How to get to Castro

Castro is a colorful city in the state of Paraná in southern Brazil, renowned for its rich historical heritage and unique Dutch influence. If you are planning a trip and looking for information on how to get to Castro, various route options are available to you, including combined journeys by plane, bus, or car. The decision to travel to Castro will allow you to discover this distinctive corner of the country by choosing the most convenient mode of transport.

Although the city has its own aviation code QAC, it does not accept regular commercial flights. Therefore, travelers will need to choose one of the neighboring air hubs to reach the region.

The nearest arrival point is Ponta Grossa. This is the most convenient option for those wishing to minimize travel time on the ground after landing, as the city is located quite close by.

An alternative with a much wider range of flight connections is Curitiba. Many flights from different parts of the country arrive here, making this transport hub a popular choice for tourists. The journey from here to your final destination will take a few hours, but it will allow you to enjoy the views of the state of Paraná.

Reaching Castro exclusively by train is not possible, as there is no active passenger railway station in the city. Rail transport in this part of Brazil has its own specifics: existing lines are mainly focused on freight transport, so tourists should plan an alternative route in advance.

The nearest major settlements that can serve as reference points when planning your trip are Ponta Grossa and Curitiba. From these cities, travelers usually continue their journey to the final destination by transferring to intercity buses or renting a car.

Bus services in this region are excellently organized, and many tourists choose this mode of transport to explore the state of Paraná. The shortest and fastest route lies from neighboring Ponta Grossa: the bus covers the 40-kilometer journey in less than an hour. If you are departing from the state capital, Curitiba, expect to spend approximately three hours on the road to cover about 160 kilometers through scenic terrain.

Another convenient option is a direct route from the city of Mafra, located further south on the border with the state of Santa Catarina. The travel time on this route is also about three hours, making it a good alternative for transit travelers. The bus station in Castro receives regular services, ensuring a comfortable arrival on practically any day of the week.

Traveling by car will give you freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque landscapes of the state of Paraná. The shortest route leads from the city of Ponta Grossa: you can cover 40 kilometers along the PR-151 highway in just 40–50 minutes. If you are departing from Curitiba, the trip will take about two and a half hours, during which you will drive approximately 160 kilometers on a comfortable highway.

The route from the city of Mafra is longer — about 190 kilometers, which will require approximately three hours behind the wheel. Renting a car ensures maximum flexibility, but for short distances, for example from Ponta Grossa, you can use a taxi or applications like Uber, where the trip will cost approximately 100–150 Brazilian reais.

Preparing for your trip to Castro will help you enjoy the unique atmosphere of this city in the state of Paraná without unnecessary worries. To ensure your journey goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant impressions, we have gathered some useful recommendations for you.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate in this region is subtropical with clearly defined seasons. In summer (December–February), it is warm and often rains, so an umbrella or raincoat will be useful. In winter (June–August), temperatures can drop quite low, especially at night, so be sure to bring a warm jacket and sweater.
2. Transport. The historical city center is compact and pleasant to explore on foot. However, for a trip to the famous Castrolanda colony, located a few kilometers from the center, it is most convenient to use a taxi or a rented car, as public transport may run with long intervals.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Brazilian Real. Bank cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and museums, but it is necessary to carry a small amount of cash for paying for small purchases, souvenirs, or tips.
4. Health and Safety. Castro is a calm and safe city compared to the country's large metropolises. Nevertheless, it is recommended to drink only bottled water and use sunscreen even in cloudy weather. Pharmacies (farmácias) are available in the city, but it is better to bring specific medications with you.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is Portuguese. In the Castrolanda tourist complex, you may meet staff speaking English or even Dutch, but in ordinary shops and cafes, English is rarely understood. Download an offline translator to your phone in advance.
6. Local Etiquette. Residents of the region are distinguished by their hospitality and politeness. It is customary to greet people when entering a shop or elevator. The attitude towards tourists is very friendly; locals appreciate interest in their history and culture.
7. What to Avoid. Do not plan a visit for Monday if your main goal is visiting museums and cultural centers, as many of them may be closed on this day. Also, avoid walking in unlit outskirts at night, observing standard safety precautions.
8. Additional Tip. Be sure to try the local dairy products and traditional Dutch pastries. Castro is considered one of the "milk capitals" of the country, and the quality of local gastronomy here is excellent.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to feel confident and comfortable during your visit. May your introduction to the Dutch heritage in the heart of Brazil be easy and fascinating!