Brasília is the capital of Brazil, a city in the interior of South America that was built with a single purpose in mind: to serve as the nation's seat of government. It was inaugurated in 1960, and its layout and buildings reflect a deliberate break with the older coastal cities that had long been the country's centres.
The city is best known for its modernist architecture, designed by Oscar Niemeyer. Curving lines, open plazas and sculptural public buildings give the centre a distinctive look that differs strongly from most cities you may have visited. For many travellers, the appeal lies in walking among these buildings and seeing how a planned capital was imagined as a whole.
What a visit offers
- A chance to explore one of the most complete examples of modernist urban design in the world.
- Views of the government buildings and open civic spaces that define the capital.
- A different perspective on Brazil, away from the beaches and colonial towns many visitors associate with the country.
Because the city was laid out for cars and for government functions, it feels spacious and organised. Visitors often find it quieter and more orderly than Brazil's larger coastal metropolises, and it suits those with an interest in architecture, urban planning or the political life of the country.
Planning your trip
Brasília is a good choice if your interest is design and the story behind a city built from nothing in the span of a few years. If you are looking for a relaxed beach stay, you may prefer to combine it with other parts of Brazil. Check current details for access and opening times of individual buildings before you travel, as these can change.
