Top Things to do in Brasilia
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What to do and see in Brasilia, Federal District (DF): The Best Sights & Landmarks
Renowned for its modernist lines and futuristic design, Brasilia is a study in urban planning and the only city built in the 20th century to be counted among UNESCO's World Heritage Sites. Where only five years before its inception there was desert, now there are innovative buildings and imaginative monuments, ranging from the hyperboloid Cathedral of Brasilia to the lunar-esque Complexo Cultural da Republica to the glass-box Palacio da Alvorada.
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1. Memorial JK
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5,646 reviews
Many visit the site of President Kubitschek’s memorial, featuring a tastefully inscribed plaque in honor of the beloved leader.
Reviewed By saronic - Zurich, Switzerland
One of the most interesting sights in a city full of architectural wonders is the Memorial JK. I took a taxi to get here from the hotel area and then went for a long walk back, past several other interesting places. Considered as the president, who achieved the most of all for his country, Joscelino Kubitschek (often just known as 'JK') is also seen by many as the 'father of modern Brazil'. Not the least he stands behind the foundation of the new capital, Brasilia. Trained as a medical doctor this man from Minas Gerais, who as his family name betrays is a descendant - from his mother's side - of Czech immigrants, very soon started a successful political career. After he was killed at a car accident in 1976 soon later a mausoleum-memorial was built in his honour - with Oscar Niemeyer as the architect. Besides the tomb in a crypt with special light effect can be seen rooms with various personal items of his and of his wife Sarah like furniture, books, dresses, letters and many photos showing him with people like JFK, Marlon Brando, Fidel Castro, André Malraux and many many others. It all gives an insight into the man's life and also of his period in general.
2. Congresso Nacional
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5,328 reviews
Once exiled Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer designed this government building, which houses the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies.
Reviewed By Eddy041 - London, United Kingdom
This is my favourite out of all of Oscar Neimeyer’s designs. It is bold and unusual and I just couldn’t stop looking at it! Inside they offer you a free post card of the building which you are encouraged to fill in and then they will send it for free! A nice touch and good marketing.
3. Catedral Metropolitana
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 12,374 reviews
Another structure by award-winning architect Oscar Niemeyer, this landmark cathedral features stunning interior glasswork.
Reviewed By Leafwarbler - Usk, United Kingdom
Fabulous stained glass dome encompasses a cool and peaceful area with angel sculptures suspended from the roof. Don’t miss the baptistery, thru a corridor on the left which displays photos and information about the construction.
4. Palacio do Planalto
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,072 reviews
The tours happen on Sundays, from 9 a.m to 1:30 p.m. Groups of 20 people are arranged to visit the Palacio do Planalto, every 30 minutes and guided by a Public Relations professional. The visit program includes a tour to the Noble, East and West Rooms, the Supreme Meeting Room, the Guest Room, the Presidential Office and a showcase of the art pieces. The Palacio do Planalto is the official workplace of the President of Brazil. It is located in the national capital of Brasilia. The building was designed by architect Oscar Niemeyer and inaugurated on April 21, 1960. It has been the workplace of every Brazilian president since Juscelino Kubitschek. It is located at the Praca dos Tres Poderes (Three Powers Plaza), to the east of the National Congress and across from the Supreme Federal Court.
5. Santuario Dom Bosco
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,279 reviews
Reviewed By christof124 - Pirenopolis, Brazil
The interior of the Santuario dom Bosco is one of the most beautiful rooms that I know. When entering the Santurario, I'm struck every time by the beauty of the vast room that is surrounded by large blue glass windows that transcend the room into a divine sphere.
6. Igrejinha N.S. De Fatima church
7. Itamaraty Palace
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,422 reviews
Designed by Oscar Niemeyer and inaugurated in 1970, Itamaraty Palace is the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During the design conception, Ambassador Wladimir Murtinho was in charge of informing the architect about the needs that had to be addressed. The partnership was so successful that, up to this day, no structural changes have been made to the building for they have not been necessary. The structural calculation, which allowed for the construction of an impressive main hall, free of columns, was carried out by engineer Joaquim Cardoso. Itamaraty Palace was conceived with the purpose of introducing Brazil to foreign visitors; therefore, it was built only with national materials and their halls harbor works by Brazilian or naturalized Brazilian artists exclusively, such as Athos Bulcão, Alfredo Volpi, Bruno Giorgi, Frans Krajcberg, Franz Weissmann, Maria Martins, Mary Vieira, Iberê Camargo, Ione Saldanha, Rubem Valentim, Sérgio de Camargo, and Tomie Ohtake.
Reviewed By Elias_Haddad - Sao Paulo, Brazil
Itamaraty is the best palace to visit in Brasilia. It is full of sculptures, paintings, carpets, historic furniture and beautiful gardens. From the second floor there is a nice view to other famous buildings.
8. Pontao do Lago Sul
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 13,013 reviews
Reviewed By X7062QNpatriciam - Brasilia, Brazil
This place is an special part of the lake, there is a walking lane and where you can just walk and also make a very nice meal ( they have many different restaurants ) or either have an ice cream and sit on the grass and watch the view. From there you can have a sightseen of the bridges and a very special part of Brasilia.
9. Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4,836 reviews
Reviewed By VivaMexicoLiz - Mexico City, Mexico
I saw this bridge as part of a city tour arranged by my hotel with Rainha da Paz Turismo. Our English-speaking guide, Iraquemes, had a rich knowledge of all the places we stopped, a friendly manner, and a willingness to answer all kinds of questions. This bridge was designed to mimick skipping stones over Lake Paranoa. We didn't stay long, but enjoyed seeing the span and see locals out enjoying the lake- fishing, sailing, and just being outdoors.
10. Supremo Tribunal Federal
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 967 reviews
• Segundas-feiras, terças-feiras e sextas-feiras (mediante agendamento prévio): das 10h às 12h | das 14h às 18h; • Quartas-feiras e quintas-feiras (apenas grupos agendados para sessões plenárias): das 13h30 às 18h • Fins de semana e feriados nacionais (saídas a cada 30 minutos): das 10h às 15h30
Reviewed By ASU_DrK - Phoenix, United States
I took the time in advance to arrange an English tour of the Supremo Tribunal Federal, and I am very glad that I did. My guide was absolutely wonderful! He told us all about the building itself, as well as the functioning of the court. This modernist beauty serves as one of the three anchors in Three Powers Plaza, and cannot only be admired from the outside. Though perhaps not as stunning as the Palacio Itamaraty, or even the Palacio do Planalto, it is still well worth the (free) visit! Completely recommend.
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