Quinta da Boa Vista
Former imperial gardens of the Brazilian royal family, home to the National Museum in São Cristóvão Palace, with the Rio Zoo nearby.
Quinta da Boa Vista was the royal park from the time the Portuguese court relocated to Brazil through the Brazilian Empire. Emperor Pedro II was born and raised in the São Cristóvão Palace within the grounds. Since 1892 the palace has housed the National Museum of Brazil. A fire in 2018 destroyed much of the collection, and restoration is ongoing, with some galleries reopening in phases, so check the official website before your visit. The park features lakes, caves, and tree-lined avenues, and the Rio Zoo (BioParque) is next door. On weekends it is a favorite picnic spot for locals. The park is a short walk from São Cristóvão metro station on Line 2. Entry to the park is free, and daytime visits are best.
Opening hours
Park approx. 05:00-18:00; museum and zoo hours on official website
Nearby sights
- Maracanã Stadium
- Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí
- AquaRio
- Pedra do Sal
- Santa Teresa
- Real Gabinete Português de Leitura
- Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro
- Arcos da Lapa (Carioca Aqueduct)