Grande Curitiba Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Grande Curitiba, including its must-see places and things to do.


Introduction to Grande Curitiba

Located in the state of Paraná, in southern Brazil, Grande Curitiba is an urban area that comprises 26 municipalities, including the state capital, Curitiba. Famous for its innovative urban design, excellent public transportation system, and award-winning parks, Grande Curitiba is a great example of how modern cities can be sustainable and pandemics-proof.

With a vibrant cultural scene, natural parks, historical sites, delicious food, and friendly people, Grande Curitiba is a must-visit destination for those who want to experience the best of Brazil. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to Grande Curitiba.

List of Places to Visit in Grande Curitiba

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Museu Oscar Niemeyer

The museum, also known as “Museu do Olho” (Eye Museum), is an architectural masterpiece designed by the famous Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. It houses a collection of contemporary and modern art, including works by Brazilian and international artists.

Curitiba Historic Center

The historic center of Curitiba is a charming area with well-preserved colonial buildings from the 19th and 20th centuries. Some of the must-see attractions in the area include the Curitiba Cathedral, the Paço da Liberdade (Freedom Palace), and the Largo da Ordem (Order Square).

Campos Gerais

The region of Campos Gerais is an outdoor museum of fossils where visitors can see actual prints from the dinosaurs that once inhabited the area. The area also has several natural parks, including Vila Velha State Park, where visitors can explore the unusual rock formations and hike to stunning viewpoints.

Natural Attractions of Grande Curitiba: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Serra do Mar State Park

The state park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and waterfalls. The park is home to numerous endangered species, such as jaguars, giant armadillos, and the muriqui monkey.

Guartelá Canyon

The Guartelá Canyon is one of the most stunning attractions of Grande Curitiba. The canyon has more than 30 km (18 miles) of trails, and visitors can hike, bike, or even paraglide over the breathtaking scenery.

Ilha do Mel

A paradise island with picturesque beaches, Ilha do Mel is ideal for a relaxing day trip or a few days of seclusion. The island has no cars, and visitors can only get around by foot or bike. The Lighthouse and the Fortaleza de Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres are must-see attractions.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Grande Curitiba

Rota das Cachoeiras (Waterfall Route)

The Rota das Cachoeiras is a charming hiking trail that leads to several waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation. The trail is approximately 5 km (3 miles) long and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Parque Tanguá

Parque Tanguá is a popular park for biking, hiking, and running. The park has two lakes connected by a tunnel and offers stunning views of Curitiba’s skyline. The trail around the lake is approximately 2.4 km (1.5 miles) long.

Best Things to Do in Grande Curitiba: Activities and Tours

Curitiba City Tour

A guided tour of Curitiba’s main attractions is an excellent way to learn about the city’s history and culture. Visitors can choose between walking, biking, or bus tours.

Brazilian Night Experience

A night out in a samba school is a must-do activity for those who want to experience the cultural side of Brazil. Visitors will learn about samba’s roots, watch a live performance, and try some delicious Brazilian snacks and drinks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Grande Curitiba

Day Activity
1 Explore Curitiba’s historic center and visit the Museu Oscar Niemeyer in the afternoon
2 Hike the Rota das Cachoeiras trail in the morning and visit the Guartelá Canyon in the afternoon
3 Visit Campos Gerais’s natural parks and fossil museums
4 Visit Ilha do Mel and relax on the beach
5 Take a bike tour of Curitiba
6 Spend the day at the Serra do Mar State Park
7 Brazilian Night Experience in Curitiba

Food and Drink Scene of Grande Curitiba

Must-Try Dishes

Barreado

Barreado is a famous dish from the state of Paraná. It’s a slow-cooked beef stew that is served with rice or cassava flour. Tourists can try barreado at restaurants and food trucks throughout the area.

Carne de onça

Carne de onça is a traditional Curitiba dish that is similar to the Italian beef carpaccio. The dish contains raw beef with onion, lemon, and Worcestershire sauce, served with bread.

Local Beverages

Cachaça

Cachaça is a traditional Brazilian sugarcane liquor that can be enjoyed by itself or in cocktails. Several distilleries produce excellent cachaça in the region.

Mate

Mate is a traditional Brazilian tea that is drank hot or cold, with sugar or lemon. The drink is popular among locals and visitors alike.

Where to Stay in Grande Curitiba: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Grande Curitiba has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some of the best areas to stay are the historic center of Curitiba, Batel, and the area around Rua 24 Horas. Some recommended properties are:

Nomaa Hotel

Located in Batel, Nomaa Hotel is a luxurious hotel with stylish rooms, a rooftop bar, and a gourmet restaurant.

Motter Home Curitiba Hostel

Motter Home Curitiba Hostel is a budget-friendly hostel that offers private and shared rooms, a communal kitchen, and a cozy living room.

Pousada Cambará

Pousada Cambará is a charming guest house located in the beautiful Campos Gerais region. The property has a swimming pool, a sauna, and excellent views of the surrounding mountains.

What to Buy in Grande Curitiba: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Crafts and Art

Grande Curitiba is renowned for its arts and crafts scene. Tourists can shop for handmade items of wood, glass, and ceramics at several local markets and stores.

Cachaça

Cachaça is an iconic Brazilian drink that makes an excellent gift or souvenir. Tourists can buy cachaça in several stores and supermarkets throughout the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Grande Curitiba

Grande Curitiba has a rich cultural and historical heritage, and its people are proud of their roots and traditions. Religion, sports, music, and food are essential aspects of local culture, and visitors are encouraged to learn and participate in the community’s activities.

Best Time to Visit Grande Curitiba

The best time to visit Grande Curitiba is from March to May and from September to November. During this period, the weather is mild, and the crowds are manageable. Winter (June to August) can be cold, and summer (December to February) can be hot and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Grande Curitiba

Do:

  • Try local food and drinks
  • Visit local markets and craft fairs
  • Learn about local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water without boiling it or filtering it
  • Walk alone at night in isolated areas
  • Wear flashy jewelry or carry large amounts of cash

Safety and Health

Safety in Grande Curitiba

Grande Curitiba is a relatively safe area, but visitors should take some precautions, such as:

  • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas
  • Don’t leave valuables unattended
  • Use only licensed taxis or ride-hail services

Health in Grande Curitiba

Visitors should drink bottled water or boiled and filtered tap water. They should also apply mosquito repellent and use sunscreen when outdoors for extended periods. Vaccinations for yellow fever, dengue, and other diseases may be required for visitors from some countries.

Getting to Grande Curitiba: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Grande Curitiba

The nearest airport to Grande Curitiba is the Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB), located 17 km (10.5 miles) southeast of Curitiba’s city center. The airport serves domestic and international flights, and visitors can take taxis, buses, or ride-hail services to their destinations.

Bus Stations Near Grande Curitiba

Curitiba Bus Station is the main bus terminal in the area and serves several domestic and international destinations. Some of the bus companies that operate in the area are Pluma, Reunidas, and Gontijo.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Grande Curitiba by train from São Paulo or by car from other cities in the region. A rental car is a convenient way to explore the area at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Grande Curitiba

Grande Curitiba has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and a subway. Tourists can buy a “Cartão-Transporte” card, which allows unlimited use of all public transportation modes for a fixed period.

Where to Go Next from Grande Curitiba: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Foz do Iguaçu

Famous for its stunning waterfalls, Foz do Iguaçu is located approximately 640 km (397 miles) west of Grande Curitiba.

Florianópolis

The capital of Santa Catarina state, Florianópolis, is located approximately 300 km (186 miles) southeast of Grande Curitiba. The city has beautiful beaches, nature reserves, and a thriving nightlife scene.

Conclusion

Grande Curitiba is a beautiful area in southern Brazil that has something to offer for everyone. From stunning natural parks to vibrant cultural attractions, delicious food, and comfortable accommodation, Grande Curitiba is an excellent destination for those who want to experience the best of Brazil. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has been helpful in planning your next trip to Grande Curitiba!



    Campo Largo
    Quatro Barras