Things To Do
in Colombo
Colombo is a small city in Paraná, Brazil, just west of Curitiba, renowned for its leafy neighborhoods and strong agricultural heritage. The town blends rural charm with modern amenities, offering a calm base for exploring the surrounding Atlantic Forest and nearby lakes. Its architecture mixes colonial influences with contemporary Brazilian design, and markets showcase regional produce and crafts.
Visitors experience warm southern hospitality while enjoying quiet parks, family-run eateries, and laid-back street life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Colombo City Museum, where you can delve into the local history and culture through fascinating exhibits. After absorbing the past, take a stroll through the nearby Parque da Grama to enjoy some fresh air and the vibrant greenery. End the morning with a traditional Brazilian breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh fruit juices and pão de queijo.
In the afternoon, head to the bustling Mercado Municipal, where you can explore a variety of local stalls offering artisanal foods and crafts. Don’t miss out on trying a pastel, a local snack that’s sure to delight your taste buds. As you wander through the market, interact with friendly vendors and take in the lively atmosphere.
As the sun sets, visit the charming Bairro do Rosário, known for its colonial architecture and quaint streets. Dine at a local restaurant, sampling delicious Brazilian dishes like feijoada while enjoying live music performances. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the area, soaking in the night lights and ambiance.
Awake early and venture to the mesmerizing Parque Municipal das Águas, where you can enjoy a refreshing hike surrounded by nature's beauty. Look out for local wildlife as you explore trails that wind through lush vegetation. Find a quiet spot to relax and appreciate the sounds of birds and rustling leaves.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park, taking in the scenic views that surround you. Afterward, consider a leisurely boat ride on the park’s lake, where you can view flora and fauna from a unique perspective. This tranquil setting is perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.
Return to the city and explore the vibrant neighborhood of Jardim Botânico, known for its botanical gardens. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped designs, taking time to observe the variety of exotic plants. Wrap up your evening at a nearby café that specializes in local desserts, treating yourself to a delightfully sweet end to the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥪Lunch for one in a mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🧃Coffee or drink | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Night in a mid-range hotel | $60-100 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, scenic locale with easy access to Curitiba and natural areas
- Friendly locals and affordable, hearty Paraná cuisine
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some services may be slower in smaller establishments
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o [lugar]?" - Where is the [place]?
Places to Visit in Colombo
Visit one of these nice places.
Lakes, tree-lined paths, and colorful landscaping provide serene morning and golden hour photography opportunities.
A historic church with colonial-inspired architecture perfect for classic architectural shots at dusk.
Tree-lined avenue featuring araucaria pines and street life, great for wide-angle street photography.
Food in Colombo
Colombo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked beef dish traditionally served with farofa and bananas; best found in regional taverns and some local restaurants.
Must-Try!
Creamy, soft polenta often paired with cheese or a tomato-based sauce and local meats.
South Brazilian style grilled meats, commonly enjoyed with rice, beans, and salad.
Brazilian cheese bread—perfect for mornings or as a snack with coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, breads, and prepared street snacks.
Weekly street market where you can sample snacks, fruit smoothies, pastel-like pastries, and regional treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings in Portuguese such as 'Bom dia' (good day) and 'Oi/Olá' are common. A handshake or two-cheek kiss is typical among acquaintances in social settings.
Be friendly and patient; Brazilians value warmth and small talk. Avoid discussing sensitive topics in initial encounters.
Safety
Tipping in Colombo
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; a 5-10% tip in restaurants is appreciated if service is good. Tipping bus and taxi drivers is not common but appreciated for outstanding service.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in restaurants and shops. Mobile wallets like PicPay or MercadoPago are increasingly used in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with regular afternoon showers. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a compact umbrella; evenings are cooler near the rivers.
Mild temperatures with comfortable humidity. Great for outdoor walks and photography without the heat.
Cool to mild temperatures; occasional chilly mornings. Layered clothing is helpful, and indoor activities are common in the evenings.
Pleasant and increasingly vibrant with blooming plants; ideal for parks and markets.
Colombo at Night
Hiking in Colombo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trail with native araucaria trees and scenic viewpoints suitable for day hikes.
Waterfall trail featuring shaded paths and photo-worthy cascades a short drive from town.
Ridge trail with expansive views toward Curitiba and surrounding valleys, ideal for sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Colombo by plane.
Located near Curitiba, this is the primary international and regional gateway for the region. Ground transportation to Colombo takes about 1-1.5 hours by car or bus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Brazilian nationals with a mix of rural and urban communities; European heritage influences are present in some neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national sport in Brazil; local leagues and informal play are common in parks and clubs.
Popular in schools and community centers; often played in beach-style courts or gymnasiums.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colombo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer bean-based dishes, rice, vegetables, and polenta; ask for barreado without meat or opt for vegetarian stews and salads. When in doubt, request local sides like farofa and plant-based sauces.