curitiba tourism

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 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!

Explore Curitiba

Plan Your Trip to Curitiba: Best of Curitiba Tourism

Essential curitiba.

Curitiba Is Great For

Historical tours.

• Radisson Hotel Curitiba
• Hotel Moov Curitiba
• Qoya Hotel Curitiba, Curio Collection by Hilton
• Novotel Curitiba Batel
• Nomaa Hotel
• The Ox Room Steakhouse
• Restaurante Igor
• Restaurante Madalosso
• Barolo Trattoria
• Jardim Botânico de Curitiba
• Parque Barigui
• Museu Oscar Niemeyer
• Tangua Park
• Ópera de Arame
• Touristic Train ride to the historical Morretes city with lunch
• Vila Velha City Tour
• Serra Verde Express: Pacote Morretes/Antonina - Boutique
• Historic City Tour in Curitiba with Jens Tours
• Bar-hopping and Food Tour in Curitiba

Explore Curitiba

Plan Your Trip to Curitiba: Best of Curitiba Tourism

Essential curitiba.

Curitiba Is Great For

Historical tours.

Must-see attractions in Curitiba

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.

Catedral Basílica de Curitiba

Inaugurated in 1893 and completely restored in 2012, Curitiba's neo-Gothic main cathedral – inspired by Barcelona's metropolitan cathedral – isn't one of…

Federal University of Paraná

The neoclassical headquarters of the Federal University of Paraná is home to MusA-UFPR, the university's museum, which features small rotating cultural…

Inside the neoclassical headquarters of the Federal University of Paraná, the university's museum features rotating exhibitions along with a small and…

More destinations you need to see

• 1.1 Climate
• 2.2 By plane
• 2.3 By train
• 3 Get around
• 4.1 Churches
• 8.2 Mid-range
• 8.3 Splurge
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 11 Stay safe
• 12.1 Language
• 12.3 Consulates

Curitiba [dead link] is the capital of Paraná , Brazil . If you're heading for Iguaçu Falls from Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo , it's worth stopping by for a day or two. There is a great cidade velha (old city) in the center which is in a very good state, considering the fact that it's been around for over 3 centuries. There is a huge arts and crafts fair every Sunday in the old city that is well worth visiting.

Understand [ edit ]

Curitiba is one of the largest cities in the prosperous Southern region, and its population is largely descended from German, Ukrainian, Russian, Italian and Polish immigrants. The city is known to urban planners worldwide for its innovative public transit system.

Climate [ edit ]

Many visitors from outside Brazil are not prepared to feel cold in this mainly tropical country. However, Curitiba, though close to the Tropic of Capricorn, is at an elevation of 932 meters (3,058 ft) above the sea level. These factors mean that winters (from June to September) can reach freezing temperatures, especially at night, making coats and other protection from the cold necessary. Even in the other seasons, cold nights are not unusual, though it rarely descends to 0 °C except during the winter. Summers, between December to March tend to be mild, with some hotter days of maximum through 30s °C or 90' °F, but occasional nights of 10s °C or 50s °F.

Curitiba receives ample rain, there's no dry season, and it is rare to go more than 5 days without showers. Periods of a steady light rain or drizzle may last several weeks, typically foggy and grey, somewhat similar to London weather. As in São Paulo, it is common for a day to start with a clear sky, start a thunderstorm for a few minutes and end with a beautiful sunset. Despite this, the months when it usually rains more in Curitiba are between October and March.

Snow is very rare, with the last occurrence in 2013 and before that, 1975. But there are many places within 3-4 hours by car with snows every year in the winter, specially Palmas (364 km, 226 mi) and São Joaquim (438 km, 272 mi). Frost, nevertheless, is very common within the city limits and produces painting-like landscapes in the urban parks, notably Barigui Park and Jardim Botânico (until 08:00, before the sunlight starts to melt the frost).

Get in [ edit ]

By bus [ edit ].

Curitiba's Bus & Train Station (Estaçao Rodoferroviária) is a large station with 3 terminals (train terminal, interstate bus terminal and intrastate bus terminal) provides scheduled bus service from Curitiba to all over Brazil, as well as locations in Argentina, Chile and Paraguay.

The bus is the best way to come from or go through São Paulo and Florianópolis , since the travel doesn't last too long and the bus terminals are downtown in these cities (avoiding traffic jams and long transfers to distant airports). São Paulo Station is not exactly downtown but is nearby, and has a subway station inside the terminal. Curitiba-São Paulo: travel time 6 hr, R$60–80, departures every hour (there's no need to book in advance). Curitiba-Florianopolis: travel time 4 hr 30 min, R$50–70, lots of departures every day (although not so widespread than to São Paulo).

By plane [ edit ]

In winter months (June–August), fog often causes the airport to close in the morning. Flights will then be cancelled or rerouted to nearby Joinville (130 km away) and Navegantes (230 km away) airports. If you want to avoid any trouble, during winter months choose flights landing or taking off after 09:00.

There are different options of ground transportation between Afonso Pena Airport and Curitiba city center. Regular city buses depart every 20–30 minutes on business days to Terminal Boqueirão , from where it's possible to transfer free of charge to buses going downtown. To find the bus stop, on the arrivals floor walk on the same direction of cars until you see the tube-like structure. The R$ 4.30 fee can be paid in cash on the spot. The Airport Shuttle departs every 20 minutes on business days and is quicker than the city buses and much more comfortable, but its fare is R$ 15. Taxis are available 24 hours per day, plan on roughly R$ 60 to go downtown. There are more than 4 rental companies on site.

By train [ edit ]

Curitiba has no scheduled passenger train service. However, there is a touristic train route that goes to Paraná State's ocean coast, reaching its end in Paranaguá. It is definitely a worthwhile ride for those wanting to see natural and Atlantic Forest scenery, with many waterfalls, cliffs, peaks and historic sites. For more information see the Do section.

By car [ edit ]

Coming from São Paulo use BR-116 South. From Florianópolis use BR-101. From Porto Alegre use BR-116 North.

Get around [ edit ]

Curitiba is a household name among transit geeks worldwide and has for a time been a "pilgrimage site" for fans and proponents of Bus Rapid Transit ( BRT ). The idea behind the concept is to give buses many of the aspects of rapid transit without relying on rail vehicles, while being implemented for much cheaper and faster than any rail alternatives. As such, the system, known as Rede Integrada de Transporte ( Integrated Transportation Network ) features dedicated grade separated busways, bi-articulated and articulated buses with higher capacities than normal buses (in fact, comparable to a subway in many cases), express and "local" services that can overtake each other along the way, dedicated stations instead of mere "stops", level boarding, and offboard fare payment to make passenger able get on and off at all doors. The system has been widely praised for its success, emulated throughout the Americas, and has spurred transit oriented development near many stations, but it has in a sense been a victim of its own success with overcrowding making it difficult to handle the increase in population over the last years. Thus the city is supplementing the busiest routes with a rail-based underground metro system.

Driving can be difficult for those who are not used to the traffic in Curitiba, especially for first comers. In the central area, there are many one-way streets, parking restrictions as well as pedestrian-only and bus-only streets. Bus lanes are very common in Curitiba, as the city has over 60 km (38 miles) of them. Most avenues are wide and have spacious sidewalks and they are mostly laid out in a grid system in the city center area.

Public transportation is probably the best option for those visiting the city. The fare is R$ 6.00 on Sundays, and you can connect for free between the bus routes if you connect inside the bus depots or the tube stations. There are also special services, like the City Center Circulator, which costs only R$1.50, the Touristic Route, which serves more than 20 attractions and allows each rider visit 4 of them paying only one fare, although expensive (R$27), and the Airport Shuttle, operated with mini-buses between Curitiba downtown and Afonso Pena Airport (R$8).

Actually the best way to come from the airport to downtown is a city bus lane called "aeroporto", which final stop is on the tube just next to the airport's main entrance. The fare is R$2.60, cheaper than the Airport Shuttle (R$10) and way cheaper than by taxi (R$50).

The public bus system is generally good in comparison with other Brazilian capitals, but overcrowded in rush hours.

The city of Curitiba has an efficient public transportation system that serves various areas, including the airport. One of the most notable lines is the E.32 Aeroporto/ T. Boqueirão , part of the Ligeirinho system. This line, recognizable by its gray-colored buses, is distinct for making fewer stops compared to other lines operating in the capital. However, it's important to note that to reach downtown Curitiba using this line, a passenger will need to transfer at a specific terminal.

Furthermore, there's an alternative option offered by the Aeroporto Executivo Company. Unlike the public E.32 line, this line has routes and stops that are more convenient for those wishing to travel directly between the city center and the airport. An additional advantage of using this line is the comfort provided by the minibuses equipped with Wi-Fi, USB chargers, and air conditioning. This premium service has a fare of 15 reais. Notably, among the stops of this line downtown, is the Shopping Estação.

Due to safety concerns, after 22:00, passengers can ask for bus drivers to stop anywhere along the route, not just in the designated bus stops. This is only valid for buses that are not part of the BRT system. After midnight, most buses stop circulating. From 01:00-05:00, buses known as "madrugueiros" circulate on an hourly basis. Bus schedules and itineraries can be consulted either from Google Maps or the city website Bus Schedule [dead link] (machine-translated into English).

See [ edit ]

Many tourist attractions are closed on Monday. The tourist bus is not running on that day either.

Municipal libraries, located at schools or public places, with a reference collection of five thousand books inspired by two ancient landmarks: the library and the lighthouse from Alexandria. The modular building, with a metallic structure, has a height of 17 meters and 98 square meters of built area. The internal division is simple: the ground floor – where the books are, a hall and a spiral staircase, leading to the top of the tower, where there is a lair, covered with a metallic vault and above it a rooster. The Farol das Cidades , João Gava Street, s/n° - Abranches. M-F 09:00-21:00, and on Sa 09:00-13:00. The only one of its kind, is different from the others because of its collection, made of videos and CD-ROMs, equipped with computers and connected to the Internet and to the City Hall geoprocessing, with free access to the population.

• Jerusalem Fountain , Sete de Setembro Avenue, corner with Arthur Bernardes Avenue – Seminário. Pays homage to the 3,000 years of Jerusalem. The construction in concrete and masonry has a height of 14.5 meters and was designed by the architect Fernando Canalli. At the top there are three bronze angels, of approximately 600 kilos each, sculpted by the artist Lys Áurea Buzzi, representing the three main monotheistic religions in the world, who believe in the existence of angels and for which Jerusalem is a sacred city: Christianity, Judaism and Islam.
• Memory Fountain , at Garibaldi Square – São Francisco. authored by Ricardo Tod, the horse head in bronze characterizing the fountain pays homage to the old immigrant colonists, who with their carts would come from their small farms at the city's outskirts to sell their agricultural products at the center.
• Maria Lata D'Água Fountain , Generoso Marques Square - Center, at the vicinity of the Paranaense Museum. Together with the historic houses, it was inaugurated on May 15, 1996. Structured in concrete, it occupies an area of approximately 36 square meters and has a 60 centimeters deep water mirror. The highlight from the fountain is a reproduction of the sculpture "Água pro Morro", from the beginning of the 1940s, from Erbo Stenzel, one of the most important artists from Paraná.
• Arab Memorial , at Claudino dos Santos Street – São Francisco. Opens from M-F 09:00-18:00, and on Saturdays 09:00-13:00. paying homage to the Middle-Eastern culture, it works as a specialized library. The building reminds of the architectural style of the Moorish buildings, with elements such as the vault, the columns, the arches and the stained glass windows. With just over 140 square meters of built area, the Memorial has a cube shape and is placed over a water mirror. Inside the building, over a marble base is a sculpture representing the writer Gibran Kalil Gibran. It is at Gibran Khalil Gibran Square - Center.
• Curitiba Memorial - a space for art and folklore, information and memory, the past and the future. Built on an irregular land, the architectural project allows the creation of spaces and functional and creative installations. The dome, resembling a painting, makes evident the work's role of cultural origin.
• Mocinhas da Cidade Fountain , at the crossing of Cruz Machado and Alameda Cabral. pays homage to the couple and country music duo Nhô Belarmino e Nhá Gabriela. With drawings from Fernando Canalli, it has columns with rods, which frame tiled pictures showing the verses of the song "Mocinhas da Cidade", immortalized by the duo and recorded for the first time at the beginning of the 1950s.
• Capão da Imbuia Wood/Natural History Museum , Benedito Conceição Street, 407 / Prof. Nivaldo Braga Street, 1225 – Capão da Imbuia. Opens Tu-Su 09:00-17:30. With an internal exhibition of dioramas, stuffed animals and dehydrated vegetables. At the external area is the "Araucarias Path", a wood remnant from the Araucaria Forest, where an elevated pathway goes trough a 400 meters long path, with 12 windows and panels showing the inter-relations of the natural elements found at the Araucaria Forest and also the different products from this vegetable formation, obtained and used by Man.

• Ópera de Arame/Pedreiras Park , João Gava Street, s/n°. – Abranches. Tu-Su 08:00-22:00. R$15/person (Jan 2023). One of the emblematic symbols of Curitiba, with tubular structure and transparent ceiling, of great beauty. Inaugurated in 1992, it caters for all types of shows, between lakes, typical vegetation and cascades, on a unique landscape. The Opera is part of the Pedreiras Park, together with the Paulo Leminski Cultural Space, where the Passion of Christ was enacted, and hosted many other big events since 1989, and can receive, in open air, 10 thousand people seating or 50 thousand standing.

• Japan Square , Sete de Setembro Avenue, junction with Rep. Argentina Avenue – Água Verde. Opens – Culture House – Tu-Su 09:00 to 18:00; Tea Ceremony – Thursdays from 09:00 to 16:00. homage to the sons of the "Rising Sun", who settled there dedicating themselves to agriculture. Scattered around the square are 30 cherry trees sent from Japan by the Nipponese empire and artificial lakes Japanese style. In 1993 the Japanese Portal, the Culture House and the Tea House were built.

• Tiradentes Square , the main square in Curitiba and also its birthplace. On the north end of this square, lies Basilica Cathedral Minor of Our Lady of Light, centennial in 1993. Anciently known as Largo da Matriz, the square is the city's initial landmark. In 1880, because of the emperor D. Pedro II visit to Paraná, the Square became known as D. Pedro II. Nine years later, at the Republic, it has received the current name of Tiradentes Square. It is an important public transport terminal. It is a permanent meeting point, bringing fond memories to the common curitibano memory.
• 24 Horas Street , between Visconde de Nácar and Visconde do Rio Branco Streets – Center. The Street that never sleeps is the synthesis of a city which also never sleeps. It is 120 meters long and 12 meters wide. It is composed by 32 arches in metallic tubular structure, trademark of the modern curitibana architecture. There are 34 shops that are open eternally, from the daybreak sandwich to the bank withdrawal; from the pharmacy to the florist; from books to milk for the children. Great meeting point for tourists and curitibanos seeking leisure, pastimes, night life and good eating options. At 24 Horas street it also possible to have free Internet access, day and night. The user just has to schedule a time.
• Santa Felicidade , Along Manoel Ribas Avenue. The neighborhood where some of the first Italian immigrants arriving in Paraná settled, where they dedicated themselves to the agricultural production, planting herbs, wine and cheese making and willow trees. Almost in front of the church is the cemetery, with the unique pantheon made of 18 chapels in neo-classic style, which became heritage through the Historic and Artistic Heritage. Standing out for their architecture, the Geraniums House, the Panels House, the Arcades House and the Culpi House. The greatest attraction in Santa Felicidade is that it's the culinary district of Curitiba, with a large number of restaurants offering local food and wine from the colony. There are also wineries and wine bars, craft stores and willow furniture.
• São Cristóvão/Italian Wood , Margarida Ângela Zardo Miranda Street, s/n°. M-F 08:00-17:00. A place for the typical parties of the Italian community in the district, such as the Grape Party, the Wine Party and the 4 Giorni in Italy. It has structure for food and drink stalls, space for shows and folkloric presentations and a polenta pot.
• Historic Area , Largo da Ordem / Praça Coronel Enéas, Praça Garibaldi – São Francisco. Complex with the oldest buildings in the city. Among these buildings are the Romário Martins House, from the 18th century and the Church of the Third Order of Saint Francis, from 1737, as well as the architectural examples inspired by the Germans, from the second half of the 19th century. On Sunday mornings, the old stones at the Largo da Ordem and the pavement giving access to Garibaldi Square, with the Rosário Church, the Flowers Clock, the Memory Fountain and the Società Giuseppe Garibaldi make the setting for the Crafts Fair, an exciting meeting point with live music.
• Guaíra Theater , XV de Novembro Street, s/n, Santos Andrade Square – Centro. Live memory from the multi-faceted culture of the curitibanos, it is one of the biggest theaters in Latin America. It used to be called Theatro São Theodoro, inaugurated in 1884 at Dr. Muricy Street and rebaptized in 1900 as Guaíra Theater. It was demolished in 1930 and the rebuilding, in 1952, already at the current location, was linked to the celebrations of the Centenary of Political Emancipation of Paraná (19 December 1953). It was not finished until the 1970s. There are three auditoriums, the biggest of them with 2173 seats.

• Paiol Theater , Chile Street, corner with Reynaldo Machado Street – Prado Velho. Opens daily, from 08:30–12:00 and 13:00-21:00. Symbol of the cultural change in Curitiba in the 1970s, it inaugurated the process of recycling the use of buildings which are valuable for the city's collective memory. Built in 1906, the old gunpowder barn was restored and recycled in the 1970s, becoming an arena theater. Its inauguration on December 27, 1971, was baptized by the poet Vinícius de Moraes, with whisky and a song specially composed for the occasion, "Paiol de Pólvora". In the inauguration show, besides the "poetinha", Toquinho and Marília Medalha also took part.
• Mercês Tower , Prof. Lycio Grein de Castro Vellozo Street, corner with Jacarezinho Street – Mercês. Tu-Su 10:00-19:00. The highest point in Curitiba, allowing a 360-degree vision of the city, from a height of 95 meters. It is managed by Telepar and Curitiba City Hall, which promote video sessions and tourism guidance. Also there is the Telephone Museum.

Churches [ edit ]

• Rosicrucian Order , 2641 Nicarágua Street . – Bacacheri. M-F 08:30-12:00, Sa 14:30-17:00. the Grand Lodge for Brazil of the Rosicrucian Order implemented in 1956 in Rio de Janeiro was transferred to Curitiba in 1960. The temple is part of an architectural complex of six buildings in Egyptian style, an homage to the first members who would get together in the secret chambers of the great pyramid. In the other buildings are the general administration, the Auditorium H. Spencer Lewis, a memorial with a pyramid and the Curitiba Lodge, where the library and museum are found, with reproductions of Egyptian pieces from various dynasties, including papyrus and mommies. ( updated Dec 2017 )
• São Francisco Ruins - a space surrounded by fables, at João Cândido Square. The ruins are made of stone, of what should have been the São Francisco de Paula church, never finished. In 1811 the chapel and the sacristy were finished, but in 1860 the stones that would finish the construction were used to finish the old Matriz tower, now the Basilica Cathedral Minor of Our Lady of Light. Stories of tunnels and pirates live in the place, today filled with leisure and business spaces, stage and grandstand, forming the "Ruins' Arcades".

Parks [ edit ]

• German Wood , Niccolò Paganini Street, corner with Franz Schubert – Vista Alegre (Jardim Schaffer). The Wood opens daily 06:00-20:00; the Library from 09:00-17:00; Story Time Sa Su 14:00. Has various features to celebrate and promote the German traditions. There are 38 thousand square meters of native forest, which was part of the old farm from the Schaffer family. The replica of an old wooden church, built in 1933 at the Seminário neighborhood, with neo-gothich decorative elements, shelters a concert hall called Bach's Oratorium. Other attractions are the John and Mary path, which tells the Grimm brothers tale, a children's library, the Philosophers Tower, a wooden observatory allowing a panoramic view of the city and the Ocean Ridge, and the German Poetry Square, with a reproduction of the Casa Mila façade, a German building from the beginning of the last century, which used to be in the city center.
• Barigüi Park , BR-277 – Rodovia do Café, Km 0 – Bigorrilho. With an area of 1.4 million m², it is one of the biggest parks of the city and definitely the most visited. Not only the city residents and the tourists seek rest in the park. Guinea pigs, night herons, white herons, skunks, crown sparrows, song-thrushes and dozens of other native animals make Barigüi their home. Among the features available in the Park there are: barbeques, kiosks, cycle and model airplanes tracks, multi-sports courts, gym equipment, car park, restaurant, playground, Automobile Museum, Exhibition and Convention Center, Steam Train Station and the Environment Municipal Council headquarters.
• Barreirinha Park , 6010 Anita Garibaldi Avenue, Barreirinha . Daily 06:00-18:00 . – The most beautiful park of the city, one can appreciate araucarias, cinnamon, bracatingas, Paraguay tea plants and other native species. The green area, serving as an important regulator of the air quality in the region, is used by students and university teachers in practical Botanic lessons. The Municipal Forest, next to the park, has a scientific and educational role – it is responsible for the research and production of vegetable species. Among its features there are woods with over 200,000 m² of typical vegetation, children's library, playground, rustic cabin, snack bar, barbeques and car park. ( updated Dec 2017 )
• Botanical Garden of Curitiba , Eng. Ostoja Roguski Street, s/n°. Free entrance. Opens from 06:00-21:00 during summertime; and from 06:00-20:00 during the rest of the year. Curitiba's trademark, created to resemble French gardens, rolls out its flower carpet to the visitors right at the entrance. The greenhouse, with a metallic structure, has botanic species that are national reference, and also a water fountain. The native forest is filled with paths for hiking. The Botanic Museum attracts researchers from all over the world. There is a space for exhibitions, library and a theater.
• Gutierrez Wood/Chico Mendes Memorial/Dolls Theater , Albino Raschendorfer Street, s/n°. – Vista Alegre. Opens daily, from 06:00-18:00. Installed in the wood on 22 March 1989, the Chico Mendes Memorial pays homage to the amazonian rubber extraction leader, who was killed in Xapuri, Acre. It comprises 18,000 m² of green area, with paths and a natural spring, supplying 1,350 liters of mineral water hourly. It is home to the Amazônica School and the Dadá Dolls Theater.
• Iguaçu Park/ Zoo , Mal. Floriano Avenue, s/n°. – Alto Boqueirão. Opens from Tu-F from 08:30-16:00; Sa Su and public holidays, from 08:30 to 17:00. The largest urban park in Brazil, with 8 million m². Equipped with car parks, kiosks, bar and snack bar, the park offers many attractions, divided in seven different areas: sports, nautics, fishing, natural wood, public orchards, ecologic sanctuaries and zoo. Here, over one thousand animals from 80 species can be seen: birds from all over South America, reptiles and mammals from many different origins, kept in an environment as close as possible to their natural habitat.
• Passaúna Park , Eduardo Sprada Street, s/n° – Augusta. Opens daily. almost 6.5 million m² are within the Passaúna Basin, West of Curitiba. Almost 3.5 million m² belong to the lake created by the reservoir of the Water Supply Station. A lot of Nature can be seen from above, from the observatory, where a panoramic view surprises with its beauty and grandiosity. Ecologic trails and the Biological Station, an old brickyard, are worth visiting.
• Pope's Wood , Wellington Oliveira Vianna Street, s/n°.- Centro Cívico. Opens daily from 06:00-20:00; Memorial Tu-Su 09:00-18:30. Polish immigration memorial, inaugurated on 13 December 1980, following the visit from Pop John Paul II to Curitiba, on the previous July. The area of 46,337 m² was part of the dispossession involving the old Estearina candle factory. The seven log houses composing the memorial are a live remembrance of the faith and battle of the Polish immigrants, with objects such as the old cart, the sour cabbage pipe and the image of the patron saint, the Black Virgin of Czestochowa. In Curitiba, the Polish immigration started in 1871.
• Portugal Wood , Ozório Duque Estrada Street, s/n°. – Jardim Social. Opens daily. An homage to the Portuguese-Brazilian bonds, this space is highlighted by a track following a small brook, where one can see, written on tiles which mimic traditional Portuguese ceramic tiles, excerpts from famous Portuguese-language poets, as well as a tribute to the great Portuguese navigators and their discoveries.
• Public Promenade , Luiz Leão Street, s/n – Center. Tu-Su, from 06:00-20:00; the aquarium works from 09:00-17:00, also from Tu-Su. used to be called Botanic Garden. The first public park in Curitiba, it was inaugurated by the president of the Paraná province, Alfredo d'Escragnolle Taunay, on 2 May 1886. It was the first big sanitation work in the city, transforming a marsh in a leisure area, with lakes, bridges and islands within the green area. A Pioneer zoo in Curitiba, even today it shelters small animals. The gate is a copy of what existed at the Paris Dog Cemetery.
• Reinhard Maack Wood , 70 André Ferreira Camargo Street . Vl Hauer. Opens on weekends and public holidays from 08:00 to 17:00. inaugurated in 1989, the wood is an homage from the city to the German geologist and researcher based in Paraná, whose work has contributed to the preservation of the environment in the State. The Wood has an area of remnant araucaria forest, with unique species in the whole region; an adventure trail with educational and ecologic toys for children; recreational equipment; and an environmental education house.  

• Tanguá Park , Dr. Bemben Street, s/n° - Pilarzinho. inaugurated in November 1996, it has a total area of ft2|450,000}}. Highlights of the park are two quarries linked by a 45 m long tunnel, which could be crossed by walk, on a pathway over the water. The park also features a jogging track, cycle track, observatory, snack bar and Poty Lazzarotto Garden.
• Tingüi Park , Fredolin Wolf Avenue, s/n° / José Casagrande Street, s/n° - São João. Park – daily; Memorial – Tu-Su 09:00-18:00; Crafts Shop – Tu-Su 14:30 to 18:00. part of the biggest linear environmental park in the Country, established at the Barigüi river margins, it reminds us of the Indians who used to live there, with the statue of Tindiqüera Chieftain. The Ukrainian Memorial is also there, homage to the immigrants, in a replica of an orthodox church, originally built in inland Paraná State, hosting a pêssankas and icons exhibition.
• Tropeiros Park , Maria Lúcia Locher de Athayde Street, 10,000 – Cidade Industrial. It is open on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, from 08:00-19:00. Here the gaucho culture is preserved, brought by the cattle drivers who would pass near Curitiba, conducting the troops towards the Sorocaba Fair, which gave origin to various cities in the State. The park is equipped with installations suitable for rodeos and typical dances.

Do [ edit ]

• The Serra Verde Express , a train to the coastal town of Morretes , makes an excellent day trip and is for many tourists the main reason to visit Curitiba. The views from the train are unforgettable. The ride departs daily at 08:15 in the morning, descends through some of last remaining Atlantic rainforest and offers some spectacular views (not to mention it is one of the few train rides in Brazil). On Sundays the train continues to Paranaguá , although the last bit between Morretes and Paranaguá is not very scenic. There are three price levels of the tickets claiming to offer different levels of luxury: one-way tickets are R$28 for econômico class (hard to come by), R$53 for turistico and R$84 for executivo class. Buy the cheapest ticket you can get since there really is not much difference between the cars. The return ticket is about 30% cheaper. In addition to the regular train, there's a special tourist train, the litorina , which only runs on weekends. The one-way fare for the litorina costs R$126.

One fun day trip is to leave the train in Morretes, and hitch a ride upstream by taxi or farmer's cart along the Nhundiaquara river. There is a bridge a few miles upstream in a municipality called 'Porto de cima' where you can rent an innertube (boia cross in Portuguese), and get a ride a few miles upstream on dirt roads. A fun float down the river through the tropical jungle is spectacular, refreshing, and you won't find a cleaner place in Brazil. An unforgettable day, especially if it is not a holiday time or weekend when it may be more crowded. Look for the bottle-hotel near the tube take-out point - that would be a memorable place to stay if it is open (seasonally).

Learn [ edit ]

Foreigners interested in learning Portuguese will likely find Celin the most affordable course for its good educational standard. It is maintained by the Federal University of Paraná.

Buy [ edit ]

• Feira do Largo da Ordem ( Largo da Ordem's Street Fair ). It is an open market, happens on all Sunday mornings, there you can find craftmanship, paintings, sculptures, typical foods, street artists, ecological pencils (Natural de Curitiba), old car exhibition and a lot more.  
• Feira da Praça da Espanha ( Spain Square's Fair ). Open on Saturdays, from 10:00-17:00 . It is a fair with many antiquities and book dealers, placed at the Spain Square. ( updated Aug 2016 )

Some of the best places to go shopping in Curitiba, just like in any other place in Brazil, are the Shopping Malls. There are 6 main shopping malls in Curitiba: Mueller (www.shoppingmueller.com.br), Estação (www.shoppingestacao.com.br), Curitiba (www.shoppingcuritiba.com.br), Crystal (www.shoppingcrystal.com.br) e Park Barigüi (www.parkshoppingbarigui.com.br), Palladium (www.shoppingpalladium.com.br), besides several other smaller ones, such as Jardim das Américas and Itália.

If you like to walk outside, there are some nice places in Batel. Walk along Carlos de Carvalho street and its crossing streets. If you are looking for something from well-known international brands like Prada, Dior, Armani, D&G and Diesel, you might like "Maison Capoani" a boutique at end of Comendador Araújo Street on Batel, near the Crystal Shopping Center.

Eat [ edit ]

Curitiba has a good variety of restaurants, ranging from modest to upscale restaurants.

Budget [ edit ]

• Montesquieu Bar , Corner of Westphalen and Silva Jardim St. (downtown). These are probably the biggest sandwiches in Brazil - "x-montanha" is a sandwich that one can customize with layers of bread and meat, and it's very inexpensive (around R$5.50).
• Spich Restaurant , in front of Osorio Square (downtown). Inexpensive downtown restaurant, very simple but will supply the daily needs of calories. A variety of food complements combined with two options of meat - R$5.50.

Mid-range [ edit ]

• Santa Felicidade is a neighborhood where you can find Italian food restaurants.
• Taco El Pancho , Rua Bispo Dom José, 2295 . Bairro: Batel. Good Mexican restaurant.  
• Piola Pizzeria , Rua Dom Pedro II, 105 , ☏ +55 41 3225-7725 . Very nice pizza, pasta and drinks.  
• Churrascaria Curitibana , Avenida Iguaçu, 1315 , ☏ +55 41 3233-5287 . Rebouças. Good meat!  
• Famiglia Originale , Avenida Munhoz da Rocha, 665 , ☏ +55 41 3019-0909 . Cabral. Excellent Italian food, the best Strognoff Pizza!  
• Tropilha Grill , Rua Emiliano Perneta, 700 , ☏ +55 41 3085-5444 . Centro, great meat and service!  

Splurge [ edit ]

• Durski . Slavic cuisine (Ukrainian, Polish and Russian) in the Old Town.  
• Le Rechaud . Very good Swiss restaurant good for couples, with a very reserved atmosphere.  
• Saanga Grill . ( updated Aug 2017 )
• Ippon Japanese An all-you-can-eat option is offered for R$60, very worthy though (late 2011).
• Taisho The best and most traditional Japanese in Curitiba. For around R$60, one can eat almost every speciality of this cuisine.

Drink [ edit ]

• Flor da Favela , Rua Buenos Aires, 80 , ☏ +55 41 3232-5380 . Batel, Curitiba. A local bar inspired by Brazil's slums. Colorful decoration with graffiti, the bar attracts couples and students who get together for a glass of beer and nice food. Try the "Bolinho de Aipim", a cassava mini cake with cheese.  
• [dead link] Cat's Club , Al. Dr. Muricy, 949 , ☏ +55 41 3224 5912 . Downtown. One of the most traditional clubs in Curitiba, if not the most, the customers are a mix and it is the best place if you want to have fun, Paola Full Drag queen and Security will be in the door warning the people for what is coming inside, the public is of all styles gays, lesbians, bisexuals and a large number of straights.  
• James Bar , Av. Vicente Machado, 894 , ☏ +55 41 3222-1426 . Downtown. If you want to more "alternative" club, James is a good option. Wednesday night rock parties and Saturdays (Indie/Electronica) are highly recommended. Gay friendly.  
• Wonka Bar , Rua Trajano Reis, 326 , ☏ +55 41 3026-6272 . São Francisco. Classic club in old downtown. Some of the best local bands play here. A plenty of good looking girls (boys) in the weekends?  
• Sheridan's Irish Pub , Rua Bispo Dom José, 2315 , ☏ +55 41 3343-7779 . Batel. Good place to get a pint. Don´t miss the local artesanal beers.  
• Soviet Vodka Bar , Rua Bispo Dom José, 2277 , ☏ +55 41 3022-2042 . Batel. Vodkas from all over world.  
• [dead link] 5th Ave Manhattan Lounge , Rua Angelo Sampaio 1785 , ☏ +55 41 3082-2464 . Batel. New York style lounge bar.  
• Sociedade Operária Beneficente 13 de Maio , Rua Desembargador Clotário Portugal, 274 , ☏ +55 41 9198-6607 , [email protected] . M 20:00 - 21:30; Tu 20:00 - 22:30; W 20:00 - 23:00; F 22:30 - 04:00; Sa 16:00 - 19:30, 23:00 - 05:00; Su 20:30 - 01:00 . Founded in 1888 by former slaves, the May 13th Worker's Benificent Society holds parties that display Afro-Brazilian culture, music and dance. R$10-30 . ( updated Dec 2017 )

The Homebrewer and Craft Beer movement in Brazil are very strong in Curitiba. If you like craft beer you could visit some of its breweries:

• [dead link] Bodebrown , Rua Carlos de Laet, 1015, Hauer , ☏ +55 41 3082-6354 . One of the most prized brazilian craft brewerie. Try Cacau IPA, Perigosa and Wee Heavy. ( updated Apr 2017 )
• Gauden Bier , Av. Manoel Ribas, 6995, Santa Felicidade , ☏ +55 41 3273-6666 . ( updated Apr 2017 )

Sleep [ edit ]

• Knock Knock Hostel , Rua Des. Isaías Bevilácqua 262, Mercês ( 10 minutes away by bus from downtown ), ☏ +55 41 3152 6259 , [email protected] . Breakfast included, fully-equipped kitchen at your disposal, free Wi-Fi, TV and DVD room (with home theatre), play room with acoustic guitar, table tennis, board games and books, barbeque area and terrace, luggage room, tourist info and advice, big and cozy rooms with individual lockers, bed sheets and blankets, PC with internet connection. 8 people R$45 .  
• [dead link] Formule 1 Curitiba , Rua Mariano Torres, 927 - Centro ( walking distance from the central bus/train station ), ☏ +55 41 3218-3838 , fax : +55 41 3218-3839 , [email protected] . Check-in: 12:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Formule 1 is the McDonald's or Ryanair of hotels, with spotless professionalism and good quality, although without charm. The rooms can accommodate 3 people but the price is the same regardless of how many are staying there. Breakfast costs extra. Triple R$65 .  
• [dead link] YHI Hostel Roma , Rua Barão do Rio Branco 805 ( In walking distance from the Rodoferroviaria, next to the old railway station. ), ☏ +55 41 3224-2117 . A simple, clean and quiet hostel near the city centre. The breakfast is a great buffet. Dorm R$22 for YHI members incl. breakfast .  
• [dead link] Hotel Promenade ( near the central bus station ). Modern hotel.  
• -25.442768 -49.281326 1 Four Points by Sheraton Curitiba , Av. Sete de Setembro 4211, Agua Verde , ☏ +55 41 3340-4000 . US$236-1,451 .  
• Hotel Deville Curitiba , Rua Comendador Araújo 99 , ☏ +55 41 3883-4777 , fax : +55 41 3883-4776 , [email protected] .  
• Pestana Curitiba Hotel , Rua Comendador Araújo 499 , ☏ +55 41 3017-9900 , fax : +55 41 3017-9901 , [email protected] .  
• Bourbon Curitiba Convention Hotel , Rua Cândido Lopes 102 - CEP: 80020-060 , ☏ +55 41 3221-4600 .  
• Radisson Hotel Curitiba , Avenida Sete de Setembro 5190 , ☏ +55 41 3351-2222 , toll-free: +1-800-967-9033 (US/Canada) , [email protected] .  

Stay safe [ edit ]

Curitiba has been known for many years as a safe city thanks to its low crime rate compared to Brazilian cities of a similar size, although it's been on the rise.

As in any big city, pedestrians must watch out the surroundings when walking on the streets, even during the daylight. Stay away, or move yourself fast and cautiously, from streets where there are few or no people in the sidewalks, especially around the Historical Center, anytime. Both residents and tourists should avoid rambling long distances after dusk. In spite of the fact that Curitibans are more reserved people compared to the average Brazilian, the lack of people in the streets at night reflects a general fear of thefts and assaults, as most people prefer to get around by car.

Crime involving tourists is generally non-violent and related to thefts and pickpocketing. It is recommended not to carry cameras and expensive cellphones with you when walking on the streets, specially at night. Such items may attract the attention of robbers and pickpocketers.

In general, neighborhoods are relatively safe, however caution should be exerted in the following (particularly, but not exclusively, at night):

• Surroundings of the Main Bus Terminal (Rodoferroviária); if you arrive late, take a taxi even if your hotel is close.
• Downtown squares - during the day are fairly safe, nonetheless, after 8PM, they are generally a hideaway to drug dealers and thefts - give preference to the streets on the edge of the squares instead of passing through them.
• Historical Center/Old City.
• Batel neighborhood - always exercise common sense.
• Rebouças and Prado Velho, neighborhoods within a distance of 2 km from the city center (southbound).

The neighborhoods on the south side of the city (Sitio Cercado, Fazendinha, Pinheiriho, Cidade Industrial, Tatuquara), are the poorest areas and so far the most dangerous places, albeit there are less or no attractions there to the regular tourist. Home of roughly 1/3 of the population, these places also host the majority of the city's shantytowns. More avoidable neighborhoods: Parolin (south side), Cajuru and Uberaba (east) and Campo Comprido and São Braz (west).

At night it is best to get around by taxi. The public transportation systems are almost entirely off after midnight. For more, see the section on transportation .

In general, a common-sense approach to personal safety is advised. Curitiba is a big city, and with it come the usual problems (poverty, homelessness, drugs, prostitution, etc.) Be cautious with your personal belongings, and avoid walking around empty areas by night.

Cope [ edit ]

Language [ edit ].

Portuguese is the primary language spoken by most curitibanos . Most people don't speak English beyond simple phrases.

Water [ edit ]

The quality of tap water in Curitiba is considered to be good quality and safe to drink (unless you are in an old building with outdated plumbing).

Consulates [ edit ]

Go next [ edit ].

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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

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.

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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Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Curitiba travel guide

Curitiba tourism | curitiba guide, you're going to love curitiba.

Curitiba has been named by Forbes as one of the smartest cities in the world. As the capital of the state of Paraná, Curitiba features plenty of sightseeing opportunities, infrastructure, and ample accommodation.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Curitiba

1. diverse cuisine.

The Santa Felicidade neighborhood boasts numerous restaurants such as King Temaki and Velho Madalosso serving German, Arab, Italian, French, Brazilian, or Indian food.

2. Peaceful Parks and Green Areas

Enjoy some memorable moments with your spouse or family in the German Woods or the Pope's Woods. Visit the Botanical Garden for a relaxing time.

3. Distinct Cultural Life

Exhibitions, theaters, shows, museums, and different celebrations are guaranteed to make your stay in Curitiba memorable. Participate in Festival de Curitiba in March or Feira do Largo da Ordem in August.

4. Captivating Scenery

Visit the Panoramic Tower and Tingüi Park for stunning views of this South American city.

5. Different Tour Options

You can take a train tour to Morretes, a guided bike tour, visit the charming historical Lapa, sip some wine at the wineries, or stop over at Guartelá Canyon.

What to do in Curitiba

1. jardim botânico de curitibaritiba: over 240,000 square meters of beauty.

The Botanical Garden of Curitiba is a massive garden that houses both educational and recreational landmarks, the most important of which is the Federal University of Parana. The garden is laid out in French garden style and contains fountains, waterfalls, lakes, and a massive greenhouse built in the art nouveau style. The museum boasts perhaps the world's best collection of the region's indigenous flora, as well as plants from the Atlantic Forests of eastern Brazil. The Botanical Museum is a must-see during your visit to the garden, as it houses the fourth-largest herbarium in all of Brazil. The grounds also features a lake, auditorium, library, and theater. You can easily spend hours exploring all that the garden has to offer.

2. Ópera de Arame: An Architectural Wonder

Perhaps one of the most beautiful opera house in the world, the Ópera de Arame, or the Wire Opera House, sits in the middle of a verdant city park, the crown jewel of a lush environment. Walk across the bridge to a building that seems as if it is made of lace and glass and enjoy a concert or theater performance next to a lake surrounded by greenery. Plan ahead so you can enjoy a show inside the opera house, as it is closed if nothing is on.

3. Museu Oscar Niemeyer: An Ode to the Arts

With a structure almost as spectacular as the Ópera de Arame, the Museum of Oscar Niemeyer is a modern structure of international significance. Its collection of uniquely designed buildings and postmodern artworks make it a must-see for any art aficionado. Those less interested in the developments of contemporary art will still be piqued by the imaginative and elegant works of Niemeyer, one of the most respected architects of the 20th century.

4. Torre Panorâmica: The Best Views in Town

The Torre Panorâmica offers what is surely the best view in all of Curitaba, standing well over 300 feet above the ground. While the tower was originally built for telecommunication purposes, it contains an observation deck at the top, the only telephone tower in Brazil to do so. The deck offers a 360-degree view of the city and is one of Curitaba's most visited sites.

5. Bosque Alemão: A Unique Forest Park

The Bosque Alemão, or German Wood, was built to honor the German immigrants who began to make Curitiba their home in the 19th century. The park offers a whimsical trail for visitors of all ages: the path of Hansel and Gretel. In the park center lies the mythical gingerbread candy house that is the centerpiece of the Brothers Grimm tale. On Saturday afternoon, an old lady in the house tells children German folk tales. The park spans over 38,000 square meters, and it offers a variety of colorful flowers in addition to the forests that give it is name. Access is free to all visitors.

Activities & attractions in Curitiba

Where to Eat in Curitiba

Expect to taste a variety of yummy dishes like feijoada, a black bean and pork stew and barreado, a meat stew cooked in a pot for 24 hours. To sample the various dishes, visit Ponto Quilo Grill restaurant for a buffet selection. Head to the Bouquet Garni to enjoy the all-you-can-eat vegetarian buffet. Churrascaria Arco Iris is a must-visit if you're a meat lover. You can get a dish for R$7 that consists of meat and an accompaniment or R$60 for traditional Indian or Japanese cuisine.

When to visit Curitiba

High season in Curitiba falls between November to March. During this period, you can expect cool weather and plenty of nearby travel spots. The only downside is that there will traffic jams, crowds, and less accommodation.

How to Get to Curitiba

Visitors arrive in Curitiba through Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB), which is 10.6 miles from Curitiba's city center. You can get into town using a regular bus, which runs every 20 minutes on weekdays. The Airport Shuttle leaves every 30 minutes and is quicker than city buses.

A scenic train route runs from Paranaguá to Curitiba.

Use BR-115 South if coming from Sao Paulo. Take BR-116 from Porto Alegre and BR-1-1 from Florianópolis.

Curitiba is served by three terminals that connect the city with many places in Brazil, as well as locations in Chile, Paraguay, and Argentina.

Airports near Curitiba

Airlines serving curitiba, where to stay in curitiba.

If you're on a budget, you can opt for Formule 1 or the YHI Hostel Roma, both offering spotless professionalism and good quality. If you have some dough to spend, Pestana Curitiba Hotel and Hotel Deville Curitiba are excellent options.

Popular Neighborhoods in Curitiba

Alto da XV - Alto da XV is easily accessible from Curitiba downtown. Head to popular eateries like Allegrini and Senhor Garibaldi for sumptuous meals.

Cabral - Cabral is very close to Curitiba's civic center and can be easily accessed by taking a bus. From there, you can explore the whole city.

Juveve - Juveve is very close to Curitiba's downtown, and features many restaurants and bars. Head to one of the many pastry shops or enjoy lunch at Mangiare Felice.

Where to stay in popular areas of Curitiba

Most booked hotels in curitiba, how to get around curitiba, public transportation.

Different buses all serve a particular function. You can find a bus that serves more than 20 attractions; tickets start at R$35. Direct lines, express buses, and the tourism line are some of the buses that run within the city.

Taxi services are readily available throughout town. The initial fare should cost you R$44.60, with a per mile charge of R$2.30 from 6 am to 8 pm (more at night).

While you can choose to drive around, Curitiba can be quite hectic and it's advisable to use public transport or call for a taxi. You can rent a car for R$10 a day for an economy car.

The Cost of Living in Curitiba

Shopping streets.

With thousands of shops from well-known brands, malls, and local shopping centers, you're guaranteed to have fun. Check out Largo da Ordem Market, Park Shopping Barigüi, and Shopping Mueller all in or near Curitiba.

Groceries and Other

Curitiba has a Mercado Municipal where you can find food and horticultural products at a fair price. The local farmers market also features a variety of freshly produced vegetables and eggs at R$8 per dozen.

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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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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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If you are a lucky person and  you are going to  Curitiba , you should know that there are many things to do in the city. To be honest, it is even a little bit unfair to limit it to a certain number of places to visit in Curitiba. Today we will share our personal choices of attractions in the city but keep one’s eye on our blog because we will be sharing more places to visit there in the future.

Check out where to visit in curitiba:.

Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden)

This beautiful park is located at a neighborhood with the same name in Curitiba. It was created in the 90’s and it was inspired by French gardens, fountains, waterfalls and lakes. Its greenhouse was inspired by the London’s Crystal Palace and it is a postcard of the city which has 458 square meters and contains thousands of plants. In 2007 the Botanical Garden was the most voted place in an online election to choose the “7 Wonders of Brazil”. Yearly, millions of people visit the place. The best part: the park has plenty of locals, jogging, walking, having a picnic with friends and a lot of babies and brides on their photo shoots. It’s definitely a place not only to visit in Curitiba, but also to love in Curitiba.

Rua XV de Novembro (Street 15th of November)

This is one the biggest streets in the city. Located in downtown and also known as Rua das Flores (Flower’s street), it is one of the first major pedestrian streets in Brazil. There are many shops, restaurants, commercial buildings and street vendors over there. One of the highlights of this street is that you can find pretty much every kind of artistic performances such as mimes, musicians, magicians and clowns. If you like diversity, good coffee shops and shopping, it is one of the best places to visit in Curitiba.

Museu Oscar Niemeyer (Oscar Niemeyer Museum)

Commonly known as “Museu do Olho” (eye’s museum) this place was deisgned by the worldwide famous architect Oscar Niemeyer and it houses many of his works. The Atlas Obscura wrote a great definition of its architecture: ” The Museu Oscar Niemeyer is precariously perched on a massive yellow 60-foot pillar. Impossibly balanced, the museum stares like a bright Cyclops out over a calm reflecting pool, greeting visitors, and daring them to circle their way into the Brazilian gallery.” For architecture lovers this is the place to go and to fall in love!

Ópera de arame (Wire Opera House)

Designed by the Brazilian architect Domingos Bongestabs, the place is a massive structured built in steel and covered with a transparent material that gives it an unique visual. To enter the place, you will need to cross a bridge over a lake (watch out if you are wearing high heels). The Opera de Arame is surrounded by waterfalls and vegetation that once were a quarry.

Praça Tiradentes (Tiradentes Square)

Located in Downtown close to Rua XV de Novembro this square is full of restaurants, shops, street vendors and buses. It is a nice place to take a walk during the day to get to know more about the historical center of Curitiba. The squares contains one Cathedral that was built in 1893  and it’s a historical birth  and heart just like a marker of the geodesic center of the city.

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Green Mochila

Budget Backpacking in South America

🇧🇷 A Visit to Curitiba, the Most European City in Brazil

Koo-ree-tchee-ba. It might sound like the Indigenous name of a wild bird species, but it’s not. Curitiba, the 8th largest city in Brazil, is as modern as it gets. If you’re working your way overland through the South of the country, chances are that you saw the name of Curitiba on the map. If nobody ever mentioned it to you, we wouldn’t be surprised – but they’re wrong. The capital city of the Paraná region is not a widely-visited tourist destination, but a relaxed one and damn interesting. This city grew close to my heart for a number of reasons that I want to tell you in the next 3000 words. Let’s see if I convince you to visit Curitiba during your trip through the bundle of wonders that is Brazil.

It was raining most of the time during our visit to Curitiba, more than anywhere else in Brazil. So much so, that we hardly took any picture. We want to thank all the photographers whose photos we’re using for this post.

Jump to: What to do in Curitiba   |  Day trips from Curitiba Sustainable city: Architecture   |  Sustainability   |  Transportation   |  Green city Practical tips: How to go   |  When to go

“Freshly” arrived after our long night bus from Rio, we crossed a Curitiba that was quiet in the early morning. Let’s be honest: we were here only as a pit-stop on our way to Iguaçu – but ready to be surprised.

We walked to our hosts’ place in the centre, a mere 20-minute straight walk from the bus station. On the way, the market hall was just opening its doors, but we promised to come back later. Jacques and Gloria were waiting for us with a full breakfast…

So, why visit Curitiba

Have you been to Rio de Janeiro, Belem or Salvador de Bahía yet? If so, you’ve already taken a habit of not walking down the streets in the evening; using instead apps like Uber or 99, if you could get the WiFi, that is. We know that those places can be dangerous after dark, especially (but not only) if you look like a tourist.

Well, there’s nothing of the sort in Curitiba. The city, or at least the whole centre, is completely safe to stroll at night. We were also back to paying peanuts for food after some more inflated prices elsewhere. That was a super nice change after Rio!

Don’t get us wrong: we loved Rio and we tell you why here .

If you are or will be backpacking in Brazil for a bit, I’m sure you’ll understand what I mean. To feel no pressure from crime or high prices makes one’s mind free and rested. And that is the serenity we got in Curitiba.

With our free and rested mind, we discovered other reasons to visit Curitiba, Brazil:

• Interesting, modern architecture , especially by Oscar Niemeyer, the guy who co-created Brasília
• Many parks , making Curitiba nothing less than “the greenest city on Earth”
• Award-winning sustainability projects , including Brazil’s most modern public transport system, fair housing projects and waste management

Best hotels and hostels to stay in Curitiba

Disclaimer: this section about Curitiba accommodation contains affiliate links. We’re not selling anything ourselves – we just help hotels and hostels we find great. If you click one of them and decide to book, it’ll be at no extra cost to you; and we’ll get a trifle that’ll help us bring you more awesome travel guides.

Curitiba is quite an affordable city to stay at, and there are a few hotels and hostels – for every budget – that are definitely worth our money.

Budget options

Social Hostel Café e Bar : rated at 9.3 on Booking, it’s a funky and comfortable hostel, with amazing wall paints and its own bar! They also offer breakfast, and a bike rental on-site.

Garibaldi Hostel e Café : rated at 9.0 on Booking, it’s a comfortable, down-to-earth hostel right downtown (Centro Civico). They have free wifi, a breakfast option, plenty of lounging areas, and even a barbecue! Room sizes are varied, there’s also room size for families.

Mid-range options

Hotel Moov Curitiba : rated at 9.6 on Booking, this sustainable hotel has a contemporary design and the ample rooms also include bathrooms. There are rooms with disability access. Breakfast and buffet are available in the hotel.

Hotel San Juan Johnscher : rated at 9.0 on Booking, this sustainable and refurbished hotel is housed in a beautiful classical-style building dating back to 1917. It’s right in the Centro (center) district, close to many attractions. Reservations include breakfast for free, and guests can chill in the on-site restaurant or bar, or hang out in the fitness center.

High-end options

QOYA Hotel Curitiba, Curio Collection by Hilton : rated 9.2 on Booking, this top hotel belongs to the Hilton group, with level 2 in sustainability, and chic design. The rooms have a city view, breakfast package can be booked with the reservation. The hotel has a long list of facilities, our favorites are the swimming pool, sauna, and fitness center.

Nomaa Hotel : rated at 9.5 on Booking, this classy hotel is a prominent building in the upscale Batel district. Each room is carefully decorated and even Egyptian cotton sheets are available! The lounge, the 24-hours fitness center, and the spa provide great options to chill out after city visits.

Places to visit in Curitiba and things to do

The attractions in Curitiba aren’t as spread out as in other Brazilian cities; so you can just gently stroll on your sightseeing from one to the other. That way, you’ll definitely have time to sit down at a pastelaria (patisserie) and enjoy a slice of bolo (cake). Or two!

We think it’s good if you spend 3 days in Curitiba ; and divide your time between doing fun things in different parts of town:

• Centro & Botanical Gardens
• Centro Cívico
• Northern districts: São Lourenço, Abranches, Taboão, Pilarzinho

Things to do in Curitiba Centro

We were really surprised by Curitiba, in more than one way. There’s enough life on the streets and the squares, but it’s not bursting at the seams; you would hardly guess this is a 2 million-people metropolis. We would have that feeling again in Porto Alegre , although that is palpably smaller.

The centre is the part where you’ll find most hotels and hostels for every budget. On our evening stroll back from a free movie projection, we saw many youngsters sitting and drinking on the street. We went for a craft beer in one of the many bars not far from the flower clock.

Have a stroll in Centro

We recommend you start your Curitiba sightseeing walk from the main square, Praça Tiradentes , maybe with a glance at the basilica.

Check out the Ground Zero landmark before heading towards the Memorial de Curitiba . Continue to the Red House, Casa Romário Martins (which is the oldest house in Curitiba) and Paço da Liberdade . Photos about Curitiba often feature this iconic building, which is the old town hall. Visits are free from Tuesday to Friday. Then head further to the surprising Arabic monument ( Memorial Árabe ) on Praça Gibran Khalil . 

OR just follow your nose and your curiosity. Look at the names of the buildings, the weird public art. Follow the crowd on one of the walking streets, like Rua 15 de Novembro . On weekends, Praça da Espanha is buzzing with an antiques fair.

One of the most interesting things we did is tracing back buildings and landmarks to Curitiba’s European origins. We do have peculiar interests. It took us on a stroll downtown with our Couchsurfing host. Jacques is French but has lived in Curitiba many years and was passionate about the city and its history. 

Chill in parks

One of our 2 favourite parks on our own Curitiba sightseeing tour was Passeio Público . It’s a family-friendly green oasis showcasing peacocks, flamingos and other animals. You can check out the local parrots in every colour of the rainbow and even more.

The other park where we liked to chill (when it wasn’t raining) is Praça Osório at the end of the main avenue, XV de Novembro . At the time, there was a food market with culinary specialities from different Brazilian regions, such as acarajé from Bahía.

By the way, are you a foodie? Learn about acarajé and my other Brazilian favourite foods

Alternatively, wander further west to Parque Barigui , a good place to sight exotic birds and the ever-so-sweet capybaras.

Admire the Batel district and the Castelo do Batel

The look of this palace was inspired by the Loire castles in France and was built in 1922. It’s located in a chic central neighbourhood of Curitiba called Batel .

It’s an events venue, and we don’t think you can visit inside; or at least we didn’t find a way to sneak in. But you can at least admire the facade and wonder how a piece of the French countryside got teleported here.

Together with Santa Felicidade district, it’s known as Curitiba’s restaurants quarter . As you’ll quickly see, there’s a strong Italian flair around; and the Italian Woods ( Bosque Italiano ) host many gastronomical festivals.

Explore the Botanical Garden

The Jardim Botânico is a pretty cool place to visit. Especially in warm weather when you can marvel at the native flora from grass level, that is sitting down. And if we add the metal Art Nouveau style building that houses a beautiful French garden , it’s an absolute must!

There’s a 200-meter trail within the botanical garden, where you can learn and sense native plants and natural landscapes (which, in Brazil, is of course fascinating!). You can reach the gardens with a short walk from downtown, they’re open 6 am-7:30 pm.

Climb up the Panoramic Tower

The city of Curitiba is desperately flat. That’s good news for those who like the walk but not for those who prefer the view. Fortunately, they’ve built a glass telecom tower that’s open to the public for a 360 degrees view of the city. Clever!

Closed on Mondays, it costs RS 6 to go in.

Things to do in Curitiba – Centro Cívico

This district, north of the centre, is the city’s administrative area. It’s full of beautiful architecture scattered in a quiet environment, with a great art museum and even a small wood.

Stroll along the quiet avenues

Admire the modern buildings gathered in this part of town. There are several palaces, squares and public artworks that could well captivate you for a few minutes (each). There aren’t many places where to grab food from, so bring your pão de queijo with you.

We didn’t visit the Holocaust Museum because, well, we live in Berlin, Germany. We regularly learn first-hand about the Holocaust, that horrendous period of time that should never be forgotten and never revered. This one seems to require a reservation to visit but is free. Closed on Thursdays and Saturdays.

Visit the Oscar Niemeyer Museum

My number one attraction in Curitiba –that you must include in your sightseeing– is an interesting contemporary art museum that we visited on a Wednesday. Why on a Wednesday? Because on Wednesdays it’s free to visit, that’s why. #BudgetTravellersForLife

It’s called Museu Oscar Niemeyer (site in Portuguese) and abbreviated as MON. It exhibits the most important Brazilian contemporary artists (many of them women, I was happy to notice) and international artists; an Asian collection was also on display when we were there.

Considering that it’s a regional museum, I found the exhibitions quite impressive, and the guiding commentary to the Asian museum eye-opening.

The building itself is called “The eye” ( o olho ) and is an attraction already; it was constructed by Oscar Niemeyer , one of the 3 guys who built Brasília from scratch in the 1960’s. This museum is among his most famous buildings, and we can see why. It’s definitely one of the most fun things to do in Curitiba.

What to visit in the northern districts of Curitiba

The northern part is the green lung of the city, with parks full of flora and fauna, so it’s among the most relaxing things to do in Curitiba. It’s really cosy, for a fresh stroll and a picnic, away from the cement and stones of the centre. 

Tingui Park

This long park with a weird gut shape takes its name from a native tribe that lived in the region. It’s part of a project to create a linear park all along River Barigui, connecting Tanguá Park to Barigui Park. There are sweet little capybaras roaming about.

If you are further interested in the European roots of Curitiba, visit the Ukrainian Memorial ; it features a replica of a Ukrainian traditional house made of wood, some 11,500 km (7,150 mi) away from Ukraine. It’s this one:

Parque Tanguá

We don’t know if it’s possible to walk along the river from one park to the other; but otherwise, it’s just a 50-min walk, from the district of Pilarzinho to Taboão . For us, this kind of park-hopping ranks among the best things to do in Curitiba Brazil.

Tanguá Park offers a circular walk around a lake, with a lookout over the greenery and even a modest waterfall. Is it lunch time already? There’s a restaurant inside.

Wire Opera House or Ópera de Arame

This functioning opera house is a round glass building in front of the Parque das Pedreiras , district of Abranches . Built in 1992 by Domingos Bongestabs, it’s a rather intimate space, with only 1000 seats, literally surrounded by the green vegetation outside. Due to the environment, I think this is one of the best things to do in Curitiba.

Visit it for free from Tuesday to Sunday and once there, don’t forget to look up and marvel at the glass ceiling. Or if you’d like to watch a show, check here the program . 

Parque São Lourenço

This nearby park is yet another green area surrounding a lake; we told you that Curitiba is the world’s greenest city, do you believe us now?

It might not be as clean and pretty as the other parks; but it’s still a cool spot for a bit of outdoor running.

Bacacheri Park

A bit more to the east, in the Bacacheri district , lies the park of the same name. It’s yet another verdant city park encircling a lake. In case you didn’t have enough yet.

There’s also an Egyptian Museum nearby, with mostly replicas of Ancient Egyptian works. It’s probably splendid if you’ve never been to Egypt (or to a real archaeological museum).

Day trips from Curitiba

If you decide to spend a bit more time in the region, here’s what could tickle your interest:

Represa do Passaúna

A wide artificial lake to the west of Curitiba, about half an hour from the city centre. It’s the perfect green getaway if you happen to stay longer around. Canoe through, bike around, or just have a walk and watch the birds.

A small town filled to the brim with stunning historic buildings. It’s small, cute and quiet, and the Nhundiaquara River that flows through makes it seem even more peaceful. There’s not much of a bustle in Curitiba, but if that’s already too much for you, head to Morretes.

Take a scenic train ride

The Curitiba-Paranaguá train, also known as Serra Verde Express , is one of the most scenic you can take in Brazil. The old fellow rak-a-tak-taks on a pair of rusty rails through a lush forest, for a 1-hour exotic ride.

Let’s be frank: it’s a touristy attraction that matches perfectly with tours to Ilha do Mel . It can be pricey so no harm in taking the bus back to Curitiba after your visit of the coast.

Day trips to the Atlantic forest

The Atlantic Forest is a unique ecosystem that stretches from the coast of Brazil, inland until the north of Argentina. You will see it around Iguaçu Falls; but the state of Paraná offers several conservation areas that are perfect for day trips from Curitiba.

The most accessible part is the Guaricana National Park , a small hilly forest paradise. Trails aren’t always easy to follow and the information at the entrance is nonexistent; but with a good offline map, you’re good to go. The lack of information in protected areas is a direct consequence of the lack of governmental interest. #EleNão

The completely off-the-beaten-track Superagui National Park includes a stretch of coastal forest and a set of islands inhabited by fishermen. It’s a very authentic place with little infrastructure, that gets awfully hot in the summer (November-December).

Try and get a fisherman to show you around and bring you from island to island. It’s part of the Guaraqueçaba Environmental Protection Area which protects the only 15% that remain of the Atlantic Forest.

Ilha do Mel (Honey Island) is also a sweet location, more often visited than the previous ones, especially by national visitors.

Curitiba population: the melting pot of Brazil

Besides the usual Brazilian rainbow of white, mulatto and black people that you probably encountered in other cities, Curitiba also gathers a large population of Italian, German, Ukrainian, Polish etc. descent. In fact, the city was founded by expats in the 17th century. Not quite digital nomads back then, but let’s say their forefathers.

In general, as you travel in Brazil from north to south, you’ll notice more European features on the people’s faces. This melting pot, that is also alive in the names of places in Curitiba, was a real surprise to us. The German Woods, the Italian Woods or the Ukrainian Memorial, are more than names. They represent the communities that built the region and made it what it is today.

The architecture of downtown reflects this history with many colonial buildings – which are remarkable already; but the 20th century changed the face of Curitiba’s urban landscape. And that’s where the real value of the city lies.

The architecture of Curitiba: an example in Brazil

Unfortunately, I don’t know as much about architecture as I’d like to, but Curitiba’s buildings amazed me. As we walked downtown, we saw an eclectic mix of buildings from different styles, such as colonial, indigenous or oriental. Many of the modern buildings were built as part of the urban planning project the city launched in 1968. More about this feat in a minute.

The city centre has a really nice walking area. In general, the buildings are rather low and Curitiba has a small-town feel ; that’s despite being the capital city of a region that is almost as large as Great Britain. Everything takes a new proportion in Brazil, the 5th largest country in the world.

Sustainability in Curitiba

We urban dwellers often complain about the living conditions in the city. We moan about the air pollution, the noise pollution, and that our mayors don’t do enough to improve everything. We’re right to complain, and there are more and more projects going in that direction; it gives hope for a more liveable future in the city. Well, hear hear, ladies and gentlemen: Curitiba already did it!

In 1968, the local government accepted the master plan that would transform the city. It drastically improved the quality of life of the residents and put Curitiba on travellers’ radar by changing its image.

While the 1960’s saw Curitiba as a polluted and overpopulated city due to mass migration from rural areas, nowadays it has a sustainable transportation system , numerous parks and green areas and a more ecological city centre with exemplary waste management and housing projects. Now what about that, [ insert your city’s name here ]?

It comes as no surprise that Curitiba is nicknamed the Model City (“ Cidade modelo “), or the Green City (“ Cidade verde “). It even has a tree on its emblem. But I prefer the name it officially gives itself: A Cidade da Gente (“The people’s city” or “Our city”).

Read more from the UN about Curitiba urban planning

Transportation in Curitiba

Although it’s perfectly possible to cross downtown by foot, reaching areas further away needs transportation. In Curitiba it takes the shape of an efficient Bus Rapid Transit system. It sounds like a medicine to help your digestion; it’s actually a network of looong buses with their own, exclusive bus lanes and metro-like stations.

We took the bus a few times in Curitiba (when it was raining too hard) and had a great experience; it was not overcrowded, and it was fast and frequent enough. When you hear tales of commuters sitting hours in traffic jams in Rio or São Paulo, you’ve got to love Curitiba!

I liked the architecture of the stations too, they kind of look like a futuristic suppository; that’s probably where the transit system took its name from. In any case, they fit to the modern image of the city. Look:

The green city

If you’ve been on Green Mochila more than the average 96 seconds a reader spends on a blog post, you know that Anthony and I are really into waste reduction.

So we were happy to learn that 70% of Curitibanos actively recycle and the collected material does get reused! This is a big deal when you see that recycling in other parts of Brazil –and, for that matter, in South America– is basically non-existent.

Curitiba has been nominated the greenest city on Earth ; and the “green” is literally brought to the population at a whooping 52 square meters of green space per capita .

So expect to see a lot of parks on your visit to urban Curitiba in Brazil, some of them even called “woods” . The German Woods ( Bosque Alemão ) is in the northern Pilarzinho district; the Italian Woods ( Bosque Italiano ) is in Santa Felicidade; while the John Paul II Woods ( Bosque João Paulo II ) is next to the Oscar Niemeyer Museum, in Centro Cívico .

How to get to Curitiba

Curitiba is in the state of Paraná in southern Brazil, and we found it a perfect stopover before Iguaçu Falls.

Well, you know… the Iguaçu Falls .

There’s an airport 18 km outside of the centre, with both a shuttle and city buses doing the route regularly. But, hold on, are you coming here by plane?

The bus station is at walking distance from the centre, close to the market. There are frequent direct buses from and to Rio, São Paulo, Foz do Iguaçu, Florianópolis and Porto Alegre.

Curitiba weather – When to go?

Because the city is sitting on a plateau, the climate is generally mild and wet (we got the experience first-hand). We say ‘mild’, we could even say ‘chilly’; especially if you’re already used to the warmth in the rest of the country and have thrown away your jumpers.

It’s warmer in January (16-26ºC / 61-79ºF) but there’s also more rain; while in the Winter (June-September), temperatures go down until 8-19ºC (46-66ºF) but it’s less likely to rain.

Curitiba is not a victim of over-tourism, so there’s no better time to visit in that respect.

So, in short: is Curitiba worth a visit?

Although the city is not comparable with tourist magnets like Rio de Janeiro or locals’ favourite Florianópolis and its beaches, the cultural traveller will definitely enjoy a visit to Curitiba.

It’s safe, which is not a detail in Brazil. It’s also a great halt to relax after the hubbub of more tumultuous cities. You can visit it in a relaxed pace and can be a witness of a sustainability success story! For me, I could fully appreciate Curitiba knowing the immense urban master plan behind it.

The one dark side of Curitiba

I need to tell you about something absolutely outrageous that happened during our visit to Curitiba. I wish I could find the words to explain how disgraceful it was. In fact, I am still in a state of shock just thinking about it.

In the Estação shopping centre, where we went to buy a travel lunch box, I was happy to find kürtőskalács , known as the chimney cake – my favourite Hungarian sweet. Except that they were selling it as a Romanian delicacy, the fools! Of course I couldn’t walk by without a word. Some things are just too important to ignore.

Which city do you think has the most interesting architecture? Do you look more at modern or ancient buildings? Give us your opinion in the comments!

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Anna and Anthony are long-time travellers, polyglots and all-kinds-of-art-lovers. They write about eco travels, nature hikes and cultural discoveries, mainly in South America, on the budget travel blog Green Mochila.

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Really enjoyed this comprehensive guide to Curitiba! It’s great that it’s such a green city. Certainly something I wish more cities would think about! Pinned it for when I finally get to South America!

I’m glad you enjoyed reading about Curitiba. We didn’t really know what to expect and the weather was terrible, but it’s a worthy place to explore. I hope you’ll make it to South America soon! It’s such an amazing continent 🙂 And you know where to turn for resources!

What a dreamy place ! Thanks for the trip !

I’m from Curitiba, was missing it today and found your great text. Nest time you go there, there’s Santa Felicidade district with colonial Italian food (very different from tradicional Italian restaurantes). 🌻

Olá Thais! We’re glad our post could revive some memories of your city. It’s a very special place, we loved it there (despite the rain). Thanks for the recommendation, we’ll check it out during our next visit of Curitiba.

In the dark side park, I thought u were robbed. Thank God it was an error. Anyway, I lived 14 years there and have lots of good memories. Hope more tourist visit this city! 😎👍

Hungarians are very touchy when it comes to their food, haha! We agree with you Bruno, Curitiba deserves more national and international visitors. Thanks for stopping by!

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