What secrets does Brasilia hold?

Although it is very different from all other cities in the country, Brasilia is well worth a visit, as it offers many historical and natural attractions and a beautiful, significant architectural heritage.

A unique and highly photogenic destination, designed by renowned architect and urban planner Oscar Niemeyer. Originally a desert plateau, the federal district - as it is also known - was the first modern city in the world to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, back in 1987.

What to do and where to go in Brasilia.


An example of urbanism and innovation

Praça dos Três Poderes houses the Supreme Federal Court, the National Congress and Planalto Palace - a triangle of political buildings with a very modern and striking design.

Not far from here, the Metropolitan Cathedral of Nossa Senhora Aparecida, or simply Brasilia Cathedral, is one of the city's most creative buildings, absolutely unlike any other churches.

Other equally majestic projects worthy of a visit include the JK Memorial - a tribute to President Juscelino Kubistchek, who ordered the construction of Brasília - and Eixo Monumental (Monumental Axis), a boulevard that connects the city's most important buildings and monuments, and which is the true heart and soul of the Brazilian capital.

Last but not least, Alvorada Palace - the official residence of the President of Brazil - is yet another majestic structure designed by Oscar Niemeyer, and was actually the first building to be inaugurated in the metropolitan area. The elegance of this city is stunning, which is yet another excellent reason to include Brasilia in your travel plans.

Juscelino Kubistchek Bridge, or simply JK Bridge, connects the central area of the city to Lago Sul, Paranoá and São Sebastião, and has been considered the most beautiful bridge in the world.

National Congress
Juscelino Kubistchek Bridge
National Congress
Juscelino Kubistchek Bridge

The best things Brazilian cuisine can offer

Although Brazil is a very diverse country, in which every region has its own specificities and dishes, this does not apply to Brasilia - at least not when it comes to food. This young city absorbed all the best culinary traits of the country and therefore offers a mosaic of traditions and flavors.

The most classic of all dishes is Brazilian barbecue, which consists of bovine rib, sausage, chicken, chicken heart, and 'picanha' - and, of course, 'farofa' as a side dish.

Other popular delicacies include dishes from Minas Gerais, such as rice with 'pequi' (a typical fruit) and cheese bread, which is a staple in the capital.

For those who enjoy meat dishes with strong flavors, the goat 'buchada' is the perfect option. As for fish, 'tilapia' - one of the few fish dishes Brazilians can call their own - is prepared and cooked in various ways.

Some of the most famous sweets include fruits such as 'cagaita', 'baru' and, again, 'pequi', many of which are used in the famous 'picolés' (ice pops). Those who think that cassava cannot produce sweet dishes should definitely try a delicious cake called 'mané pelado'.

Rice with 'pequi'
Waterfall in Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, in Goias
Rice with 'pequi'
Waterfall in Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, in Goias

Exploring the surroundings

The heat that grips the city throughout most of the year calls for some more natural sites, so we suggest you rent a car or take a cab to explore the surroundings.

Situated about 45 km from the center of Brasilia, in the region of Brazlândia, Poço Azul is a kind of natural swimming pool resulting from the confluence of two waterfalls - the perfect getaway for swimming enthusiasts.

Another site worth visiting is Catetinho, the place that housed President Jescelino Kubitschek's first official residence when the city was being built.

For an adrenaline shot, venture into the city of Formosa, Goiás, where you will find caves, waterfalls, free falls, and trails.

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