Hotels in Brasilia

Brasília is a city born from a blueprint, officially inaugurated on April 21, 1960, to fulfill a long-held national desire to move the capital inland from Rio de Janeiro. President Juscelino Kubitschek's motto was '50 years of progress in 5,' and the city's rapid construction is a legendary feat of modern engineering and urban planning. Architect Oscar Niemeyer's flowing, concrete forms and Lúcio Costa's pilot-plan layout created a city famous worldwide for its avant-garde architecture and status as a landmark of the Modernist movement. Culturally, it's a melting pot, drawing people from all over Brazil to work in government, resulting in a diverse but somewhat transient population. The city is administratively divided into numbered 'Asa Sul' (South Wing) and 'Asa Norte' (North Wing) residential sectors, the monumental 'Eixo Monumental' axis containing government buildings, and various commercial and entertainment sectors. It is famous for its striking landmarks: the saucer-shaped Cathedral of Brasília, the twin towers of the National Congress, the crown-like Cathedral, and the elegant Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge. While sometimes criticized for a lack of traditional street life, its vast green spaces like the City Park and Brasília National Park, and the vibrant shoreline of Lake Paranoá, offer ample recreation.

Best Time to Visit Brasilia

The best time to visit Brasília is during the dry season, from May to September. This period offers sunny days, low humidity, and virtually no rain, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor architectural wonders and parks. Temperatures are pleasant, with cool nights. The peak tourist season aligns with this dry weather and major events like the city's anniversary in April. The rainy season runs from October to April, characterized by intense but usually brief afternoon thunderstorms and higher humidity. While the landscape is greener, the rain can disrupt sightseeing. The off-peak (wet) season sees fewer tourists. Major seasonal events include the Brasília International Film Festival (November), Christmas and New Year's celebrations with public events on the Esplanade, and the traditional 'Festa Junina' (June Festival) celebrations in June, featuring folk dances, food, and bonfires. The dry winter months (June-August) are consistently the most comfortable for extensive walking and photography.

Where to Stay in Brasilia