Curitiba
★★ Curitiba — Brazil's Eco Model City
Curitiba, the capital of the state of Paraná, is considered Brazil's most livable and innovative city. Famous for its revolutionary bus system (BRT, copied worldwide), its parks, and its sustainable urban planning. For travelers, Curitiba is primarily a stopover on the way to the Iguazú Falls — but the city deserves 1–2 days.
- Jardim Botânico: The iconic Art Nouveau-style greenhouse is Curitiba's postcard motif. Surrounding it is a beautiful botanical garden with French flower beds.
- Museu Oscar Niemeyer: The "Eye Museum" — a characteristic building by the famous Brazilian architect, shaped like a giant eye. Changing art exhibitions.
- Serra do Mar: The dramatic railway line Curitiba–Morretes (Serra Verde Express) runs through the Atlantic rainforest chain — 110 km, 900 meters in altitude, tunnels, and bridges over deep gorges. One of Brazil's most spectacular train rides.