Brasília map: top 10, museums, instagrammable, walking tour, where to eat, viewpoints, nature, markets, free things to do, rainy day

9 places on the map

Top 10

1
Niemeyer hyperboloid cathedral with stunning stained glass.
- Tip: Dress code
2 tips
- Enter for the glass ceiling
- Free entry
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2
Twin towers and domes that define Brasília's skyline.
3 tips
- Free guided tours, bring ID
- Go in the afternoon for light
- Check security rules
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3
Seat of the presidency, with the iconic ramp and columns.
3 tips
- Guided visits on Sundays
- Bring ID
- Check ahead for closures
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4
Square uniting the executive, legislative and judicial powers.
- Tip: Sunset
3 tips
- Hot at midday
- Bring water and a hat
- Best at sunset
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5
Presidential residence with famous curved columns by the lake.
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- View from the road
- Visits limited
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6
Tomb and museum honouring founder Juscelino Kubitschek.
3 tips
- Small fee
- Allow an hour
- Guided tour options
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7
Arches over Lake Paranoá, a signature landmark.
- Tip: Sunset
3 tips
- Best at sunset or night lighting
- Cycle across the bridge
- Photo from lake shore
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8
TV tower with an observation deck and a craft fair.
- Tip: Sunset
3 tips
- Weekend fair on site
- Go near sunset
- Free entry
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9
Wide avenue lined with ministry buildings between cathedral and Congress.
3 tips
- Best photographed from the cathedral side
- Very hot at midday
- Bring water
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Before you go: Brasília tips

Transportation

Use ride-hailing apps: Brasilia is designed for cars, and Uber or 99 make getting around much easier.
Take the metro: The metro links the center with satellite cities, useful for some trips.
Rent a car: Distances between sights are large, and a car offers flexibility.

Security

Be cautious at the bus station: The Rodoviaria area can be busy, so watch your belongings.
Avoid empty areas at night: The Monumental Axis can be deserted after dark.
Use official taxis or apps: Avoid unmarked cars.

Saving

Visit free sights: The Cathedral, Congress and many monuments are free to visit.
Eat at por quilo restaurants: Pay-by-weight buffets are affordable and varied.
Visit on weekends: Hotels catering to business travelers may offer lower weekend rates.

Weather/Clothing

Expect a dry season: From about May to September the air is very dry; drink water and use moisturizer.
Prepare for rain: The wet season brings afternoon storms; carry an umbrella.
Wear comfortable shoes: Sights are spread out, and you will walk a lot.

Cultural

Admire modernist architecture: Oscar Niemeyer designed many iconic buildings.
Learn about the city's planning: Lucio Costa's plan gives Brasilia its airplane shape.
Try Brazilian cuisine: Taste pao de queijo and feijoada at local restaurants.

Local Hacks

Watch sunset at Paranoa Lake: The Ponte JK bridge is a great spot.
Visit the TV Tower: The observation deck offers views of the city.
Explore on Sundays: Some roads on the Eixao close to cars, making them perfect for walking and cycling.

Brasília

Top 10

Take this map with you

Before you go: Brasília tips

Transportation

Security

Saving

Weather/Clothing

Cultural

Local Hacks

1-day itineraries in Brasília

Catedral Metropolitana de Brasília and around

Memorial JK and around

More cities in Brazil