Things To Do
in Morretes
Morretes is a charming historic town located in the state of Paraná, Brazil. It is nestled in the lush Serra do Mar mountain range, offering stunning natural scenery for visitors to enjoy. The town is known for its preserved colonial architecture, including colorful buildings and cobblestone streets.
Morretes is also famous for its traditional culinary dish called barreado, a delicious slow-cooked beef stew.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike through the scenic trails of the Serra do Mar. Breathe in the fresh air and witness the rich biodiversity of the region.
Enjoy a traditional lunch of barreado, a local dish, in one of the charming restaurants. Spend your afternoon exploring the picturesque streets of Morretes.
As the sun sets, stroll along the Nhundiaquara River. Have dinner at a riverside restaurant and enjoy the serene ambiance.
Board the scenic steam train from Curitiba to Morretes, taking in the breathtaking views of the lush landscape. This unique experience immerses you in the history of the region.
Once in Morretes, explore the historic architecture and museums. Don't forget to capture pictures of the stunning colonial buildings.
Wind down with a leisurely evening walk through the town. Enjoy a light dinner while listening to local music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery and lush forests due to its location in the Serra do Mar mountain range.
- Rich cultural heritage with colonial architecture and delicious local cuisine, including the famous barreado dish.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, and exploring nearby national parks.
- Charming and friendly local community, welcoming to tourists with a tranquil atmosphere.
- Historical significance with attractions such as the Ponte de Ferro bridge and local museums.
- Limited access to large-scale commercial amenities compared to bigger cities.
- Transport infrastructure may not be as developed, making travel less convenient.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to overcrowding during peak times, which might diminish the experience.
- Some areas may lack modern facilities, which may not meet all tourist expectations.
- Weather can be quite humid, which may not be pleasant for all visitors.
Best Activities in Morretes
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush native forests and breathtaking views along the hiking trails in the Serra do Mar mountain range.
Take a scenic train ride through the picturesque landscapes between Morretes and Curitiba, enjoying the views of the Atlantic Rainforest.
Paddle along the calm waters of the Nhundiaquara River, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
Visit the colonial architecture, traditional markets, and sample local dishes like the famous barreado.
Observe diverse bird species in their natural habitat, making use of the rich biodiversity in the region's forests and wetlands.
Enjoy guided or self-guided biking tours through the scenic routes around Morretes, experiencing the beauty of the countryside.
Experience adrenaline rushes at adventure parks offering zip-lining, climbing, and other outdoor activities set in natural surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Morretes with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Morretes
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes
Scenic spot for capturing the river and lush greenery
Provides stunning views of the Atlantic Forest and canyon landscapes
Food in Morretes
Morretes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Barreado is a sumptuous slow-cooked beef stew, seasoned with cloves, cumin, and other spices. This dish is traditionally cooked for over 12 hours in a sealed clay pot, resulting in tender, flavorful meat that is served with rice, farofa, and banana slices. For an authentic taste, try Barreado at Engenho Morretes, or Casarão Morretes, both famed for their rendition of this local specialty.
Must-Try!
Sagu is a dessert made of sago pearls cooked with red wine and served with a delightful accompaniment of chicken. This unique sweet and savory flavor combination is a must-try while in Morretes. For a delectable serving of Sagu com Frango, head to Nhundiaquara, a renowned restaurant serving this traditional dish amidst a charming ambience.
For a variation on the classic barreado, try the chicken version which offers the same slow-cooked method but with succulent chicken replacing the beef. You can relish a delicious serving of Barreado de Frango at popular local eateries like Casa do Barreado and Ponte Velha.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Morretes better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Feira do Produtor is a bustling food market offering an array of fresh produce, regional delicacies, and delectable street food. Here you can relish traditional snacks like pastel, a deep-fried pastry filled with assorted savory fillings, or tapioca pancake with various sweet or savory toppings. The market is a great place to experience the local food scene and savor authentic Morretes flavors.
Stroll along Rua das Palmeiras to discover numerous street food stalls offering an assortment of local delights, including grilled meats, pastries, and indigenous snacks. The vibrant atmosphere and aroma of sizzling delicacies make this street a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking an authentic gastronomic experience in Morretes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Morretes, it is customary to greet others with a friendly 'Olá' or 'Bom dia', especially when entering shops or social settings. A handshake or a light kiss on the cheek is a common gesture when meeting someone for the first time.
When dining, wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating. It is polite to show appreciation for the food, and saying 'está delicioso' (it's delicious) is a nice compliment to the cook.
Dressing well is important in Brazilian culture, including Morretes. Casual but neat clothing is appropriate for most occasions, while more formal attire may be expected for events and celebrations. Always aim to appear tidy and respectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Morretes with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Morretes
Ensure a smooth experience
In Morretes, Brazil, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a gratuity of around 10% at restaurants, especially if service is good. In bars and cafes, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is also a common practice. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is appreciated. However, in more casual settings, tipping may not be as expected.
Payments in Morretes can typically be made in Brazilian Real (BRL) through various methods. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants and shops. However, for smaller vendors or in local markets, cash may be preferred. ATMs are available, and travelers should ensure they have local currency for smaller purchases.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Morretes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Morretes, with pleasant temperatures and blooming vegetation. The landscape is vibrant and the weather is usually mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and enjoying the scenic beauty of the region.
Summer in Morretes brings warm weather and occasional rain showers. This season is perfect for exploring the area's rivers and waterfalls, as well as enjoying the lively atmosphere of the town. It is a popular time for tourists, so be prepared for larger crowds.
Autumn is a delightful time to visit Morretes, with cooler temperatures and the stunning colors of fall foliage. It's a great time for nature walks and birdwatching, as well as savoring the local cuisine, including the famous barreado stew.
Winter in Morretes brings cooler temperatures, particularly in the evenings, and occasional fog. It's an excellent time to explore the historic architecture of the town and indulge in cozy dining experiences. The winter months are also perfect for enjoying the traditional train ride through the lush landscapes of the Serra do Mar.
Morretes at Night
Hiking in Morretes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful state park featuring a variety of hiking trails through lush Atlantic Forest and stunning views of the coastline.
An ancient trail that connects Morretes to the town of Antonina, known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes.
A challenging hike that offers breathtaking views from the summit, as well as diverse flora and fauna along the trail.
A popular hiking route within the Serra do Mar State Park, showcasing waterfalls and the unique biodiversity of the region.
While primarily a scenic drive, there are several trails along the road that give access to several viewpoints and nature walks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Morretes through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Morretes by plane.
Located in Curitiba, approximately 70 km from Morretes, serves domestic and international flights.
Located in Joinville, around 120 km from Morretes, primarily serves regional and domestic flights.
Situated in Caxias do Sul, about 180 km from Morretes, serves regional flights mainly to São Paulo.
Located in Salvador, approximately 1,300 km from Morretes, serves a wide range of international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Morretes, typically comprising individuals of European descent.
Individuals of mixed racial backgrounds, often a combination of European, Indigenous, and African ancestry.
People of African descent, representing a smaller segment of the population.
The original inhabitants of the region, with distinct cultural and ethnic identities.
A smaller demographic group primarily consisting of individuals from Asian backgrounds.
The Soul of Morretes
Discover the essence of Morretes through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Morretes is close to the coast, making surfing a popular activity among locals and tourists, particularly at the nearby beaches.
With its scenic landscapes and trails, mountain biking is a favored sport in the region, attracting enthusiasts of all levels.
The natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and parks provides excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring the outdoors.
Soccer is a widely loved sport in Brazil, including Morretes, where local teams compete and community matches are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Morretes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Morretes cuisine predominantly features meat and fish, many restaurants and cafes in the region offer innovative vegetarian and vegan adaptations of local dishes. Popular options include stuffed pumpkin, palm heart-based creations, and grilled vegetable platters. Notable establishments like Empório San Francisco and Nhundiaquara offer dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus with delectable choices for discerning plant-based diners.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can delight in the array of naturally gluten-free dishes in Morretes, such as rice-based preparations, fresh seafood, and tapioca pancakes. Additionally, several restaurants and cafes in the area offer gluten-free versions of traditional dishes, including tapioca flour-based pastries and cassava-based treats. Empório San Francisco and Casa do Barreado are renowned for accommodating guests with gluten-free dietary needs, ensuring an inclusive culinary experience for all.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Morretes with these cultural adventures.