Museums of Modern and Contemporary Art in Rio and Niteroi

Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Museums of Modern and Contemporary Art in Rio and Niteroi

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(11 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Visit two of the most famous art museums of Rio and Niterói, the twin cities bathed by Guanabara Bay, the Museum of Modern Art, designed by the architect Affonso Eduardo Reidy, and Museum of Contemporary Art, designed by architect Niemeyer.
• Visit the Museum of Modern Art, and continue towards Niteroi by the Rio-Niteroi bridge, enjoying the postcard of the Guanabara Bay.
• Get to know the Museum of Contemporary Art, considered one of the architectural wonders of the world.
• Know the Niemeyer’s Path, set of architect's works that made Niteroi the second City, after Brasilia, with more structures created by him.
• Feel how the MAC anticipates futures for the 21st Century through architectural communion with the stunning landscape.
• Get the opportunity to observe "in loco" the two architectural styles the modern and the contemporary ones.

Available options

Museums of Modern and Contemporary Art in Rio and Niteroi

Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide

Bottled water

Driver/guide

Snacks

Transport by private vehicle

Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

The purpose of this tour is to show and visit two prominent cultural institutions: the Museum of Modern Art, known as MAM, in the city of Rio de Janeiro, and the Museum of Contemporary Art, known as MAC, in Niteroi also bathed by the waters of Guanabara's Bay. The MAM occupies a privileged area in Flamengo Park, where you can see the Pão de Açucar, Cristo Redentor, Marina da Glória, Santos Dumont Airport, and the relief of the city of Niterói. After visiting the MAM, we will continue towards Niteroi by the Rio-Niteroi bridge, enjoying the postcard of the Guanabara Bay surrounded by natural beauties and human-made monuments such as Niemeyer’s Path, set of architect's works that made Niteroi the second City, after Brasilia, with more structures created by him.

Stop 2

The architectural style of the MAM, considered by Affonso Eduardo Reidy, follows the rationalist concept of structures leaked and integrated with the landscape. In this way, it assimilates the modern post-war trends, serving as a stage for manifestations of the Brazilian artistic avant-garde from the new realists to the Neo-Concretists. Hélio Oiticica exhibited there his work Tropicália giving rise to the Tropicalist movement. The architect Eduardo Reidy used the horizontal and transparent structure and integrated the museum with the nature of both the sea and the gardens.

Stop 3

Across the Bay of Guanabara, we will visit the Museum of Contemporary Art, considered one of the architectural wonders of the world. The Museum of Contemporary Art of Niterói launches a new museum concept as a space of creation, synthesis, and unity between art, culture, and society in environmental integration. For Oscar Niemeyer, the purpose of the MAC is to anticipate futures for the 21st Century through architectural communion with the stunning landscape. "The sea, the mountains of Rio, a magnificent landscape that I had to preserve... and I went up the building, adopting the circular shape that, in my view, the space required... I felt that the museum Would be beautiful and so different from the others that rich and poor would enjoy visiting it." by Oscar Niemeyer.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.4

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Dress code is smart casual

May be operated by a multi-lingual guide

Meeting point

Right in front of the famous Copacabana Palace Hotel

Important notes

• Dress code is smart casual

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

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