Curitiba in Brazil
A detailed guide
Why Curitiba is Popular
Innovative Urban Planning
Curitiba is a global reference for sustainable urban development and public transport systems.
Green Spaces
The city boasts numerous parks, including the famous Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden).
Cultural Hub
Rich in history and influenced by European immigration, particularly from Germany, Poland, and Italy.
Mild Climate
A pleasant subtropical highland climate, cooler than much of Brazil.
What to Do and Visit
Jardim Botânico
Famous for its glasshouse inspired by the Crystal Palace in London, surrounded by gardens.
Oscar Niemeyer Museum
A modern art museum dedicated to the works of Brazil's iconic architect.
Parque Barigui
Ideal for nature walks and spotting capybaras.
Largo da Ordem
Explore historical buildings, churches, and the Sunday crafts market.
Wire Opera House (Ópera de Arame)
A unique theater made of steel and glass, set amidst lush greenery.
Italian and Polish Memorials
Learn about the European influence in the region.
Santa Felicidade
A district known for its Italian restaurants and wine culture.
Rua XV de Novembro
A vibrant pedestrian street for shopping and enjoying local life.
Traditional Stay Options
Boutique Hotels: Look for eco-friendly or family-run hotels like Hotel Nomaa or Radisson Hotel Curitiba.
Pousadas: Cozy inns offering personalized experiences, like Pousada Betânia.
Historic Homes: Some properties in neighborhoods like Batel or Santa Felicidade offer authentic experiences.
Food & Cuisine
Barreado: A slow-cooked meat stew served with rice, cassava flour, and bananas.
Pinhão: Nut-like seeds from the Araucaria tree, often roasted or used in stews.
Polenta: A staple influenced by Italian immigrants.
Craft Beer: Curitiba has a growing craft beer scene.
Churrasco: Brazilian barbecue is a must.
Recommendations
Visit Restaurante Madalosso in Santa Felicidade and Quintana Gastronomia for local flavors with a modern twist.
Transportation
Within Curitiba:
BRT (Bus Rapid Transit): Efficient, affordable, and eco-friendly.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Apps: Widely available.
Cycling: Curitiba is bike-friendly with several bike lanes.
Getting to Curitiba:
Air: Afonso Pena International Airport connects Curitiba to major cities.
From Madrid, take a flight to São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, then connect to Curitiba.
Bus: Intercity buses are comfortable for traveling within Brazil.
Train: Take the scenic Serra Verde Express train from Curitiba to Morretes.
How Many Days are Enough?
3-4 Days: Enough to explore the city’s main attractions and enjoy its ambiance.
Estimated Cost from Madrid
Flights: Round-trip from Madrid to Curitiba via São Paulo or Rio - €800–€1,200.
Accommodation
Budget: €30–€50 per night.
Mid-range: €70–€100 per night.
Luxury: €150+ per night.
Food: €15–€30 per day for dining out.
Local Transport: €10–€20 per day.
Attractions & Tours: €50–€100 for entrance fees and guided tours.
Miscellaneous: €50–€100 for shopping and souvenirs.
Total for 4 Days: Approx. €1,200–€1,800 depending on your choices.
Tips and Recommendations
Learn a few Portuguese phrases; English isn’t widely spoken.
Curitiba is safe compared to other Brazilian cities, but stay cautious.
Pack for mild weather; evenings can be cool.
Don’t miss the Serra Verde Express for an unforgettable train journey.
Explore a suggested 4-day itinerary for your visit to Curitiba, Brazil, focusing on its top attractions, food experiences, and efficient transport.
Day 1: Arrival & City Introduction
Morning:
Arrival: Fly from Madrid to São Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, then take a connecting flight to Curitiba.
Hotel Check-in: Choose a comfortable mid-range hotel like Hotel Nomaa or Radisson Hotel Curitiba.
Afternoon:
Explore Jardim Botânico: Start your exploration with a visit to the city’s famous botanical garden, known for its glass greenhouse and scenic walkways.
Lunch: Enjoy a local Brazilian meal at Café do Viajante nearby.
Try pinhão or churrasco.
Visit the Oscar Niemeyer Museum: After lunch, head to this iconic modern art museum with unique architectural designs by Niemeyer.
Evening:
Stroll along Rua XV de Novembro: This vibrant pedestrian street is perfect for shopping, enjoying local cafes, and observing the city’s culture.
Dinner: Try Restaurante Madalosso in Santa Felicidade for a traditional Italian meal, a cultural influence on the city.
Day 2: Cultural & Natural Exploration
Morning:
Ópera de Arame: Visit this striking wire and glass opera house, set amidst lush green spaces, and take a stroll in Parque das Pedreiras.
Santa Felicidade: Head to this neighborhood for lunch, famous for its Italian restaurants.
Visit Cantina do Délio for authentic Italian pasta or polenta.
Afternoon:
Parque Barigui: Spend the afternoon relaxing in one of Curitiba’s largest parks.
You might spot some capybaras!
Largo da Ordem: Explore this historic square and its nearby churches, especially the Catedral Basílica Menor de Nossa Senhora da Luz.
Craft Market: On Sundays, check out the artisan market in Largo da Ordem for unique souvenirs.
Evening:
Dinner: Enjoy a more casual meal at Café do Viajante, serving traditional Brazilian food.
Nightlife: If you’re in the mood, check out Pátio Batel, a trendy shopping and dining mall, for an evening out.
Day 3: Day Trip to Morretes
Morning:
Serra Verde Express: Take the scenic train ride from Curitiba to Morretes, a beautiful town surrounded by mountains and lush forests.
This is one of Brazil's most iconic train journeys.
Explore Morretes: Visit the charming town, stroll around, and enjoy views of the Atlantic Forest.
Lunch:
Barreado: Try the local dish barreado, a slow-cooked beef stew, at one of Morretes' local restaurants.
Afternoon:
Caminho do Vinho: On your way back to Curitiba, stop by the Caminho do Vinho (Wine Route) for a wine tasting and tour of local vineyards.
Evening:
Return to Curitiba: After the train journey, you’ll return to Curitiba in the evening.
Dinner: Try Quintana Gastronomia for a modern twist on traditional Brazilian cuisine.
Day 4: Parks & Final Explorations
Morning:
Parque Tanguá: Visit one of Curitiba's most scenic parks.
The view from the top is spectacular and provides great photo opportunities.
Visit the Italian and Polish Memorials: Learn about the immigrant cultures that shaped Curitiba.
Lunch:
Enjoy a light meal at a cafe near the parks or visit Bar do Alemão for a taste of German-influenced cuisine.
Afternoon:
Shopping at Batel: Head to Pátio Batel Mall for some last-minute shopping or relax at one of its upscale cafes.
Explore Local Cafes: Spend the rest of your afternoon sampling Brazilian coffee at Café do Viajante or Café Morena.
Evening:
Dinner: For your last dinner, enjoy a Brazilian barbecue at Churrascaria Jardins Grill.
Transportation
Day-to-Day: Use Curitiba's BRT system for easy access to most attractions.
Taxis and ride-sharing apps (Uber, 99) are also reliable.
Day Trip to Morretes: The Serra Verde Express train departs from Curitiba’s train station and provides a scenic ride to Morretes.
Getting Around the City: Rent a bike or use the BRT for short distances. The city is well-planned for pedestrians.
Estimated Costs
Flights:
Round-trip from Madrid to Curitiba (via São Paulo or Rio) costs around €800–€1,200 depending on booking time and class.
Accommodation (3-star mid-range options):
4-night stay at Hotel Nomaa or Radisson: €280–€400.
Food:
Average daily cost: €20–€40 per person (depends on dining preferences).
For a 4-day trip: €80–€160.
Transportation:
Public transport (BRT, taxis, bike rentals): €10–€20 per day.
Total: €40–€80.
Activities:
Entrance to museums, parks, and the Serra Verde Express train: €50–€100.
Total Estimate for 4 Days: €1,500–€2,000, including flights, accommodation, food, and transport.
Tips
Language: Portuguese is spoken widely, and learning some basic phrases can help.
Safety: Curitiba is generally safe, but take usual precautions in busy areas.
Currency: The local currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL).
Keep some cash on hand, although cards are widely accepted.
Weather: Pack for mild weather, with cool evenings, even in summer.
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