Overview
The Niterói Contemporary Art Museum (MAC) is an iconic museum of modern and contemporary art designed by the renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer. It offers stunning views of the Guanabara Bay and Rio de Janeiro.
It is one of the most important cultural landmarks in Rio de Janeiro state and a symbol of contemporary Brazilian architecture.
Location
Address
Praia de Icaraí, 433
Neighborhood: Icaraí
Coordinates
-22.951900, -43.132200
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Fewer crowds and better lighting for photography
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Pleasant, mild temperatures
- • Gardens in bloom
summer
Hot and humid
- • Extended summer hours
autumn
Mild, comfortable temperatures
- • Fall colors
winter
Cool and dry
- • Holiday lights and decorations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets online in advance
- Check for temporary closures
- Bring ID
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate, some walking and stairs
- • Stay hydrated in hot weather
- • Use sunscreen
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards (Visa, MasterCard)
Currency
Brazilian Real (BRL)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, comfortable clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, Sturdy shoes for walking on uneven surfaces, Inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • At least 1 week in advance for peak season
- • Official website or authorized ticket vendors
- • 48 hours in advance for full refund
- • Available for online tickets
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
MAC Niterói Official App
Size: 40 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket purchase, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Café, Lobby
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Café
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport (GIG)
Distance: 35 km
Travel Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
From City Center
Distance: 15 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: It's a symbol of modern Brazilian architecture and a source of local pride
Historical Significance: Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, one of Brazil's most famous architects, and houses an important collection of modern and contemporary art
Insider Tips
- Visit on a weekday morning for the best experience
- Combine your visit with a stroll along Icaraí Beach
- Check for temporary exhibitions and events
Local Recommendations
- • Try a local café at the nearby Icaraí Beach
- • Ask for a local guide to learn more about the history and art
- • Visit the nearby São João Baptista Church for more historic architecture
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Portuguese, English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance with the iconic MAC structure
Best Time: Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon)
Tips: Capture the full structure with the bay in the background
Result: Iconic photo of the MAC and its surroundings
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Icaraí Beach
Distance: 200m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Beach
São João Baptista Church
Distance: 800m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Historic Site
Cambridge English School
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Education
Niterói Shopping Mall
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Shopping
Plaza Shopping Niterói
Distance: 2.5km
Walking: 30 min
Type: Shopping
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tickets online to avoid queues"
- "Visit early for the best photos"
- "Combine with a visit to Icaraí Beach"
- "Check for temporary exhibitions"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
13
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
R$20