A real gem of the city, Quinta da Boavista is one of the largest urban parks in Rio de Janeiro, with about 155,000 square meters. Located in the neighborhood of São Cristóvão, one of the most traditional in Rio, the gardens created by the French landscaper Auguste Glaziou are preserved. It housed for many years the Rio Zoo, founded in 1888, which recently ended its activities, giving rise to the Bioparque, a new concept of zoo. The park also houses the National Museum which, considered the oldest scientific institution in Brazil, is undergoing a thorough reconstruction after being hit by fire.

Quinta da Boavista was the residence of the Portuguese Royal Family between 1808 and 1889, the year of the Proclamation of the Republic. Coming from Portugal, due to the Napoleonic Wars, D. João VI took up residence in the Paço. With this, Brazil ceased to be a Colony and Rio became the seat of the United Kingdom of Portugal, Brazil and Algarves. The entire lineage of the Orleans and Bragança was maintained there, with Princess Isabel even being born in that palace.

Among the many original bronze statues that deserve attention on your walk through the park is the Temple of Apollo and the monumental gate of the Quinta, a wedding gift from the Duke of Northumberland to the young couple D. Pedro I and the Empress, D. Leopoldina.

Surrounded by greenery, its gardens are an invitation for picnics, a favorite program among locals and tourists who visit the place. There are also several multi-sport courts there, which attract many young people. A tour of the artificial caves is a must, as well as a ride on a pedal boat or kayak in the park’s lakes.

How to get
Close to São Cristóvão train and subway stations.

Attention! Before visiting the place, visit the official website and/or social media of the tourist attraction to check opening times and ticket offices.