Brasilia Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Impressions & Why Visit:
Is Brasília worth visiting? Yes, absolutely! While some initially find it “odd” or “not so touristy,” many attest to its unique architecture, historical significance, and calming atmosphere. It’s especially rewarding for those who appreciate modernism.
What’s the main draw of Brasília? The architecture by Oscar Niemeyer and the urban planning by Lúcio Costa are the primary attractions. It’s a living laboratory of modernist concepts.
How many days are enough to explore Brasília? 2-3 days are generally considered sufficient to see the main architectural sights. Some suggest even one packed day is enough if planned well, while others recommend a weekend.
Is Brasília a good “first-time in Brazil” destination? While unique, some recommend prioritizing other cities like Rio, São Paulo, or those in the Northeast (like Salvador) for a broader “Brazilian experience” due to their historical and cultural depth, and more vibrant natural beauty.
Getting Around & Transportation:
Is Brasília walkable? While the Eixo Monumental (Monumental Axis) with its main buildings is walkable, distances between sights are generally large. The city is very car-centric, and some areas lack pavements, making walking difficult outside the core.
What’s the best way to get around Brasília? Uber is highly recommended and very affordable. Taxis are also an option but may charge tourists more.
Is public transportation good in Brasília? Buses are available and accept contactless bank cards. Google Maps can be used for routes. However, schedules are reduced on Sundays and public holidays. The subway is limited.
Should I rent a car? Not necessarily for exploring the main city due to the efficiency and affordability of ride-sharing. If venturing further out to eco-tourism spots (30-50km away), a car would be needed.
Are there bike rentals? Yes, bikes are available for rent, and there are many cyclopaths.
Safety:
Is Brasília safe for tourists? Generally, the Pilot Plan (the main, planned area) is considered safe, especially during the day. Basic precautions are advised, similar to any major city.
What are common safety tips for Brasília (and Brazil in general)?
Be aware of your surroundings.
Avoid displaying expensive electronics (phones, cameras, watches, jewelry) openly, especially on the street. Use your phone inside a store or discreetly if necessary.
Do not walk alone at night in poorly lit or quiet areas.
Avoid favelas (slums) – they can be dangerous.
Carry a photocopy of your passport, leaving the original in your hotel safe.
Carry some cash but not too much. Brazil is highly digitized, and card payments are widely accepted.
Use ATMs inside shopping centers or at the airport.
When paying with a card, ensure it stays in your line of vision (waiters should bring portable card readers).
Trust your instincts and local advice. If a local tells you not to go somewhere, don’t.
If confronted by a robber, do not resist or fight back.
Drink responsibly.
Are there “thief phones” or decoy phones? Some travelers suggest buying a cheap, secondary phone for photos or to hand over if mugged, though this is a general tip for Brazil, not specific to Brasília.
Things to See & Do (Beyond the Obvious):
What are the must-see architectural sights?
National Congress
Palácio do Itamaraty (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) – offers tours, sometimes in English.
Palácio do Planalto (Presidential Office) – tours available.
Cathedral of Brasília
Santuário Dom Bosco (Don Bosco Sanctuary) – highly recommended, especially to see it both before and after dark for its stained glass.
TV Tower – offers an overlook of the city and a handicraft fair on weekends.
Memorial JK (Juscelino Kubitschek Memorial)
National Museum (near the bathrooms in the basement, there’s a water cooler to refill bottles, as water can be hard to find in the Centro).
What are some less obvious things to do?
Walk around the residential blocks (Superquadras) to see their unique design.
Visit Pontão Lago Sul for drinks, restaurants, and sunset views over Lake Paranoá.
Go to Parque da Cidade (City Park) for walks, exercise, and open spaces.
Explore the National Park (Parque Nacional de Brasília or Água Mineral) for hiking and natural swimming pools.
Visit the Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico de Brasília) for hikes and scenery.
Check out the Bank of Brazil Cultural Center (CCBB) for art galleries and free activities.
If there on a Sunday, walk or bike along the Eixão (Monumental Axis, which closes to traffic) for live music, outdoor drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Visit the Hippie Fair for souvenirs and snacks (often has samba on weekends).
Attend a free orchestra performance at the National Theatre (check schedule).
Explore the “entrequadras comerciais” (commercial strips between superquadras) for shops and cafes.
Visit Catetinho (the first official presidential residence in Brasília).
Explore Parque das Copaíbas for trails, lake views, and small waterfalls.
Consider a sunset boat ride on Lake Paranoá.
Visit the Buddhist temple.
For nightlife, explore areas like Águas Claras, specific spots in Plano Piloto and Lago Sul, or bars around 408/409 and 410/411 in Asa Norte (popular with university students).
Are there tours available? Yes, some tour companies offer city tours in English.
Food & Drink:
What kind of food can I expect in Brasília? The city has a wide range of restaurants with food from all parts of Brazil and the world. While there isn’t a specific “Brasília” cuisine, you’ll find great options.
Any highly recommended restaurants?
Mangai (por kilo buffet with a huge selection, particularly Northeastern food).
Pontão do Lago Sul (area with multiple restaurants and bars).
Bar Beirute (popular bar).
Dog da Igrejinha (307S)
Pizzas Dom Bosco (107S)
Pastelaria Viçosa (Bus Station)
Quituarte (several cool restaurants, chill place)
Casarão (Vila Planalto)
Mané Mercado (a food hall with various options, though some find it “tacky”).
Carne de Sol 111 (111 Sul) for a pricier option.
Alpinus (Parque da Cidade) for a cheaper option.
Tea House in Praça dos Três Poderes (school-café with great location).
Faisão Dourado and Xique-Xique for lunch.
Restaurante Careca da 407n (Chinese food, good price).
Where to find local snacks?
Coxinha at Anchieta Hospital snack bar (emergency entrance, Samdu Norte).
Street food at the TV Tower fair.
Açaí stands.
Are “por kilo” restaurants common? Yes, they are a popular and often cost-effective option, offering buffets where you pay by weight.
Is cash needed for food? Most places accept cards. Cash might be useful for smaller vendors or the JK Memorial.
Accommodation:
Where are the best areas to stay in Brasília?
Asa Sul or Asa Norte (Pilot Plan) are convenient but can be pricey.
Lago Sul or Lago Norte for homes.
“Setor Hoteleiro” (Hotel Sector) – North Hotel Sector is good.
Sudoeste is also a good option for Airbnb.
Taguatinga is mentioned as a safe area with good, cheaper hotels and metro access to Plano Piloto and Águas Claras.
Any specific hotel recommendations?
Ibis network (good value).
Mercure (in the center, sometimes good prices).
Athos Bulcão (North hotel sector, next to Brasília Shopping).
Fusion (North hotel sector, next to National Complex).
Comfort Suites Brasília.
Brasília Palace Hotel (near the lake, Vila Planalto).
Saint Moritz 360.
Bittar Inn.
Hplus.
Garvey (not aesthetically pleasing outside, but nice, spacious rooms).
Grand Mercure (Setor Hoteleiro Norte) – good service, clean and spacious, may need some maintenance.
Is Airbnb an option? Yes, often cheaper than hotels, especially in Asa Norte, Asa Sul, or Sudoeste.
Practical Tips:
What about the climate? Brasília is known for being “hella dry,” especially during the winter months (June to September) when humidity can be very low. Bring water and stay hydrated. A humidifier can be helpful if staying long-term.
Is English widely spoken? Not widespread, but it shouldn’t be a major issue. Learning some basic Portuguese phrases is always helpful.
Should I bring cash? Most places accept cards, but it’s good to have some small bills for minor purchases or places that might not accept cards (like the JK Memorial).
What about tap water? Tap water is generally not potable unless there’s a filtering system.
Is Carnaval a good time to visit? While generally a big party in Brazil, it’s mentioned that Brasília has pre-Carnaval and Carnaval parties if you seek them out.
Are there outdoor markets? Yes, there’s an outdoor farmers market in Asa Sul (407) on Wednesdays.
Where to find souvenirs? BSB Memo, Fundação Athos Bulcão, Maldita Geni, and the TV Tower fair (Fri-Sun).