Futurist planning, modernist bridges planted across artificial lakes and the concrete pillared hands of a brutalist cathedral stretching skyward as if to clasp the hem of God... This is Brasilia. The capital of Brazil since 1960, the fourth-largest city in the country was built in the space of 4 years, and has since divided aesthetes into two camps: those who admire the vision of this futuristic, gleaming metropolis, and those who see it as an ugly example of overindulged hyper-rationalised planning. Regardless of taste, there is something striking about Brasilia's design: the layout was inspired by the crucifix - though many prefer to view at as an airplane - and it's lined with six-lane highways, seperated zones for housing, commerce, hospitals and banking, and bustles beside an enormous artificial lake dug to diminish the effects of low humidity in the drier months, as well as serve as a recreational area for citizens. While the modernist nature of the city means there is no historical heritage in the area past the 1950s, it boasts a great many architectural marvels like the cathedral, presidential palace and the Poco Azul waterfall, not to mention countless contemporary art galleries. A uniquely brilliant design or a failed utopian dream? You can decide for yourself by browsing our collection of the best places to stay in Brasilia.

What not to miss

• Check out Brasilia Cathedral, with its 16 curved 90-ton concrete pillars reaching for the heavens... Some say it's an architectural masterpiece!
• Slum it beside the lake with an icecream.
• Take a photogenic walk over the bridge across Paranoa Lake!
• Marvel at the ingenious design of the Poco Azul waterfall...
• Immerse yourself in the best of Brazilian art at the Espaco Cultural Contemporaneo art gallery!
• Learn about the city's history at CAIXA Cultural.

Dividing critics since 1960, Brasilia is a unique modern city with a lively atmosphere, vibrant arts scene and striking modernist architecture. A Mecca for architecture-buffs, it's a fascinating place to visit regardless of your taste in aesthetic. Find out more by browsing our list of the best places to stay in Brasilia!

The best places to stay in Brasilia

Urban designer

• B Hotel is set across the Eixo Monumental thoroughfare in Brasília. Minimalist rooms boast crisp white linens, wood accents and fresh flowers; book an executive room for extra living and working space. Sample contemporary takes on regional delicacies at the restaurant; a chic hotel.

For an apartment or villa

• Our partner Booking.com has a wide range of villas and apartments in the nearby area.

Travel information

• The best time to go is during the summer, when the temperature ranges between 12 and 28 degrees.
• Fly to Brasilia International Airport.
• If you want to rent a car, contact our partner Rentalcars. This comes recommended: Brasilia is not a city for walkers.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include the best places to stay in Brazil
• or for something with a bit more exciting, sprawling urban chaos, try our list of the best places to stay in Rio de Janeiro
• or contact one of our Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Brasilia