Brasília

Brazil, South America

Brasília, the capital of Brazil, is renowned for its modernist architecture and urban planning, designed by Oscar Niemeyer and Lúcio Costa. Highlights include the iconic Cathedral of Brasília, the impressive National Congress, and the serene Paranoá Lake. The city’s unique layout and artistic monuments create a vibrant atmosphere, making it an architectural paradise. With a growing cultural scene and events like the Brasília International Film Festival, it attracts visitors seeking both innovation and art in a unique urban landscape.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Brasília

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

14 Best Things to Do in Brasília

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the National Museum

Discover modern Brazilian art and culture at this stunning museum.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Cathedral of Brasília

Admire the iconic hyperboloid structure and stained glass.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the JK Memorial

Pay tribute to the founder of Brasília at this memorial.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Lake Paranoá

Enjoy recreational activities and beautiful sunset views.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Palácio da Alvorada

Visit the presidential residence with guided tours available.

Booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Parque da Cidade

Experience green spaces, sports, and local culture in this park.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Itamaraty Palace

Marvel at the stunning architecture and learn about diplomacy.

Booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the National Congress

See the iconic dome and learn about Brazil's legislative process.

Booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Memorial da Justiça

Explore the history of justice in Brazil through engaging exhibits.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a cultural event at Teatro Nacional

Experience Brazilian performing arts in this iconic theater.

Booking required
11

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at Conjunto Nacional

Visit this shopping center for local and international brands.

No booking required
12

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy local cuisine at Mercado Municipal

Savor traditional dishes and fresh produce in one place.

No booking required
13

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Dom Bosco Sanctuary

Experience tranquility and stunning stained glass artistry.

No booking required
14

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Botanical Garden

Discover diverse flora in this peaceful urban garden.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

6 (#32 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Brazilian Real

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Portuguese

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Feijoada

Black bean stew with pork and beef. (National dish)

Churrasco

Brazilian barbecue with various meats.

Moqueca

Fish stew with coconut milk and spices.

Coxinha

Chicken-filled dough ball, deep-fried.

Acarajé

Black-eyed pea fritters with shrimp filling.

Phrases to learn

English

Portuguese

Hello

Olá

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Sim / Nao

(Seem / Nowm)

Thank you

Obrigado

(Oh-bree-gah-doh)

Excuse me

Desculpe

(Deh-skul-peh)

How much?

Quanto?

(Kwan-too)