Praça da Fundação: Birthplace of Rio de Janeiro
Discover the historical heart of Rio de Janeiro at Praça da Fundação, where the city's story began amidst stunning natural beauty.
Praça da Fundação do Rio de Janeiro marks the spot where the city was founded in 1565 by Estácio de Sá. Located in the Urca neighborhood, the square offers a tranquil escape with historical significance and views of Sugarloaf Mountain.
A brief summary to Praça da Fundação do Rio de Janeiro
- Al. Floriano Peixoto, 378, Rio de Janeiro, Urca, State of Rio de Janeiro, 22291-090, BR
- +55212586-2291
Local tips
- Visit during the cooler months (May to September) for pleasant weather.
- Combine your visit with a trip to Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views.
- Explore the Fortaleza de São João for a deeper dive into the area's history.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From central Rio, take a bus to Urca. Several bus lines serve the Urca neighborhood, including lines 107, 513 and 518. Buses typically cost around R$5. Get off at the UNIRIO - Campus 458 bus stop, which is a short walk from the Praça da Fundação.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Rio de Janeiro. A taxi from Copacabana to Urca will cost approximately R$35-50 and take around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Be sure the taxi meter is running or confirm the fare with the driver beforehand.
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Walking
If you are already in Urca or nearby neighborhoods like Copacabana or Botafogo, walking to Praça da Fundação is a pleasant option. From Copacabana, it's approximately a 1.5-hour walk. Enjoy the scenic route along the coast.
Discover more about Praça da Fundação do Rio de Janeiro
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Praça da Fundação do Rio de Janeiro
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Museu Carmen Miranda
1.6 km
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Praça Nicarágua
2.1 km
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Casamata
2.4 km
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Largo do Machado, 6 - Catete
2.7 km
Discover Largo do Machado in Rio de Janeiro: A historic square offering culture, cuisine, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Largo Almirante Índio do Brasil
2.7 km
Escape the city bustle at this charming Botafogo park, offering tranquility and a taste of local Rio culture.
Marchezinho
2.9 km
Experience Brazilian flavors with a sustainable twist at this charming Botafogo bistro, bar, and grocery store. Fresh, local ingredients, creative dishes.
Palácio Guanabara
2.9 km
Explore Palácio Guanabara, a neoclassical palace in Rio de Janeiro with a rich history as a residence for royalty and presidents.
Rios de Historia Tour
3.0 km
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Fundação Casa de Rui Barbosa
3.2 km
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Boardwalk of Copacabana
3.3 km
Stroll along Rio's iconic wave-patterned promenade, a vibrant hub of culture, history, and Carioca lifestyle on Copacabana Beach.
Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Rio de Janeiro
3.5 km
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Monumento Nacional aos Mortos da Segunda Guerra Mundial
3.5 km
A striking memorial in Rio de Janeiro honoring the Brazilian soldiers who fought and died during World War II in the Italian Campaign.
Estátua do Ayrton Senna
3.5 km
A bronze tribute to Ayrton Senna on Copacabana Beach, celebrating the life and legacy of the Formula 1 champion and Brazilian hero.
Museu Nacional dos Povos Indígenas OBS: Apenas os jardins estão abertos!
3.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Inside Beach - St. John Fortress
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Praia de Fora
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Discover the tranquility of Praia de Fora, a hidden gem in the State of Rio de Janeiro, perfect for relaxation and natural beauty.
Fortaleza de São João
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Mureta da Urca
0.4 km
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Costão do Pão de Açúcar
0.6 km
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Museu Histórico da Fortaleza de São João
0.6 km
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Sugarloaf Mountain
0.6 km
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Pedra Filosofal
0.7 km
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Praia da Urca
0.8 km
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Lajão da Urca
1.0 km
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Trilha do Morro da Urca
1.1 km
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Morro da Urca
1.1 km
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Final da trilha morro da Urca
1.2 km
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Teleférico do Pão de Açúcar
1.2 km
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Estação II - Morro da Urca / Praia Vermelha
1.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Bar e Restaurante Urca
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Clássico Beach Club - Urca
0.6 km
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Terra Brasilis
1.6 km
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Restaurante Marius Degustare
2.2 km
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Boteco Belmonte
2.4 km
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Fogo de Chão
2.5 km
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Coco Bambu
2.5 km
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Miam Miam
2.8 km
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Signatures | Le Cordon Bleu
2.8 km
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Tutto Nhoque Botafogo
2.8 km
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Joaquina
2.8 km
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Restaurante The View
2.9 km
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Sult
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Assunção Restaurante
3.1 km
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La Villa Bistrô Francês
3.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
FOM Quiosque
2.5 km
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ZARA
2.5 km
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Shopping RioSul
2.5 km
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Botafogo Praia Shopping
2.7 km
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Casa Riachuelo - Botafogo Praia Shopping
2.7 km
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Citycol Botafogo
2.8 km
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LIZIE Botafogo Praia Shopping
2.8 km
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Espaço Nuvem Cestas de Presente
3.2 km
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South & Co. Botafogo
3.2 km
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Rio Copa Souvenirs
3.3 km
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Lido Souvenirs
3.4 km
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Bossa Nova Mall
3.5 km
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A & M Colecionáveis e Antiguidades - Rio De Janeiro
3.7 km
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Inter Rio Presentes
3.7 km
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Esplendor Joias Estilo & Luxo
3.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Belt Drinks
1.6 km
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Sky Leme | Rooftop & Lounge
2.4 km
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Coordenadas Bar
2.7 km
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Big Ben Pub
2.8 km
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Isabel Lounge
2.9 km
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Macuna Bar
2.9 km
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The Boua Kitchen Bar
3.0 km
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Cafofo Pub
3.0 km
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Bar Bukowski
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Bar do Aldo
3.1 km
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Os Imortais Bar
3.2 km
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Quartinho Bar
3.2 km
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The Maze Rio
3.3 km
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Rildy Bar
3.3 km
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Ristorante Hotel Cipriani Bar
3.5 km
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