Half Day Portuguese Royal Family Tour in Rio

Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Half Day Portuguese Royal Family Tour in Rio

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About this experience

This tour offers a peaceful and fascinating journey through the most important places connected to the presence of the Portuguese Royal Family in Rio de Janeiro. Beginning with pickup from your hotel, we head to the exact spot where the royal court arrived in Brazil in 1808. Along the way, you’ll hear curious stories and surprising details about the transfer of the Portuguese monarchy to the country, including anecdotes and little-known facts. Next, we walk through the former main street that housed several members of the court, revealing how they lived and how the residences were distributed among the aristocracy. We also visit the building that served as the Portuguese King's office, an important landmark of this historical period. To conclude, we explore the National Historical Museum, where a vast collection of artifacts showcases objects, documents, and items directly related to the Royal Family.

Available options

Half Day Portuguese Royal Family Tour in Rio

Pickup included

What's included

Transfer in/out

Tour Guide

Tickets (to enter the Museu Histórico Nacional)

Detailed itinerary

The National Museum – UFRJ, located in the historic Quinta da Boa Vista, is one of the most important cultural and scientific symbols of Brazil. Founded in 1818 by King John VI, the museum was installed in the former Imperial Palace of São Cristóvão, the residence of the Portuguese royal family and later the Brazilian imperial family. Even after the 2018 fire, the site remains a landmark of resilience, memory, and rebirth. Today, visitors can explore the outdoor areas of Quinta da Boa Vista, a lush park with gardens, lakes, and historic structures that invite you to enjoy a peaceful walk full of history. The National Museum is undergoing reconstruction and revitalization, featuring temporary exhibitions, educational activities, and projects that keep its scientific importance alive. Visiting this space is an opportunity to learn about Brazil’s history, appreciate national heritage, and witness the restoration of one of Latin America’s greatest museums.

What's not included

Meal

Drink

Available languages

Guide guide

DE PT EN IT FR ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Delays may occur due to traffic conditions.

ID or copy is mandatory, even for children.

The tour itinerary may change its order on a daily basis due to force majeure.

IMPORTANT: During high season and major events, the visitation time on each location can be affected, due to long waiting queues.

Take care of your personal belongings as we are not responsible for items left in vehicles and/ or in places visited. We recommend that you carry all your belongings.

About Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, known as the 'Marvelous City,' is famous for its natural settings, Carnival, samba, bossa nova, and Balneario beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema. It's a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, including the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain.

Top Attractions

Christ the Redeemer

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this iconic statue offers breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours R$84 (including train ticket)

Sugarloaf Mountain

A famous peak offering stunning views of Rio de Janeiro and its beaches.

Nature 2-3 hours R$88 (round-trip cable car)

Copacabana Beach

One of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful sunsets.

Beach Half day or full day Free

Tijuca National Park

The world's largest urban forest, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Nature Half day or full day Free (some attractions may have fees)

Santa Teresa

A historic and bohemian neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and scenic views.

Cultural Half day Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Feijoada

A hearty stew made with black beans and various cuts of pork, often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.

Dinner Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Pão de Queijo

Cheese bread made with tapioca flour, giving it a unique texture and flavor.

Snack Vegetarian, but contains dairy.

Moqueca

A traditional fish stew cooked in coconut milk and dendê oil, with various seafood and vegetables.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan with vegetable broth and tofu.

Açaí

A thick, creamy fruit pulp from the açaí palm, often served with granola and condensed milk.

Dessert/Drink Can be made vegan with plant-based milk.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Tijuca National Park Surfing in Arpoador Paragliding in Pedra Bonita Beach lounging in Ipanema Spa treatments in Copacabana Yoga in Botafogo Visiting museums in Centro Attending a samba show

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and the famous Carnival in February/March. Expect crowded beaches and higher prices.

25-30°C 77-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Time Zone

GMT-3 (Brasília Time)

Electricity

110V/220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Rio de Janeiro is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and violence can occur. Exercise caution, especially in less touristy areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night in unsafe areas
• Use common sense and stay alert to your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
Santos Dumont Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center

By train

Central do Brasil

By bus

Rodoviária Novo Rio, Terminal Rodoviário da Gavea

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and air-conditioned, the metro is a great way to avoid traffic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, 99 Taxis

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Copacabana Ipanema Santa Teresa Lapa Botafogo

Day trips

Petrópolis

65 km (40 miles) • Full day

A charming colonial town in the mountains, known for its historic architecture and cool climate.

Paraty

170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight

A historic coastal town with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches.

Búzios

170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight

A picturesque beach town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

Festivals

Carnival • February/March (dates vary) Rio Carnival Samba Parade • February/March (dates vary) New Year's Eve (Réveillon) • December 31

Pro tips

Visit Christ the Redeemer early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views
Take a helicopter tour for a unique perspective of the city
Explore the less touristy neighborhoods like Santa Teresa and Botafogo for a more authentic experience
Try local street food like pão de queijo and coxinha for a taste of Brazilian flavors
Learn some basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals