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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

The South, Brazil

Iconic Landmarks

These sites define Curitiba's unique character and are a must-see for any visitor.

The Jardim Botânico de Curitiba (Botanical Garden), with its Art Nouveau greenhouse, represents Curitiba's green reputation. The Ópera de Arame (Wire Opera House), a transparent structure in a quarry, blends modern architecture with nature. Parque Tanguá, developed from a quarry, features lakes, a waterfall, and panoramic views. The Museu Oscar Niemeyer (MON), with its distinctive "eye" annex, ranks among Latin America's largest art museums. Rua XV de Novembro (Flower Street), Curitiba's first pedestrian street, presents a lively atmosphere. The Setor Histórico (Historic Sector) is the charming oldest part of the city, known for its colonial architecture and Sunday craft market.

Visitor Information & Tips

  • Jardim Botânico: Open daily (6 AM - 7:30 PM), free entry.
  • Ópera de Arame: Open daily (10 AM - 6 PM), small entry fee (R$10-R$15).
  • Parque Tanguá: Open daily (6 AM - 8 PM), free. Ascend the lookout for panoramic views, especially at sunset.
  • Museu Oscar Niemeyer: Tue-Sun (10 AM - 6 PM), entry fee (R$30), free on first Thursday of each month.

Proximity to Transportation

Central Location Advantage

  • Centro: Excellent for walking to historic sites.
  • Centro: Direct access to the BRT system.
  • Centro: Close to the Rodoferroviária (main bus/train station).
  • Batel: Good access to the Linha Turismo hop-on hop-off bus.
  • Batel: Good access to ride-sharing services.
  • Centro Cívico: Easy access to various BRT lines.

Noise Levels and Ambiance

  • Centro: Can be noisy during the day due to traffic and commercial activity.
  • Batel: Lively but generally an upscale noise level from bars and restaurants.
  • Centro Cívico & Residential Areas: Generally quieter and more peaceful.
  • Insider Tip: Visit Jardim Botânico early for fewer crowds and optimal lighting for photography.

Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends at popular attractions. Early mornings or late afternoons often offer quieter times at parks.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • Museu Oscar Niemeyer (MON): Visual arts, architecture, design. Collections include works by Brazilian modernists.
  • Museu Paranaense: History, archaeology, and ethnography of Paraná state.
  • Museu da Gravura Cidade de Curitiba: Printmaking and graphic arts, Brazilian and international works.
  • Museu do Automóvel: Classic car museum with vintage automobiles.

Performance & Specialized Museums

  • Teatro Guaíra:

    One of Latin America's largest theaters, hosting ballet, opera, classical concerts, and plays.

  • Ópera de Arame:

    Architectural landmark and venue for concerts and cultural events.

  • Solar do Barão:

    A cultural complex with museums, exhibition spaces, and libraries.

  • Museu Ferroviário (Railway Museum):

    Features historical trains and railway artifacts, located in Curitiba Shopping Mall.

  • Museu do Holocausto de Curitiba:

    A poignant museum offering educational insights (requires pre-booking).

Historical Sites

Explore Curitiba's past through its well-preserved buildings and monuments.

Religious and Architectural Heritage

  • Setor Histórico:

    The oldest part of the city with colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and the oldest church.

  • UFPR Building:

    Federal University of Paraná's main building, an impressive example of neoclassical architecture.

  • Catedral Basílica Menor Nossa Senhora da Luz dos Pinhais:

    The city's main cathedral in neo-Gothic style.

  • Igreja da Ordem Terceira de São Francisco das Chagas:

    The oldest church in Curitiba (1737), offering a glimpse into early colonial architecture.

  • Mesquita Imam Ali:

    A beautiful mosque reflecting the city's diverse immigrant population.

  • Templo Budista Jardim Seishin-ji:

    A serene Buddhist temple for a peaceful retreat.

Memorial Ucraniano

Honors Ukrainian immigrants, with a replica of a traditional Ukrainian church and painted Easter eggs.

Bosque Alemão German Woods

Dedicated to German immigrants, featuring a Hansel and Gretel trail and a poets' tower.

Bosque Italiano Italian Woods

Honors Italian immigrants, with a replica Italian house, wine-making vat, and a large vineyard.

Natural Attractions

Curitiba truly shines with its commitment to green spaces and urban parks.

Jardim Botânico

The city's iconic landmark with an Art Nouveau greenhouse, diverse plant collections, and walking trails.

Parque Tanguá

A beautiful park developed from a former quarry, with two lakes, a large artificial waterfall, and a lookout tower.

Parque Barigui

One of Curitiba's largest parks, with a large lake, paths, green areas, and free-roaming capybaras.

More Green Spaces & Views

Other Parks

Parque Tingui (Ukrainian Memorial), Bosque Alemão (German Woods), and Bosque do Papa (Polish Woods) provide tranquil green spaces and cultural memorials.

Explore Curitiba Parks

Scenic Viewpoints

Torre Panorâmica da Oi (telecommunications tower with rotating observation deck) offers 360-degree views. The Parque Tanguá Lookout provides excellent panoramic city views.

Find Sightseeing Tours

Wildlife Viewing

Parque Barigui is known for its resident capybaras and diverse bird species. Many city parks offer birdwatching opportunities.

Nature Experiences

Geological Features

Former quarries transformed into public parks and attractions (Ópera de Arame, Parque Tanguá, Unilivre) display the city's urban renewal.

Urban Renewal Insight

Beaches & Waterways

Curitiba is inland. Closest beaches are on the Paraná coast (Matinhos, Caiobá, Ilha do Mel), suitable for day trips. Parks feature artificial lakes for recreation.

Coastal Trips

Hidden Gems

Venture beyond the main tourist circuit to discover Curitiba's lesser-known treasures.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

  • Unilivre (Universidade Livre do Meio Ambiente): An open-air university for environmental education, sustainably built in a former quarry.
  • Parque São Lourenço: A beautiful park less crowded than Barigui, with a crafts center and lake.

Local Favorites & Photo Opportunities

Discover authentic local experiences and unique photo spots.

Local Gems

  • Feira do Juvevê: A Saturday street market with fresh produce, local foods, and handicrafts, offering an authentic local experience.
  • Rua Itupava: Known for its bars and restaurants, popular with locals for nightlife and casual dining.
  • Emerging Destinations: Nearby towns like Morretes and Antonina (accessible by scenic train) for historic charm and traditional cuisine.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Architectural Shots

  • The striking spiral ramp and "eye" structure at the Oscar Niemeyer Museum.
  • Reflections of the Wire Opera House in the surrounding water.

Nature & Cityscapes

  • The ubiquitous capybaras at Parque Barigui.
  • The distinctive tube bus stations of Curitiba's BRT system.

Additional Tip

For attraction tickets and guided tours, consider using online platforms like GetYourGuide to plan and book your experiences in advance.