Things To Do
in Morretes
Morretes is a charming hill town in Paraná set along the Nhundiaquara River, surrounded by the lush Atlantic Forest of the Serra do Mar. Its well-preserved colonial center and riverside setting give visitors a glimpse of traditional southern Brazilian life, just a short journey from Curitiba. The town is famous for its barreado, pine nut treats, and easy access to scenic trains and nature trails.
Visitors can enjoy historic architecture, flavorful local cuisine, and tranquil viewpoints that overlook rainforest canyons and rushing water.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Morretes, admiring the colonial architecture and vibrant colors of the buildings. Visit the Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Porto, a beautiful 18th-century church that stands as a testament to the town's rich history. Stop by the local market to sample fresh fruits and pastries, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Take a guided walking tour of the historic center, where you can learn about Morretes' role in Brazil's colonial past and its significance in the coffee trade. Visit the Museu de Arqueologia e Etnologia, which showcases artifacts from the region's indigenous peoples. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional restaurant, trying the local specialty, barreado, a slow-cooked meat dish served with rice.
As the sun sets, find a cozy café with outdoor seating to enjoy a cup of local coffee while people-watching. Explore the colorful nightlife, perhaps catching a live music performance at a nearby venue. End your evening with a relaxing walk along the river, taking in the beautiful views and calming sounds of the water.
Begin your morning with a hike in the nearby Serra do Mar National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its lush biodiversity. Take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Forest and be on the lookout for native wildlife, including colorful birds and monkeys. Breathe in the fresh air while enjoying the serenity of nature, away from the bustle of the town.
After your hike, head to the picturesque Morretes River for a relaxing afternoon by the water. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the river and enjoy the stunning natural landscapes surrounding you. Pack a picnic lunch to savor on the riverbank, taking advantage of the peaceful atmosphere.
Return to town and treat yourself to dinner at a riverside restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh fish dishes that highlight the region's culinary offerings. As night falls, stroll through the illuminated streets of Morretes, appreciating the beauty of the town after dark. Cap off your evening with a glass of local cachaça, soaking in the flavors of Brazil.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚆Public transit (single ride) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming historic center with preserved colonial architecture
- Delicious regional cuisine centered on barreado and pinhão
- Proximity to rainforest trails and scenic river views
- Relaxed pace and welcoming local culture
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some services may be seasonal or limited to weekends
- Hilly terrain in the town center can be steep for some visitors
- Weather can be rainy in the summer; plan for sudden showers
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Morretes
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic walk along the river with historic bridges and lush forest backdrop; ideal for golden-hour river reflections.
Cobblestone streets and colonial façades provide charming architectural shots and atmospheric street photography.
A classic postcard view of the town with watchful bridge arcs and the river below.
Elevated viewpoints nearby offer sweeping panorama over rainforest canyons and town rooftops.
Food in Morretes
Morretes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked beef (or occasionally pork) stew traditionally served with farinha de mandioca and plantains; a signature Morretes specialty.
Must-Try!
Grilled trout sourced from local streams, usually served with rice, beans, and vegetables.
Roasted or boiled pine nuts (pinhão), often enjoyed as a snack or incorporated into breads and sweets.
Grilled freshwater fish with a crisp farofa side, a common riverside meal option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, cheeses, pinhão, and regional snacks; a great place to sample seasonal ingredients.
Stalls and small kiosks along the riverside and main thoroughfares serving snacks like tapiocas, pastel, and local sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings with a handshake or a cordial nod; address people as senhor/senhora or use first names with consent in casual settings.
Be respectful at churches and religious sites; dress modestly and remove hats when indoors.
Punctuality is appreciated in formal settings; casual gatherings may be more flexible.
Safety
Tipping in Morretes
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory; a 5-10% tip is common in nicer restaurants if service is not included in the bill.
Brazilian reais are the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in hotels and many restaurants; carry some cash for smaller vendors. Mobile payments (PIX) are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with frequent afternoon showers. Plan for light layers, waterproofs, and outdoor activity in the mornings to avoid humidity peaks.
Milder temperatures and still-green landscapes; comfortable for hikes and outdoor strolls with less rain than summer.
Cooler and drier weather is common; evenings can be cool, so bring a light jacket and warm layers for stadium-like sunsets and night walks.
Pleasant temperatures with the return of frequent showers; perfect for outdoor photography and forest trails in fresh conditions.
Morretes at Night
Hiking in Morretes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy riverside path with forest backdrop; suitable for a relaxed morning hike and riverside photography.
Moderate to challenging forest trail offering panoramic views across the Atlantic Forest canopy and Morretes valley.
Short to moderate loop through protected forest with several lookout points for sunset or sunrise photography.
Airports
How to reach Morretes by plane.
Located near Curitiba, this is the main international gateway for travelers visiting Morretes; connections to Morretes are via road or rail. Plan for a transfer of about 1.5–2.5 hours depending on transport mode.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding residents in the valley, many with deep family ties to agriculture and river trade; welcoming to visitors.
Visitors drawn to the train ride, markets, and natural scenery, especially on weekends and holidays.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport throughout Paraná; expect local games and casual play in community spaces.
Sport fishing in nearby rivers and streams; a common recreational activity for visitors with proper permits.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Morretes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Morretes, vegetarians can enjoy rice, beans, fresh vegetables, salads, and cheese dishes; ask for fish-free barreado variations or opt for pinhão-based dishes and grilled vegetables.