Guided Visit to the National Theater and the National Library

Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Guided Visit to the National Theater and the National Library

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About this experience

We begin with pickup from your hotel for a 4-hour tour dedicated to discovering two of Brazil’s most important cultural institutions: the National Theater and the National Library. Both located in downtown Rio de Janeiro, they impress with their grand architecture, ornate interiors, and historical significance.
Your first stop is the National Theater, inaugurated in 1909 and considered one of the country’s most prestigious theaters. Known as the Municipal Theater, it has hosted renowned artists in music, dance, and opera, and still maintains its artistic independence with its own choir, symphony orchestra, and ballet company.
Next, we visit the National Library, founded in 1810 by King João VI. The largest library in Latin America, it houses around 9 million items, including rare books, maps, manuscripts, and documents that preserve Brazil’s cultural memory. By law, every book published in Brazil must have a copy stored there.

Available options

Guided Visit to the National Theater and the National Library

Pickup included

What's included

Transfer in/out

Tour Guide

Tickets (to the National Theater and Library)

Detailed itinerary

The National Theater, known in Rio de Janeiro as the Municipal Theater, is one of the most impressive and admired cultural landmarks in Brazil. Located in Praça Floriano, in the heart of downtown, the building immediately stands out with its grand architecture inspired by the Paris Opera. Inaugurated in 1909, the theater is a symbol of the city’s artistic richness, hosting opera, ballet, symphonic concerts, and high-level musical performances.
The interior is even more stunning: colorful stained-glass windows, detailed frescoes, sculptures, bronze chandeliers, and rich décor blending European styles with Brazilian elements. The main hall, with its impeccable acoustics, offers a unique experience to every spectator. During the visit, guests can learn about the theater’s construction, discover curiosities about artists who have performed there, and admire the beauty of each architectural detail up close.

The National Library, located on Avenida Rio Branco in downtown Rio de Janeiro, is the largest library in Latin America and one of the ten largest in the world in terms of collection size. Founded in 1810, the institution originated from the transfer of the Royal Portuguese Library to Brazil, bringing together rare works, historical documents, and unique treasures. Its monumental building, inaugurated in 1910, impresses with its neoclassical architecture and interior details featuring marble, stained-glass windows, sculptures, and majestic reading rooms.
Inside, visitors encounter collections that include ancient maps, manuscripts, rare books, newspapers, photographs, and works that tell the cultural history of the country. The guided tour explains how the collection is preserved and highlights the National Library’s importance for research and Brazilian memory.

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