Things To Do
in Campo Largo

Campo Largo is a charming city in Paraná, Brazil, located just west of Curitiba, offering easy access to both urban amenities and natural escapes. It blends green landscapes with a friendly, small-town atmosphere and a growing array of cafés, eateries, and markets. The surrounding countryside features forests, rivers, and rural farms that invite exploration, hiking, and photography.

The area is known for welcoming locals and a relaxed pace that makes it a great base for day trips into the broader Curitiba region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Brazilian pastries like pão de queijo. Afterward, wander through the charming streets of Campo Largo, admiring the colonial architecture and historical landmarks. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Igreja Matriz de Campo Largo, a beautiful church that reflects the city's rich history.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore the vibrant local market, where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes such as feijoada or parmegiana. After your meal, visit the Museu Histórico de Campo Largo to delve deeper into the city's past and cultural heritage.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely stroll in the Praça Getúlio Vargas, a lovely square filled with greenery and local life. Grab dinner at a cozy restaurant that offers a mix of regional and contemporary Brazilian cuisine. End your evening with a relaxing drink at a bar, soaking in the local atmosphere and perhaps enjoying some live music.

day 2
Nature Retreat at Parque do Lago
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk or jog around Parque do Lago, a beautiful park that surrounds a serene lake. Take in the sights and sounds of nature, as you might spot various birds and local wildlife. After your workout, enjoy a picnic breakfast in one of the park's designated areas, surrounded by lush greenery.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon renting a paddleboat or canoe to explore the lake from a different perspective. Alternatively, you can relax on the shore with a book or engage in some leisurely fishing. As the sun shines down, indulge in a packed lunch while enjoying the peaceful environment.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, head back to the park to witness a stunning sunset over the lake. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant that specializes in seafood, taking advantage of the local catch. Conclude your day by participating in any evening activities at the park, such as open-air concerts or cultural events.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$7-12
Coffee or pastry$2-4
🍝Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant$20-35
🏨Hotel per night (budget)$40-70
🚌Public transport fare$1-2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Calm, family-friendly atmosphere
  • Close to Curitiba and nature escapes
  • Affordability and genuine local culture
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Transport options require a car for easy exploration of outskirts
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
  • "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Campo Largo

Visit one of these nice places.

Igreja Matriz de Campo Largo

Iconic church with a prominent facade; ideal for architectural shots, especially at dusk when lights illuminate the façade.

Historic Center Plaza

Cobblestone streets and colorful façades provide classic town photography opportunities and candid street scenes.

Parque Municipal Campo Largo

Green spaces, ponds, and walking paths offer tranquil nature photography and reflections on the water.

Ribeirão do Campo Largo riverside

Water reflections, willows, and greenery along the riverbank—great for serene landscape shots.

Rural roads at golden hour

Scenic countryside routes with fields and farms—perfect for wide-angle landscapes and sunsets.

Culinary Guide

Food in Campo Largo

The cuisine in Campo Largo reflects Paraná's farm-to-table traditions, with hearty meats, polenta, fresh produce, and regional coffee. Expect generous portions, friendly service, and flavors built around locally produced ingredients.

Campo Largo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pinhão

Roasted or boiled pine nuts from the local Araucaria forests; a popular snack and accompaniment in markets and taverns.

Must-Try!

Barreado

Slow-cooked meat stew that embodies Paraná flavors, typically found in regional eateries and family recipes.

Polenta

Cornmeal porridge served with savory toppings or fried as slices; a staple on many menus.

Churrasco and grilled meats

Brazilian barbecue staples widely available in local grills and casual eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Campo Largo

A local market where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and regional snacks.

Street Food

Try pastel, coxinha, empadas, and espetinhos from street stalls and mobile vendors around the town square.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region experiences a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. Rain is common in the warmer months, while cooler spells can occur in winter; the altitude can moderate temperatures somewhat.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common; among friends, a hug or kiss on the cheek may occur. Use polite language and maintain friendly conversation.

Politeness and privacy

Be courteous and respect personal space; avoid overly loud conversations in public spaces.

Punctuality

Casual social events can tolerate small delays; for formal occasions, arriving on time is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

As with many Brazilian towns, petty crime can occur in urban areas. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, use reputable transportation, and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Exercise standard travel safety and emergency precautions.

Tipping in Campo Largo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash, credit/debit cards are widely accepted; PIX and mobile wallets are increasingly common for transfers and purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm, sometimes hot days with afternoon showers; carry water, sunscreen, and a light rain layer; humidity can be high.

Autumn

Mild temperatures with pleasant days and the onset of colorful foliage; great for hiking and street photography.

Winter

Cooler days with crisp mornings; layering is recommended; rain is less frequent but possible.

Spring

Moderate temperatures with blooming plants and increasing rainfall; ideal for outdoor activities and markets.

Nightlife Guide

Campo Largo at Night

Campo Largo’s nightlife is relaxed, with local bars and cafés offering live music on weekends. For a more vibrant scene, many residents travel to Curitiba, about an hour away, to enjoy clubs, bars, and cultural events.

Hiking in Campo Largo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cascata do Saltinho

A scenic waterfall near São José dos Pinhais that offers trails and viewpoints for hiking and photography.

Rural trails around Campo Largo

Quiet trails through farmland and forest edges offering peaceful hikes and wildlife viewing.

Airports

How to reach Campo Largo by plane.

Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB)

Curitiba’s main international and domestic airport; about a 45-60 minute drive from Campo Largo depending on traffic.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is walkable with compact distances between key spots, though some streets are uneven or hilly. A car is helpful for exploring rural areas and nearby natural sites. Public transportation is available but less dense than in major cities.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many residents are families with long-standing local roots.

Commuters to Curitiba

A significant number travel to the Curitiba region for work.

Students and young professionals

Growing presence of students and early-career workers.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (Football)

The most popular sport across the region, with local matches and community leagues.

Futsal

Indoor soccer played in gyms and community centers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavier during peak hours in the Curitiba metro area. Driving is common for exploring the region; public buses and taxis are available in town. Rural roads can be slower due to weather or maintenance.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Campo Largo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for dishes based on polenta, beans, vegetables, and cheese; many places can adapt or offer vegetarian options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Campo Largo includes public SUS facilities and private clinics; for more specialized care, residents often travel to Curitiba's larger hospitals and specialists.

Discover Brazil

Read more in our Brazil 2025 Travel Guide.

Brazil Travel Guide