Things to Do in Ponta Grossa

The city's main Catholic cathedral, a neogothic building from the early 20th century. Impressive stained glass windows and a peaceful interior.

🕐 07:00-19:00 daily

💡 Visit during a weekday mass – usually 12pm or 6pm – to hear the organ played. The square outside holds a small farmers' market on Saturday mornings.

A regional museum housed in a former 19th-century mansion. Exhibits cover local history, indigenous culture, and natural history, including a taxidermy collection.

🕐 09:00-12:00, 13:30-17:00 Tuesday to Saturday; closed Sunday-Monday

💡 Check the rotating temporary exhibitions – often local art or photography. The garden café is a quiet spot for cheap coffee.

A public lake with walking paths, benches, and a playground. Good for an evening stroll or picnic. The water is clean and often has ducks and capybaras.

🕐 06:00-20:00 daily

💡 Best at sunset when the light reflects gold on the water, hence the name. Avoid after dark as it's poorly lit; go around 5-6pm.

A state park with striking sandstone rock formations, sinkholes and a lake. The main circuit is a 3.5km trail through the arena-like 'arenitos'. Low entry fee (around R$16).

🕐 08:00-17:00 Tuesday-Sunday; closed Mondays

💡 Go early mornings on weekdays to avoid crowds. The guided tour is worthwhile to understand the geology.

A lively weekly farmers' market with fresh produce, local cheeses, honey, and traditional snacks like pastel and caldo de cana. Runs every Saturday morning.

🕐 06:00-12:00 Saturdays only

💡 Arrive by 8am for the freshest items. Bring small bills – most stalls don't take cards. Try the requeijão (creamy cheese) from family producers.