From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Quitandinha Palace.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Quitandinha Palace: A Glamorous Throwback
Explore the opulent Quitandinha Palace in Petrópolis, a former casino-hotel showcasing stunning architecture and rich Brazilian history.
The Quitandinha Palace in Petrópolis is a stunning architectural marvel built in the 1940s as the largest casino-hotel in South America. Today, it serves as a cultural center and apartment complex, offering visitors a glimpse into Brazil's opulent past.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Quitandinha Palace
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Av. Joaquim Rolla, 2, Petrópolis, Quitandinha, State of Rio de Janeiro, 25651-072, BR
Tuesday
10 am-5 pm
Wednesday
10 am-5 pm
Thursday
10 am-5 pm
Friday
10 am-5 pm
Saturday
10 am-5 pm
Sunday
10 am-5 pm
Discover more about Quitandinha Palace
Nestled in the mountains near Rio de Janeiro, the Quitandinha Palace is a captivating destination that blends history, architecture, and culture. Built between 1941 and 1946 by Joaquim Rolla, it was designed to be the largest casino-hotel in South America, rivaling the grand establishments of Europe. The palace boasts a unique architectural style, combining Norman-French exteriors with Brazilian Baroque and Art Deco interiors.
Designed by Italian architect Luis Fossatti and with interior decor by Dorothy Draper, the palace features 440 rooms and 13 suites. The main hall, formerly the casino, features a dome that is the second largest in the world without central pillars. The palace also includes a mechanized theater with revolving stages. The artificial lake in front of the palace was modified to resemble the map of Brazil.
Although gambling was banned in Brazil in 1946, cutting short the palace's casino days, Quitandinha Palace has continued to be a significant landmark. It has hosted famous guests, including Walt Disney, Orson Welles, and Carmen Miranda. Today, visitors can explore the palace's ornate halls, ballrooms, and the History and Culture Museum. The palace also hosts cultural events and exhibitions.
Explore places near Quitandinha Palace
Getting There
Public Transport
From the Petrópolis bus station (Terminal Rodoviário de Petrópolis), take a local taxi or ride-sharing service to Quitandinha Palace. The ride should take approximately 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, a bus to the historic center is available from the bus station.
Taxi
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Petrópolis. A taxi ride from the city center to Quitandinha Palace typically costs between R$20-R$30. Confirm the fare before starting your ride.
Car
From the center of Petrópolis, follow the signs to Quitandinha Palace, located at Av. Joaquim Rolla, 2. Parking is available near the palace , but check for any applicable fees.
Walking
If you are near Quitandinha, walking to the palace is an option. Head towards Av. Joaquim Rolla and follow it until you reach the palace. The area is pedestrian-friendly.
A brief summary to Quitandinha Palace
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Rio De Janeiro
Discover the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and world-famous beaches of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil's Marvelous City.
Tell me more about Rio De Janeiro