12 best things to do in Curitiba, Brazil, in 1 to 2 days

Introduction

Curitiba is the capital of Paraná state and one of Brazil’s most liveable cities, with around 1.9 million inhabitants. Often praised for its urban planning and green spaces, it regularly pops up on lists of “best cities to live in Brazil”—but as a traveler, your experience might feel a little different.

You’ll likely arrive in Curitiba as a stop between bigger destinations rather than as a main highlight. We spent two nights here while traveling south through Brazil, coming by bus from São Paulo before continuing toward Joinville and eventually Uruguay. That gave us enough time to explore the city at a relaxed pace and get a feel for what it offers.

Curitiba is a pleasant, calm city with a few nice parks, good food, and an easy layout. That said, it’s also a place where contrasts are very visible. One thing that stood out to us was the number of homeless people, especially in central areas. You’ll probably be approached quite often during the day, sometimes repeatedly, which can feel a bit intense if you’re not used to it.

Overall, Curitiba feels more like a short stop than a must-see destination. Half a day is usually enough to cover the main sights, making it a convenient transit city rather than a place you plan your trip around. Still, if you’re already passing through southern Brazil, it’s worth slowing down briefly and seeing what the city has to offer.

If you do have an extra day, one experience that truly stands out is the Serra Verde Express train ride to Morretes. This scenic journey winds through lush Atlantic rainforest, bridges, and mountains, and is often considered one of the most beautiful train rides in Brazil. You can book the train online and return by bus the same day, making it an easy and rewarding side trip from Curitiba.

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Getting there

Getting to Curitiba is fairly easy, especially if you’re already traveling around southern Brazil.

If you’re coming from São Paulo, the bus is by far the most practical option. Several companies run daily routes between the two cities, with departures throughout the day. The journey takes around 6 hours, depending on traffic, and buses are generally comfortable, clean, and punctual. It’s also the most budget-friendly way to travel this route, and honestly, much simpler than flying once you factor in airport transfers and waiting times. We came this way and found it smooth and stress-free.

You can also fly into Afonso Pena International Airport, located about 18 km from the city center. From the airport, it’s an easy Uber or taxi ride into town. Flying makes sense if Curitiba is your first stop in Brazil or if you’re coming from farther north, but for short distances, buses are usually the better choice.

If you’re already in Curitiba and planning onward travel, the city works well as a transit hub. From here, you can easily continue south toward coastal towns, Joinville, or even cross into neighboring countries.

Tip: If Curitiba is part of a longer journey, try to arrive in the morning. That gives you enough time to see the main sights in half a day without needing an extra night.

Check all your bus options on Busbud — it’s simple to compare routes, prices, and book your tickets in advance.

Moving Around

Getting around Curitiba is refreshingly easy, even if you’re only here for a short stop.

For most visitors, Uber is the simplest option. Rides are affordable, quick, and widely available, and it saves you the hassle of figuring out routes when you’re only in the city for a day. We relied on Uber most of the time and never waited more than a few minutes.

Curitiba is also famous for its Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, often cited as one of the most efficient in the world. The dedicated bus lanes and tube-shaped stations make public transport surprisingly smooth and fast. If you’re curious about urban planning or staying longer, it’s worth trying at least once. For a one-day visit, though, Uber is usually faster door to door.

The city center is quite walkable, especially around Praça Tiradentes, Rua XV de Novembro, and the nearby pedestrian streets. Walking is a good way to get a feel for the city, but be aware that distances add up quickly once you move between neighborhoods.

Tip: If you’re short on time, combine walking in the center with Uber rides for longer distances. It’s the most efficient way to see Curitiba in one day without feeling rushed.

Psst, you can join Tina’s Yoga Studio and get access to hundreds of Yoga, Meditation, and Well-being videos.

When to Visit

Curitiba can be visited year-round, but your experience will change a lot depending on the season. The city sits at a higher altitude than much of Brazil, which means the climate is milder, cooler, and more unpredictable than places like Rio or São Paulo.

The best time to visit Curitiba is from April to October. During these months, temperatures are pleasant, usually between 15°C and 25°C, and rainfall is lower. Days feel comfortable for walking around parks and exploring the city without dealing with heavy heat or humidity. This is when Curitiba is at its most enjoyable.

Summer (December to March) is warmer and much wetter. Temperatures can reach 30°C, but sudden rain showers are common, sometimes several times a day. If you visit in summer, always carry a light rain jacket—you’ll probably need it. The upside is that parks are lush and green, but sightseeing can feel interrupted.

Winter (June to August) is surprisingly cool for Brazil. Mornings and evenings can drop to 5–10°C, and some days feel almost European. It rarely freezes, but the chill catches many travelers off guard. If you visit in winter, bring layers, especially if you plan to go out early or stay out after sunset.

Tip: No matter the season, Curitiba is known for having “four seasons in one day.” Sunshine, clouds, and rain can all happen within a few hours. Dress in layers and stay flexible with your plans.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to Stay

Choosing the right base in Curitiba makes a big difference, especially if you’re only in the city for a short stay. These options are all well-located and comfortable, making it easy to explore the city without wasting time in transport.

Johnscher by SJ – San Juan Curitiba: Set in a beautiful historic building in the city center, this hotel is a solid choice if you like character and convenience. You’re within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and some of Curitiba’s main sights. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the classic atmosphere gives your stay a bit more personality than a standard city hotel.

Novotel Curitiba Batel: Located in the Batel district, one of Curitiba’s nicest and safest areas, this hotel is a great option if you want comfort and easy access to restaurants, cafés, and shopping. The rooms are modern and spacious, breakfast is reliable, and the location works well whether you’re exploring on foot or using Uber.

Nomaa Hotel: If you’re looking for something more refined, Nomaa Hotel stands out. This boutique-style property focuses on design, comfort, and excellent service. It’s ideal if you want a quieter, more polished stay while still being close to Batel’s best addresses. The rooms feel thoughtfully designed, and the overall experience is more intimate and calm.

Tip: Staying in Batel or the city center will save you time and make moving around much easier, especially if you’re only spending one day in Curitiba.

Here are all your accommodation options in Curitiba

What to Eat

Curitiba’s food scene is simple, comforting, and heavily influenced by European immigration, especially Polish, Italian, and German communities. You won’t find flashy street food everywhere, but you will eat well if you know what to look for.

Barreado: This is the most traditional dish from Paraná state and something you should try at least once. Barreado is a slow-cooked beef stew, simmered for hours until the meat completely falls apart. It’s usually served with rice, banana, and farinha (cassava flour). It’s rich, filling, and very local—perfect if you want to taste something truly regional.

Pierogi & Eastern European Comfort Food: Because of the strong Polish heritage in Curitiba, pierogi are surprisingly common. You’ll find versions filled with potato, cheese, or meat, often served with butter and onions. It’s hearty, no-frills food and feels very different from what you might expect in Brazil.

Italian Classics (with a Brazilian twist): Pasta, risotto, and pizza are everywhere, thanks to Italian immigration. Portions are generous, sauces are rich, and meals tend to be filling. It’s a good fallback option if you’re craving something familiar after a long day of sightseeing.

Café Culture & Bakeries: Curitiba has plenty of relaxed cafés where you can stop for a coffee and a pastry. Look for pão de queijo (cheese bread), croissants, and local cakes. It’s ideal for a slow morning or a break between visits.

Local Markets & Casual Lunch Spots: If you want something quick, head to food courts or local lunch spots offering prato feito—a set plate usually made of rice, beans, meat, and salad. It’s affordable, filling, and very popular with locals.

Tip: Lunch is usually the main meal of the day in Brazil. Many restaurants offer good-value lunch menus, while evenings tend to be quieter and more relaxed.

Best things to do in Curitiba

Explore the Historical City Center

Curitiba’s historical city center is compact and easy to explore on foot, which makes it a natural place to start your day. As you walk around, you’ll pass colonial-era buildings, small museums, old churches, and everyday streets that show how the city slowly grew from a settlement into a modern capital.

It’s not the kind of place that tries to impress you right away, and that’s exactly why it works. We found that the best moments came from wandering without a plan—ducking into side streets, stopping at small squares, and simply watching local life unfold instead of rushing from landmark to landmark.

Our Favorite Hotels in Curitiba

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Johnscher by SJ – San Juan Curitiba

Novotel Curitiba Batel

Nomaa Hotel

See all available hotels in Curitiba

Visit Nossa Senhora do Rosário

This small church is one of the oldest buildings in Curitiba and immediately stands out for its simple, almost understated appearance. Built by and for enslaved Africans, it carries a quiet but powerful historical significance that contrasts with the more polished parts of the city.

It’s a short stop, but a meaningful one. Spending a few minutes here is enough to feel that Curitiba’s history isn’t only European—it’s layered, complex, and shaped by stories that often remain in the background.

Psst, you can join Tina’s Yoga Studio and get access to hundreds of Yoga, Meditation, and Well-being videos.

Pause at Flower Clock Square

The Flower Clock is exactly what it sounds like: a giant clock made of flowers right in the heart of the city. It’s cheerful, a little quirky, and very Curitiba in spirit.

You’ll probably stop here without even planning to—either while passing through downtown or taking a short break on a bench nearby. It’s not a must-see landmark, but it’s a pleasant visual pause that adds a bit of color to your walk.

Here are all your accommodation options in Curitiba

Hunt for Street Art

Curitiba has a growing street art scene, especially around downtown and in slightly more alternative pockets of the city. Murals pop up where you don’t expect them—on faded façades, near small cafés, or hidden down side streets you’d normally walk past.

Some pieces are bold and political, others purely artistic or playful. The best way to experience it is to slow down and let the art guide your walk rather than following a strict route. That’s how you stumble onto the most interesting corners of the city.

Wander Through the Ruins of São Francisco

These ruins are what remains of an unfinished church and today function as a small cultural space. The open structure gives the place a raw, almost frozen-in-time feeling that contrasts nicely with the busy streets around it.

It’s usually calm and less crowded than nearby squares, making it a good place to slow down for a moment. From time to time, you might stumble upon small exhibitions or local events, which adds to the understated charm of the spot.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Step Inside Curitiba Cathedral

Located near Praça Tiradentes, Curitiba Cathedral—officially the Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lady of Light—is one of the city’s most important landmarks. Built in the late 19th century, it replaced an older colonial church and reflects the strong European influence that shaped Curitiba at the time, especially in its neo-Gothic design.

Inside, you will find stained glass windows, wooden details, and a simple altar that doesn’t overwhelm. Even if churches aren’t usually high on your list, this one is worth a short stop. It offers a quiet moment in the middle of downtown and a glimpse into the city’s religious and architectural history.

Our Favorite Hotels in Curitiba

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Johnscher by SJ – San Juan Curitiba

Novotel Curitiba Batel

Nomaa Hotel

See all available hotels in Curitiba

Walk Along Boca Maldita

Boca Maldita is one of Curitiba’s most iconic pedestrian streets, known as a traditional meeting point for locals. For decades, this has been the place where people come to talk, argue about politics, share news, and simply observe city life unfolding around them.

It’s lively without being chaotic, and that’s what makes it special. Grab a coffee from a nearby café, stand or sit for a while, and just watch. If you want to understand the everyday rhythm of Curitiba beyond landmarks, this street tells you more than any museum.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Relax at Praça Osório

Praça Osório sits right in the heart of the city and works perfectly as a pause point while exploring downtown. Surrounded by shops, bakeries, and cafés, it often hosts small markets, seasonal stalls, or local events that give it a lived-in, everyday feel.

It’s not a must-see landmark, but it’s useful and pleasant. If you need shade, a snack, or just a moment to sit and regroup before continuing on foot, this square does the job nicely.

Psst, you can join Tina’s Yoga Studio and get access to hundreds of Yoga, Meditation, and Well-being videos.

Experience Rua 24 Horas

Rua 24 Horas was originally designed to stay open around the clock—hence the name—even though today it’s more symbolic than literal. Still, it remains a lively covered street lined with restaurants, bars, and casual spots to eat.

It’s practical more than memorable, but that’s part of its charm. If you’re nearby and feeling hungry or tired, this is an easy place to stop, refuel, and plan your next move without overthinking it.

Here are all your accommodation options in Curitiba

Stroll Through the Botanical Garden

This is Curitiba’s most iconic attraction, and it’s easy to see why. The glass greenhouse—clearly inspired by European botanical gardens—stands at the center of perfectly kept gardens, fountains, and long walking paths. It’s one of those places that instantly feels calmer than the rest of the city.

Try to visit early in the morning if you can. The light is softer, the air fresher, and the park is much quieter. Even a short walk here feels like a reset before diving back into urban exploring.

Escape to Tanguá Park

Tanguá Park feels like a complete change of scenery. Built in a former quarry, it combines dramatic cliffs, lakes, tunnels, and wide viewpoints that make you forget you’re still inside the city.

This is one of the best spots in Curitiba for sunset. Take your time walking the paths, stop at the viewpoints, and enjoy the scale of the place. If you only choose one park outside the city center, this is the one worth the effort.

Our Favorite Hotels in Curitiba

View All

Johnscher by SJ – San Juan Curitiba

Novotel Curitiba Batel

Nomaa Hotel

See all available hotels in Curitiba

Take the Serra Verde Express to Morretes

If you have an extra day, the Serra Verde Express is one of the most memorable things you can do from Curitiba. The train slowly winds its way through dense Atlantic rainforest, crossing bridges and passing waterfalls along the way.

This trip is much more about the journey than the destination. It’s slow, scenic, and relaxing—a perfect contrast to city sightseeing. Even if you don’t explore much in Morretes, the ride itself makes it worthwhile.

Curitiba 1-Day Itinerary (Easy & Walkable)

Morning – Historic Core & Local Life

• Start in the Historical City Center and walk around at a relaxed pace
• Visit Nossa Senhora do Rosário
• Stop by Flower Clock Square
• Look out for street art tucked into side streets
• Wander through the Ruins of São Francisco
• Step inside Curitiba Cathedral near Praça Tiradentes
• Walk along Boca Maldita to see locals gathering and chatting
• Take a short break at Praça Osório
• Continue toward Rua 24 Horas for lunch or a coffee stop

Afternoon – Green Escapes

• Head to the Botanical Garden for a calm stroll
• If time allows, continue on to Tanguá Park for views and fresh air

Optional Extra Day / Slow Travel Add-On

• Take the Serra Verde Express train to Morretes for a scenic rainforest journey

This itinerary keeps things balanced: history in the morning, local life at midday, and nature in the afternoon—without rushing or overpacking the day.