Things To Do
in Apucarana
Apucarana is a dynamic inland city in Paraná renowned for its textile heritage and welcoming locals. Set on the high plains of northern Paraná, it blends urban amenities with easy access to green spaces and nearby countryside. The city center offers markets, cafés, and small museums that give visitors a window into regional life.
Outside the core, rolling hills and lakes invite short day trips and relaxed outdoor adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Praça da Bíblia, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café while soaking in the local atmosphere. Take a stroll around the square to admire its beautiful gardens and the striking architecture of the surrounding buildings. Don't forget to snap some photos of the impressive Igreja Matriz de Apucarana, a stunning example of local religious architecture.
In the afternoon, head over to the Museu Histórico de Apucarana to delve into the rich history of the region. The museum showcases fascinating artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Apucarana's development over the years. Afterward, take a walk through the charming streets, stopping at local artisan shops to browse unique crafts and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delicious dinner at a traditional Brazilian restaurant, sampling local dishes like feijoada or picanha. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, experiencing the vibrant nightlife of Apucarana. Consider ending your evening at a local bar, where you can enjoy live music and mingle with friendly locals.
Begin your morning with a hike in the nearby Parque da Raposa, where you can explore lush trails surrounded by diverse flora and fauna. The early hours are perfect for birdwatching, as you may catch sight of exotic birds like toucans and parrots. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy in a serene spot within the park.
After your hike, visit the local botanical garden to learn about native plant species and the importance of biodiversity in the region. Take your time to wander through the various sections of the garden, observing the colorful flowers and unique trees. For lunch, head to a local café that offers fresh, organic dishes inspired by the countryside.
As evening approaches, return to your accommodation to freshen up before heading out for dinner. Choose a cozy restaurant that features a blend of international and Brazilian cuisine, perfect for unwinding after an active day. Conclude your evening with a peaceful walk in the park, reflecting on the day's adventures under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or breakfast | $1-3 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $25-45 |
| 🚎Public transit day pass | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, friendly atmosphere and strong value for money
- Good access to nature and short day trips from the city center
- Limited direct international flight options nearby
- Smaller nightlife and fewer English-speaking services in some areas
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado / Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica...?" - Where is...?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Eu gostaria de..." - I would like to...
- "A conta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Você aceita cartão?" - Do you accept cards?
Places to Visit in Apucarana
Visit one of these nice places.
The city’s central square offers early-morning light, fountains, and everyday life as a backdrop for candid and street photography.
Lush greenery, walking trails, and water features make this spot ideal for nature shots and tranquil portraits.
Historic streets with a mix of colonial and mid-century architecture—great for architectural details and atmospheric street photography.
Food in Apucarana
Apucarana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Roasted pine nuts harvested from local forests; a seasonal snack commonly found in markets and parks.
Must-Try!
A regional take on grilled meats with simple, flavorful sides—popular in many local eateries.
A soft, yeast-based cake topped with guava paste, widely available in bakeries and cafes.
Brazilian cheese bread, a staple for breakfast or a quick snack at cafés and bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market offering fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and regional snacks; great for trying empadas, pastel, and caldo de cana.
Weekly street markets with fruit, vegetables, snacks, and quick bites—perfect for a casual lunch or snack on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake and direct eye contact are common. Use polite forms like senhor/senhora in formal settings, and greet shopkeepers when entering markets.
Portuguese is the dominant language; attempting basic phrases is appreciated. A smile goes a long way in social interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Apucarana
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If service is good and not included, small tips (5-10%) are common in restaurants; rounding up at cafés or bars is also common.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops; cash is useful for markets and smaller vendors. Some places may prefer cash for small transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with high humidity and frequent rain showers in the afternoon; carry water, light clothing, and a compact umbrella. Early morning visits are ideal for photography and outdoor activities.
Mild temperatures with less humidity; pleasant for walking tours and outdoor dining. Expect some rainy days but generally comfortable conditions.
Cooler and drier weather; mornings can be crisp, with average daytime temperatures in the teens to low twenties Celsius. Layers are recommended for comfort.
Moderate temperatures with blossoming greenery; great for hikes and outdoor markets. Occasional showers can occur, so keep a light rain layer handy.
Apucarana at Night
Hiking in Apucarana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic ridge hike about 20-40 km from Apucarana, offering forested sections and panoramic views; moderate difficulty with a few ascents.
Waterfront trail around a nearby lake, suitable for easy to moderate walks and birdwatching; great for a half-day outing.
Airports
How to reach Apucarana by plane.
Approx. a 1.5–2 hour drive from Apucarana; serves domestic flights and provides regional connections.
Approximately 2–3 hours away by car; offers regional flights and convenient access to the western Paraná region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families and young professionals who work in textiles, services, and commerce.
Nearby farmers and workers who contribute to the local markets and supply chains.
A growing segment drawn to markets, cafes, and cultural centers in the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local amateur teams and community leagues contributing to a lively sports culture.
A common pastime in schools, clubs, and recreation centers; often played in local gyms and parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Apucarana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetarian dishes labeled as pratos vegetarianos or ask for options like rice, beans, salads, grilled vegetables, and pão de queijo without meat. Many places can accommodate with a cheese or mushroom-focused plate; if in doubt, request 'sem carne' (no meat) and 'sem bacon' (no pork).