Paraná welcomed over 303,000 foreign visitors early in 2026 and prepares its first intercontinental flight from Curitiba to Lisbon.
In the first two months of 2026, Paraná recorded 303,928 foreign tourists, accounting for 11% of Brazil’s total international arrivals. The data, released by Embratur and the Ministry of Tourism, positions Paraná as the fifth most-visited state by foreigners, behind Rio Grande do Sul, São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Santa Catarina.
Most visitors reached the state by land (97%). For State Tourism Secretary Leonaldo Paranhos, the increase reflects job creation, income growth, and a stronger local economy. He also highlighted a 36% rise in Israeli arrivals, from 2,300 in 2025 to 3,100 in 2026.
February marks second-best result since 2018
In February alone, Paraná welcomed over 121,000 foreign tourists, the state’s second-highest record for the month since 2018, surpassed only by 2025. Paraguay and Argentina led visitor arrivals, representing 47% and 31% of the total. Other key markets included Chile, the United States, the United Kingdom, Peru, South Korea, Germany, Israel, and Spain.
Global promotion and new air routes
According to Irapuan Cortes, CEO of Viaje Paraná, the state has invested heavily in international promotion, joining events such as IMEX Las Vegas, WTM London (2025), and ITB Berlin (March 2026). “We participate in international events to strengthen Paraná’s presence abroad and attract foreign markets,” he emphasized.
In July, Curitiba will gain its first intercontinental connection with a direct flight to Lisbon. Cortes believes this will expand the inflow of European travelers. “Paraná is ready to receive new flights and welcome more tourists,” he concluded.
Photo: Denis Ferreira Netto
