Boulevard Olímpico: Rio's revitalized waterfront
Explore Rio's vibrant waterfront promenade: art, culture, and Olympic legacy converge at Boulevard Olímpico, a must-see destination!
The Boulevard Olímpico is a vibrant promenade in Rio de Janeiro's historic port district, reborn from a once-derelict area for the 2016 Summer Olympics. Stretching along Avenida Rodrigues Alves in the Gamboa neighborhood, near the city center, the boulevard connects Praça Mauá to AquaRio, offering stunning views of Guanabara Bay. The boulevard is known for its dynamic public art installations, modern architecture, and lively atmosphere. The iconic Olympic Cauldron, a symbol of the games, stands tall, inviting exploration. One of the most striking features is the Etnias mural by Brazilian artist Eduardo Kobra, a massive and colorful graffiti masterpiece that stretches 190 meters and features portraits of indigenous people from around the globe. Attractions along the Boulevard Olímpico include the Museu do Amanhã (Museum of Tomorrow), an architectural marvel designed by Santiago Calatrava that explores the sustainable future of the planet through interactive exhibits. Adjacent to the boulevard is AquaRio, the largest marine aquarium in South America, home to over 8,000 marine creatures. Pier Mauá, a historic port area, has been transformed into a bustling entertainment complex with galleries, restaurants, and shops. The Rio Art Museum (MAR) is also nearby, showcasing Brazilian and international artwork. The boulevard hosts live concerts, festivals, and cultural performances, adding to its lively atmosphere. Food trucks and vendors offer a variety of snacks, craft beer, and ice cream.
Local tips
- Visit during the day for the best experience, as the area is generally safer and more lively.
- Check the local event calendars for live concerts, festivals, and cultural performances happening on the boulevard.
- Take your time to admire the vibrant street art, especially the Etnias mural by Eduardo Kobra.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring your camera to capture the stunning views of Guanabara Bay and the unique architecture.
A brief summary to Boulevard Olímpico
- Rio de Janeiro, Centro, State of Rio de Janeiro, BR
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Rio de Janeiro's city center, take the VLT (Light Rail) to the Parada dos Museus station, which is a short walk from the Boulevard Olímpico. The VLT fare is approximately R$4.30. Alternatively, take the Metro to Carioca Station and walk east for about 10 minutes to Praça XV, where you can access the ferry terminal and the Boulevard Olímpico. Bus lines also serve the area, with stops near Praça Mauá.
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Taxi/Ride-sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available throughout Rio de Janeiro. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Boulevard Olímpico will typically cost between R$20 and R$40, depending on traffic and the time of day. Be sure to confirm the fare or use a ride-sharing app for transparent pricing.
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Walking
If you are already in the Centro area, walking to the Boulevard Olímpico is a great option. From Praça XV, head east towards the waterfront. The boulevard is easily accessible and well-signposted. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the city as you make your way to this vibrant destination.
