What to do in Brasilia, a city planned from the ground up in 1960 to move the capital of Brazil from Rio de Janeiro. The creativity of urban planner Lucio Costa and architect Oscar Niemeyer gave life to this beautiful city, designed in the shape of an airplane. In the center, the Monumental Axis houses a wide variety of attractions and activities.
In the following paragraphs, I will tell you about the best places to visit in this fascinating city. From its impressive historical monuments to its vast natural parks, you will discover everything Brasilia has to offer to travelers looking for unique experiences.
Discover what to do in Brasilia on your next trip with SKY!
1. Monuments and emblematic buildings
Brasilia stands out worldwide for its modern and distinctive 20th-century architecture. Its public buildings impress everyone.
One of the most famous is the Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lady of Aparecida, known as the Cathedral of Brasilia. Oscar Niemeyer designed this Catholic temple, which is distinguished by its 16 concrete columns curved towards the sky, filling the space with natural light.
Another must-see is the Itamaraty Palace, where the Ministry of Foreign Affairs operates. Surrounded by gardens designed by Roberto Burle Marx, this building reflects the modernist essence of Brasilia. Visitors enjoy guided tours to appreciate its elegance and the numerous works of art it houses.
Brazil’s National Congress also stands out as an architectural icon of the city. With its two towers and two domes, this complex houses the heart of Brazilian politics. Tour guides offer tours where visitors learn about the workings of the Brazilian government while admiring the building’s innovative design.
2. Parks and natural areas
In addition to its imposing buildings, Brasilia offers large green areas that protect biodiversity and provide fresh air to citizens.
One of these places is Brasilia National Park, known as Água Mineral. This natural oasis features trails, natural pools, and unique flora and fauna. Here you can enjoy nature close to the city.
Sarah Kubitschek City Park is another must-see green space. Known as “the lungs of Brasilia,” it provides much of the city’s oxygen and helps keep the air clean.
This park offers a variety of activities, from cycling to sports. Its large green areas are perfect for a picnic or just relaxing.
3. Museums and cultural centers
Brasilia has an extensive and varied cultural offering, with cultural centers that reflect the country’s rich history and creativity.
Museo Nacional de la República: With its iconic dome shape, this museum hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary art. It is a reference point for art lovers and a meeting point for cultural events.
JK Memorial: This museum pays tribute to President Juscelino Kubitschek, founder of Brasilia. It offers an in-depth look at his life and legacy through personal objects, historical documents, and an impressive statue of Kubitschek. It is a key place to understand the history of the city.
Banco do Brasil Cultural Center (CCBB): This vast cultural space features a variety of art, film, theater, and music exhibitions. From contemporary events to classical art displays, the CCBB is an essential place to enjoy the cultural diversity that Brasilia has to offer.
Each of these cultural centers provides a unique experience, giving visitors a deeper understanding of Brazilian culture and history.
4. Local gastronomy and markets
Brasilia’s gastronomy reflects the diversity of its population, offering a mix of flavors from all regions of Brazil.
The Mercado Municipal is a great place to try local products and traditional dishes. Here you can find everything from exotic fruits to tasty guava cakes, a typical Brazilian delicacy.
If you’re looking for a more sophisticated dining experience, the restaurants in Lago Sul offer stunning views of Lake Paranoá along with high-quality cuisine. Restaurants such as Coco Bambu and Mangai are very popular and stand out for their varied menus, which include traditional Brazilian dishes and international options.
In Brasilia, the culinary offering is as diverse as the city itself, guaranteeing options for all tastes and budgets.
5. Recreational activities and events
When you’re wondering what to do in Brasilia, the city offers a wide range of recreational activities and events throughout the year that will answer any questions.
If you enjoy music and dancing, the Brasilia Popular Music Festival is a must-attend event. This annual festival brings together musicians from all over the country and becomes a platform for new bands and artists, offering a vibrant experience with a mix of musical genres and styles.
The Claudio Santoro National Theater is another key venue in Brasilia’s cultural life. This theater hosts a variety of events, from plays and concerts to dance performances. It is known for its diverse and high-quality programming, attracting locals and tourists alike.
In addition to these events, Brasilia has fairs, markets, and food festivals that celebrate the rich local culture. The city also hosts sporting events, from local tournaments to national competitions, providing opportunities to enjoy different types of activities.
Whether you’re looking for a musical event, a theatre performance, or a unique cultural experience, Brasilia has something to offer at every time of year.
SKY brings you closer to Brasilia and other destinations
With SKY’s new routes connecting Santiago to Brazil, getting to Brasilia is easier than ever. SKY also offers flights from several cities, allowing you to start your adventure in the Brazilian capital without stops or complications.
Brasilia surprises with its modern, sculptural architecture, offering a wide variety of activities. Its iconic buildings, monuments, parks, and cultural centers ensure that there is something for everyone.
