To get around in Curitiba, you can use a variety of transportation options, including buses, taxis, ride-hailing apps, and a comprehensive metro system, making it relatively easy to navigate the city.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Curitiba is a major city in southern Brazil, and it is well-connected to the rest of the country and the world. The main international airport serving Curitiba is Afonso Pena International Airport (CWB), which is located about 18 kilometers from the city center. The airport receives direct flights from major hubs in Brazil, such as Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, as well as from international destinations in South America and Europe. If you are traveling overland, you can enter Curitiba by bus or car from neighboring cities, such as Sao Paulo or Florianopolis.
For travelers coming from outside of Brazil, it is often necessary to connect through a major hub, such as Sao Paulo or Rio de Janeiro, before continuing on to Curitiba. However, some international airlines, such as LATAM and Azul, offer direct flights to Curitiba from destinations in South America. Overland entry points are also available, with several major highways connecting Curitiba to other cities in Brazil.
Domestic Flights
Curitiba has an extensive domestic air network, with flights to most major cities in Brazil. The main domestic airlines operating in Curitiba are Gol, LATAM, and Azul, which offer frequent flights to destinations such as Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasilia. Booking domestic flights in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, as prices can be high and availability may be limited. Approximate costs for domestic flights from Curitiba to other major cities in Brazil range from $50 to $200 USD, depending on the route and time of year.
Trains & Rail
Curitiba has a limited rail network, with no high-speed trains or extensive passenger rail services. However, there are some commuter rail lines that connect the city to nearby suburbs and towns. The rail network is not a major mode of transportation in Curitiba, and most travelers rely on buses or cars to get around. If you do need to take the train, you can book tickets at the train station or through the website of the rail operator.
Buses & Coaches
Curitiba has an extensive network of buses and coaches that connect the city to other destinations in Brazil. The main bus terminal in Curitiba is the Terminal de Transporte Coletivo, which offers frequent departures to cities such as Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Florianopolis. Bus companies such as Ormeño and Util operate in Curitiba, offering a range of services from budget-friendly options to more luxurious coaches with amenities such as reclining seats and air conditioning. Costs for bus travel from Curitiba to other cities in Brazil range from $20 to $100 USD, depending on the route and quality of service.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Curitiba | $1.20 | Comprehensive network with five lines |
| City Bus | Curitiba | $1.20 | Extensive network with frequent departures |
| Taxi | everywhere | $2.50/km | Available at taxi stands or by hailing on the street |
| Ride-Hailing | Curitiba | $5-$10 | Uber and 99 operate in the city |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | not available | - | Not a common mode of transportation in Curitiba |
Driving
- To drive in Curitiba, you will need a valid driver's license from your home country or an international driver's license.
- Road conditions in Curitiba are generally good, with well-maintained highways and city streets.
- Fuel costs in Brazil are relatively high, with prices ranging from $1.50 to $2.50 USD per liter.
- Car rental companies such as Hertz and Avis operate in Curitiba, with prices starting from around $40 USD per day.
- Hazards to watch out for when driving in Curitiba include aggressive drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
- Parking in Curitiba can be challenging, especially in the city center, where parking fees and restrictions may apply.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas such as bus terminals and train stations.
- Use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps to avoid scams and ensure a safe journey.
- Download the Moovit app to plan your route and track public transportation in Curitiba.
- Consider purchasing a Bilhete Único card, which can be used to pay for public transportation fares and offers discounts for frequent travelers.
- Be prepared for traffic congestion in Curitiba, especially during rush hour or peak travel seasons.
- Learn some basic Portuguese phrases, such as "onde fica..." (where is...) and "quanto custa..." (how much does it cost...), to help you navigate and communicate with locals.
- Keep some cash on hand, as not all transportation providers or merchants may accept credit or debit cards.