Things To Do
in Lapa
Lapa is a historic town in Paraná, Brazil, just a short drive from Curitiba, set among rolling green hills. It preserves a warm, rural-Brazilian atmosphere with colonial-era architecture, churches, and plazas. The surrounding landscapes offer forest trails, waterfalls, and scenic countryside ideal for day trips.
Visitors experience a laid-back pace, friendly locals, and authentic regional cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down in Rio de Janeiro and make your way to a charming guesthouse nestled in Lapa. Unpack your bags, relax with a strong Brazilian coffee on the balcony. Chat with fellow travelers to get tips on hidden gems around the neighborhood.
Stroll through the vibrant winding streets of Lapa and admire the colorful houses. Visit the iconic Escadaria Selarón and snap photos with the mosaic-adorned steps. Stop by a street stall for a pastel or coxinha, savoring the local snack.
Dive into a beginner’s samba workshop at Espaço Samba and feel the rhythm of Brazilian beats. After dancing, head to a lively bar under the Arcos da Lapa arches to enjoy live music. Mingle with locals over caipirinhas, soaking up the authentic nightlife atmosphere.
Join a guided street art tour to explore Lapa’s vibrant murals and graffiti. Learn about the local artists who brought color to the city’s walls. Sip an artesanal coffee at a hip café and chat about creative processes.
Enroll in a hands-on cooking class to prepare classic Brazilian dishes like feijoada and pastel. Shop for fresh produce at the Cadeg Market and meet friendly vendors. Savor your culinary creations for lunch, paired with a tropical fruit juice.
Watch the sun dip below the city skyline from a rooftop bar near Largo da Carioca. Taste artisanal caipirinhas made with exotic fruits. Then join a live chorinho session in a cozy venue for an intimate musical experience.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2-4 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🏨Hostel or budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic Brazilian town experience
- Close proximity to nature and trails
- Friendly locals and safe-feeling environment
- Affordable meals and accommodation
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Public transport may be less frequent than bigger city
- Limited English in some establishments
- Rural roads can be winding
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica..." - Where is...?
- "Você aceita cartão?" - Do you accept cards?
- "Eu sou vegetariano/vegetariana" - I am vegetarian
- "Água sem gás" - Still water
- "Pode me indicar um bom restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
Places to Visit in Lapa
Visit one of these nice places.
A charming square with colonial buildings, churches, and morning light for photography.
Scenic riverside scenes and winding roads framed by Araucaria trees.
A classic church with architectural details ideal for architectural shots.
Hilltop viewpoints offering sweeping rural panoramas, especially at sunset.
Food in Lapa
Lapa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional Paraná dish slow-cooked beef typically served with rice and farinha; in Lapa you’ll find comforting regional variations.
Must-Try!
Roasted pine nuts from Araucaria forests, a seasonal treat commonly enjoyed in cooler months.
Brazilian steak tartare-style dish popular in the south; served with bread or farofa.
Classic Brazilian cheese bread, a staple at cafes and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small market with fresh produce, regional snacks, and baked goods.
Weekly street market offering quick bites like pastel, coxinha, and doces.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello (olá/bom dia) and address people politely (senhor/senhora). Public displays of anger are discouraged; maintain personal space and avoid loud talking in public places.
Safety
Tipping in Lapa
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, tipping is common but not mandatory; many restaurants add 10% service charge; you can round up or leave 5-10% for good service.
Cash, credit/debit cards are widely accepted; PIX is popular for instant transfers; some small vendors may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm to hot days with frequent showers and high humidity; carry rain gear and sun protection.
Milder temperatures and fewer crowds; great for hiking and outdoor photography.
Cooler days, often dry; mornings can be chilly and foggy; layers recommended.
Pleasant, with blooming trees and lush landscapes; comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
Lapa at Night
Hiking in Lapa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short forest trails with scenic viewpoints and waterfalls; suitable for a half-day hike.
Outdoor waterfall area with picnic spots and easy to moderate hikes.
Hilltop vantage point offering panoramic countryside views.
Airports
How to reach Lapa by plane.
Main international gateway near Curitiba; typically 60-90 minutes by road to Lapa depending on traffic.
Smaller regional flights and general aviation; most travelers fly via CWB and then drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local families and retirees form the core of daily life; many community events happen in town squares.
Students from nearby towns and professionals use Lapa as a weekend escape or base for exploring the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Paraná; local games draw crowds in towns and schools.
Common organized sports in community centers and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lapa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer beans, rice, salads, and veggie dishes; ask for 'sem carne' or 'sem carne e sem queijo'.