
Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 33 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture worth booking?
Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture is a 10-hour experience in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from $296 per person. It scores 71 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 33 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 71 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (33)
- Duration
- 10 hours
- From
- $296 per person
Uncover the early stories that marked the imperial past history of Brazil and shaped its future visiting the charming historic city of Petrópolis. Petrópolis is known as the imperial city, where Brazilian heritage is proudly preserved in the historical palaces, architecture, culture, food and historical displays. It was founded in 1843 by the Emperor Dom Pedro II. It preserves historical past and the most modern touristic infrastructure, the city today receives visitors that crowd the quaint streets, museums, gardens, shops, restaurants, and exhibits. Accompanied by a guide, learn about the curious history of the Brazilian royal family that ruled Brazil for 67 years, and why Brazil practically the entire 19th century was the only monarchy in a Latin America. With a rich ethnic mix assimilated to its culture, Petrópolis also stands out with a unique gastronomy that combines flavors and recipes for all tastes. From funky bars to fine restaurants, and yet many breweries.
What you get
About this experience
Uncover the early stories that marked the imperial past history of Brazil and shaped its future visiting the charming historic city of Petrópolis. Petrópolis is known as the imperial city, where Brazilian heritage is proudly preserved in the historical palaces, architecture, culture, food and historical displays. It was founded in 1843 by the Emperor Dom Pedro II. It preserves historical past and the most modern touristic infrastructure, the city today receives visitors that crowd the quaint streets, museums, gardens, shops, restaurants, and exhibits. Accompanied by a guide, learn about the curious history of the Brazilian royal family that ruled Brazil for 67 years, and why Brazil practically the entire 19th century was the only monarchy in a Latin America. With a rich ethnic mix assimilated to its culture, Petrópolis also stands out with a unique gastronomy that combines flavors and recipes for all tastes. From funky bars to fine restaurants, and yet many breweries.
What's included
Included
- VAT, all taxes, handling charges, parking fees during stops, airport Greet & Meet service.
- Professional licensed private tour guide.
- Entrance fees for all attractions described in the program.
- Any address pick-up and drop-off are included like hotels and airports.(Within the city of Rio)
- Transport by fully-equipped vehicles.
- Private driver for groups bigger than 4 people. Otherwise, the guide drives the vehicle themselves.
Not included
- Meals and drinks.
- Tips. (optional)
What you'll see and do
Sesc Quitandinha Cultural Center
"Quitandinha Palace" Visit Quitandinha Palace, a building built in 1944 to be the “Gambling Capital of Brazil”. Marble bathrooms, chandeliers with crystal pendants, a lighting system that would be enough to light up a city of 60,000 inhabitants and a lake is shaped like a map of Brazil. Its halls can accommodate up to 10,000 people simultaneously. It’s really worth the visit!
30 minutes here · Admission not included
Imperial Museum
We will also enter the Imperial Museum to admire the relics which is preserves, taking us closer to the charismatic figure of Pedro II, who made this marvellous building his summer residence. Today, it is the most visited museum in Brazil. Visit its beautiful garden and interior, where objects of the royal family and several other historical pieces are located.
40 minutes here · Admission included
Catedral de Sao Pedro de Alcantara
"Cathedral of São Pedro de Alcântara" One of the main sights of Petrópolis, the São Pedro de Alcântara Cathedral enchants tourists from all over the world with its new-gothic French style, marble sculptures in Carrara, stained glass and the imperial mausoleum. Not to mention the interesting stories and some curiosities. The Imperial Mausoleum is one of the cathedral's great historical attractions. In the center there is a double sarcophagus with the remains of the Emperor D. Pedro II and Empress Tereza Cristina.
30 minutes here
Museu Casa de Santos Dumont
Visit the Santos Dumont's House. Known as the father of aviation for being the first to fly on board a motor plane, without the need for launch ramps. Alberto Santos Dumont is one of the main names in Brazilian history and his achievements are considered national pride. The house was designed by Santos Dumont for his summer residence in the city. The Santos Dumont's house preserves and disseminates the memory of the father of the Brazilian aviation, an engineering genius who revolutionized the world.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace The Crystal Palace is one of the most touristic spots in Petrópolis. The precast structure, in cast iron, was ordered in France by Conde D'Eu, Princess Isabel's husband, and took five years to be ready. It was set up in Petrópolis and opened in 1884 to house exhibitions of flowers, birds and agricultural products. Currently the space hosts cultural events and exhibitions.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Cervejaria Bohemia
Brewery Bohemia Whoever enters Brewery Bohemia, immediately falls in love with the universe of beer. The visit offers the most complete brewing experience in Latin America. The tour presents the history of beer, its production process and ingredients that lead visitors to unique sensory experiences with exclusive tastings. It’s certainly an unmissable attraction to take a complete tour at it with tastings.
50 minutes here · Admission included
It's worthwhile paying a visit to one of the largest open-air malls in Latin America. On Tereza st., there are more than 1200 stores with a lot of variety of products for all tastes and styles.
40 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- pt, en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Gregtur Turismo
Know before you go
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 33 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
10 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
33 verified traveler reviews for Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Tour
Super Tour with a Great Impression and Tour Guide ! Highly recommended the Tour and the Guide - fantastic
via Viator
Amazing day trip with lots to see.
My tour guide Bruno was simply amazing. The conversations regarding general knowledge of Petropolis, Rio.and Brazil, and recommendations on everything from hiking to dining were every bit worth the trip. Petropolis is a lovely, quaint city with an interesting history. One note, we skipped the brewery which apparently isn't very interesting, but instead took a drive and quick hike through Tijuca forest! Thank you for an amazing day trip!
via Viator
Petropolis Guide by Eva 24 May 2024
The Petrópolis tour was nothing what I thought it was going to be, Ms Eva was very knowledgeable spoked 3 languages, very informed step by steps. Know her history. I felt it was a little overate the Museum. The Crystal Palace was a joke, just a empty building. The Quintandinha Palace was should a long drive just to only see the outside from across the lake. Didn’t walk down Teresa Street, but did go inside the Mall. NeiGotic Cathedral was very nice. The Chocolate Factory was very nice. The Domonts house seem from distance. The lunch meal was amazing, drinks not inclue. Dessert not included. But it was nice, what make nice was Eva the guide.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your detailed feedback! 🌟 We're glad to hear that Eva's knowledge and multilingual skills added value to your Petrópolis tour. 😊 We're sorry that some aspects of the tour did not meet your expectations, but we're pleased that you enjoyed the Neo-Gothic Cathedral, the Chocolate Factory, and the lunch meal. 🍽️ Your insights are valuable to us, and we'll use them to improve our tours. Thank you for highlighting Eva's excellent guidance! 🌎✨ We hope to have the opportunity to provide you with a better experience next time. 🚐🎉
via Tripadvisor
An great historical tour
Mas a amazing tour, beautifull and historical city, and many details about de Royal family by Camila, ouro show and lovely guide
Response from the operator: We really appreciate your feedback. 😉 We are happy to hear that you enjoyed the imperial city of Petrópolis and it's historical palaces, architecture, culture, food and more. We hope you have memorable memories of your trip with Camila. 🤩 Thanks for trusting us! 🙂
via Tripadvisor
Fascinating day trip from Rio
Petropolis is a fascinating place if you are interested in history. The drive there is also very scenic. There are two guides who are very knowledgeable about the different places we visited and could answer any questions. Claudia did a great job of translating and her English is very good.
Response from the operator: Thank you, we are glad to read you enjoyed your in Petrópolis with the guide Claudia! 🙂 We wish you some fantastic trips in the near future and will be happy to have you back in Rio at anytime! 😌
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 10 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
- Price range
- $296 to $506
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 12
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Gregtur Turismo, who run 85 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 60.7 and 4 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Gregtur Turismo runsWhy this scores 71
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Rio de Janeiro.
How much does Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture cost?
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Prices start at $296 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Rio de Janeiro usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture take?
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Plan for about 10 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Rio de Janeiro is not rushed.
Is Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 71 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 33 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Rio de Janeiro, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture?
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Around 12 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Rio de Janeiro can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Rio de Janeiro and add a light layer if any part of the 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Rio de Janeiro within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro?
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On Outty we rank every Rio de Janeiro experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Pedra da Gávea hike, your best experience in Rio, Favela Tour Rio de Janeiro - Vidigal Walking Tour by Russo Guide, Rio's Full Day: Selarón Steps, Christ & Sugarloaf – Tickets & Lunch Included. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Rio de Janeiro?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture?
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Included: VAT, all taxes, handling charges, parking fees during stops, airport Greet & Meet service; Professional licensed private tour guide; Entrance fees for all attractions described in the program; Any address pick-up and drop-off are included like hotels and airports.(Within the city of; and Transport by fully-equipped vehicles. Not included: Meals and drinks; and Tips. (optional). Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 282 listed pickup locations in and around Rio de Janeiro. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture offered in?
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It is offered in Portuguese, English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Rio de Janeiro. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Historic Petrópolis From Rio: The Imperial City –Palaces, Architecture & Culture?
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Across 33 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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