Brasilia

Brasilia is a planned city with unique modernist architecture, located in the heart of Brazil.

BrazilBrazil
3 days

About Brasilia

About Brasilia - Culture, History & Character

City Description

Brasilia is the capital of Brazil, founded on April 21, 1960. Located in the Federal District, in the Central-West region of the country, it is known for its modernist architecture and unique urban planning. Designed by Lúcio Costa and Oscar Niemeyer, the city is divided into specific sectors for different activities, such as the Hotel Sector, the Banking Sector and the Embassy Sector. With a population of more than 2.8 million inhabitants, Brasilia is the third most populous city in Brazil and has the highest GDP per capita among Latin American cities. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987 and is an important political and cultural center. The city is home to 133 embassies, the National Congress, the Federal Supreme Court and the presidential residence.
Country
Brazil
Region
Brazil
Highlights
20+ Attractions

Population

The city of Brasilia has a population of approximately 2.8 million inhabitants, while the metropolitan area exceeds 4.2 million.

Languages

Portuguese

Portuguese is the official and most spoken language in Brasilia. Although English is becoming more common among tourists and in the service sector, it is not as widely spoken as in other capitals.

History of Brasilia

Explore the fascinating past of Brasilia and discover how it has developed over the centuries.

Historical Journey

Ancient Period

Brasilia does not have an ancient history, since it was founded in the 20th century. However, the region where it is located has been inhabited by indigenous people since pre-Columbian times.

Development Period

During the Middle Ages, the region was not significantly developed. However, in the modern era, Brasilia was conceived as a capital city in 1956 by President Juscelino Kubitschek, with the aim of centralizing the government and promoting the internal development of Brazil.

Modern Period

In the 20th century, Brasilia became a symbol of Brazilian modernization. In the 21st century, it continues to be an important political and cultural center, hosting international events such as the G20 meetings. Its architecture and urban planning continue to be world references.

Historical Timeline

The historical timeline shows the key moments that have defined the development of Brasilia through the centuries.

City Scores

City Scores

Discover what makes this city special with our comprehensive scoring system

Safety

Good
67100

Brasilia is one of the safest capitals in Brazil, especially in central and tourist areas.

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About:

Brasilia is one of the safest capitals in Brazil, especially in central and tourist areas.

Advantages:
  • Low rate of violent crimes in the Pilot Plan
  • Police present in monumental areas
Challenges:
  • Caution necessary in peripheral areas and at night
  • Occasional minor thefts in tourist areas

Walkability

Good
60100

The urban design prioritizes the car, making walking difficult outside of monumental areas.

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The urban design prioritizes the car, making walking difficult outside of monumental areas.

Advantages:
  • Flat downtown areas with wide sidewalks
  • Pleasant walks in the Monumental Axis
Challenges:
  • Long distances between attractions
  • Lack of shade and pedestrian services in many areas

Public Transport

Good
68100

Public transportation is functional but limited, with metro and buses that do not cover the entire city efficiently.

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Public transportation is functional but limited, with metro and buses that do not cover the entire city efficiently.

Advantages:
  • Clean and safe metro on existing lines
  • Affordable rates
Challenges:
  • Insufficient coverage, especially in residential areas
  • Dependence on the car for most trips

Affordability

Good
75100

Strong value for money. You can travel comfortably without a high budget.

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Strong value for money. You can travel comfortably without a high budget.

Advantages:
  • Competitive public salaries for civil servants
  • Online shopping options and promotions in supermarkets
Challenges:
  • Very expensive rent and basic services
  • Food and fuel prices above the national average

Nightlife

Good
70100

Nightlife is moderate, with bars, restaurants and some clubs, but less varied and lively than in other large Brazilian cities.

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Nightlife is moderate, with bars, restaurants and some clubs, but less varied and lively than in other large Brazilian cities.

Advantages:
  • Quality bars and restaurants in areas like Asa Sul and Asa Norte
  • Occasional cultural and musical events
Challenges:
  • Limited club and party offer
  • Complicated night mobility without a car

Art & Culture

Excellent
80100

The city offers a diverse cultural agenda, with museums, theaters and national events, although less vibrant than other Brazilian capitals.

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The city offers a diverse cultural agenda, with museums, theaters and national events, although less vibrant than other Brazilian capitals.

Advantages:
  • National museums and quality cultural spaces
  • Government events and international exhibitions
Challenges:
  • Less spontaneous and more institutional cultural scene
  • Less street life and independent art

Food Scene

Good
78100

Brasilia has a diverse dining scene, with high-end restaurants and international options, although prices are high.

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Brasilia has a diverse dining scene, with high-end restaurants and international options, although prices are high.

Advantages:
  • Variety of Brazilian and international cuisine
  • Quality restaurants in central areas
Challenges:
  • High prices, especially on meats and fresh products
  • Fewer street and cheap fast food options

Shopping

Good
75100

The city offers modern shopping centers and boutiques, although prices are high and there are fewer street market options.

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The city offers modern shopping centers and boutiques, although prices are high and there are fewer street market options.

Advantages:
  • Shopping centers with international brands
  • Varied offer of products and services
Challenges:
  • High prices, especially on clothing and electronics
  • Lack of traditional markets and street fairs

Weather

Excellent
88100

Tropical savanna climate, with well-defined dry and wet seasons, pleasant temperatures and plenty of sun.

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Tropical savanna climate, with well-defined dry and wet seasons, pleasant temperatures and plenty of sun.

Advantages:
  • Dry season with sunny days and cool nights
  • Low humidity in winter
Challenges:
  • Intense heat and drought in the driest months
  • Torrential rains in summer

Tourist Friendly

Excellent
85100

Brasilia is easy to visit, with adequate tourist infrastructure, clear information and well-marked attractions.

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Brasilia is easy to visit, with adequate tourist infrastructure, clear information and well-marked attractions.

Advantages:
  • Concentrated and accessible monumental attractions
  • Good service in hotels and tourist restaurants
Challenges:
  • City not very walkable, need for transportation
  • Fewer adventure or beach tourism options

Family Friendly

Excellent
80100

The city is safe and offers parks, cultural and educational activities for children, although the high cost can limit leisure options.

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The city is safe and offers parks, cultural and educational activities for children, although the high cost can limit leisure options.

Advantages:
  • Large and safe parks for family activities
  • Good public and private schools
Challenges:
  • High cost of extracurricular activities
  • Limited offer of children's entertainment compared to other capitals

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Excellent
82100

Brasilia is a tolerant city, with growing LGBTQ+ visibility and annual events, although the nightlife scene is more low-key than in other capitals.

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Brasilia is a tolerant city, with growing LGBTQ+ visibility and annual events, although the nightlife scene is more low-key than in other capitals.

Advantages:
  • Inclusive and respectful environment in central areas
  • Recognized LGBTQ+ events and marches
Challenges:
  • LGBTQ+ nightlife less vibrant than in São Paulo or Rio
  • Some discrimination in peripheral areas

Local Friendly

Good
75100

Brazilians are generally friendly, although the city has a more formal and less spontaneous character than other Brazilian cities.

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Brazilians are generally friendly, although the city has a more formal and less spontaneous character than other Brazilian cities.

Advantages:
  • Educated and helpful population in tourist areas
  • Good treatment to foreigners and visitors
Challenges:
  • Less spontaneous interaction on the street
  • City with a high percentage of public officials, more reserved environment

Natural Beauty

Excellent
80100

Brasilia stands out for its integration with nature, with lakes, parks and large green areas, although the urban environment dominates the landscape.

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Brasilia stands out for its integration with nature, with lakes, parks and large green areas, although the urban environment dominates the landscape.

Advantages:
  • Paranoá Lake and national parks near the center
  • Pleasant climate and clear skies much of the year
Challenges:
  • Less natural diversity than coastal or Amazonian regions
  • Some green areas affected by seasonal droughts

Architecture

Excellent
95100

Brasilia is a global icon of modern architecture, designed by Oscar Niemeyer and Lucio Costa. Its urban layout and emblematic buildings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Brasilia is a global icon of modern architecture, designed by Oscar Niemeyer and Lucio Costa. Its urban layout and emblematic buildings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Advantages:
  • Avant-garde and unique architecture in the world
  • Planned and coherent urban complex
Challenges:
  • Some buildings show wear and tear over time
  • Lack of visual integration with older residential areas

Historical Significance

Excellent
88100

Founded in 1960, Brasilia is a symbol of Brazilian modernity and its urban planning is a world reference.

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Founded in 1960, Brasilia is a symbol of Brazilian modernity and its urban planning is a world reference.

Advantages:
  • UNESCO World Heritage City
  • Historical buildings and well-preserved monuments
Challenges:
  • Lack of colonial or ancient history
  • Historic center limited to modern architecture

Green Spaces

Excellent
90100

The city has large parks, green areas and Lake Paranoá, ideal for sports and outdoor recreation.

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The city has large parks, green areas and Lake Paranoá, ideal for sports and outdoor recreation.

Advantages:
  • Brasilia National Park and numerous green areas
  • Paranoá Lake for water sports and walks
Challenges:
  • Some green areas require maintenance
  • Limited access to natural areas without a car

Cleanliness

Excellent
85100

The central and monumental areas of Brasilia are usually very clean and well maintained, thanks to public management.

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The central and monumental areas of Brasilia are usually very clean and well maintained, thanks to public management.

Advantages:
  • Impeccable streets and central squares
  • Efficient garbage collection in tourist areas
Challenges:
  • Some peripheral areas may be neglected
  • Occasional litter in less guarded parks

Startup Scene

Good
72100

The entrepreneurial ecosystem is growing, with government support and coworking spaces, but still far from the dynamism of São Paulo.

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The entrepreneurial ecosystem is growing, with government support and coworking spaces, but still far from the dynamism of São Paulo.

Advantages:
  • Public initiatives to promote startups
  • Expanding entrepreneurial community
Challenges:
  • Less private investment and venture capital
  • Lack of critical mass of entrepreneurs

Digital Nomad Friendly

Good
75100

Brasilia has good digital infrastructure and coworking spaces, but the high cost of living and car dependency can be obstacles.

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Brasilia has good digital infrastructure and coworking spaces, but the high cost of living and car dependency can be obstacles.

Advantages:
  • Fast and stable internet in central areas
  • Quiet environment conducive to remote work
Challenges:
  • High cost of living for long stays
  • Limited mobility without own car

Overall City Score

Comprehensive assessment of this destination

78/ 100

Weather & Climate

Descubre las mejores épocas para visitar Brasilia y qué esperar durante todo el año.

Monthly Temperatures

January

Max26°
Min17°

February

Max26°
Min17°

March

Max26°
Min18°

April

Max26°
Min18°

May

Max24°
Min16°

June

Max24°
Min14°

July

Max24°
Min13°

August

Max26°
Min15°

September

Max28°
Min17°

October

Max28°
Min18°

November

Max27°
Min18°

December

Max26°
Min18°

Legend

Best Months
Hot Months
Cold Months
Rainy Periods

Weather Summary

Tropical savanna climate, with well-defined dry and wet seasons, pleasant temperatures and plenty of sun.

Weather Tips

Dry season with sunny days and cool nights

Low humidity in winter

Intense heat and drought in the driest months

Torrential rains in summer

The rainy season is between November and March.

The driest months are from May to September.

Overview

Spring

Spring in Brasilia is warm and dry, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 18°C ​​to 28°C.

More Information

Summer

Summer is hot and rainy, with temperatures that can exceed 28°C.

More Information

Autumn

Autumn is a transitional season, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 26°C.

More Information

Winter

Winter is mild, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 24°C.

More Information

Presupuesto y Compras

Plan your expenses and discover the best shopping areas

Budget Planning

Daily spending per person

Brasilia is a city with a moderate cost of living compared to other South American capitals. Accommodation and food prices may vary depending on the type of establishment.

Budget Travel

R$ 100-200

per day

Mid-Range Travel

R$ 250-400

per day

Luxury Travel

R$ 600+

per day

Guía de Compras

Best Areas

Crafts and souvenirs

2 areas

Brasilia Municipal Market

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TV Tower Fair

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Fashion and clothing

2 areas

Shopping Iguatemi Brasilia

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ParkShopping Brasilia

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Electronics and technology

2 areas

Brasilia Shopping

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National Set

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Gastronomy and gourmet products

2 areas

Brasilia Municipal Market

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TV Tower Fair

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Points of Interest

Explore the most fascinating places this city has to offer

Metropolitan Cathedral

Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, this cathedral stands out for its circular structure and its 16 inclined columns that symbolize hands raised towards heaven, creating an effect of lightness and unique spirituality.

Architecture

Planalto Palace

Headquarters of the Brazilian executive branch, this emblematic building designed by Niemeyer is characterized by its façade with thin columns and a minimalist design that reflects the modernity of Brasilia.

Architecture

National Congress of Brazil

Architectural complex that houses the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies, with two twin towers and two opposing domes, one convex and the other concave, a symbol of the balance between powers.

Architecture

Plaza de los Tres Poderes

Public space where the buildings of the three branches of Brazil (Executive, Legislative and Judicial) converge, designed to represent democracy and harmony between institutions.

Landmark

JK Memorial

Monument dedicated to Juscelino Kubitschek, president who promoted the construction of Brasilia, with a cross-shaped tomb and a museum that narrates his legacy.

Historical

JK Bridge or Juscelino Kubitschek Ponte

1,200-meter bridge that crosses Lake Paranoá, recognized for its modern design with asymmetrical arches that illuminate spectacularly at night, a visual icon of the city.

Architecture

Cláudio Santoro National Theater

Theater designed by Oscar Niemeyer that combines functionality and aesthetics, with several rooms for cultural and artistic presentations, center of the cultural life of Brasilia.

Entertainment

Alvorada Palace

Official residence of the president of Brazil, with a modern and elegant design, surrounded by gardens and located on the shores of Lake Paranoá.

Architecture

Saint John Bosco Sanctuary

Sanctuary dedicated to Saint John Bosco, considered the saint who dreamed of the futuristic city of Brasilia, with modern architecture and an atmosphere of spiritual meditation.

Religious

Sarah Kubitschek City Park

One of the largest urban parks in Brasilia, ideal for outdoor activities, with sports areas, artificial lakes and spaces for cultural events.

Park

Pontão do Lago Sul

Recreational and gastronomic area on the shores of Lake Paranoá, with restaurants, bars and spaces for events, popular for enjoying the sunset and water activities.

Entertainment

National Museum of Brasilia

Museum that exhibits the history, culture and art of Brasilia and Brazil, with permanent and temporary collections that reflect the national identity.

Museum

Brasilia TV Tower

Telecommunications tower that offers a viewing platform with panoramic views of the city and a craft market at its base.

Landmark

Paranoá Lake

Artificial lake that surrounds part of Brasilia, popular for water sports, boat trips and recreation areas next to nature.

Nature

Memorial of two Indigenous Peoples

Space dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of Brazilian indigenous culture, with exhibitions, art and educational events.

Cultural

National Library of Brasilia

Cultural and research center that houses a wide collection of books, documents and digital resources about Brazil and the world.

Cultural

Brasilia National Park

Protected area that conserves the biodiversity of the Brazilian Cerrado, with hiking trails, waterfalls and observation of native fauna and flora.

Nature

Itamaraty Palace

Headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, famous for its modern architecture, internal gardens and works of art that represent Brazilian diplomacy.

Architecture

Judicial Memorial

Space that documents the history of the judiciary in Brazil, with exhibitions on legal evolution and emblematic cases.

Historical

Brasilia Olympic Park

Sports complex that offers facilities for multiple disciplines, sporting events and recreational activities for all ages.

Entertainment

Discover every corner of Brasilia!

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Day Trips

Discover fascinating destinations near Brasilia perfect for day getaways

2.5 hours by minibus

Pirenópolis and Salto do Corumbá

Nature, History, Culture, Towns

Excursion from Brasilia to Pirenópolis, a city with a colonial historic center protected as Cultural Heritage of Brazil, where you will visit 18th century houses, the Rosario Church and the Carmen Bridge. After the cultural visit, you can enjoy nature at the Salto do Corumbá waterfall, with natural pools and crystal clear waters ideal for a refreshing swim.

3 hours by bus or car

Brasilia city tour

History, Culture, City

Guided tour of the main monuments and emblematic buildings of Brasilia, including the Monumental Axis, the National Monuments and the futuristic architecture of the city. Cultural spaces are also visited and the flora of the Central West of Brazil is known.

Approximately 6 hours (transfer + boat)

Ilha do Mel (Honey Island)

Nature, Beach, Relax

Day trip from Brasilia that includes transfer to Pontal do Sul and boat sailing to Ilha do Mel, an island with fascinating natural landscapes, beaches and tranquility to relax and explore nature.

3 hours by car

Excursion to the Chapada dos Veadeiros

Nature, Mountain, Adventure

Visit one of the most important national parks in Brazil, with hiking trails, impressive waterfalls and unique biodiversity. Ideal for nature and hiking lovers.

3 hours by car

City of Goiás (Vila Boa)

History, Culture, Towns

Cultural excursion to the historic Cidade de Goiás, former capital of the state of Goiás, with well-preserved colonial architecture, museums and cobblestone streets that reflect the history of colonial Brazil.

Explore Neighborhoods

Discover the unique character and charm of each city district.

Asa Sul

Residential, modern and well-planned, with wide avenues, green areas and a mix of residential and commercial buildings. It is one of the most traditional and safe sectors of the city.

Highlights

  • City Park
  • TV tower
  • National Set

Best For

FamiliesTouristsShopping

North Handle

Similar to Asa Sul, but with a more active university life due to the presence of the University of Brasilia. Young, cultural and dynamic environment.

Highlights

  • University of Brasilia
  • JK Memorial
  • Torre Fair

Best For

Young peopleNightlifeHistory

South Lake

Exclusive and residential, with mansions, embassies and views of Lake Paranoá. Calm, green and sophisticated environment.

Highlights

  • Paranoá Lake
  • Pontão do Lago Sul
  • Yacht clubs

Best For

FamiliesTourists

North Lake

High-level residential, with gated communities, green areas and direct access to Lake Paranoá. Family and quiet atmosphere.

Highlights

  • Paranoá Lake
  • North Lake Ecological Park
  • Navy

Best For

Families

Pilot Plane

Administrative and cultural heart of Brasilia, with most of the monuments and government buildings. Monumental, historical and tourist atmosphere.

Highlights

  • Plaza de los Tres Poderes
  • Brasilia Cathedral
  • Alvorada Palace

Best For

TouristsHistory

Southwestern/Octagonal

Modern residential, with wide avenues, parks and a mix of tall buildings and houses. Quiet and family atmosphere.

Highlights

  • Olhos D'Água Park
  • Southwest Shopping Center
  • Green areas

Best For

FamiliesShopping

Guará

Popular and commercial neighborhood, with a mix of social classes, street markets and authentic local life. Vibrant and diverse environment.

Highlights

  • Guará Fair
  • Guará Ecological Park
  • Local trade

Best For

FamiliesShopping

Taguatinga

Commercial and service center of the region, with an intense urban life, shopping centers and a great gastronomic offer. Dynamic and multicultural environment.

Highlights

  • Taguatinga Shopping
  • QNL Fair
  • Nightlife

Best For

Young peopleNightlifeShopping

Seasonal Experiences

Discover the best experiences and activities for each time of year

Spring Festival at Parque da Cidade

Spring

During spring, the Sarah Kubitschek City Park transforms into a vibrant space for cultural festivals and free music, taking advantage of the pleasant weather and the seasonal flowers.

Boat trip on Paranoá Lake

Summer

In summer, the high temperatures invite you to do aquatic activities on Lake Paranoá, such as boat trips, rafting and water sports, as well as taking advantage of the bars and restaurants near the lake.

Modernist architecture circuit

Autumn

In autumn, with a cooler and drier climate, it is ideal to explore the modernist architecture of Brasilia, including guided tours of the buildings designed by Oscar Niemeyer and the Eixo Monumental.

Brasilia Film Festival

Winter

In winter, Brasília hosts the Film Festival, an important cultural event that attracted filmmakers and audiences for national and international film sessions, debates and workshops.

Ecological walk at Chapada dos Veadeiros

Spring

Spring is perfect for exploring Chapada dos Veadeiros, near Brasília, with trails, cachoeiras and observation of local flora and fauna in full bloom.

Craft and Gastronomy Fair in Pontão do Lago Sul

Summer

During the summer, Pontão do Lago Sul offers a fair with local crafts and typical cuisine, ideal for enjoying the evenings with live music and views of the lake.

Festivals & Local Celebrations

Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of this city through its unique festivals

May

Porão do Rock

Rock festival that brings together national and international bands such as Raimundos, Sepultura and Stone Temple Pilots.

September/October

CoMA Festival

Music and art festival that celebrates its last edition in 2025 with more than 60 attractions.

June to September

Na Praia Festival

Musical festival featuring artists such as Alcione, Diogo Nogueira and Gusttavo Lima.

October

Raul Seixas Symphony Concerto

Concert in tribute to Raul Seixas at the Ulysses Convention Center.

October

Voa Festival

Festival that welcomes The Wailers in Brasilia.

October

Imagine Dragons in Brasilia

Concert by the band Imagine Dragons at the BRB Mané Garrincha Arena.

November

Guns N'Roses in Brasilia

Concert by the band Guns N'Roses at the BRB Mané Garrincha Arena.

November

Lotadao Dance

Dance with Victor Lou and Dj GBR in Brasilia.

Traveler Tips

Essential advice and local insights to make your trip memorable and safe

Safety Tips

  1. General Security

    In Brasilia, always stay in well-lit and busy areas, especially at night, as crime can be a risk in less patrolled areas.

  2. Areas to avoid

    Avoid favelas and peripheral neighborhoods without a local guide, as they are areas with high organized crime and gang activity.

  3. Emergencies

    In case of emergency, call 190 for the police, 192 for ambulance and 193 for firefighters. Save these numbers in your phone.

Before you go

Quick answers to plan your trip with confidence

About 3 days covers the essentials. Add 1–2 days for neighborhoods or day trips.
Mid-range is around R$ 250-400 per person per day (stay, food, local transport). See the budget section for ranges.
A solid starting area is Asa Sul. Compare neighborhoods and hotels on this page.
Use the Brasilia bus system, which connects the main areas well; buy the 'Bilhete Único' card to facilitate payments.
Family-friendliness rated 80/100. It usually works well for family trips.
Safety rated 67/100. In Brasilia, always stay in well-lit and busy areas, especially at night, as crime can be a risk in less patrolled areas.

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