Half-day Portuguese Royal Family Tour in Rio

Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Half-day Portuguese Royal Family Tour in Rio

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour is a gentle stroll through places that are connected to the Portuguese Royal Family. We will tell you amazing stories about the Portuguese Monarchy and details about their arrival in Brazil in 1808.
Starting with hotel pickup, we take you to the disembark location of the Royal Family. Find out more about the transference of the Portuguese Royal Court from Europe to Brazil. Funny stories and anecdotes are part of the tour. Then we walk up to the former main street that housed several members of the court. Find out how the houses were occupied by the aristocracy. Next, we head to the building used as office by the Portuguese King. Last, but not least, we visit the Museu Histórico Nacional. The vast collection of artifacts will mesmerize you. We focus on the items related to the Portuguese Royal Family.
This is a fun tour where we share funny stories and tell you facts about the Portuguese Royal Family. At the end, we go back to the hotel knowing a lot more about the Monarchy.

Available options

Half-day Portuguese Royal Family Tour in Rio

Pickup included

What's included

Tickets to enter the Museu Histórico Nacional

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The former main harbor where the Royal Portuguese Family disembarked in 1808. This is where everything started.

Former main street during Colonial Times. Several members of the court lived in this area.

Stop 3

The building was used for different purposes throughout the years.

Visitation focusing on the items related to the Portuguese Royal Family. We see items from the Monarchy, both Colonial Times and Imperial Times.

What's not included

Lunch

Pickup in Barra/ Recreio has additional rate of 10 USD (40 BRL) per person.

Available languages

Guide guide

DE PT EN IT FR ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Reduced mobility or Wheelchair must be informed in advance and it is subject to availability.

Non refundable in case of bad weather.

ID or copy is mandatory - including children.

Children under the age of 4 are free of charge and they must sit on their parent’s lap in the vehicle.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

The tour itinerary may change its order on a daily basis.

Maximum vehicle capacity: 19 people.

Meeting point

If you do not provide us the pickup location at the time of booking and you do not inform us about it later, we will assume you will meet us at the Meeting Point at the Front Desk of the Rio Othon Palace (Avenida Atlântica, 3264 - Copacabana).

Important notes

BOARDING INFORMATION: Arrive 15 minutes in advance to avoid any delays. Contact Rio Carioca Tour [booking@riocariocatour.com.br/ +55 21 98806.5075] at least 24 hours before the start of the tour to inform location and confirm pickup time. Wait for the tour guide in the place informed on a visible location. Delays may occur due to traffic conditions.
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