Top Things to Do in Curitiba: Brazil’s Eco-Friendly Capital

Located in the heart of southern Brazil, Curitiba is the capital of the Paraná state and a city celebrated for its urban innovation, environmental sustainability, and rich cultural scene. Known as one of the greenest cities in the world, Curitiba impresses visitors with its modern infrastructure, efficient public transportation, and abundance of parks and green spaces.
 

With a fascinating blend of European heritage, contemporary architecture, and natural beauty, Curitiba is perfect for travelers looking for a clean, organized, and enriching urban experience. Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or a curious traveler, Curitiba offers a refreshing take on Brazilian city life.

📌 Quick Overview

🌟 Why Visit Curitiba?

🌿 Renowned for sustainability, urban planning, and quality of life

🎭 A hub for art, music, and architecture, with unique cultural venues

🏞️ Home to dozens of parks and gardens, including one of Brazil’s most famous botanical gardens

🚌 Famous for its pioneering public transportation system

🏛️ A city that combines historic charm with modern efficiency

🌆 Top Things to Do in Curitiba

1. Explore the Iconic Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden)

Curitiba’s Botanical Garden is its most iconic attraction. Designed in the style of French gardens, it features manicured lawns, walking paths, and a striking glass greenhouse inspired by London's Crystal Palace.

🌺 Highlights: The greenhouse showcases a collection of tropical and subtropical plants, while the surrounding garden is perfect for peaceful walks and photography.

📷 Don’t Miss: The botanical garden’s geometric flower beds and Botanical Museum, which provides insight into native flora.

🌿 Tip: Arrive early in the morning for the best light and to avoid the crowds.

2. Ride the Linha Turismo (Tourist Bus Line)

Curitiba’s Linha Turismo is one of the best ways to explore the city’s main attractions. The double-decker bus follows a 25 km route and stops at more than 20 key tourist sites.

🚌 Highlights: Stops include the Botanical Garden, Oscar Niemeyer Museum, Wire Opera House, Tanguá Park, and more.

🎟️ How it works: You buy a single ticket with access to 4 re-entries, allowing you to hop on and off at different locations.

🚍 Tip: Start early and plan which stops you want to explore in depth to make the most of your day.

3. Admire the Oscar Niemeyer Museum

Nicknamed the “Eye Museum” for its bold and modern design, this space is one of Brazil’s premier institutions for art, architecture, and design.

🖼️ Exhibitions: The museum features rotating exhibits on Brazilian and international artists, as well as a large collection of works by architect Oscar Niemeyer himself.

🧠 Architecture: The building is an artwork in itself—worth visiting just for its iconic look.

🎨 Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy both the art and the beautiful lighting on the museum’s exterior.

4. Stroll Through the Historic District of Largo da Ordem

This charming area of downtown Curitiba is full of cobbled streets, colonial buildings, artisan shops, and cozy cafés.

🏛️ Cultural Spots: Explore historic landmarks like the Church of the Third Order of Saint Francis, Garibaldi Palace, and the Sacred Art Museum.

🛍️ Sunday Market: Visit the Largo da Ordem Fair, held every Sunday, where local artisans sell crafts, antiques, and street food.

☕ Tip: Grab a pastel or a traditional mate tea from a local vendor as you explore the streets.

5. Experience the Wire Opera House (Ópera de Arame)

Built over a lake in a lush park, the Ópera de Arame is an architectural marvel made of steel tubes and glass.

🎼 Performances: It regularly hosts concerts, theater productions, and cultural events.

🌿 Nature Setting: Located in the Pedreira Paulo Leminski Park, it offers a beautiful natural backdrop.

🎟️ Tip: Even if you don’t catch a performance, visiting during the day for a walk around the grounds is well worth it.

6. Relax at Tanguá Park

One of the most scenic parks in Curitiba, Tanguá Park features waterfalls, lookout points, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

🌄 Sunset Spot: The circular lookout with a view over the quarry and water is especially magical at sunset.

🚶‍♂️ Trails: There are walking paths, bike trails, and picnic spots throughout the park.

📸 Tip: Bring your camera for stunning landscape shots, especially in the golden hour.

7. Visit the Ukrainian Memorial in Tingüi Park

This cultural site honors the Ukrainian immigrants who settled in southern Brazil. It features a replica of a traditional wooden Orthodox church and exhibits on Ukrainian traditions and history.

🎎 Cultural Insight: Learn about the immigrant communities that shaped Curitiba’s unique cultural mix.

🌳 Peaceful Setting: Tingüi Park is also a serene place to relax or go for a walk.

🍽️ What to Eat in Curitiba

Curitiba’s cuisine reflects its multicultural population, especially its Italian, Polish, German, and Ukrainian influences.

Must-Try Dishes:

🥟 Pierogi – Stuffed dumplings of Polish origin, often served in local eateries.

🥩 Barreado – A slow-cooked meat stew traditional to Paraná.

🧀 Pão com Bolinho – A beloved local sandwich made with seasoned meatballs.

🍺 Local craft beers and mate tea, a regional favorite.

🍽️ Tip: Visit the Santa Felicidade neighborhood, known for its excellent Italian restaurants and wineries.

🏨 Where to Stay in Curitiba

Luxury

Nomaa Hotel – A modern 5-star boutique hotel with stylish rooms and gourmet dining.

Radisson Hotel Curitiba – Located near parks and shops with top-notch amenities.

Mid-range

Bourbon Curitiba Convention Hotel – Great central location with excellent service.

Hotel Curitiba Rayon – Elegant and comfortable, ideal for couples and business travelers.

Budget

Ibis Curitiba Batel – Clean, affordable, and centrally located.

Hostel Matilda – A charming hostel with artsy vibes and great value.

📅 Best Time to Visit Curitiba

Curitiba enjoys a mild subtropical climate, with cool winters and pleasant summers.

🍁 March to May (Autumn): Ideal weather with fewer crowds.

🌸 September to November (Spring): Flowers in bloom and great for exploring parks.

❄️ June to August: Cooler months, great for indoor cultural attractions.

🌧️ December to February: Warmer but also the rainiest season.