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Passeio Público: Rio's Historic Green Escape

Discover Rio's oldest park, a historic green space with gardens, art, and a tranquil lake, designed by Mestre Valentim in 1783.

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Passeio Público, established in 1783, is Brazil's oldest public park, offering a serene retreat in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. Designed by Mestre Valentim, it blends French and English garden styles, featuring tree-lined paths, sculptures, fountains, and a peaceful lake.

A brief summary to Passeio Público

  • R. do Passeio, Rio de Janeiro, Lapa, State of Rio de Janeiro, 20021-280, BR
  • +55212224-8088

Local tips

  • Visit during the week for a quieter experience, as weekends can get crowded.
  • Take a stroll around the lake and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
  • Admire the Rococo-style iron gate and the Fountain of the Child.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables, as the area can be prone to petty crime.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Passeio Público is accessible via Rio's public transport system. From Cinelândia metro station, walk east along Rua do Passeio for a few minutes. The park will be on your right. A single metro ticket costs R$7.50. Alternatively, several bus lines serve the area. A bus ticket costs around R$4.05.

  • Walking

    If you are in the Centro area, walking to Passeio Público is a convenient option. From the Arcos da Lapa, walk east along Rua do Passeio. The park will be on your left, a short walk away. The entrance is easily visible from the street.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Rio de Janeiro. A short ride from Copacabana to Passeio Público would cost approximately R$25-R$40, depending on traffic and time of day.

Unlock the Best of Passeio Público

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Discover more about Passeio Público

Passeio Público, inaugurated in 1783, holds the distinction of being the first public park in Brazil and one of the oldest in the Americas. Created by the renowned sculptor and urban planner Mestre Valentim, during the Portuguese colonial era, the park was built on land reclaimed from the old Boqueirão lagoon. The lagoon, which once stretched to the Arcos da Lapa, was filled in as part of an urban sanitation project. Mestre Valentim's design blends French and English garden styles, creating a charming and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can stroll along tree-lined alleys, admire decorative elements such as fountains and statues, and relax by the peaceful lake. The park's iron gate, crafted in the Rococo style, is a notable highlight. Over the years, Passeio Público has undergone several renovations. In 1864, landscape architect Auguste François Marie Glaziou was commissioned to give the park a romantic, English-style makeover. While some of Mestre Valentim's original designs have been lost to time, the park remains a beloved green space in the city center. Today, Passeio Público provides a welcome escape from the urban bustle. It's a place where locals and tourists can connect with nature, appreciate art, and learn about the city's rich history. However, visitors should be aware that the park has suffered from vandalism and theft in recent years, with some sculptures missing or damaged.

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