An exciting city full of historic attractions and beautiful parks and gardens, Curitiba is a destination that offers travelers a unique Brazilian experience.
Curitiba, the capital of the southern state of Paraná, is a culturally diverse city with many beautiful and interesting attractions. It is known world-wide for its forward thinking urban design. This city with approximately 1.6 million residents is home to 26 parks and bears the title of the Ecological Capital of Brazil. The diversity of Curitiba is reflected in the many historic attractions that reside there.
With so many options and limited time, it can be difficult to choose which attractions to visit. These popular places offer a sampling of the diverse tourist destinations in the city.
Curitiba Catedral Basilica Menor de Nossa Senhora da Luz
The Cathedral of Our Lady of Light is known as the birthplace of Curitiba City. It was inspired by the Barcelona Cathedral. With its interesting history it holds a strong Brazilian influence within its structure. Stained-glass windows in the church were donated by local families and furniture is made of Brazilian walnut. It is located on Rua Barão do Serro Azul in the north of Tiradentes Square.
Museu Oscar Niemeyer - Oscar Niemeyer Museum
Travelers will feel as if they are being watched as they approach this unique tourist spot. This "eye" shaped attraction in Center Civico hosts many art exhibitions. The building was first designed to be a school in the 1970s. After remodeling and expansion, in 2002 it became the museum that it is today. It is located on Rua Marechal Hermes. Hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The cost is R$4 for adults and R$2 for students.
O Jardim Botânico Fanchette Rischbieter - Botanical Garden
Opened in 1991, this attraction draws travelers from all over the world. A botanical garden with geometrically designed grounds, it is a breathtaking site. The greenhouse in the center of the garden has a style and design inspired by the London’s Palace of Glass which was present in the 19th century. Inside there are many plants native to Brazil’s forests. It is located on Rua Ostoja Roguski, Jardim Botânico. The garden is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Entry to the park and greenhouse are free of charge.
Opera de Arame - Wire Opera
The Wire Opera House is an amazing attraction surrounded by a peaceful lake and secluded forest. The bridge and auditorium of this building is made of iron framework and wire creating an open-air atmosphere. The opera house seats 2,400 people with an additional 46 box seats. It is located on Rua João Gava. Hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Admission is free of charge.
Praça do Japão - Japan Square
Experience the cultural presence of Japan at this attraction. Japan Square was designed to honor Japanese settlers in Curitiba. Visitors will find several attributes that make it feel as though one is in Japan, including cherry trees from the country itself. It is located between Rua Depertado Mário de Barros and Rua Marachel Hermes - Civical Center. Entry is free of charge.
