Things To Do
in Castro

Castro is a charming city located in the state of Paraná, Brazil, known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. Nestled in the Campos Gerais region, it offers a mix of urban life and natural beauty, with lush green hills and picturesque views. The city is famous for its agricultural production, especially dairy, and hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year.

Visitors can experience local traditions, explore stunning parks, and savor delicious regional cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Castro's Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic downtown area, where you can explore the beautiful architecture and visit the Church of St. John the Baptist.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café, then head to the Castro Historical Museum to learn about the city’s rich heritage and cultural significance.

evening
:

End your day with a stroll through the Parque Lacustre, where you can relax by the lake and enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your morning with a hike in the Parque Nacional dos Campos Gerais, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and diverse flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch in the park, then visit the local artisan market to shop for handmade crafts and regional products.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Brazilian steakhouse and experience the local flavors, followed by a visit to a nearby bar for live music and entertainment.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🚍Local bus fare$1
🏨Night in a hotel$50
🍺Beer at a bar$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigado" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Castro

Visit one of these nice places.

Parque Lacustre

A scenic park with a beautiful lake, perfect for capturing nature and sunset photos.

Castro Historical Museum

The museum's architecture and surrounding gardens provide excellent photo opportunities.

Pico do Marumbi

A nearby mountain offering panoramic views of the region, ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Castro

Castro boasts a delightful culinary scene that reflects its agricultural roots and local traditions. The city is famous for its dairy products, especially cheese and yogurt, as well as various delicious meats.

Castro Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pão de Queijo

Cheese bread made from tapioca flour and cheese, a popular snack in Brazil.

Must-Try!

Barreado

A traditional meat stew cooked in a clay pot with spices, often served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira do Produtor

A weekly farmers' market where locals sell fresh produce, dairy products, and homemade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Castro has a temperate climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer. Rain is common, especially during the summer months, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella. The region enjoys a fair amount of sunshine, making it suitable for outdoor activities year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a kiss on the cheek is common when meeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal.

Respect for Traditions

Be respectful when discussing local customs and traditions; they are significant to the community.

Safety Guide

Safety

Castro is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 190, and it's recommended to stay updated on local safety information.

Tipping in Castro

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants; however, check if service is included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (September - November)

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer (December - February)

Warm weather; expect occasional rain; perfect for exploring parks and lakes.

Autumn (March - May)

Cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage; great for hiking.

Winter (June - August)

Chilly temperatures; ideal for cozy indoor activities and enjoying local cuisine.

Nightlife Guide

Castro at Night

Castro's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of bars, live music venues, and dance clubs. You can find places featuring traditional Brazilian music, as well as contemporary live bands. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to socialize with locals.

Hiking in Castro

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Pico do Marumbi

A challenging hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Trilha da Gruta do Lago Azul

An easier trail leading to a beautiful cave with a striking blue lake inside.

Airports

How to reach Castro by plane.

Aeroporto Municipal de Castro

A small airport located just outside the city, providing limited domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Castro is a walkable city, particularly in the downtown area where most attractions are located. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and many parks and shops are accessible on foot. However, for exploring regions outside the city center, a vehicle may be necessary.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Portuguese Descendants

Many residents are of Portuguese descent, contributing to the cultural landscape.

Indigenous Communities

Some indigenous groups inhabit the surrounding areas, maintaining their customs and traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in the region, with many local teams and vibrant fan culture.

Volleyball

Volleyball is widely played and enjoyed, both recreationally and competitively.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Castro is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect various parts of the city, but services may be limited during off-peak hours. Biking is also a popular way to get around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Castro.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available, but it's best to inform the restaurant in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Castro is accessible, with public and private facilities available. Emergency services are responsive, and pharmacies are well-stocked. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance and to be aware of the location of the nearest hospital.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide