8 Things To Do In Curitiba, Brazil

1. Palácio Avenida

When in Curitiba, one should definitely go see the Palacio Avenida. This is probably one of the most visited spots in the city. Known as the headquarters of HSBC, this building is especially attractive during Christmas. During Christmas, the Christmas Choral takes place and is a breathtaking event which spreads the idea of peace and hope. The chorale, which consists of more than 160 orphan children, takes place along the windows of this very historical Palácio Avenida building. The entire building is also illuminated and there are fireworks which accompany the serenity. This adds to the charm of the entire building and is a yearly Christmas ritual.

Palácio Avenida

Address: Rua Luiz Xavier, 11 - Centro, Curitiba - PR, 80020-020, Brazil

Website: Palácio Avenida - in Portuguese)

2. Tangua Park (Parque Tangua)

What used to be a former quarry complex is now Parque Tangua or otherwise known as Tangua Park. Free to the public and open 24 hours a day, this recreational space is an attractive venue to cycle, stroll, spot wildlife or even be in awe of the waterfall. The spectacular greenery offers respite from a busy life. There is a pretty pond as well for people to enjoy the sprays of water. There is much flora and fauna to enjoy through the entire park. The park is located in the Pilarzinho neighborhood and is about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) from the centre of the city.

Tangua Park

Address: Rua Oswaldo Maciel, s/n - Pilarzinho, Curitiba - PR, 82130-310, Brazil

Website: Tangua Park

3. Panoramic Tower

This tower in Curitiba acts as a point of interest from which visitors can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the entire city. At the top of the tower is an observation deck. From there, one can enjoy the views of the entire city. This tower once used to be a telephone tower and the only one in the whole of Brazil. Now open for visitation, lots of pictures and good memories of the city can be clicked from this observatory deck. The deck is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 7pm.

Panoramic Tower

Address: Rua Prof. Lycio Grein de Castro Vellozo 191, Mercês, Curitiba, Brazil

Website: Panoramic Tower

4. Metropolitan Cathedral

If you walk through the streets of the historic center of Curitiba, you will definitely not miss the city’s most famous cathedral, Basilica Minor of Our Lady of Light, otherwise known as the Metropolitan Cathedral. The cathedral was constructed in 1876, adopting the Neo-Gothic style. What is prominent in the church is the several stained-glass windows and spectacular paintings by famous artists like Carlos and Anacleto Garbaccio. Close to the entrance, visitors will get a chance to see the chair that Pope John Paul II is said to have sat on when he visited the city in 1980. This cathedral is always listed as one of the many sightseeing points for city tours.

Metropolitan Cathedral

Address: Rua Barão do Serro Azul, 31, Curitiba, PR, Brazil

Website: Metropolitan Cathedral

5. Sunday Market at Feirinha do Largo da Ordem

This is a Sunday market which is held on Largo da Ordem street every week. This Sunday market attracts throngs of people and is home to stalls selling all types of crafts, paintings, local food items and many more. What is of special mention is an old car exhibition which will definitely captivate those interested in automobiles. The Sunday market is held in the historical centre where several attractions are, making it convenient for visitors to head off to other sightseeing venues after visiting the market.

Sunday Market at Feirinha do Largo da Ordem

Address: Cavalo Babão - R. Kellers, s/n - São Francisco, Curitiba - PR, 80410-100, Brazil

Website: Sunday Market at Feirinha do Largo da Ordem - in Portuguese)

6. Opera de Arame

Even though there are so many historical spots in the city, the image of one particular sight is constantly used to represent the city of Curitiba. This is the Wire Opera House or the Opera de Arame. The Wire Opera House is a true masterpiece of modern architecture. Apart from being spellbound by the innovative architecture, appreciate the large boulders, dense forest and lake which surround the structure.

The building itself sits atop a rock in a crater of what used to be an abandoned quarry, and is made entirely of glass and steel. The venue is used for concerts, ballets and plays which are frequently held there. As visitors make their way towards the theatre, they will be able to enjoy the sight of the water flowing beneath their feet.

Opera de Arame

Address: Rua João Gava, 970, Curitiba, Brazil

Website: Opera de Arame

7. Jardim Botânico

Jardim Botânico is also otherwise known as the Botanical Garden of Curitiba in English. It stands as a major tourist attraction in the city and is a prominent landmark as well. Part of the campus of the Federal University of Paraná is also housed with the park premises. Curitiba’s prominent landmark was created in the French style and also consists of French style fountains and lakes. Visitors to the gardens are welcomed by the sight of a carpet of flowers. On the other side of the park is the Botanical Museum which houses a herbarium. This herbarium is known to be the world’s 4th largest.

Jardim Botânico

Address: R. Engo. Ostoja Roguski - Jardim Botânico, Curitiba - PR, 80210-390, Brazil

Website: Jardim Botânico - in Portuguese)

8. Museu Oscar Niemeyer

The Museu Oscar Niemeyer is situated precariously on a prominent yellow pillar. The way it is balanced on that pillar is unbelievable, yet stands firm. The museum was designed by the famous Brazilian modern architect Oscar Niemeyer and much of his work has been housed in the museum. The Museu is colorfully painted and stands brightly lit in the night. There is also another rectangular gallery that is home to other Brazilian artists’ work. These exhibits are periodically rotated.

Museu Oscar Niemeyer

Address: Rua Marechal Hermes 999 Curitiba, 80530-230 Brazil

Website: Museu Oscar Niemeyer in Portuguese

Explore Curitiba and enjoy

For all that Curitiba has to offer, visitors to the city are in for a rewarding time. With a wealth of sightseeing options available and experiences to gain, visitors can enjoy the time of their life.