Palácio Guanabara: A Seat of Power and History

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Explore Palácio Guanabara, a neoclassical palace in Rio de Janeiro with a rich history as a residence for royalty and presidents.

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Palácio Guanabara

Palácio Guanabara, located in the Laranjeiras neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, is the official headquarters of the government of the State of Rio de Janeiro. Originally built in 1853 as a private residence, the palace was acquired by the Brazilian Imperial Family in 1864 and became the residence of Princess Isabel and the Count of Eu. Today, it stands as a testament to Brazil's rich political history and architectural grandeur.

A brief summary to Palácio Guanabara

R. Pinheiro Machado, s/nº, Rio de Janeiro, Laranjeiras, State of Rio de Janeiro, 22231-090, BR
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Monday 8 am-6 pm
Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
Thursday 8 am-6 pm
Friday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

Check the official website for tour schedules and booking information, as visits may be limited and require advance reservation.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the palace and exploring the gardens.
Consider visiting on a Saturday to enjoy the musical performances and farmers market in the garden.

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Largo do Machado, 6 - Catete

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Museu Carmen Miranda

Museu Carmen Miranda: A Tribute to the Brazilian Bombshell

Getting There

Public Transport

To reach Palácio Guanabara via public transport, start from a central location like Cinelândia or Largo do Machado metro station. From Largo do Machado, several bus lines serve the Laranjeiras neighborhood. Look for buses heading towards Rua Pinheiro Machado. Bus tickets cost approximately R$4.05 - R$4.70. Alternatively, from Cinelândia, take the metro to Largo do Machado and proceed by bus. The total cost for the metro and bus would be around R$9.35.
Taxi/Ride-Sharing

From Rio de Janeiro's Zona Sul (Copacabana, Ipanema), a taxi or ride-sharing service (such as Uber) to Palácio Guanabara is a convenient option. The ride typically costs between R$30 and R$40 and takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxi fares start with a base fare of R$5.6, plus R$4.0 per kilometer.
Walking

If you are near Flamengo Park, you can walk to Palácio Guanabara. Head northeast on Rua do Catete towards Rua da Glória. Continue straight until you reach Rua Pinheiro Machado. The Palácio Guanabara will be on your left side.

Discover more about Palácio Guanabara

Palácio Guanabara, situated in the Laranjeiras neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, is a significant landmark that has served various roles throughout Brazil's history. Constructed in 1853 in a Neoclassical style, it was initially a private residence until the Brazilian Imperial Family purchased it in 1864. The palace then underwent renovations by architect José Maria Jacinto Rebelo and became the residence of Princess Isabel and the Count of Eu, known as Paço Isabel. After the Proclamation of the Republic in 1889, the palace was taken over by the republican government and renamed Palácio Guanabara. Over the years, it served as the official residence for several Brazilian presidents, including Getúlio Vargas during the Estado Novo era. The palace also withstood an attack by members of the Brazilian Integralist Action in 1938. In 1908, architect Francisco Marcelino de Souza Aguiar renovated the palace, giving it an eclectic architectural style. Today, Palácio Guanabara is the seat of government for the State of Rio de Janeiro. Visitors can explore the palace's opulent halls and chambers, admiring the interior design, artworks, and historical artifacts. The palace also features a garden with a fountain of the God Neptune. Guided tours are available, offering insights into the palace's history and significance.