Palácio Rio Negro

Rio de Janeiro State


Visitors are free to roam among the high-ceilinged, parquet-floored rooms of this grand yellow edifice, which served as a summer home for Brazil's presidents for decades before the capital moved to Brasilia. Highlights include the 2nd floor display of furniture belonging to former president Getúlio Vargas, and his colorfully tiled bathroom, complete with swimming pool-sized bathtub.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Rio de Janeiro State attractions

1. Palácio da Princesa Isabel

0.15 MILES

This showy salmon-hued mansion was once home to Brazil's Princess Isabel, daughter of Emperor Pedro II and Empress Teresa Cristina. It can be viewed from…

2. Casa de Santos Dumont

0.23 MILES

This charming house was the summer home of Brazil’s diminutive father of aviation and inventor of the wristwatch. Photos and exhibits document Dumont’s…

3. Palácio de Cristal

0.24 MILES

Built in France and imported in 1879, this ornate iron-and-glass structure was originally used as a hothouse for growing orchids. It's now a venue for…

4. Catedral São Pedro de Alcântara

0.25 MILES

Petrópolis’ cathedral houses the tombs of Brazil’s last emperor, Dom Pedro II, his wife, Dona Teresa, and their daughter, Princesa Isabel. The bell tower,…

5. Cervejaria Bohemia

0.26 MILES

Don't miss the engaging 1½-hour tour (half self-guided, half guided) at Brazil's oldest brewery, where interactive exhibits trace beer-making history and…

7. Casa do Barão de Mauá

0.32 MILES

This blocky pink 19th-century mansion, viewable from the outside only, was once home to Brazilian entrepreneur and politician Irineu Evangelista de Sousa,…

8. Museu Imperial

0.37 MILES

Petrópolis’ top draw is this impeccably preserved 19th-century palace. Felt slippers provided at the entrance help protect the fine wood floors – great…