Hello there, Portuguese fans! Are you ready to learn Portuguese online with us one more time? Today, we celebrate International Museum Day, so we brought you a brand-new Dica! We are here to show you the best museums you can find in Rio de Janeiro! We have many interesting places here to see! Museum of Tomorrow, Museum of Modern Art and Contemporary Art, and Niemeyer Museum, all in Rio de Janeiro! So, get your canvas ready for our Dica about Museums in Rio!
Museu do Amanhã

The Museum of Tomorrow (Museu do Amanhã) is a science museum in the city of Rio de Janeiro. Indeed, it’s one of the most recent museums in Brazil, finished in 2015. Santiago Calatrava, the Spanish neo-futuristic architect, was responsible for the design! It’s located right in Rio’s downtown. The main exhibition takes visitors through five main areas. Above all, the idea is to show the past, present, and future in a participative way. It’s a mix of science, innovative design, and ecology! A good museum to think about the future and how can we improve it. Remember that you can visit with us in our RioLIVE! Porto Maravilha.
- Location: Praça Mauá, 1 – Centro, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20081-240
- Opening Hours:
- Thursday to Tuesday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Last Entry 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: Closed
- Tickets:
- General Admission: R$ 30.00
- Reduced Price: R$ 15.00 (students, seniors 60+, teachers, people with disabilities, young people aged 15 to 21, low-income individuals, etc. with valid ID)
- Free Admission: Children under 5, residents of the city of Rio de Janeiro on Tuesdays (with proof of residence), and specific groups on certain days (check the official website for details)
- Book the tickets on the website before you arrive to guarantee you can go in.
Museu de Arte do Rio (MAR)

Museu de Arte do Rio (MAR) is a museum in Rio de Janeiro, that opened in 2013, as part of the downtown revitalization project. Additionally, the museum received the Award of Best Construction in 2013 by the Architizer A+ Awards – the largest international awards program for architects and designers. The museum itself does not have a collection, just temporary exhibitions. Last but not least, you can follow the current exhibition through the official website. It’s next to Museu do Amanhã, so you could visit both on the same day.
- Location: Praça Mauá, 5 – Centro, Rio de Janeiro
- Opening Hours:
- Thursday to Tuesday: 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Last Entry 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: Closed
- Tickets:
- General Admission: R$ 20.00
- Reduced Price: R$ 10.00 (students, seniors 60+, teachers, people with disabilities, young people aged 15 to 21, and low-income individuals with valid ID)
- Free Admission: Every Tuesday
Museu Histórico Nacional
The National Historical Museum (Museu Histórico Nacional) was created in 1922. It has over 287,000 items! It also includes the largest numismatic (coins and bills) collection in Latin America. The building itself was built in 1603 as the St. James of Mercy Fort. So, if you like history, coins, and the army, this is your museum! It’s one of the best museums in Rio de Janeiro!
- Location: Praça Mal. Âncora, s/n – Centro, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20230-030
- Opening Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
- Tickets:
- General Admission: R$ 10.00
- Free Admission:
- On Sundays
- For students, teachers, and seniors (60+) with a valid ID
- For children under 7 years old
- For visitors wearing the MHN Friend’s T-shirt
Museu da República

The Museu da República is a historic museum housed in the Palácio do Catete. Its collection includes nearly 9,400 artifacts spanning from the 18th century to the present day. The museum organizes these pieces into 74 collections, each named after key figures in Brazil’s republican history.
The most renowned exhibit is the Getúlio Vargas Collection, featuring nearly 1,000 items, including personal donations from Vargas and his family. Among the most striking artifacts are the revolver he used and the pajamas he wore on the night of his suicide.
And if you are wondering if we visit this museum during our RioLIVE! Palácio do Catete, the answer is YES!
- Location: Catete Street, 153 – Catete
- Getting There: By subway – Line 1, Catete Station
- Opening Hours:
- Museum: ⚠️ Attention: Temporary Closure Notice ⚠️
- The Museu da República (Palácio do Catete) in Rio’s South Zone will temporarily close to visitors starting February 1st for structural evaluations of the historic building. This closure, confirmed by the Brazilian Institute of Museums (Ibram), is necessary to ensure the site’s preservation. However, the museum’s gardens—which underwent renovations and reopened in November—will remain open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. If all goes according to plan, the Palácio is expected to reopen to the public on May 1, 2025.
- Gardens:
- Daily: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Museum: ⚠️ Attention: Temporary Closure Notice ⚠️
- Tickets: Free Admission.
CCBB Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil
Imagine yourself stepping into a historic building that blends modern art with the city’s vibrant soul. You’ll feel the pulse of Brazilian culture as soon as you walk in. With its dynamic mix of contemporary exhibitions, films, theater, and dance performances, CCBB offers an immersive experience that goes beyond the walls of a gallery, it’s like getting a front-row seat to Brazil’s creative heart.

Picture yourself strolling through these exhibitions, soaking in not only the art but the essence of Rio itself. It’s more than just a visit, it’s an invitation to feel Rio de Janeiro’s and Brazil’s cultural energy, where every exhibit tells a piece of the city’s story. As a student at Rio & Learn, you’ll not only understand the language, but you’ll also live the culture, making lifelong memories in one of the most beautiful, artistic, and inspiring cities in the world. If you want to know more, visit our CCBB Dica! And you can visit CCBB with us and one of our Portuguese teacher at our RioLIVE! Downtown Rio de Janeiro.
- Location: Rua Primeiro de Março, 66 – Centro, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20010-000
- Getting There: By subway – Line 1, Uruguaiana-Centro Station
- Opening Hours:
- Wednesday to Monday: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Tickets:
- Exhibitions: Free admission
- Theater, cinema, and other events: Ticket prices vary depending on the event. Check the CCBB website or app for specific event information and ticket prices.
Museu do Samba
The Museu do Samba brings you the heartbeat of Brazil’s soul! Picture yourself diving into the rhythm, colors, and passion of samba, where every beat tells a story of resilience, creativity, and pure joy. Located at the foot of Rio’s famous Mangueira Hill, this museum is not just a tribute to Brazil’s most iconic music—it’s a celebration of the people who shaped it. Here, you’ll feel the energy of Carnival, see stunning costumes up close, and learn about the incredible history of the samba schools that have been keeping this tradition alive for generations.

As you walk through the vibrant exhibits, you’ll discover how samba is much more than a dance—it’s a way of life. You’ll be surrounded by the voices of samba legends like Cartola, Dona Zica, and Martinho da Vila, and before you know it, you’ll be tapping your feet, itching to join in. The museum makes you feel like you’re a part of this amazing culture, with interactive spaces where you can try out instruments or experience what it’s like to be part of a samba parade. Ah, it is located at Quadra da Mangueira the headquarters of one of the best Samba Schools in Rio, Mangueira! It’s one of the best museums in Rio to get to know our local culture and music.
At Rio & Learn, learning Portuguese is more than just mastering the language, it’s about living the culture. Visiting the Museu do Samba with us brings you closer to understanding Brazil’s passion, joy, and love for life. You’ll leave with samba in your heart and a deeper connection to Rio’s vibrant culture. And trust me, after experiencing this, you’ll be counting down the days until Carnival!
- Location: R. Visc. de Niterói, 1296 – Mangueira, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20943-001
- Getting There: Taxi or Uber are the safest options.
- Opening Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Monday, Sunday, and Holiday days: Closed
- Tickets:
- General Admission: R$ 20.00
- Reduced Price: R$ 10.00 (students, seniors 60+, teachers, people with disabilities, young people aged 15 to 21, and low-income individuals with valid ID)
National Museum of Brazil
The National Museum of Brazil is more than just a museum, it’s a journey through time and space, right in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. Imagine walking through halls that hold the secrets of ancient civilizations, rare artifacts, and even the universe itself. This is where you’ll find the largest meteorite ever discovered in Brazil, and yes, you can actually touch it! You’re not just learning about history here; you’re becoming part of it.

After a devastating fire in 2018, the museum is rising from the ashes, symbolizing resilience and the unstoppable spirit of Brazil. It is currently closed and in reconstruction. It is most visited for school kids to have an experience learning about science and much more. The building was the Emperor of Brazil’s residence, so lots of history has been through there. You’ll be exploring this historic place right in Rio’s iconic Quinta da Boa Vista Park, where you can relax in the grass after soaking up all that history.
- Location: Quinta da Boa Vista, São Cristóvão, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20940-040
- Getting There: Taxi or Uber are the safest options.
- Opening Hours: Currently closed and in reconstruction.
Museu Nacional de Belas Artes (Closed until the end of 2025)
The National Museum of Fine Arts (MNBA) is an art museum located in the city of Rio de Janeiro. It contains the largest collection of 19th-century works of art in Brazil. Despite it being only officially created in 1937, its history is much older. That’s because the museum’s collection began with the set of works of art brought by Dom João VI, in 1808. Finally, the collection expanded throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum has paintings, sculptures, drawings, and prints by Brazilian and foreign artists. It also has a collection of decorative art, furniture, folk art, and a set of African art pieces.

- Location: Av. Rio Branco, 199 – Centro, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20040-008
- Getting There: By subway – Line 1, Cinelândia Station
- Opening Hours: (Closed until the end of 2025)
- Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays: 12:00 PM (noon) to 5:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
- Tickets:
- General Admission: R$ 12.00
- Reduced Price: R$ 6.00 (students, teachers, and seniors 60+ with valid ID)
- Free Admission: On Sundays
Museum of Modern Art of Rio

The Museum of Modern Art of Rio de Janeiro (MAM) is one of the most important cultural institutions in Brazil. It is located in Parque do Flamengo, close to downtown Rio. The museum opened in 1948 and has approximately 15,000 works of art. Of these, 6,600 are from its own collection, and the rest are on loan from private collections. In particular, the museum stands out for important works from the modern and contemporary periods.
- Location: Av. Infante Dom Henrique, 85 – Parque do Flamengo, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20021-140
- Getting There: By subway – Line 1, Cinelândia Station
- Opening Hours:
- Wednesday to Saturday: 10 AM to 6 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM to 6 PM
- Monday and Tuesday: Closed
- Tickets: Free Admission, suggested contribution.
Bonus Museums: Outside Rio
We have two amazing museums in cities next to Rio. Don’t miss them!!
Niterói Contemporary Art Museum

It is not strictly a Rio de Janeiro Museum, Niterói Contemporary Art Museum is situated just outside of Rio de Janeiro city, in Niterói. The museum was inaugurated in 1996 and is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Rio de Janeiro state! Oscar Niemeyer himself designed this contemporary art museum. He is so famous most people call this the Oscar Niemeyer Museum in Rio! The museum has a collection of 1,217 works from the art collector João Sattamini. This makes it the second-largest collection of contemporary art in Brazil. We have the perfect way for you to visit MAC: there is a Niterói RioLIVE! where you can enjoy the museum while learning Portuguese in Brazil!
- Location: Mirante da Boa Viagem, s/n – Boa Viagem, Niterói – RJ, 24210-390
- Getting There: Taxi or Uber are the fastest options from Rio.
- Opening Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10 AM to 6 PM
- Monday: Closed
- The box office closes 15 minutes before the exhibition hall closing time.
- Tickets:
- Full Price: R$12.00 (Confirmed)
- Half Price: R$6.00 (Confirmed)
- Private school students, university students, and adults (60+) with valid ID
- Teachers with their employment record card or payment slip
- Free Entrance:
- Children under age 7
- Residents of Niterói with proof of residence and ID
- Public school students (elementary and secondary education) with an official letter from the institution
- Person in charge of groups of students, children school representatives
- All visitors who arrive at the Museum by bicycle
- On Wednesdays, it is free for everybody
Imperial Museum
The Imperial Museum in Petrópolis is like stepping into a royal time machine. Imagine yourself wandering through an elegant palace where Brazil’s emperors once walked, surrounded by chandeliers, fine art, and the regal splendor of the 19th century. You can almost feel the presence of Dom Pedro II and his family as you explore the halls, catching glimpses of their daily lives, from personal objects to majestic crowns. This isn’t just a museum, it’s a window into Brazil’s imperial past, full of stories waiting to be discovered.

Set in the picturesque mountain town of Petrópolis, the museum offers a breath of fresh air, literally! You’ll love escaping the hustle of Rio to this charming city, where history and nature blend perfectly. And it’s not just about admiring royal treasures; you get to interact with the past, from trying on period costumes to experiencing the grandeur of imperial banquets. Plus, the surrounding gardens are a perfect place to soak in the serene vibe after your royal tour.
You can visit the place with our RioLIVE! Weekends to Petrópolis. This kind of trip helps you connect not only with the Portuguese language but also with the deeper layers of Brazil’s culture. The Imperial Museum makes history come alive, and as you explore these opulent rooms, you’ll feel the connection between past and present—and be even more inspired to discover Brazil in all its richness.
- Location: Rua da Imperatriz, 220 – Centro, Petrópolis – RJ, 25610-320
- Opening Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
- Ticket office: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
- Last entry allowed: 5:30 PM
- Gardens: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Carriage Pavilion: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Tickets:
- Full Price: R$10.00
- Half Price: R$5.00
- Students
- Teachers/school staff
- Seniors (60+)
- People with disabilities
- Municipal civil servants of Petrópolis
- Young people up to 21 years old (Law 3.364/2000 – RJ)
- Young people aged 15 to 29 registered in CadÚnico and with ID Jovem
- Family Package (2 full + 2 half): R$25.00
- Free Admission: (Confirmed)
- Wednesdays for all visitors
- Seniors over 80 years old
- Children under 5 years old
- Tourist guides with registration in Cadastur/MTur
- Museology students and professionals registered in the Regional Councils of Museology – CRM
- Active and retired IBRAM employees
- ICOM members with a valid membership card
- Members of the Society of Friends of the Imperial Museum
- Vale-Cultura users (with proof)
It is interesting to mention that Forte de Copacabana works as an army museum but we didn’t include it here as it is more interesting for the beauty of their views and military installations than for the museum included.
So, what did you think about our selection of the best museums in Rio de Janeiro? Which one interested you the most? Did you know Niemeyer had built a museum in Rio? Leave us in the comments!
See you in the next Dica!
Click on the links below to see more related Dicas
Oscar Niemeyer
Paço Imperial
Art from Brazil
Time in Portuguese
SEO Content Coordinator at Rio & Learn Portuguese School.
She was seven month Rio & Learn Online Courses Academic Coordinator and our A Dica do Dia blog Coordinator for two years and a half. Fluent in Portuguese, English, Spanish, and with elementary proficiency in Chinese, she is a versatile communicator and a strategic asset to global teams.