Curitiba Brazil Day Trips

Escape the City: The Best Day Trips from Curitiba

Curitiba’s central location in Paraná makes it a perfect jumping-off point for exploring the diverse beauty of southern Brazil. Here are some of the best day trip destinations from Curitiba:

Nature Lovers:

  • Parque Barigüi: Enjoy a relaxing day amidst lush greenery and stunning waterfalls at this beautiful urban park. Explore the botanical gardens, visit the zoo, or take a stroll along the scenic trails.
  • Jardim Botânico de Curitiba: Immerse yourself in the diverse flora of the region at this renowned botanical garden. Marvel at the vibrant colors of exotic flowers, wander through themed gardens, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Charming Towns:

  • Morretes: This historic town nestled in the mountains offers a taste of traditional Brazilian life. Take a scenic train ride on the “Maria Fumaça” (steam train) through the Serra Verde region, known for its breathtaking mountain scenery and delicious “pastel de forno” (baked pastries).
  • Paranaguá: Explore the charming coastal city of Paranagúa, enjoy fresh seafood at the harbor, and witness the fascinating history of this port town.

Historical Sites:

  • Curitiba-Rio Negro: This former train route to the coast is now a popular tourist destination for its preserved colonial architecture and delicious “pastel de forno” (baked pastries) from local bakeries.

  • Curitiba-Paraná:

    • Centro Histórico: Wander through the cobblestone streets of Curitiba’s historic center, admiring historical buildings like the Cathedral and the Mercado Municipal (Municipal Market).

Adventurous Excursions:

  • Parque do Araucária: Explore this beautiful park with its diverse landscapes and hiking trails.
  • Iguazu Falls: Experience the awe-inspiring power of these natural wonders by taking a day trip to the Brazilian side of the falls for stunning views, or head to the Argentinian side for a closer experience (and delicious “pastel de forno” from street vendors!).

Choosing Your Adventure:

When planning your day trip, consider:

  • Your interests: Do you prefer exploring nature, immersing yourself in history, or experiencing something new?
  • The time of year: Some destinations may be inaccessible during certain seasons due to weather conditions.
  • Travel time: Make sure you choose a destination that’s within a reasonable distance for a day trip from Curitiba.

Transportation:

  • Day trips by bus:

Buses are an affordable and convenient way to explore nearby towns. Many companies offer frequent excursions to popular destinations like:

* **Curitiba-Paranauá:** The Serra Verde Express offers scenic train rides to the town of Paranaguá, which is located near the Iguazu Falls and boasts a charming historical downtown with beautiful architecture.

Beyond Curitiba:

For those seeking a more extended adventure, consider: