Curitiba’s iconic glass Botanical Garden greenhouse and the scenic Serra Verde Express train through the Atlantic Forest give visitors both a showcase of urban planning and one of Brazil’s most beautiful rail journeys.

Why Visit Curitiba

Widely regarded as one of Brazil’s most livable and best planned cities, Curitiba combines innovative urban parks and public transit with access to a dramatic scenic railway descending through the Atlantic Forest to the coast.

Top Experiences in Curitiba

  • Curitiba Botanical Garden Tour: This park’s Art Nouveau style glass greenhouse and French inspired gardens make it one of the city’s most photographed landmarks.
  • Serra Verde Express Train Ride: This scenic railway descends through the Atlantic Forest and mountain viaducts en route to the coastal town of Morretes.
  • Oscar Niemeyer Museum Visit: Known locally as the Eye Museum for its distinctive shape, this museum showcases modern art and design in a Niemeyer designed building.
  • Tangua Park and Wire Opera House Tour: This park features a striking metal-frame concert venue known as the Wire Opera House alongside quarry lakes and walking trails.
  • Curitiba City Bus Tour: This hop-on hop-off tour covers the city’s innovative Bus Rapid Transit system and major parks, reflecting Curitiba’s reputation for urban planning.

Book Tours & Activities in Curitiba

From the Botanical Garden to the Serra Verde Express train, these tours cover Curitiba’s blend of urban design and scenic rail travel.

8h full city tour in Curitiba

8h full city tour in Curitiba

★ 5.0 (10)
From USD 97.76
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A taste of Curitiba at our best local Markets

A taste of Curitiba at our best local Markets

★ 5.0 (6)
From USD 43.96
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Piece of Holland Full-Day Tour in the Interior of Paraná

Piece of Holland Full-Day Tour in the Interior of Paraná

★ 5.0 (5)
From USD 176.65
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Private Cycling Tour to Morretes - via Estrada da Graciosa / including transfer from Curitiba

Private Cycling Tour to Morretes - via Estrada da Graciosa / including transfer from Curitiba

★ 5.0 (2)
From USD 360.33
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Vacation Package Full Sunset From Van and Return DE Train

Vacation Package Full Sunset From Van and Return DE Train

★ 5.0 (2)
From USD 127.07
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Tour to the State Park of Vila Velha

Tour to the State Park of Vila Velha

★ 5.0 (2)
From USD 169.22
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Practical Tips for Visiting Curitiba

  • The Serra Verde Express should be booked in advance, especially for window seats on the forest facing side.
  • Curitiba’s Botanical Garden is especially scenic in the early morning when it is less crowded.
  • The Wire Opera House occasionally hosts performances, check the schedule if attending a concert is of interest.
  • Curitiba’s efficient bus system makes it easy to reach most major attractions without a car.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Serra Verde Express known for?

It is a scenic train ride through the Atlantic Forest and mountain viaducts connecting Curitiba to the coastal town of Morretes, considered one of Brazil’s most beautiful rail journeys.

Why is Curitiba considered well planned?

The city is known for its innovative Bus Rapid Transit system, extensive network of parks, and thoughtful urban design that has influenced city planning worldwide.

Final Thoughts

Curitiba’s thoughtful urban design paired with the scenic Serra Verde Express train make it one of southern Brazil’s most distinctive destinations.