Things To Do
in Brasília
Brasília is Brazil's purpose-built capital, inaugurated in 1960 to replace Rio de Janeiro as the seat of government. Designed by Oscar Niemeyer and Lúcio Costa, the city is famed for sweeping curves, monumental buildings, and the distinctive layout of the Monumental Axis. Its neighborhoods circle the shimmering Lake Paranoá, offering government districts, residential zones, and cultural venues.
Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, vibrant markets, and a growing gastronomic scene that reflects Brazil's regional diversity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Catedral Metropolitana, a stunning modernist structure designed by Oscar Niemeyer. After admiring the cathedral's unique architecture, take a leisurely stroll through the Praça dos Três Poderes to appreciate the monumental buildings surrounding it. Don’t forget to snap some photos of the Palácio da Alvorada, the official residence of the President of Brazil.
After lunch at a local restaurant, explore the National Museum of the Brazilian Republic, where you can delve into the country's art and culture through engaging exhibits. Next, visit the nearby JK Memorial, dedicated to Juscelino Kubitschek, the founder of Brasília, to learn about the city’s fascinating history. Spend some time in the lush gardens surrounding the memorial, perfect for a short relaxation break.
As the sun sets, head to the rooftop of the National Congress for panoramic views of the city lit up at night. Enjoy dinner at a traditional Brazilian steakhouse, where you can savor local flavors and the famous churrasco. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Lake Paranoá, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the reflections of the city lights on the water.
Begin your morning at the Museu de Arte de Brasília, where you can appreciate a diverse collection of contemporary works by Brazilian artists. Engage with local art on display, including vibrant paintings and sculptures that reflect the country’s culture. Afterward, stop by a nearby café for a traditional Brazilian breakfast, complete with pão de queijo and fresh fruit juice.
Post-lunch, visit the Teatro Nacional Cláudio Santoro, an architectural marvel where you can take a guided tour and learn about its unique design and history. Attend a matinee performance if available, experiencing Brazil's vibrant performing arts scene firsthand. Spend the late afternoon wandering through the nearby Parque da Cidade, where you can enjoy the beautiful green space and perhaps rent a bike.
For dinner, explore the local dining scene at a trendy restaurant in the Asa Sul neighborhood, known for its modern twist on Brazilian cuisine. After dinner, catch a live music performance at one of the local bars, where you can immerse yourself in the rhythms of Brazilian samba and bossa nova. Wind down the evening with a nightcap while mingling with the friendly locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 🚎Local transportation (day pass) | $3-6 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic modernist architecture and a unique urban design
- Vibrant cultural scene and diverse dining options
- Proximity to outdoor activities and easy day trips to nature
- Efficient planning with organized neighborhoods and lake views
- Limited walkability in some areas; car or ride-share is often preferred
- Certain attractions close early on Sundays or holidays
- Seasonal weather; summer rains can disrupt outdoor plans
- Some services and attractions may have higher prices in peak seasons
- "Olá, tudo bem?" - Hi, how are you?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado(a)" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- " Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Brasília
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic hyperbolic-arched roof designed by Niemeyer; interior and exterior angles create dramatic light and shadows.
Glass-and-concrete residence with reflective pools and landscaped grounds—great for dawn or dusk photography from nearby viewpoints.
A monumental plaza framing the union of executive, legislative, and judicial buildings with striking geometric lines.
A tall television tower offering panoramic city views and a vantage point for sunset shots over the meandering lake.
A sculptural memorial with stark lines that complement contemporary photography focusing on memory and design.
Food in Brasília
Brasília Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional combination of a thick cornmeal porridge with salted dried beef, often served with beans and farofa.
Must-Try!
A classic Goiás specialty featuring pequi fruit paired with rice, highlighting Cerrado ingredients.
A hearty bean dish with cassava flour, pork, and eggs, reflecting broader Brazilian comfort cooking.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A large wholesale market offering fresh regional produce, juices, and informal stalls where you can sample quick bites and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Olá' or 'Bom dia/Boa tarde.' Handshakes are common in formal settings; address people as 'Senhor' or 'Senhora' in more respectful contexts.
Restaurant menus often start with small talk; wait to be seated and follow local cues for tempo and conversation. Keep hands visible; punctuality is valued in business contexts.
Smart-casual is suitable for most venues. The city is used to hot weather; lightweight, breathable clothing is common, but dress up a bit for nicer restaurants.
Safety
Tipping in Brasília
Ensure a smooth experience
In Brazil, a 10% service charge may be included on restaurant bills; if not, leaving 5-10% is common for good service. Rounding up taxi fares is appreciated but not required.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash in BRL is useful for markets and smaller shops. Digital wallets (e.g., mobile apps) are increasingly common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for morning or late afternoon. Light clothing is ideal, and indoor museums provide relief from heat.
Transition to a drier period with comfortable daytime temperatures. Great for outdoor exploration and walking tours around the Lake Paranoá.
Cooler evenings and mornings; light jacket or sweater is handy. Daytime temperatures remain mild; ideal for long city strolls and museum visits.
Pleasant temperatures with a gentle rise in humidity; good for park visits and outdoor photography without extreme heat.
Brasília at Night
Hiking in Brasília
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular day trip about 130-150 km from Brasília, featuring a dramatic 168-meter waterfall with accessible trails and viewpoints.
A renowned hiking region roughly 260 km from Brasília with several high-elevation trails, crystal-clear rivers, and dramatic canyon scenery; ideal for a multi-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Brasília by plane.
Brasília International Airport, located about 11 km from the city center; serves domestic and international flights with rental cars, taxis, and rideshare options available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large share of residents are government employees, civil servants, and international diplomats due to the capital's function.
A diverse mix drawn to quality of life, education, and cultural opportunities across neighborhood districts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The nation's favorite sport; matches and pickup games occur in parks and local fields.
Popular in schools and clubs; indoor and beach formats are common in recreation areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Brasília.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose plant-based dishes or ingredient swaps; many restaurants offer veggie bowls, grills, and sides. Look for moqueca de palmito, salads, and okra dishes in menus.
Request plant-based options or customize meals; many places can prepare simple vegan dishes with vegetables, grains, and legumes.
Brazilian cooks can accommodate gluten-free needs with rice-based meals, salads, and grilled proteins; confirm sauces and toppings to avoid hidden gluten.