| Document and Entity Information | Dec. 09, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | CURIS INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001108205 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 9, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 000-30347 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 04-3505116 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 128 Spring Street |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Building C |
| Entity Address, Address Line Three | Suite 500 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Lexington |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 02421 |
| City Area Code | (617) |
| Local Phone Number | 503-6500 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, Par Value $0.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | CRIS |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
