and spring (October and November), the temps are much more moderate, and this can be a time to avoid the heat of the colder temperatures of the winter, even though it is still mild, especially if you are from a climate where it snows.

Curitiba’s weather, however, changes quickly, so it is always good to travel with a light jacket and an umbrella. 

Is Curitiba Expensive?

For visitors from nations with a strong currency, like Americans and Europeans, traveling to Brazil is less expensive than touring their own countries, due to conversion rates.

Other than that, some parties and luxurious places can be more expensive, as well as tourist attractions and imported products.

In Brazil, prices tend to rise during the high season when tourists and visitors tend to come to Brazil. However, Curitiba is not the type of city that attracts crowds of tourists on holidays, vacations, or weekends. Quite the opposite, as in this period, the city’s inhabitants tend to go to the beaches. Therefore, the tendency is not to see a large variation in prices than what is found in Curitiba.

Is Curitiba Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt. In this Curitiba travel guide, we show that the city is one of the main cities in Brazil, and you won’t regret visiting it.

With its mild temperatures, it is an excellent destination for those from countries with lower temperatures, such as Europe and the US, fleeing the high temperatures in other Brazilian cities, such as Rio de Janeiro.

The city has attractions for everyone, historic buildings, contact with nature, good food, and, for those looking for it, exciting nightlife with parties, events, and nightclubs.

The city’s main feature is its various food options and the numerous green areas found throughout Curitiba. The tours around the city are magnificent and show visitors the main attractions of Curitiba to become familiar with the place.

If you are looking for good food, then there are local Italian-style restaurants, traditional local Brazilian barbeque, traditional local street food, and more. 

We say in the southern region of Brazil that the locals in Curitiba don’t smile much but are very receptive and hospitable to visitors. Also, the city is relatively safe compared to other larger cities in Brazil. 

How Many Days Do I Need in Curitiba Brazil?

In order to know all the parks, forests, museums, bars, and restaurants, think about staying in Curitiba for four to six days. If you’re going to Curitiba during Carnival, you’ll definitely need seven days.

However, if you only want to visit the central area, the parks, and some restaurants, the time in Curitiba can be reduced to up to three days since the city does not have beaches. 

Think of a reasonable amount of days to travel to Curitiba, and then think about adding one or two more days so you don’t have to rush to visit the city’s charming parks and don’t miss the restaurants with the wonderful cuisine of Curitiba.

General Curitiba Brazil Travel Info & FAQ

🌞 Curitiba Weather Curitiba is in the southern region of Brazil, an area with lower temperatures and more humidity, and the weather changes quickly. 

It is one of the coldest capitals in Brazil, so temperatures are usually not as hot as in other cities in Brazil, even in summer. However, the city is known for having constant rainfall all year round.

💰 Brazil Currency  Brazil’s official currency is the Brazilian Real, symbolized as BRL or R$. Although cards are widely accepted in popular areas and hotels, you still want to have some cash on hand. This is in case you really want to hit a street vendor for food or a painting. The worst thing is getting caught with no cash and missing that unique opportunity.

🗣️ Brazil Language  Brazil’s official language is Portuguese, so in Curitiba and throughout the country, this is what you’ll most likely hear. 

English is spoken in many tourist areas and hotels, but learning a few basic Portuguese phrases will get you a long way from an experience standpoint and a local perception standpoint.

If you want to learn a bit of Portuguese before going, DuoLingo and Pimsleur are great tools to help you.

🛫 Curitiba Brazil Busy Season & Slow Season Curitiba Busy Season: This is the summer in Brazil and runs from December to March. It is when the famous festival of Carnival takes place. However, in Curitiba, things tend to be different since, at this time of the year, the city’s residents tend to go to the beaches, emptying the capital a little. In Curitiba, the times that usually increase the number of tourists are in March during the Theater Festival in the city and in December when Curitiba performs attractions for the Christmas season.

Curitiba Slow Season: This is the winter time and goes from June to September. At that time, Curitiba tends to have very low temperatures, sometimes reaching 0º C (32º F), with frost covering the green parts of the city. The cold can push people away from Curitiba a little, which can be a good option for a calmer visit to the town. 

Curitiba Shoulder Season: In Brazil, the shoulder periods refer to Autumn and Spring. These are the months between the busy and slow seasons and provide a nice balance of pleasant climate, reduced crowds, and more affordable prices. It’s important to note that the seasons are reversed. For example, in the US, when it’s Fall, Brazil experiences its Spring, and vice versa.

Do I Need a Visa for Brazil? 

The Short Answer: If you are traveling from the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan, the answer is no, UNTIL October 1, 2023, then the answer is yes. Currently, no visa is necessary from European Union (EU) countries. This looks like it will be the case even after October 1, 2023. 

The Longer Answer: Traveling to Brazil is a great experience, but it is important to make sure you have all your ducks in a row so to speak. That means having the proper documentation needed to enter the country. 

Here’s what you need to know about securing a visa for Brazil, specifically for citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, and European Union (EU) countries.

Section 1: US, Canada, Australia, and Japan Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, and Japan can currently enter visa-free travel to Brazil for tourism or business purposes. 

This applies to stays of up to 90 days within a 12-month period. All you need is a valid passport with an expiry date at least six months beyond your intended departure from Brazil.

Brazil is looking to implement the visa requirement again for these four countries as of October 1, 2023, so plan in advance for this. 

Section 2: European Union (EU)  Nationals

For most European Union citizens, including those from the UK, Germany, France, and Italy, also benefit from visa-free entry to Brazil. 

This policy permits EU nationals to stay in Brazil for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days within a 12-month period. Like others, they will need a passport that is valid for at least six months past the date of entry into Brazil.

Visa and immigration requirements can and do change. It is always advised to check the latest information from the official government websites of Brazil or your home country’s foreign travel advisory services before making travel plans.

For the most recent and comprehensive information about visa requirements for all nationalities, consult the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or a Brazilian embassy or consulate near you during your pre-planning phase of your trip. 

The October 1st, 2023 update does not look like it will affect EU Nationals, but research accordingly here .

What Do I Need on My Brazil Packing List? 

With this Curitiba travel guide, we’ll help you with your packing list. The worst thing is to overpack and bring unnecessary things all around the world with you. Equally as bad is not packing the correct accessories and throwing a wrench in your whole trip by spending half of a day in a mall in Brazil shopping for a travel adapter. 

Packing for Brazil should be done in advance, just like any other major trip abroad. 

Here’s a curated list focusing on your primary needs: 🔌 Power Adapters: Brazil utilizes type C and N outlets. Make sure you have the correct adapters for your devices to avoid wasting time buying one upon arrival. Consider investing in a universal travel adapter for seamless compatibility with various outlets during your travels.

📳 Brazil and Curitiba SIM Card: Staying connected is essential, especially when traveling abroad. Get a Brazil or Curitiba-specific SIM card for easy communication and online access. This helps a ton when dealing with things like Maps and Uber, and you don’t want to depend on public WIFI internet.

💧 Filterable Water Bottle: While tap water in Curitiba is generally safe, I wouldn’t recommend drinking it directly from the tap. Carrying a water bottle with a filter can be helpful, allowing you to stay hydrated without relying solely on bottled water. Consider using a Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle for convenient access to clean and safe drinking water during your time in Curitiba.

💊 Anti-Hangover Meds: Brazil’s nightlife is wild. It’s worth carrying anti-hangover medications to ensure your trip runs smoother. The last thing you want to do is waste an entire day out of a trip recovering from a hangover.

👒 Sun Protection: Brazil’s sun can be intense, so don’t try to be a hero here. Pack a high-SPF sunscreen and a sun hat to protect your skin and face. Just a short time in the sun-exposed can make it an unpleasant rest of the trip. Avoid the sun mainly between 10 am and 4 pm. You can go out, just make sure to put on your sunscreen.

🦟 Bug Repellent: Brazil’s tropical climate brings a fair amount of mosquitoes, particularly in hot seasons when Curitiba’s integrated nature areas attract them. However, during colder times, they’re less bothersome. Regardless, it’s wise to avoid inconvenience. Consider using an eco-friendly bug repellent to stay protected and enjoy your time outdoors in Curitiba comfortably.

🩴 Comfortable Footwear: You will need comfortable walking shoes and also sandals or flip-flops for hot days.

📄 Travel Documents: Don’t forget your passport, visa (if required), and travel insurance documents. Travel insurance is good to have a few printouts in case you need them for any reason. It is also good to have a photocopy of these important documents separately in case of loss or theft. Without photocopies, this would be a nightmare to deal with.

The rest of your packing list should include clothing for the season you plan to travel to Curitiba. And remember that in Curitiba, the climate can change several times during the day. A hot day with a beautiful sun can quickly turn into a rainy and cloudy day. 

So consider always walking with a jacket and an umbrella. Use this Curitiba travel guide to tailor this list according to your needs and planned activities.

Is it Safe to Rent a Car and Drive in Curitiba Brazil? 

Absolutely. With this Curitiba travel guide, you’ll see that renting a car and driving around Curitiba, Brazil is safe and perfectly fine. 

Curitiba is a big city with many vehicles, so it can be a little difficult to drive through its streets, but nothing that a GPS can’t help with if you need it. Key road signs are also in Portuguese but don’t worry. The rental car GPS or Google Maps on your phone will give you directions in your language. 

Remember, in Brazil, driving is on the right-hand side. You’ll need to have good car rental insurance for peace of mind, and you’re all set to go. You can get the insurance easily through the same place you rent the car from as an addon.  It is possible to find car rentals right at the airport for your convenience.

When you’re finding a parking spot, remember to secure your car and give it a second look to ensure none of your personal belongings are visible.

Overall, driving around Curitiba is not just safe but also a cool experience since the city is beautiful and well-designed with enchanting nature areas. It gives you way more freedom and flexibility to see stuff.

Do I Need to Speak Portuguese to Visit Brazil?

No, not at all. Speaking Portuguese isn’t a must for exploring Brazil. In popular tourist spots like Curitiba, you’ll encounter locals who can talk to you in English, especially in hotels and restaurants.

However, learning a few basic phrases in Portuguese can enrich your travel experience, help you engage more with the local culture, and can be very useful in situations where English isn’t widely spoken. Tools like DuoLingo are great, user-friendly language apps that help you learn the basics before your trip.

However, even without speaking Portuguese fluently, you’ll be able to navigate Brazil just fine.  Here are some great language preparation options for your trip to Brazil:

Learn Basic Portuguese: Use language-learning platforms like DuoLingo or Pimsleur. They offer interactive courses that can help you become more confident and conversational and will help you if you need to read any sign or information in Portuguese.

Use Google Translate App: This app is a lifesaver when you’re navigating language barriers. Remember, you’ll need a Brazil SIM card with data for the app to work without WiFi.

Get a Portuguese Phrasebook : Consider packing a Portuguese phrasebook like the Lonely Planet Portuguese Phrasebook . It’s a fantastic non-digital assistant that can help you better communicate and understand the local language.

Even if you don’t become fluent, having some basic knowledge of the local language will enhance your travel experience in Curitiba, Brazil. It will be much appreciated if the locals see you have tried and made an effort, even if small. Another tip is that Brazilian people tend to use hand gestures and pointing a lot while they talk. Maybe doing that can help you communicate if you need it.

Is Brazil Safe for Solo Female Travel? 

Yes, Brazil can provide a secure environment for solo female travelers, but similar to anywhere else worldwide, taking precautions is crucial.

Basic safety measures include researching and opting for well-rated accommodations, reserving tours online rather than with street vendors, avoiding remote spots during the night, and being attentive to your surroundings.

Furthermore, it’s wise to leave flashy items behind and organize your small expenses in advance. Although, paying with cards is preferable than carrying substantial money.

Respecting local traditions and dress codes is also advisable. Opting for reliable transportation services can enhance safety while moving around. Utilizing ride-sharing apps like Uber or your rental car is highly suggested.

Stay connected with friends or family, and always keep them informed about your itinerary.

Embarking on a solo adventure in Brazil, particularly in Curitiba, can be a delightful journey with proper preparation.

Hello! My name is Lukas and I’m 28 years old. I’m a Brazilian born from the state of Paraná in the South of Brazil. Loving my country and traveling, I want to share everything I know about it in this travel guide so that other people can get to know and enjoy everything Brazil has to offer. Here I will talk about the cultures, foods, tours, places and tips about some Brazilian cities. I hope you enjoy.

Catch me at my socials below!

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While not necessarily sexy, Curitiba has long garnered praise for being one of the world’s best models of urban planning, mainly due to the bold initiatives of its three-term mayor, Jaime Lerner, whose daring moves in the early 1970s transformed a six-block length of downtown into a pedestrian zone (done in secret under the cover of darkness), created five express-bus avenues with futuristic tubular boarding platforms, encouraged recycling and sustainable design long before it was fashionable, and planted trees and created parks on an enormous scale.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museu Oscar Niemeyer

Designed by and named for the architect responsible for much of Brasília, this striking museum features an iconic eye-shaped tower painted with whimsical…

Feira do Largo

On Sundays, Largo do Ordem and Praça Garibaldi host a lively art and artisan market with more than 1000 stalls.

Jardim Botânico

In the far south of the city, the Jardim Botânico is a vast, flower-filled expanse, studded with sculpture and crisscrossed by walking paths. The…

Largo da Ordem

Curitiba's colonial heart. Here, the pedestrian-only cobblestone streets are lined with beautifully restored buildings, many of which now house trendy art…

Paço da Liberdade

Curitiba's historic Old City Hall was inaugurated in 1926 and designed by then-mayor Cândido Ferreira de Abreu, who was responsible for many of the city's…

Palácio Belvedere

Built in 1923, this modest art nouveau construction was originally designed to be a city lookout. It was left to die and gutted by fie in 2017, but the…

Teatro Guaíra

This premier state-run theater in Curitiba is home to the Paraná Symphony Orchestra (Orquestra Sinfônica do Paraná), and also hosts other dance and…

Oi Torre Panorâmica

For an overview of Curitiba, head to the 109m-high Torre Panorâmica, offering 360-degree views from the observation deck.

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Top 20 Places to See in Curitiba, Brazil

•  Jardim Botânico de Curitiba
•  Museu Oscar Niemeyer
•  Parque Barigui
•  Parque Ecológico do Córrego Grande
•  Parque Ecológico do Guaíra
•  Parque Estadual de Campina do Encantado
•  Parque Estadual de Vila Velha
•  Parque Estadual do Rio Iguaçu
•  Parque São Lourenço
•  Parque Tanguá
•  Parque Tingüi
•  Parque das Araucárias
•  Parque das Aves

•  Brasília National Park
•  Cabo Orange National Park
•  Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park
•  Emas National Park
•  Fernando de Noronha Marine National Park
•  Iguaçu National Park
•  Itatiaia National Park
•  Jaú National Park
•  Lençóis Maranhenses National Park
•  Monte Roraima National Park
•  Pico da Neblina National Park
•  Serra da Bocaina National Park
•  Serra da Bodoquena National Park
•  Serra da Canastra National Park
•  Serra da Capivara National Park
•  Serra da Mantiqueira National Park
•  Serra da Mocidade National Park
•  Serra do Apiaú National Park
•  Serra do Cabral National Park
•  Serra do Caburaí National Park
•  Serra do Cachimbo National Park
•  Serra do Caraça National Park
•  Serra do Cipó National Park
•  Serra do Divisor National Park
•  Serra do Intendente National Park
•  Serra do Itajaí National Park
•  Serra do Mar National Park
•  Serra do Maranhão National Park
•  Serra do Marinho National Park
•  Serra do Mel National Park
•  Serra do Pardo National Park
•  Serra do Parecis National Park
•  Serra do Poti National Park
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Things to do in Curitiba, during the day and night

Things to do in curitiba: find out what are the best attractions in this brazilian city.

There is so much to do in Curitiba , the capital of Paraná ! I am a nature fan, but I have always avoided this city, thinking it would just be another gray metropolis, but I must admit: I was super wrong.

The green is everywhere in this city, and there are several parks and nature spots. The gardens are carefully well maintained and I heard that they are the city’s treasure.

Curitiba is known as a model city, pleasing everyone who visits it, and has a good reputation for being clean, organized and also a good place to live.

So, I decided to gather more information in this complete guide and it also report how my experience was in Curitiba, telling you what to do during the day and night, with or without rain, at any day of the week.

Where Curitiba is located and how to get there

Curitiba is the capital of the state of Paraná, in the southern region of Brazil , about 934 meters in altitude in the first plateau of Paraná.

The city is a bit over 400 km from São Paulo and the journey by car takes about 6 hours.

The good news is that the road is very well maintained and signposted, making this trip by car enjoyable (ah, and the landscape is beautiful). To rent a car, use our link from RentCars .

For those who choose to go by bus, the trip is very comfortable, and it is made by several companies that connect Curitiba to various capitals and cities of Brazil. The bus ticket from São Paulo to Curitiba costs around R$ 110.

Find your bus ticket with ClickBus !

Curitiba Airport

The airport of Curitiba is called Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB) located in the city of São José dos Pinhais, about 18 km from Curitiba’s downtown.

And as Curitiba has a good reputation, this airport was awarded as the best airport in Brazil by the Ministry of Transportation.

Weather in Curitiba

Curitiba is the coldest capital of Brazil, with well-defined seasons and average summer temperatures around 21 °C.

Many factors influence Curitiba’s climate, but mostly the flat terrain surrounded by mountains and the dry air masses that dominate south-central Brazil.

During the winter, the average temperature is 13ºC in the coldest month, but sometimes it reaches below 2ºC.

In Curitiba, never leave the house/hotel without your umbrella, as it is very common for the weather to change abruptly and start raining.

Tourist Attractions of Curitiba

Below you will find more information about the main tourist attractions of Curitiba :

Botanical Garden

The Curitiba Botanical Garden , opened in 1991, and is one of the most visited tourist spots in the city.

Inspired by French gardens, with a large welcoming carpet of flowers, the Garden is very charming. There you’ll find a metal structure that houses various botanical species.

The place is amazing, especially on sunny days!

Address: Rua Eng°. Ostoja Roguski, 690 – Jardim Botânico. 

Phone: +55 (41) 3264-6994

The admission is free and the park is open everyday from 6 am to 8 pm (in summer it is open until 9 pm).

LMTM Tip: Do you want to take pictures at the Botanical Garden without the crowds around you?

Arrive there early, as soon as the park opens. It is worth having flexibility in the itinerary so you can choose the day with the best weather to visit the place.

‘ Ópera de Arame’ Opera House

The Ópera de Arame is one of the symbols of Curitiba and it is a must for your city tour.

This place is a theater that hosts all kinds of shows, from the most popular to the classic, even if you don’t go to a concert, the visit is worth it, because it was built in a wonderful environment and the structure is quite cool.

Address: Rua João Gava, 920. – Abranches.

The ticket costs R$ 12 and on Wednesdays admission is free.

The hours of operation are from 10 am to 6 pm every day. In addition, the location is accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.

LMTM Tip: As in the Botanical Garden, it is worth arriving very early to take pictures with more room and tranquility. 

Oscar Niemeyer Museum

Also known as the Eye Museum , Oscar Niemeyer is an art museum of national and international importance, focusing on arts, architecture and design.

Address: Rua Marechal Hermes, 999 – Centro Cí́vico.

Phone: +55 (41) 3350-4400

The Museum opens from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm, with admission costing R$ 20 full and R $ 10 half, and on Wednesdays admission is free. Besides that the museum offers accessibility.

Bosque do Papa

Bosque do Papa is the memorial of Polish immigration. The park was opened in 1980 and it represents the faith and struggle of Polish immigrants that began in the 1970s. 

Address: Rua Mateus Leme/Rua Vieira Santos/Rua Mário de Barros, centro.

Phone: +55 (41) 3313-7194

The park opens daily from 7 am to 8 pm, and the memorial opens from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm.

Santa Felicidade Neighborhood

Santa Felicidade is a super charming neighborhood in Curitiba. It emerged in 1878 with the arrival of Italian immigrants.

The neighborhood is 7 km from the center and it is full of wineries and craft stores. The visit is a delight!

Panoramic Tower

This is where you can have an incredible view of the city, in a tower that offers a 360º view of Curitiba. 

Address: Rua Prof. Lycio Grein de Castro Vellozo, 191, bairro Mercês

Phone: +55 (41) 3339-7613

The Panoramic Tower can be visited from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm. The tickets cost R$5 and are sold until 6:30 pm.

Bosque Alemão Park

Bosque Alemão is a great place to visit with kids and has a gazebo with a beautiful view of the city and Serra do Mar.

In addition, the staircase leading to the woods is rustic and very beautiful, and along the way they tell Hansel and Gretel’s story.

On the way, they also have the “Witch’s House” which is where some witches tell stories to children on Saturday, Sunday and holidays at 11 am, 2 pm and 4 pm.

There, they also perform a ritual to take children’s pacifier and bottle in a positive way (hello parents on duty!).

Address: R. Nicolo Paganini, s/n – Pilarzinho, Curitiba – PR, 81720-300

Phone: +55 (41) 3568-1087

The woods open daily from 8 am to 6 pm, and admission is free.

Metropolitan Cathedral

The Basílica Nossa Senhora da Luz dos Pinhais Cathedral located in Tiradentes Square in the Center has a very different architecture and offers guided tours by appointment.

Address: Rua Barão do Serro Azul, 31

Phone: +55 (41) 3324-5136

Things to do in Curitiba

For those who have more time, there is soooo much to do in Curitiba, so here are some more tips that go beyond the sights:

Municipal Market

The Municipal Market was founded in 1958 and attracts many residents and visitors of Curitiba. In the market there are several stalls with spices, cheeses, fruits, vegetables and lots of crafts.

It is a great place for walking, shopping and also eating a nice meal in one of the market restaurants.

Address: Av. Sete de Setembro, 1865.

Phone: +55 (41) 3363-3764

Opening hours: Monday, from 7 am to 2 pm; Tuesday to Saturday from 7 am to 6 pm; Sunday from 7 am to 1 pm.

Curitiba Comedy Club

How about enjoying your days in Curitiba to have a good laugh?

Curitiba Comedy Club is the first space totally dedicated to comedy in Brazil and it has received great Brazilian personalities like Fabio Porchat and Danilo Gentili.

The bar, which also offers drinks and snacks, is open from Tuesday to Saturday and does not allow under 14s.

Address: Rua Mateus Leme, 2467.

Largo da Ordem Street Fair

On Sundays, there is the Largo da Ordem Fair , which attracts hundreds of visitors from 9 am to 2 pm.

In the fair, there are several stalls with handmade products made with various materials, as well as art, music and street theater. In this market I bought a wonderful hibiscus jelly!

The fair takes place from 9 am to 2 pm in the historical sector, in Largo da Ordem Square.

Curitiba has several parks, and is a super green city. And the most interesting thing is that the city has turned a flooding problem during rainy seasons into tourist attractions that bring thousands of visitors to the city.

For those who love being in touch with nature, the city is a full plate. When you are there, be sure to visit at least one of these parks: Barigui , Tingui , Tanguá or Passaúna Park . It is super worth it!

Praça das Nações Square

This tip I got from the locals, so it’s an information that almost no visitors know about.

Praça das Nações is an ideal place to watch the sunset in Curitiba , and being in a high region without buildings, it offers an incredible view of the city. Furthermore, the square has a small parking lot and a children’s playground.

Address: Av. Senhora da Luz, Alto da Rua XV.

Vale da Música

Vale da Música is a floating stage located on the lake next to the Opera House . There you can enjoy quality instrumental music while you drink or eat something in the Opera Art restaurant .

Address: Rua João Gava, 920

“Tour de Boteco” Pubs Tour

If you like pub food you will love this experience! The Boteco Tour is a guided tour to the best bars in Curitiba and it promotes interaction between the participants.

The value is approximately R$ 80, there are 8 itinerary options and the meeting point, days and times may vary. So check out the schedule and sign up on their website .

Morretes & Ekoa Park 

If you have more time in Curitiba, extend your trip to Morretes , a super charming city on the coast of the state of Paraná, about 60 km from the capital (about 1h15min by car).

With colonial heritage, Morretes has a beautiful architecture and natural beauty, as well as a great local cuisine. Take a look in our article that tells you all about Morretes .

Seriously, you’ll be grateful that you gave Morretes a chance on your trip!

When in Morretes, be sure to visit Ekôa Park , a place full of meaning where you can reconnect with nature.

The park is in the middle of a forest reserve in the Atlantic Forest, and there are various activities for all ages, such as workshops, courses, trails, tree climbing, captive balloon flight and much more.

Check out our article about Ekôa Park and don’t miss it.

Considering that rain in Curitiba is common, it is worth having an idea of what to do in this situation. Niemeyer Museum , Municipal Market , 24 Hours Street , Egyptian Museum and Rosacruz , Café do Viajante , Holocaust Museum are some of the options.

Besides the Curitiba Comedy Club , mentioned earlier in this article, it is worth it to enjoy places like Sheridan’s Irish Pub , Taco el Pancho , Sal Market , Taj Bar , or watch some play at the Guaíra Theater .

Visit Botanical Garden , Bosque do Papa , Bosque Alemão , Municipal Market , Parks , Squares and City Fairs . Details provided in the full article.

Tourist Bus in Curitiba

It is worth mentioning that the city has a Tourism Line that starts at Tiradentes Square and travels 26 sights, 45 km in approximately 3 hours.

The line operates from 9 am to 5:30 pm every day except on Mondays and you can take buses every 30 minutes.

Children up to 5 years old do not pay to get in, while adults pay R$ 50 for the card that is valid for 24 hours from the first use. 

Tickets must be paid in cash and can be purchased at any boarding point.

Check here for more information about the Tourist Line of Curitiba .

Where to Stay in Curitiba

Although I stayed at a friend’s house during my trip, I separated here some really cool options in Curitiba for you to stay.

Thinking about location and options of what to do, I suggest staying in the Center or in the Batel District.

Hotels in Curitiba

Like every big city, Curitiba has several hotel options as you can see on the map below.

Booking.com

But still, I have some suggestions fo you:

Nomaa Hotel

A friend of mine stayed at Nomaa Hotel , located in Batel, and loved it. If you like sophistication and a more personal type of service this is my tip.

San Juan Johnscher Hotel

The San Juan Johnscher Hotel is located in Curitiba’s Historic Center and its building is considered a city’s historical heritage. In addition to being very charming and affordable, Johnscher has good guest recommendations.

O Bosque Hostel

For those who want to save money or stay in a more relaxed environment and suddenly make new friends, Bosque Hostel is in the Civic Center near the Niemeyer Museum.

Do you know any cool places in Curitiba or things to do that aren’t here but should be? Tell us =)

Oh, and if you think the tips are over, it is not! We decided to make another article about where to eat in Curitiba , so you can enjoy the best of the gastronomy of this city as well.

Learn more about Paraná, we have other articles that will help you too:

Places to eat good food in Curitiba

What to do in Morretes, Paraná

Visit Ekôa Park in Morretes

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18 Sights in Curitiba, Brazil (with Map and Images)

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Explore interesting sights in Curitiba , Brazil . Click on a marker on the map to view details about it. Underneath is an overview of the sights with images. A total of 18 sights are available in Curitiba, Brazil.

1. Jardim Botânico

The Jardim Botânico de Curitiba, in Portuguese, or the Botanical Garden of Curitiba, in English, also known as the "Jardim Botânico Fanchette Rischbieter", is a park located in the city of Curitiba - the capital of the state of Paraná, and the biggest city in southern Brazil. It is the major tourist attraction and landmark of the city, and it houses part of the campus of the Federal University of Paraná. The international identification code is CURIT.

Wikipedia: Botanical Garden of Curitiba (EN)

2. Teatro Guaíra

The Teatro Guaíra Cultural Centre is a state-run cultural institution located in Curitiba, Paraná. It was built in 1945 at Santos Andrade Square. The theater has about 3,000 seats in three different auditoria, and is one of the largest concert halls in Latin America.

Wikipedia: Teatro Guaíra (EN)

3. Wire Opera House

The Ópera de Arame, in Portuguese, or the Wire Opera, in English, is a theatre house located in the city of Curitiba, the capital of the state of Paraná, in southern Brazil. It is one of the major tourist attractions of the city. The opera house has a capacity of 2,400 spectators.

Wikipedia: Wire Opera House (EN)

4. Curitiba Railway Museum

The Curitiba Railway Museum was installed in the old Curitiba Railway Station, inaugurated in 1885, and which was part of the Curitiba-Paranaguá Railway until 1972, when the Curitiba Railway Station was inaugurated. In addition to the collection, consisting of 600 historical railway pieces, such as a locomotive from the early twentieth century, it uses part of the station's facilities, such as the ticket offices. In addition, the Museum tells the story of the construction of the Paranaguá-Curitiba railway. The museum is attached to Shopping Estação, where the Expresso Estação and the Regina Vogue Theater are also located.

Wikipedia: Museu Ferroviário de Curitiba (PT)

5. Museu Metropolitano de Arte

The Municipal Museum of Art of Curitiba (MuMA) was inaugurated on May 5, 1988, from the collection of works of art and popular art donated to the city by the artist Poty Lazzarotto, and was called Centro Cultural Portão. Years later, its name was changed to the Municipal Museum of Art. It is located in the cultural gate complex on Av. Argentine Republic, in the Porta neighborhood. Among the works on display in the museum are works by artists Pancetti, Picasso, Guignard, Di Cavalcanti, Portinari and others.

Wikipedia: Museu Metropolitano de Arte de Curitiba (PT)

6. P-47D Thunderbolt

The Republic P-47 Thunderbolt is a World War II-era fighter aircraft produced by the American company Republic Aviation from 1941 through 1945. It was a successful high-altitude fighter, and it also served as the foremost American fighter-bomber in the ground-attack role. Its primary armament was eight .50-caliber machine guns, and it could carry 5-inch rockets or a bomb load of 2,500 lb (1,100 kg). When fully loaded, the P-47 weighed up to 8 tons, making it one of the heaviest fighters of the war.

Wikipedia: Republic P-47 Thunderbolt (EN)

7. Castelo do Batel

The Batel Castle is a palace located in the neighborhood of Batel, in the city of Curitiba, capital of the Brazilian state of Paraná. It currently functions as an event center. Built in 1924 by coffee grower and honorary consul of the Netherlands Luiz Guimarães, it was bought by Moysés Lupion, former governor of Paraná, in 1947, the year in which it was listed by the Historical Heritage; It had other uses until it was appointed as a suitable location for an event center in 2003.

Wikipedia: Castelo do Batel (PT) , Website

8. Zoológico de Curitiba

The Curitiba Zoo is a zoo located in the city of Curitiba, capital of the Brazilian state of Paraná. It is located within the Iguaçu Regional Park, the largest urban park in the country, with 8 million square meters and considered an ecological sanctuary for many species. The Park is crossed by the Iguaçu River, which forms flooded fields and riparian forests on its banks, as well as natural forests.

Wikipedia: Jardim Zoológico de Curitiba (PT) , Website

9. Museu Egípcio e Rosa Cruz

The Egyptian and Rosicrucian Museum is an institution attached to the Grand Lodge of the Portuguese language, maintained by the Rosicrucian Order – AMORC. The museum is located in the Bacacheri neighborhood in Curitiba, Paraná. It has a collection consisting mainly of replicas of Egyptian pieces belonging to several different periods, including the Tothmea mummy, donated to the museum in 1987.

Wikipedia: Museu Egípcio e Rosa Cruz (PT)

10. Relógio das Flores

The Curitiba Flower Clock is located in Garibaldi Square, in the historic sector of the capital of the Brazilian state of Paraná. The attraction was a gift offered to the municipality by the Rosenmann family, in the figure of former federal deputy Max Rosenmann, in 1972. From 1978 on, the flowers in the bed began to be replaced every quarter, obeying the flowering seasons.

Wikipedia: Relógio das Flores (Curitiba) (PT)

11. Bosque Estadual Papa João Paulo II

The Bosque do Papa João Paulo II is a park in the city of Curitiba, Paraná. It houses a reserve with more than three hundred araucaria trees in the central area of the capital of Paraná. The grove was created in honor of Pope John Paul II, and is home to the Polish Immigration Memorial. The forest has an exit to the rear lawn of the Oscar Niemeyer Museum.

Wikipedia: Bosque do Papa (PT)

12. Câmara Municipal de Curitiba

The Rio Branco Palace, formerly the Congress Palace, is an architectural monument in the Brazilian city of Curitiba, capital of the state of Paraná, in which the headquarters of the City Council operates, being one of the most important historical buildings in the capital of Paraná.

Wikipedia: Palácio Rio Branco (Curitiba) (PT)

13. Igreja da Ordem

The Church of the Third Order of St. Francis of Chagas, known as the Church of the Order, is the oldest Catholic temple of the Brazilian municipality of Curitiba, capital of the state of Paraná. It is located at Mateus Leme Street, in Largo da Order, the historic center of the city.

Wikipedia: Igreja da Ordem Terceira de São Francisco das Chagas (PT)

14. Museu de Arte Contemporânea do Paraná

The Museum of Contemporary Art of Paraná (MAC/PR) is an entity maintained by the government of Paraná, which has in its collection paintings, sculptures, drawings, engravings and other types of works by various Brazilian artists, especially from Paraná artists.

Wikipedia: Museu de Arte Contemporânea do Paraná (PT)

15. Igreja do Rosário

The Church of the Rosary - Sanctuary of Souls is a Roman Catholic temple in Brazil. Built in Baroque style, it is located in Largo da Ordem, in front of Garibaldi Square, in the Historic Center of Curitiba, the administrative capital of the state of Paraná.

Wikipedia: Igreja do Rosário (Curitiba) (PT)

16. Museu de Arte Sacra de Curitiba

The Museum of Sacred Art of the Archdiocese of Curitiba (MASAC) is an institution of the Archdiocese of Curitiba dedicated to the conservation of pieces related to the history of the Catholic Church in the capital of Paraná.

Wikipedia: Museu de Arte Sacra da Arquidiocese de Curitiba (PT)

17. Teatro Positivo

Teatro Positivo is a theater with capacity for 2400 people installed in the city of Curitiba in Paraná, within the campus of Universidade Positivo. It is considered to be the largest theater installed in this state.

Wikipedia: Teatro Positivo (PT)

18. Memorial Ucraniano

The Ukrainian Memorial is a tourist attraction located in Tingüi Park, in Curitiba, Paraná, and was erected in honor of the Ukrainian immigrants who came to this region of Brazil in the nineteenth century.

Wikipedia: Memorial Ucraniano (PT)

Disclaimer Please be aware of your surroundings and do not enter private property. We are not liable for any damages that occur during the tours.

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Curitiba Tourist Information and Tourism

(curitiba, paraná, brazil), curitiba tourist information and tourism: top sights, more curitiba information / fast facts and orientation.

• Country: Brazil (south)
• Location: Paraná
• Status: city, state capital
• Area: approximately 165 square miles / 430 square kilometres
• Population: approximately 1.9 million
• Language: Portuguese - English and Spanish are also spoken
• Currency: Brazilian Real (BRL)
• Time zone: BRT (UTC -2 to -4) / BRST (UTC -2 to -4)
• Country dialling code: +55
• Telephone area code: 041
• Average daily Curitiba January temperature: 26°C / 79°F
• Average daily Curitiba July temperature: 18°C / 64°F

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Best Things To Do in Curitiba, Brazil

Are you looking for what to do in Curitiba?

There are various things to see and various activities to do while you are in the city of Curitiba.

THINGS TO SEE

• Jerusalem Fountain: Designed by Fernando Canalli, this is easily one of the most top rated attractions of Curitiba. The three bronze angels on top are a symbol of secularism- as they represent Islam, Christianity and Judaism much like the city of Jerusalem.
• Botanical Garden of Curitiba: This beautiful garden located in Curitiba is a treat for nature lovers and specially people who are passionate about botany. For anybody who evens lightly understands botany, this place is a must visit.
• Oscar Nieyemer Museum: It is one of the largest museums in the country of Brazil and was inaugurated in the year 2002. It is completely dedicated to visual arts and has some lovely works on display.
• Bosque Alemao: This is a lovely park in the city which is mainly used for recreational purposes. It was built in honor of the Germans who stayed in the city in the early 19th Century.
• Arena De Baixada: Home to Clube Atletico Paranaense, this club was the first one in Brazil to sell off its naming rights.
• Mocinhas da Cidade Fountain: Located at the crossing of Cruz Machado and Alameda Cabral, this fountain pays homage to the couple and country music duo Nho Belarmino and Nha Gabriela. The highlights are the drawing from Fernando Canalli. 

THINGS TO DO

• Visit Museums: The city consists of a number of museums namely Museu Paranaense, Museu de Arte Sacra Museu do Expedicionario, Museu de Arte Contemporanea Museu da Imagem e do Som and Museu Metropolitano de Arte de Curitiba.
• Serra Verde Express: Take a ride in this touristic train to the coastal town of Morretes. You will see various tourists flocking on this train as it is one of the main attractions.
• Hitch a ride in a taxi or farmer's cart along the Nhundiaquara river, as it makes an excellent picnic spot. 
• Feira do Largo da Ordem: Visit this market. It is a lovely place to shop, explore the city and happens every Sunday mornings.

Below we have a list of things to do in Curitiba and the places where you want to spend the best moments of your trip. At the same time, the city offers you the best neighborhoods to explore and new foods to try.

This list should help you in deciding and prioritizing what you should plan on your Curitiba getaway. Find a mix of must-see tourist spots, underrated local hangouts, and maybe even a few new experiences you can try out.

Make the most of your trip to Curitiba with confidence.

• Adventure activities in Curitiba
• Things to do with Family & Kids in Curitiba
• Leisure Activities in Curitiba
• Entertainment Activities in Curitiba
• Historical Places in Curitiba
• Museums in Curitiba
• Art & Cultural Attractions in Curitiba

Tourist Attractions in Curitiba

Here is the list of things to do in Curitiba and tourist attractions in city.

Jardim Botanico De Curitiba

Botanical Garden, Walking Area, Exhibition , Specialty Museum

Museu Oscar Niemeyer

Art And Culture, Architecture , Specialty Museum, Sculpture

Parque Tangua

Park, Biking Trail, Walking Area, Cafe

Parque Barigui

Forest, Park, Walking Area, Picnic Spot

Feira Do Largo Da Ordem

Art And Culture, Historical Site, Market, Arts And Crafts

Estrada Da Graciosa

Outdoors, Picnic Spot, Road

Wire Opera House

Entertainment, Theatre, Opera House

Bairro De Santa Felicidade

Winery, Arts And Crafts, Neighborhoods , Specialty Shop

Torre Panoramica

Watch Tower, Tower, Observation Deck

Unilivre Universidade Livre Do Meio Ambiente

Water Body, Educational Site, Bird Watching

Bosque Alemao

Library, Park, Concert, Leisure

Bacacheri Airport

Afonso Pena International Airport

Expo Unimed

Entertainment

Capela De Nossa Senhora Da Gloria

Church, Religious Site

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brazil

Written by Michael Law , Lana Law , and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 29, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The largest country in South America, Brazil occupies almost half the continent. Nearly all of it is in the Southern Hemisphere, and much of it is tropical, with vast stretches of rainforest filled with exotic plants and wildlife.

Brazil's 7,400-kilometer Atlantic coast is lined with golden-sand beaches , and its interior is filled with mineral resources. Gold from Brazil's mines still lines the churches of Portugal, the colonial power that ruled Brazil until 1822. This strong Portuguese influence is evident in Brazil's colonial architecture , in decorative arts such as the glazed tiles in its churches and convents, and in the language.

For tourists, Brazil is both a tropical paradise and an exciting cultural destination with attractions for all tastes, from idyllic beach holidays and jungle explorations to world-class art museums and the pulsing rhythms of Rio's Carnival.

To discover the best places to visit and things to do, use this handy list of the top tourist attractions in Brazil.

1. Cristo Redentor and Corcovado, Rio de Janeiro

2. sugar loaf, rio de janeiro, 3. iguaçu falls, 4. copacabana, rio de janeiro, 5. amazon rainforests, 6. carnaval, rio de janeiro, 7. brasília's modernist architecture, 8. jericoacoara, 10. salvador's pelourinho, 11. ouro preto, 12. museu do amanhã (museum of tomorrow), 13. ibirapuera park, são paulo, 14. museu oscar niemeyer, curitiba, 15. botanical garden of curitiba, 16. porto de galinhas & pernambuco beaches, 17. art museums of sao paulo, 18. belo horizonte.

With arms outstretched 28 meters, as if to encompass all of humanity, the colossal Art Deco statue of Christ, called Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer), gazes out over Rio de Janeiro, Sugar Loaf, and the bay from the summit of Corcovado. From here, you have possibly the best view in the city .

The 709-meter height on which it stands is part of the Tijuca National Park, and a railway climbs 3.5 kilometers to the top , where a broad plaza surrounds the statue. Completed in 1931, the 30-meter statue was the work of Polish-French sculptor Paul Landowski and Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, and is constructed of reinforced concrete and soapstone.

The steep ride up to the statue on the railway is part of the attraction as it passes through a lush forest, home to a wide variety of tropical birds, butterflies, and plants.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro

The easily recognized emblem of Rio de Janeiro, the rounded rock peak of Sugar Loaf juts out of a tree-covered promontory, rising 394 meters above the beaches and city. From the summit are outstanding views of Rio and the harbor , as well as a stunning view of Christ the Redeemer. This is an absolute must-do when visiting the city but plan to do this on a clear day and preferably in the morning.

Part of the attraction is the thrill of riding the cable car between Sugar Loaf and the Morro da Urca , a lower peak from which a second cableway connects to the city.

Rio's first settlement began below these peaks, near the long Praia da Urca beach, and you can tour one of the three early forts there, the star-shaped Fort São João .

Iguaçu Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. At the point where Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina meet, the Iguaçu river drops spectacularly in a semicircle of 247 waterfalls that thunder down into the gorge below. Just above the falls, the river is constricted to one-fourth of its usual width, making the force of the water even stronger.

Some of the falls are more than 100 meters high and they cover such a broad area that you'll never see all of them at once, but you do get the broadest panorama from the Brazilian side. Catwalks and a tower give you different perspectives, and one bridge reaches all the way to one of the largest falls, known as the Garganta do Diabo (Devil's Throat).

You can cross to the Argentinian side for closer views from catwalks that extend farther into the center of the falls. The two sides offer different perspectives and views, so most tourists plan to see both.

The falls are protected by the UNESCO-acclaimed Iguaçu National Park , where subtropical rainforests are home to more than 1,000 species of birds and mammals, including deer, otters, ocelots, and capybaras.

In early November 2023, water flows that were ten times normal levels caused significant damage to many of the walkways in and around the falls. The most famous, the Devil's Throat, has reopened but the Garganta del Diablo will be closed for quite some time with no reopening date announced as of writing.

It's hard to think of Rio without conjuring up an image of Copacabana. This is Rio's playground, a popular escape from the heat filled with sun-worshipers, swimmers, and kids building sand castles. A seemingly endless assortment of beach shacks offer chair and umbrella rentals, snacks, drinks, and even free showers.

Downtown Rio's most famous section follows Avenida Nossa Senhora de Copacabana and is bordered all along one side by four kilometers of white sand and breaking surf .

The beach is separated from the buildings and traffic by a broad promenade paved in black and white mosaic in an undulating pattern reminiscent of streets in Lisbon, Portugal. Along this promenade, the famed Copacabana Palace is protected as a national monument. Inside this hotel's lobby, you can easily imagine seeing the royalty and film idols who have stayed here.

About 20 kilometers southeast of Manaus, the dark Rio Negro waters meet the light muddy water of the Rio Solimões, flowing side by side for about six kilometers before mixing as the Amazon. Boat trips from Manaus take you to this point, called Encontro das Aguas , meeting of the waters.

Other boat trips take you into the heart of the rainforests and the network of rivers, channels, and lakes formed by the three rivers. In the Rio Negro, the Anavilhanas Islands form an archipelago with lakes, streams, and flooded forests that offer a full cross-section of the Amazonian ecosystem.

You can see monkeys, sloths, parrots, toucans, caimans, turtles, and other wildlife on a boat trip here. Also close to Manaus, the 688-hectare Janauari Ecological Park has a number of different ecosystems that you can explore by boat along its narrow waterways.

An entire lake here is covered with giant water-lilies found only in the Amazon region. While in Manaus, be sure to see its famous Teatro Amazonas , the Italian Renaissance-style opera house, designed to put Manaus on the map as South America's great center of culture.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Manaus

Few shows match Rio's pre-Lenten Carnaval (Carnival) extravaganza for color, sound, action, and exuberance. Make no mistake, this is not just another rowdy street party, but a carefully staged showpiece, where spectators can watch the parades of competing samba dancers from a purpose-built stadium designed by none other than Brazil's best-known architect, Oscar Niemeyer.

Called the Sambódromo , this long series of grandstand boxes provides ringside seats to a 700-meter parade route where dancers and musicians from the competing samba schools strut their stuff in a dazzling explosion of brilliant costumes.

If mob scenes are less appealing to you than more spontaneous celebrations (that are equally riotous and colorful), you'll also find Carnivals in Salvador , Bahia, Recife, and other Brazilian cities.

Brazil's new city of Brasília was carved out of the wilderness and completed in less than three years to replace Rio de Janeiro as the country's capital in 1960. The ambitious plan by Lúcio Costa and Oscar Niemeyer became a showpiece of city planning and avant-garde architecture, and it remains today as one of the world's few cities that represent a completed plan and a single architectural concept.

Without the normal mix of residential and business districts, the entire governmental section is composed of major architectural highlights, which are the city's main tourist attractions . Some of the most striking surround Praça dos Tràs Poderes : the presidential palace, supreme court, and the two sharply contrasting congress buildings, plus the Historical Museum of Brasília and the Panteão da Liberdade (Pantheon of Freedom), designed by Oscar Niemeyer.

That architect's best-known building in the city is the circular Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida , whose curved concrete columns rise to support a glass roof. Another of Niemeyer's landmark works is the Palácio dos Arcos , surrounded by beautiful gardens designed by Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, who worked with Niemeyer on several projects throughout Brazil.

The round Memorial dos Povos Indígenas (Museum of Indigenous People) is patterned after a traditional Yąnomamö round house. But many consider Niemeyer's finest work to be the Monumento JK , a memorial to President Juscelino Kubitschek, the founder of Brasilia. Brasilia has been named a UNESCO World Heritage city.

If you've ever dreamed of a beachside village where all the streets are sand and like with good restaurants, decent hotels, and the odd donkey wandering around, Jericoacoara is the place for you. Jeri, as it's commonly referred to is, located within the confines of the spectacular Jericoacoara National Park , access is only through a huge expanse of massive sand dunes in a 4WD vehicle or, for the more adventurous, on the back of a beach buggy.

Each night the town comes alive when the mobile vendors set up shop on the sand and the band starts to play. Grab a bite from one of the small BBQ stands and catch the sunset as it sinks into the expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, or even better secure a rooftop patio seat. Later on wander the sandy, pedestrian-only streets and enjoy a dinner with your toes in the sand. After dinner, check out one of the many boutiques featuring a variety of beach and resort clothing.

Windswept beaches run for hundreds of miles north and south of Jeri and this draws wind sport enthusiasts from around the world. Jeri is considered by many to be the best place in the world to go kiteboarding and as a result, draws a diverse set of participants from across the globe.

To experience the dunes or explore freshwater lagoons, where you can set up beachside at a restaurant and go for a swim, hire a buggy for the day , and go on an excursion. You can also head down towards Guiru or further along to Tatajuba to see or enjoy more kiteboarding. It's a fun trip that involves a river crossing on a small, flat barge.

You can fly directly to Jericoacoara . As an alternative, you can fly into Fortaleza and hire a car and driver to run you up the coast, which is about a five-hour drive . The best option is to stop off for a night or two along the way in some of the other beach towns like Cumbuco or Guajiru , both of which are popular kiteboarding areas.

Beyond the beaches of Copacabana, the glorious white sands merge into the just-as-famous beaches of Ipanema. The same wave design of Copacabana's wide promenade continues here, separating the sand from the line of hotels, restaurants, cafés, art galleries, and cinemas that make this a popular social zone year-round.

Farther along, beyond the Jardim de Alá Canal, which drains Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon, are the beaches of Leblon . With more locals and fewer tourists, these beaches are favorites for families. Sunday is especially busy, with an antiques market at Praça de Quentaland and the Feira de Artesanato de Ipanema , alive with music, art, handicrafts, and street food.

The waves at Ipanema and Leblon can be very strong and unpredictable, so be careful where you swim. Follow the locals and stay out of the water where you don't see others swimming. If surf is what you're looking for, head to the stretch between Copacabana and Ipanema, where the surfers hang out.

The Cidade Alta (Upper Town) of Brazil's former colonial capital has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site for its exceptional collection of 17th- and 18th-century colonial buildings, the finest such ensemble in South America.

Called the Pelourinho, this old quarter is where you'll find Salvador's most beautiful churches and monasteries, built at a time when Brazil was the source of Portugal's riches, and the plentiful gold was lavished on the colony's religious buildings.

The finest and most opulent of the city's churches is São Francisco , built in the early 1700s and filled with intricate carvings covered in gold. In the choir and cloister, you can see excellent examples of Portuguese tile panels, called azulejos.

This was the friary church, and next to it is the church of the Franciscan Third Order. It's impossible to miss the riotously carved façade covered in statues and intricate decoration. The interior is just as ornate, surpassing even the Portuguese Baroque in its opulent detail.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Salvador

The wealth of Brazil's state of Minas Gerais in its glory days of the colonial period is easy to imagine from the interiors of the churches in its old capital, Ouro Preto. Entire walls are washed in gold that flowed – along with diamonds – from the mines surrounding the city in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Cascading down the sides of a steep valley and surrounded by mountains, Ouro Preto is a jewel of a colonial town, but its steep narrow streets and mountain setting – however captivating for tourists today – didn't meet the needs of a growing provincial capital. The government moved to the newly built capital of Belo Horizonte, leaving Ouro Preto in its time capsule.

The 17th-century Baroque and Rococo churches of São Francisco de Assis and Matriz de Nossa Senhora do Pilar are the best examples, but the entire town is so rich in colonial architecture that Ouro Preto has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The steep streets, so precipitous in places that they become stairways, are lined by gracious colonial mansions, and white churches crown its hills with Baroque bell towers.

The futuristic architecture of the Museum of Tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro gives a clue about its contents. Thought-provoking exhibits invite visitors to think about what the world might be like in the future, exploring scenarios of how our planet may change in the next half-century.

Examining these times of fast-moving changes in society, technology, and the physical world, the museum prompts viewers to consider various paths into the future, and how each opens up based on the choices made every day as individuals and as a society.

This eye-catching science museum overlooking the waterfront was designed by Spanish architect and artist, Santiago Calatrava.

Address: Praça Mauá 1, Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The most visited park in South America, Ibirapuera Park is a vast green space designed by Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, with buildings designed by Oscar Niemeyer. The park is a showcase for modern architecture and a center for Brazilian culture.

Amid its monuments, gardens, playgrounds, trails, and lakes are museums and performance spaces that include Oscar Niemeyer's Auditório Ibirapuera , one of São Paulo's best concert venues. A Japanese Pavilion with sculptures, clothing, and traditional crafts is set in rock gardens with a fishpond.

The Museu da Aeronáutica e do Folclore , the Aeronautics and Folk Art Museum , features thousands of examples of folk arts and exhibits on traditional cultures from across Brazil. The lower floor is devoted to aeronautical equipment and model airplanes. A separate museum, the large Museu Afro-Brasil , features the culture and history of Afro-Brazilians and their contributions.

Address: Avenida Pedro Alvares Cabral, São Paulo

Paving the way for the unconventional building shapes created by later futurist architects such as Frank Gehry and Santiago Calatrava, Oscar Niemeyer left his native Brazil with a treasury of his most iconic buildings. One of these was built as the New Museum, completed in 2002 when Niemeyer was 95 years old, and renamed in tribute to him in 2003.

Balanced on a massive 60-foot pillar, the gallery is formed by a pair of joined arcs that resemble the shape of the human eye, hence its popular name, Museu do Olho – Eye Museum. Access to this raised structure is by a series of curved ramps. Inside the eye, the 2,000-square-foot gallery focuses on architecture, design, and the visual arts, and displays many of Niemeyer's works.

Niemeyer added a later rectangular gallery on the grounds to display changing exhibitions of works by contemporary Brazilian artists. In addition to visiting during its daytime open hours, try to see the Museu Oscar Niemeyer after dark, when it is spectacularly lighted.

Address: Rua Marechal Hermes 999, Curitiba

Reflecting the style of 17 th - and 18 th -century French palace gardens, Curitiba's Botanical Garden was opened in 1991. Formal beds are outlined by low sculpted hedges, in a geometric design inspired by the city's flag. The landscape is enlivened by fountains, waterfalls, and ponds, and in the park surrounding the gardens are forests of native trees, with walking paths.

The focal point of the botanical gardens is the main greenhouse, an Art Nouveau-style conservatory made of glass and white metal, reminiscent of the Crystal Palace in Victorian London. Its unusual shape includes three domes that merge into the rectangular base. Inside are plants native to the region.

Even the grass in the Garden of Native Plants of Curitiba is a native variety, and its flowers are especially attractive to butterflies and other pollinators. The Garden of the Senses (Jardim das Sensações) is a 200-yard path through a wisteria tunnel, where more than 70 plant species are chosen for their fragrance or tactile appeal. Visitors are invited to try walking through it blindfolded to fully appreciate the garden by using their other senses.

Behind the main greenhouse is the Frans Krajcberg Cultural Space, displaying more than 100 large sculptures created from the remains of trees that were burned or illegally cut, calling public attention to the destruction of Brazil's native forests.

The crystal waters, tall palm trees, and broad stretches of silver sand are only a few of the reasons why Porto de Galinhas is frequently cited as Brazil's best beach. For a country with more than 7,000 kilometers of Atlantic coast, much of it sandy beaches, that's saying a lot.

The town stretching along the beach is laid-back, colorful, and just the right blend of old-fashioned beach town fun and chic boutiques. Its hotels and resorts lie close to the land instead of soaring in high-rise blocks.

Jangadas, picturesque sailboats, will take you out to reef-top pools where brilliant tropical fish swim around your feet in ankle-deep water. You can also take a boat to a lagoon where tiny seahorses swim, and you can scuba dive to explore impressive coral reefs or shipwrecks, kayak in the lagoons and estuary, or buy a fanciful kite from a beach kiosk to fly in the steady breeze. Nearby Maracaipe is popular with surfers.

Porto de Galinhas is just one of the beautiful beaches on Pernambuco's 187-kilometer coast. Closer to Recife, 17th-century Olinda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooking a popular beach. The main beaches in Recife itself are Praia da Boa Viagem, São José da Coroa Grande, and the Carne De Vaca.

São Paulo holds some of the best collections of fine arts in Latin America, and the buildings in which they are housed are architectural landmarks as well. The Museu de Arte, MASP, displays the continent's most comprehensive collection of western art, with representative works by artists from the Renaissance through modern masters.

There are 73 bronze sculptures by Degas and works by Renoir, Manet, Van Gogh, Matisse, Picasso, and Miró. From its beginning, the museum has concentrated on works of mid- to late-20th-century artists, and the building designed by architect Lina Bo Bardi is a Modernist landmark.

Oscar Niemeyer designed the Pavilhão da Bienal de Artes in Ibirapuera Park , home to the Museu de Arte Contemporânea. More than 8,000 works of art - one of Latin America's largest collections of 20th-century Western artists - includes Picasso, Chagall, Kandinsky, Miró, and Modigliani along with major Brazilian painters.

Set above Versailles-inspired formal gardens, Museu do Ipiranga houses paintings and decorative arts.

For another kind of art, don't miss Batman's Alley , an open-air gallery of street art by local and international artists. It is in the bohemian Vila Madalena neighborhood, where you'll also find art galleries showing the works of well-known and rising Brazilian artists and craftspeople.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in São Paulo

The capital of the state of Minas Gerais gave the pre-eminent Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer his first commissions, and today, these early Niemeyer buildings draw tourists and fans of Modernist architecture to the city.

His first major work, which immediately set him apart from conventional architects, was the parabolic-curved São Francisco de Assis church, beside a lake in the Pampulha neighborhood. On the hillside above it, and connected by gardens designed by landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, is Niemeyer's earlier casino building, now an art museum.

Overlooking the large Praça da Liberdade in the city center is the sinuous apartment building, Edificio Niemeyer , one of his most famous early works. The clean geometric lines of his later Palácio das Artes mark the edge of the Municipal Park, housing the Minas Gerais Craft Center featuring works of contemporary craftsmen.

The postmodern Rainha da Sucata – Queen of Scrap Iron – is another landmark building in Belo Horizonte, this one the work of Éolo Maia and Sylvio Podestá. It now houses the mineralogy museum.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Belo Horizonte & Easy Day Trips

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