Things To Do
in Curitiba

Curitiba, Brazil, is a vibrant city known for its innovative urban planning and rich cultural heritage. It is often regarded as one of the most environmentally sustainable cities in the world, with extensive green spaces and efficient public transport systems. The city boasts a diverse population, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and cultural events.

Visitors can explore a mix of modernity and tradition, from historic neighborhoods to contemporary art installations.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Botanical Garden, where you can stroll through beautiful gardens and the iconic greenhouse.

afternoon
:

Head to the Oscar Niemeyer Museum to admire contemporary art and architecture, then enjoy lunch at a local café.

evening
:

Conclude your day at the historic Largo da Ordem, where you can enjoy live music and local crafts.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Parque Barigui for a morning walk and enjoy the lakeside views and local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Explore the Italian neighborhood of Santa Felicidade, trying local wines and Italian cuisine for lunch.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife at a local bar or live music venue in the Batel district.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🚍Public transport ticket$1
🍺Local beer$3
🛒Grocery shopping (weekly)$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage
  • Green parks and sustainable urban environment
  • Excellent public transportation system
  • Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers
  • Weather can be unpredictable
  • Some areas may lack nightlife options
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you (male/female)
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Curitiba

Visit one of these nice places.

Botanical Garden

Capture stunning images of the iconic greenhouse and beautifully landscaped gardens.

Oscar Niemeyer Museum

The unique architecture of the museum provides striking photo opportunities against the urban backdrop.

Largo da Ordem

The historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere make this a perfect spot for capturing cultural moments.

Culinary Guide

Food in Curitiba

Curitiba’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Brazilian flavors and international influences, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Curitiba Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Barreado

A traditional dish made with beef, cooked slowly with spices and served with rice and banana.

Must-Try!

Pão com Mortadela

A popular street food snack consisting of a large sandwich filled with mortadella and cheese.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Feira do Largo da Ordem

A vibrant market held on Sundays, featuring local produce, handicrafts, and delicious street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Curitiba has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by distinct seasons. The summers (December to February) are warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F). Winters (June to August) are mild with cooler temperatures, averaging 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with the heaviest occurring in summer months. Spring and fall are transitional, offering pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common when meeting someone, and it’s polite to greet with 'Bom dia' (Good morning).

Personal Space

Brazilians value personal space, so maintain a comfortable distance while conversing.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to invite you to start eating, and keep your hands on the table, but not your elbows.

Safety Guide

Safety

Curitiba is generally considered safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take common precautions. Avoid displaying valuable items in public and be cautious in less crowded areas, especially at night. Use reputable transportation services and stay informed about local safety advisories.

Tipping in Curitiba

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, though it is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for street vendors and small shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Expect warm temperatures and occasional rain. It's perfect for outdoor festivals and events.

Fall

Temperatures cool down, making it comfortable for exploring the city. Fall foliage enhances the beauty of parks.

Winter

Winters are mild with cooler temperatures. This is a great time for cultural events and indoor activities.

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and pleasant weather, ideal for visiting gardens and parks.

Nightlife Guide

Curitiba at Night

Curitiba's nightlife offers a variety of options, from lively bars to sophisticated clubs. The Batel district is known for its upscale venues, while the Largo da Ordem area features laid-back bars with live music. Many locals enjoy socializing at botecos (casual pubs), where you can experience the authentic Brazilian atmosphere. Additionally, cultural events like street fairs and music festivals often take place during the evenings.

Hiking in Curitiba

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trilha do Ouro

A beautiful trail that takes you through the lush Atlantic Forest, offering stunning views and a chance to spot local wildlife.

Caminho do Itupava

An ancient path that connects Curitiba to the coast, perfect for a day hike with historical significance and breathtaking scenery.

Airports

How to reach Curitiba by plane.

Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB)

Located about 18 km from Curitiba, this airport offers domestic and international flights and is the main gateway to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Curitiba is known for its walkability, with many pedestrian-friendly streets and public parks. The city is designed to encourage walking, particularly in the downtown area and popular neighborhoods. Public transportation, including dedicated bus lanes, makes it easy to navigate without a car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Italian Community

A significant part of Curitiba’s population, the Italian community has influenced the city’s cuisine and cultural landscape.

Indigenous Groups

Several indigenous groups, including the Guarani, reside in the area, contributing to the cultural diversity and history of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Curitiba, with local teams like Atlético Paranaense and Coritiba being significant in the regional league.

Basketball

Basketball is also popular, with various local clubs and a growing fan base supporting national competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Curitiba can be congested during peak hours, but the city’s public transportation system, especially the bus rapid transit (BRT), is highly efficient. Biking is also promoted, with dedicated bike lanes throughout the city. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport or walk to navigate the urban landscape easily.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Curitiba.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, particularly in larger establishments.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are increasingly available, especially in health-focused restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Curitiba is accessible, with several public and private hospitals offering quality services. Emergency services are available, and many doctors speak English. Travelers should consider travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide