National Congress: A Modernist Masterpiece
Visit the National Congress in Brasília, a symbol of Brazilian democracy and architectural landmark designed by Oscar Niemeyer.
The National Congress in Brasília is a striking example of modernist architecture and the heart of Brazil's legislative power. Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, its iconic domes and towers symbolize the Senate and Chamber of Deputies, offering visitors a glimpse into the country's political landscape.
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
- Tours are free, but booking in advance is recommended, especially for groups or tours in languages other than Portuguese.
- Dress modestly; administrative rules prohibit shorts, sleeveless shirts, and miniskirts on weekdays.
- Photography is allowed without flash, except during plenary sessions.
- Visit on a weekday to see the Congress in full operation.
- Take time to explore the Praça dos Três Poderes and other nearby cultural sites, such as the Palácio do Planalto and the Supreme Federal Court.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the Rodoviária do Plano Piloto (Brasília's main bus station), you can 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 one-way metro ticket costs R$5.50.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Use a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber to reach the National Congress. Set your destination to 'Palácio do Congresso Nacional - Praça dos 3 Poderes, Brasília - DF'. Expect to pay around R$40 to R$100 for a ride from different parts of Planalto Central. Taxi fares in Brasilia are calculated using a taximeter.
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Walking
From the main bus station (Rodoviária do Plano Piloto), you can walk to the National Congress, which is approximately 20 minutes. Head east on the Eixo Monumental, and you will see the iconic building in the Praça dos Três Poderes.
Discover more about National Congress
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eixo Monumental & Praça dos Três Poderes
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Explore Brasília's Praça dos Três Poderes: A symbol of Brazilian democracy, showcasing modernist architecture and national monuments.
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
Explore the Pira da Liberdade in Brasília, a historical landmark symbolizing freedom and surrounded by stunning modernist architecture.
Praça dos Três Poderes Panteão da Pátria e da Liberdade Tancredo Neves - Brasília
0.5 km
Visit Praça dos Três Poderes in Brasília: A symbol of Brazilian democracy featuring iconic modernist architecture and historical significance.
Mast and National Pavilion
0.5 km
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Superior Tribunal de Justiça
1.1 km
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Monumento comemorativo da Integração Nacional
1.2 km
A striking landmark in Brasília symbolizing Brazil's unity, celebrating the nation's diverse culture and history.
Shopping Conjunto Nacional
2.2 km
Brasília's first shopping mall, a landmark since 1971, offering a wide variety of stores, dining, and cultural experiences.
Eixão do Lazer Norte
2.7 km
Experience Brasília's vibrant culture and car-free fun on Sundays at Eixão do Lazer Norte, a 14km playground for all!
Praça dos Orixas
2.7 km
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Ramada Brasília Alvorada
2.9 km
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Dom Cerrado Restaurante & Café
3.0 km
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Camelo Bike Tour Brasília
3.2 km
Experience Brasília's beauty and charm with Camelo Bike Tour, the premier cycling adventure in the heart of Brazil's capital.
Unmissable attractions to see
Museu Histórico de Brasília
0.3 km
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Espaço Lucio Costa
0.3 km
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Three Powers Plaza
0.3 km
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Centro Cultural Três Poderes
0.3 km
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Palácio Itamaraty
0.4 km
Explore the architectural brilliance and diplomatic legacy of Palácio Itamaraty, the heart of Brazilian foreign affairs in Brasília.
Supremo Tribunal Federal
0.4 km
Explore the Supremo Tribunal Federal, an architectural masterpiece and the heart of justice in Brazil, located in the iconic Praça dos Três Poderes.
Palácio do Planalto
0.4 km
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Tancredo Neves Pantheon of the Fatherland and Freedom
0.5 km
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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
Explore Brazil's rich cultural heritage at the Museu Nacional da República, a stunning national museum in Brasília showcasing art and history.
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
Experience authentic Brazilian flavors at Restaurante Tia Zélia in Brasília – where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Scaseiro
2.0 km
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Quiosque da Irene (antigo D. Maria)
2.2 km
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Coco Bambu
2.2 km
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Dom Francisco Restaurante | ASBAC
2.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Brasília Presentes
2.1 km
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Top Mall
2.2 km
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Shopping Pier 21
2.4 km
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Liberty Mall
2.6 km
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Dokas
2.8 km
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Lens Legacy Store
2.8 km
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A Palavra
2.9 km
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On Shop
3.0 km
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RCRB STORE
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Artesanato indígena br
3.0 km
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Infinity Sale
3.0 km
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Boutique do Graninto
3.0 km
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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
3.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar do Ari
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Calaf
1.9 km
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Deboche! Bar
2.3 km
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Velvet Pub
2.7 km
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Bar Brasil
2.9 km
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Primo Pobre Bar
2.9 km
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Versão Brasileira
3.0 km
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Izzi Wine Garden
3.0 km
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Dikantu Bar
3.0 km
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Dudu Bar
3.1 km
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Bar 16 - Rooftop B Hotel
3.2 km
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Traçado Bar
3.2 km
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ESSENCE Loung Bar
3.2 km
Discover Brasilia's nightlife at ESSENCE Lounge Bar, where stylish ambiance and exquisite drinks create unforgettable evenings.
Porks Brasília - Asa Sul
3.2 km
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Churchill Lounge Bar
3.3 km
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