National Congress: A Symbol of Brazilian Democracy
Explore Brazil's National Congress in Brasília: a symbol of modern architecture and the heart of the country's legislative power.
The National Congress in Brasília is the legislative heart of Brazil, designed by Oscar Niemeyer. It features iconic twin towers and domes representing the Senate and Chamber of Deputies, set in the Three Powers Plaza. Visitors can explore the building's architecture and learn about Brazil's political processes.
A brief summary to National Congress
- Palácio do Congresso Nacional - Praça dos 3 Poderes, Brasília, Brasília, Federal District, 70160-900, BR
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the National Congress website for tour schedules and booking information, as reservations may be required, especially for groups and weekday visits.
- Dress respectfully when visiting the National Congress; avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless shirts, or miniskirts on weekdays.
- Arrive early for your tour to allow time for security checks and to explore the surrounding Three Powers Plaza.
- Take advantage of the free guided tours to learn about the history, architecture, and political functions of the National Congress.
- Visit the nearby Itamaraty Palace and Metropolitan Cathedral to further appreciate Brasilia's unique architectural landscape.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Praça dos Três Poderes (Three Powers Plaza), the National Congress is easily accessible on foot. Simply walk towards the two prominent towers, passing by the Palácio do Planalto (Presidential Palace) and the Supreme Federal Court. The entrance is located at the base of the ramp facing the Esplanada dos Ministérios. There are no costs involved in this final approach.
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Public Transport
If arriving by public transport from other parts of Brasília, take a bus to the Rodoviária do Plano Piloto (Central Bus Station). From there, you can walk (approximately 20 minutes) or take a local bus (lines 110, 113, or 124) to the Esplanada dos Ministérios. The National Congress is a short walk from the bus stops in the Esplanada area. A single bus fare within Brasília typically costs R$4.
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Taxi/Ride-share
For a direct route, a taxi or ride-sharing service (such as Uber) can drop you off directly at the National Congress. Set your destination to 'Palácio do Congresso Nacional - Praça dos 3 Poderes, Brasília - DF'. The fare will depend on your pickup location, but expect to pay around R$40 to R$100 for a ride from different parts of Planalto Central. Ensure the driver resets the taximeter before starting the trip.
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Car
If driving, follow signs to the Esplanada dos Ministérios and Praça dos Três Poderes. Parking is available along Alameda dos Estados, facing the National Congress Palace. Parking fees in nearby public garages range from R$5 to R$15 depending on the duration.
Discover more about National Congress
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eixo Monumental & Praça dos Três Poderes
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Eixo Monumental S1 - Praça dos Três Poderes, Área C (Supremo Tribunal Federal)
0.3 km
Visit Praça dos Três Poderes in Brasília: a fusion of modernist architecture, Brazilian history, and the heart of the nation's democratic ideals.
States Avenue
0.3 km
Explore Brasília's Esplanada dos Ministérios, a monumental avenue showcasing modernist architecture and the heart of Brazilian government.
Palace of Justice - Ministry of Justice
0.3 km
Admire Niemeyer's architectural masterpiece, the Palace of Justice in Brasília, with its iconic arches and cascading waterfalls.
Pira da Liberdade
0.4 km
Reflect on Brazil's journey to freedom at the Pira da Liberdade, a monument in Brasília's Three Powers Plaza.
Praça dos Três Poderes Panteão da Pátria e da Liberdade Tancredo Neves - Brasília
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Mast and National Pavilion
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Superior Tribunal de Justiça
1.1 km
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Monumento comemorativo da Integração Nacional
1.2 km
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Shopping Conjunto Nacional
2.2 km
Brasília's first shopping mall, a landmark since 1971, offering a wide variety of stores, dining, and services in the heart of the city.
Eixão do Lazer Norte
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Praça dos Orixas
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Ramada Brasília Alvorada
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Dom Cerrado Restaurante & Café
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Camelo Bike Tour Brasília
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Unmissable attractions to see
Museu Histórico de Brasília
0.3 km
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Espaço Lucio Costa
0.3 km
Explore the vision of Lúcio Costa at this underground museum showcasing the original plan for Brazil's capital city, Brasília.
Three Powers Plaza
0.3 km
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Centro Cultural Três Poderes
0.3 km
Discover the heart of Brazilian culture at Centro Cultural Três Poderes, a stunning cultural center and museum in Brasília, showcasing art and history.
Palácio Itamaraty
0.4 km
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Supremo Tribunal Federal
0.4 km
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Palácio do Planalto
0.4 km
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Tancredo Neves Pantheon of the Fatherland and Freedom
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Praça Três Poderes
0.6 km
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Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida
1.2 km
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Esplanade of Ministries
1.2 km
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Museu do Voto - TSE
1.4 km
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MUSEU Nacional da República
1.5 km
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Cultural Complex of the Republic
1.6 km
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Brasília National Library
1.8 km
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Essential places to dine
Kranfo Restaurante
1.3 km
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Bodega de la Habana
1.3 km
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Restaurante Traira Sem Espinha
1.3 km
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Restaurante Estrela da Paraíba
1.4 km
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Casarão Restaurante
1.5 km
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Churrascaria Nativas Grill Brasília Esplanada
1.5 km
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Lojinha do Sabor
1.6 km
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Fogão de Pedra
1.6 km
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Varandella
1.6 km
Experience authentic Brazilian flavors at Varandella in Vila Planalto—where culinary tradition meets modern dining.
D'BOA > Bar, Lanchonete E Restaurante Cristiano
1.7 km
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Restaurante Tia Zélia
1.8 km
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Scaseiro
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Quiosque da Irene (antigo D. Maria)
2.2 km
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Coco Bambu
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Dom Francisco Restaurante | ASBAC
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Brasília Presentes
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Top Mall
2.2 km
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Shopping Pier 21
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Liberty Mall
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Dokas
2.8 km
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Lens Legacy Store
2.8 km
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A Palavra
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On Shop
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RCRB STORE
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Artesanato indígena br
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Infinity Sale
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Boutique do Graninto
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Tinha Que Ser Com Você Comércio de Roupas
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Artesanato de Brasília
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Loja Bibi Brasília - Shopping Pátio Brasil
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar do Ari
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Calaf
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Deboche! Bar
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Velvet Pub
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Bar Brasil
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Primo Pobre Bar
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Versão Brasileira
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Izzi Wine Garden
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Dikantu Bar
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Dudu Bar
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Bar 16 - Rooftop B Hotel
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Traçado Bar
3.2 km
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ESSENCE Loung Bar
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Porks Brasília - Asa Sul
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Churchill Lounge Bar
3.3 km
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