Key Takeaways:
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Curitiba blends urban innovation with lush green spaces, offering experiences that span gardens, museums, and festivals.
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The city is a leader in sustainability and public planning, with attractions that appeal to culture lovers, nature enthusiasts, and families alike.
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This guide highlights ten things to do in Curitiba throughout the year, including architecture, performances, and outdoor adventures.
Curitiba, the capital of Paraná in southern Brazil, is celebrated for its forward-thinking urban design, clean streets, and high quality of life. Founded in the 17th century by Portuguese settlers, the city grew rapidly through waves of immigration from Europe, particularly from Italy, Germany, and Ukraine—shaping its multicultural identity. Today, Curitiba is praised globally for its sustainability efforts, innovative public transit, and the harmonious blend of green parks within its modern infrastructure. Locals and visitors alike are drawn to its arts scene, historical landmarks, and easy access to natural beauty. Whether you’re an eco-tourist, architecture buff, or weekend explorer, Curitiba promises a wide array of activities every month of the year.
Table of Contents
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Walk through the futuristic Oscar Niemeyer Museum
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Explore nature in the expansive Tanguá Park
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Discover Curitiba’s multicultural history at Bosque Alemão
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Ride the Serra Verde Express to Morretes
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Stroll the Botanical Garden of Curitiba
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Catch a play at the Wire Opera House
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Spend Sunday at Feira do Largo da Ordem
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Wander through the Ukrainian Memorial
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Visit the Panoramic Tower for sweeping views
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Experience the Curitiba Theater Festival
1. Walk through the futuristic Oscar Niemeyer Museum
Often called the “Eye Museum” for its iconic architecture, the Oscar Niemeyer Museum is a must-see cultural stop in Curitiba. Designed by Brazil’s famed modernist architect, the building is as much a work of art as the exhibits it holds. Inside, you’ll find a rich collection of contemporary art, photography, and architectural displays, often rotating to reflect new artists and themes. The museum also features outdoor installations and green walking paths that make for a well-rounded visit.
Open year-round, the museum is a favorite among tourists and locals who crave intellectual and aesthetic inspiration. Whether you’re an art connoisseur or just curious, the museum’s sleek design and compelling exhibitions offer something fresh on every visit. On weekends, cultural events and educational workshops are frequently hosted, making it a dynamic destination even for repeat guests. It’s an essential introduction to Curitiba’s blend of bold design and cultural depth.
2. Explore nature in the expansive Tanguá Park
Tanguá Park is one of Curitiba’s most beloved green spaces and an excellent spot to connect with nature any time of year. The park is built around a former quarry and features a stunning cascading waterfall, beautifully maintained gardens, and panoramic views from its circular lookout. A tunnel through the rock connects both lakes on the property, and visitors can walk or bike along scenic trails with dramatic backdrops. With its symmetry and open spaces, the park is both visually calming and energizing.
Throughout the seasons, Tanguá Park remains a go-to for families, joggers, couples, and photographers. Early morning and sunset visits are especially rewarding, as light hits the waterfall and landscaping at just the right angle. Visitors often bring picnics, attend outdoor yoga classes, or simply sit by the lake to enjoy Curitiba’s mild weather. It’s a peaceful contrast to the urban vibe while still being centrally located.
3. Discover Curitiba’s multicultural history at Bosque Alemão
Bosque Alemão, or the German Woods, is a charming forested park that honors the legacy of German immigrants in Curitiba. It’s more than a green space—visitors can follow a fairytale trail inspired by the Brothers Grimm, complete with storybook stations and a Hansel and Gretel-style house that doubles as a children’s library. Cultural landmarks like the music hall and observatory tower offer a deeper look into the city’s European roots. The trail through native forest also provides a cool, shady escape from the summer heat.
This experience is especially magical for families with children, but adults will find the cultural storytelling and architectural nods equally captivating. Seasonal events, particularly in the fall and around holidays, bring the forest to life with performances and decor. The entire area feels like a step into another world, yet it remains very accessible within the city limits. Bosque Alemão is both playful and historical, ideal for a relaxing cultural outing.
4. Ride the Serra Verde Express to Morretes
One of Brazil’s most scenic train journeys departs right from Curitiba—the Serra Verde Express. This historic train ride takes travelers on a dramatic descent through the Atlantic Rainforest to the quaint colonial town of Morretes. Along the way, passengers can marvel at canyons, lush vegetation, mountain tunnels, and precarious bridges—all from vintage-style coaches with open windows. It’s a slow, picturesque ride that showcases the region’s raw natural beauty.
The journey itself is half the reward, but the destination is just as inviting. Morretes is known for its cobbled streets, riverside dining, and the iconic dish “barreado,” a slow-cooked beef stew. Many travelers take the train down and return to Curitiba by bus for a quicker trip back. Available nearly every day, this year-round experience is both romantic and educational, blending transportation with tourism in a uniquely Brazilian way.
5. Stroll the Botanical Garden of Curitiba
One of Curitiba’s most iconic landmarks is its Botanical Garden, famous for its ornate greenhouse modeled after London’s Crystal Palace. Visitors are greeted by a symmetrical garden full of native and exotic flora arranged in elegant patterns. The structure itself, a glass-and-metal dome, is home to tropical plants and often the subject of countless photos and postcards. Surrounding trails lead through wooded areas, a sensory garden, and a small museum on the environment.
This garden isn’t just for show—it’s a hub for education and ecology, hosting seasonal exhibits and science-focused events. It’s a tranquil place to spend an afternoon, whether you’re walking solo, on a date, or with family. The park is free to enter and a great budget-friendly option for visitors looking to soak in Curitiba’s sustainability efforts. A stroll here blends beauty and learning, offering something new with every visit.
6. Catch a play at the Wire Opera House
The Wire Opera House, or Ópera de Arame, is a strikingly unique venue constructed entirely of steel tubes and transparent polycarbonate panels. Nestled within the lush greenery of the Pedreira Park, this architectural gem appears to float above a tranquil lake, accessed by a walkway bridge suspended over water. The setting itself is awe-inspiring before you even sit down to enjoy a performance. From plays and concerts to dance performances and cultural festivals, the venue hosts a rich variety of events all year.
Even if there’s no performance scheduled during your visit, the site is worth exploring for its design and ambiance alone. Visitors can enjoy the small waterfalls and natural scenery that frame the stage. The nearby cultural complex often features food vendors, artisan markets, and pop-up exhibits depending on the time of year. It’s one of the most photogenic and serene spots in the city, combining creativity and nature.
7. Spend Sunday at Feira do Largo da Ordem
Every Sunday morning, Curitiba’s historic center transforms into a bustling cultural fair known as Feira do Largo da Ordem. This open-air market is more than just a shopping experience—it’s a vibrant gathering of artists, crafters, street performers, and food vendors. You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry and traditional crafts to delicious Brazilian snacks like pastel and pão de queijo. The cobblestone streets and colonial-era buildings provide a charming backdrop to your browsing.
Visitors looking to experience Curitiba’s local spirit should not miss this event. It’s one of the best places to pick up souvenirs, listen to live samba or choro, and interact with locals. The fair runs early in the day, so plan to arrive by 9am to avoid the biggest crowds and catch the freshest food. It’s a community-driven event that has grown into a beloved weekend ritual for residents and visitors alike.
8. Wander through the Ukrainian Memorial
Curitiba’s deep multicultural roots are showcased beautifully at the Ukrainian Memorial, a peaceful and educational space within Tingui Park. The centerpiece is a wooden replica of a traditional Ukrainian church, complete with onion domes and intricate carvings. Surrounding the church are symbolic elements like a bell tower, a memorial cross, and historical panels that honor Ukrainian immigrants who settled in the region. Inside, you’ll find folk art, embroidery, and religious icons.
It’s a quiet, reflective destination that offers insight into the cultural diversity that helped shape Curitiba’s identity. The site is especially popular during Ukrainian holidays and festivals, which are sometimes celebrated with food, dance, and traditional dress. Outside of those occasions, it remains a tranquil space to walk, learn, and photograph. The Ukrainian Memorial adds a historical layer to any visit and is easily accessible by Curitiba’s efficient public transit.
9. Visit the Panoramic Tower for sweeping views
For a bird’s-eye view of Curitiba, head to the Torre Panorâmica (Panoramic Tower), a telecommunications tower with a 360-degree observation deck open to the public. At 110 meters high, it provides stunning views of the city’s organized layout, with its sprawling parks, modern buildings, and distant mountains. Clear days offer excellent photography conditions, and informational panels help you identify landmarks.
This is a short yet memorable stop for visitors who want to grasp Curitiba’s impressive urban planning from above. The tower is rarely crowded and offers a quick, affordable activity that fits into almost any itinerary. It’s a great spot to end your day or orient yourself early in your trip. Whether you’re a solo traveler or visiting with a group, the panoramic views deliver a fresh perspective on the city’s design and scale.
10. Experience the Curitiba Theater Festival
The Festival de Teatro de Curitiba is one of Brazil’s largest and most diverse performing arts festivals, held annually in the fall. This multi-week celebration features a wide variety of theatrical performances—classic plays, experimental productions, street theater, and international acts. The festival spills out into public parks, cultural centers, and even sidewalks, making art accessible and dynamic.
Even if you’re not in town during the main festival weeks, Curitiba maintains a strong theater scene year-round in venues like Teatro Guaíra. But there’s something uniquely magical about the festival atmosphere, with impromptu performances and pop-up stages energizing the city. It attracts both professional artists and emerging talents, making it a great event for spotting fresh creative voices. The festival encapsulates Curitiba’s artistic soul and inclusive urban energy.
What to do if you have kids?
Curitiba is incredibly family-friendly and offers plenty of options for travelers with children. Many of its parks, like Tanguá and the Botanical Garden, feature wide open spaces perfect for running, biking, or picnicking. Museums like the Oscar Niemeyer Museum often include kid-focused exhibits, and places like Bosque Alemão delight young visitors with storybook trails and fairy tale settings. Public transport is stroller-friendly, and the city is generally safe and clean, making it easy to explore with little ones in tow.
Where can I find free events in Curitiba Brazil taking place this weekend?
To discover free events happening in Curitiba this weekend, check out https://planmyweekend.ai. Our tool helps you uncover hidden experiences, festivals, and cultural events across the city—many of which are completely free. Whether you’re looking for outdoor yoga classes, art fairs, street food pop-ups, or family-friendly performances, PlanMyWeekend makes it easy to explore what’s happening near you in real-time.
Final thoughts on planning a trip to Curitiba
Curitiba is a city that rewards curious travelers who enjoy culture, nature, and intelligent urban design. With a well-organized layout, reliable public transport, and a deep appreciation for sustainability, it’s easy to navigate and enjoy any time of year. Whether you’re marveling at innovative architecture, strolling through forested parks, or riding a scenic train through the rainforest, every experience adds to the city’s unique charm. Plan your trip with an open mind and a flexible itinerary—you’ll find that Curitiba offers much more than meets the eye.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
