All history museums and attractions to visit in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) is a good place to visit if you are interested in history. Below we list all 44 history museums in Rio de Janeiro, to lose yourself in the place's cultural heritage and local history.

Are you a real history buff and are you looking for the best history museums to visit in Rio de Janeiro? These are the ones:

  1. Royal Portuguese Reading Room1

    Royal Portuguese Reading Room

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading, a library and lusophone cultural institution, is situated at Luís de Camões Street, number 30, in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city center.
  2. Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí2

    Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Sambodrome Marquês de Sapucaí, also known as Sambódromo da Marquês de Sapucaí or simply 'sambodrome', is a significant location in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This avenue, surrounded by grandstands, is the venue for the parade of the best samba schools during the city's famous Carnival. It's a vibrant and lively place where the spirit of the Carnival comes alive, with samba schools showcasing their talent and creativity.
  3. Duque de Caxias Fort3

    Duque de Caxias Fort

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Forte Duque de Caxias, which was previously known as Forte da Vigia, Forte da Espia, and Forte do Leme, is a historical site located in the Leme neighborhood in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This fort has a rich history dating back to the 18th century and has undergone several name changes over the years. It is situated on the summit of Morro do Leme, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  4. Fiscal Island4

    Fiscal Island

     Rio de Janeiro
    Ilha Fiscal, also known as Fiscal Island, is a significant landmark located in Guanabara Bay. It is situated near the historic city center of Rio de Janeiro, in southeastern Brazil. This island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it an interesting destination for tourists.
  5. National History Museum5

    National History Museum

     Rio de Janeiro
    The National Historical Museum of Brazil, established in 1922, is home to over 287,000 items. This includes the largest numismatic collection in Latin America, making it a significant destination for those interested in history and numismatics. The museum's vast collection offers a comprehensive insight into Brazil's rich history and cultural heritage.
  6. Moreira Salles Institute6

    Moreira Salles Institute

     Rio de Janeiro
  7. Republic Museum7

    Republic Museum

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Catete Palace, an urban mansion located in the Flamengo neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, is a significant historical site. The property spans from Rua do Catete to Praia do Flamengo. The construction of this grand mansion began in 1858 and was completed in 1867, making it a testament to the architectural prowess of the era.
  8. Espaço Cultural da Marinha8

    Espaço Cultural da Marinha

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Espaço Cultural da Marinha is a cultural center situated in the Centro district of Rio de Janeiro. This location is easily accessible and is a hub of cultural and historical significance, making it an ideal spot for tourists interested in Brazilian history and culture.
  9. National Museum of Brazil9

    National Museum of Brazil

     Rio de Janeiro
    The National Museum, known as Museu Nacional in Portuguese, is situated in the Quinta da Boa Vista area of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The museum is under the administration of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), one of the country's leading educational institutions. This location offers a unique blend of cultural and educational experiences for visitors.
  10. Monument to the Dead of World War II10

    Monument to the Dead of World War II

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Monumento Nacional aos Mortos da Segunda Guerra Mundial, popularly known as Monumento aos Pracinhas, is a significant landmark located in Eduardo Gomes Park, in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This monument was conceived by Marshal João Baptista Mascarenhas de Moraes, commander of the Brazilian Expeditionary Force, to honor the Brazilian soldiers who lost their lives in Italy during World War II.
  11. Copacabana Fort11

    Copacabana Fort

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Forte de Copacabana is a military base located at the southern end of the beach in the Copacabana district of Rio de Janeiro. This historical site is open to the public and offers a unique insight into the military history of Brazil.
  12. Casa de Marechal Deodoro da Fonseca12

    Casa de Marechal Deodoro da Fonseca

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Casa de Marechal Deodoro da Fonseca is a historic mansion that dates back to the 19th century. It is situated in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, making it easily accessible for tourists. The mansion's rich history and central location make it a significant point of interest for those interested in Brazil's past.
  13. The Museum of the Indigenous Populations13

    The Museum of the Indigenous Populations

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Museo del Indio, also known as the Museum of the Indian, is a public institution located in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It is the only official institution in the country that is dedicated exclusively to the indigenous peoples of Brazil. This museum serves as a cultural and scientific agency of the National Indian Foundation and aims to promote a careful and updated image of the indigenous cause, while erasing negative prejudices and stereotypes in Brazilian society about these communities.
  14. Carmen Miranda Museum14

    Carmen Miranda Museum

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Carmen Miranda Museum, situated in Eduardo Gomes Park, also known as Flamenco Park, is a tribute to the renowned singer and actress Carmen Miranda. The museum has been welcoming visitors since 1976, offering a unique insight into the life and career of this iconic figure.
  15. Eva Klabin Foundation15

    Eva Klabin Foundation

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Eva Klabin House Museum, also known as Casa Museu Eva Klabin, is a historic house museum situated in the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The museum was founded in 1990 by the renowned Brazilian collector and philanthropist, Eva Klabin. The museum is housed in the residence where Klabin lived for over thirty years, making it a unique destination that combines personal history with an extensive art collection.
  16. Museu Getúlio Vargas16

    Museu Getúlio Vargas

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Getúlio Vargas Museum, also known as the Getúlio Vargas House Museum, is a significant cultural site located in the city of São Borja in Rio Grande do Sul. The museum is dedicated to preserving the residence of former president Getúlio Vargas, offering visitors a unique insight into the life and times of one of Brazil's most influential political figures.
  17. Benjamin Constant House Museum17

    Benjamin Constant House Museum

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Benjamin Constant House Museum is a part of the Brazilian Institute of Museums (Ibram), which falls under the Ministry of Culture. It is situated in the Santa Teresa neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, a location known for its cultural and historical significance. The museum was inaugurated on October 18, 1982, in the house where Benjamin Constant Botelho de Magalhães, a professor of mathematics, engineer, and military officer, resided.
  18. Dam Museum18

    Dam Museum

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Açude Museum, located in the Alto da Boa Vista neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is a former colonial-style property that has been transformed into a museum. This unique location offers visitors a chance to explore a piece of Brazil's colonial history while enjoying the museum's diverse collections.
  19. Casa da Marquesa de Santos - Museum of Brazilian Fashion19

    Casa da Marquesa de Santos - Museum of Brazilian Fashion

     Rio de Janeiro
    This Neo-Classical building situated off the beaten path holds a collection of artefacts from the Brazilian Belle Epoque.
  20. Chácara do Céu Museum20

    Chácara do Céu Museum

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Chácara do Céu Museum is an art museum situated in the Santa Teresa neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This museum is part of the Castro Maya Museums, along with the Açude Museum. The museum is housed in one of the former residences of businessman and patron Raymundo Ottoni de Castro Maya, known since 1876 as Chácara do Céu.
  21. Casa França-Brasil21

    Casa França-Brasil

     Rio de Janeiro
    Casa França-Brasil is a cultural center situated in the historic heart of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This historic property has been repurposed and now serves as a hub for cultural activities. It is a national cultural heritage site, recognized by the National Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN).
  22. Écomusée du Quarteirão cultural do Matadouro22

    Écomusée du Quarteirão cultural do Matadouro

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Ecomuseu Comunitário de Santa Cruz is an ecomuseum situated in the historic block of the Matadouro de Santa Cruz, in the Santa Cruz neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique insight into the local culture and heritage.
  23. Federal Justice Cultural Center23

    Federal Justice Cultural Center

     Rio de Janeiro
    The former home of the federal court has been transformed into a cultural centre - check out their exhibitions and events.
  24. Museu Histórico da Cidade24

    Museu Histórico da Cidade

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Museu Histórico da Cidade do Rio de Janeiro, also known as Museu da Cidade, is a museum located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It was established in 1934 and is housed in a complex of several buildings, including two 19th-century structures dedicated to exhibitions. The museum complex is situated in the municipal natural park Parque da Cidade in the Gávea neighborhood.
  25. Naval Museum25

    Naval Museum

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Naval Museum is situated in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This central location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city. The museum is dedicated to preserving the naval history of Brazil, making it a significant cultural and historical site.
  26. Nau Capitânia26

    Nau Capitânia

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Nau Capitânia is a replica of a Portuguese caravel, a type of ship that was used during the era of great discoveries. This replica was built to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the discovery of Brazil. It is a significant piece of history that provides a glimpse into the maritime past of the country.
  27. Brazilian Submarine Riachuelo27

    Brazilian Submarine Riachuelo

     Rio de Janeiro
    The S Riachuelo (S-22) is a submarine that has been converted into a museum by the Brazilian Navy. It is the seventh ship of the Brazilian fleet to bear this name, which pays tribute to the Naval Battle of Riachuelo that took place in 1865. This historical event is a significant part of Brazilian naval history, making the submarine a symbol of national pride and heritage.
  28. USS  McAnn28

    USS McAnn

     Rio de Janeiro
    In 1944, the USS McAnn was transferred to the Brazilian Navy and was renamed as Bauru. This marked a significant transition in the ship's history, as it continued to serve under a different flag.
  29. Military Museum Conde de Linhares29

    Military Museum Conde de Linhares

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Military Museum Conde de Linhares (MMCL) is situated in the São Cristóvão neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique insight into the military history of the country.
  30. Fire Brigade Museum of Rio de Janeiro30

    Fire Brigade Museum of Rio de Janeiro

     Rio de Janeiro
  31. 31

    Centro Cultural da Justiça Eleitoral

     Rio de Janeiro
  32. Museum of Image and Sound32

    Museum of Image and Sound

     Rio de Janeiro
    If you'd like to explore the past of Brazil in a different way, come here and listen to the countless records or browse through the pictures.
  33. 33

    Museu da Maré

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Museu da Maré is a unique institution that focuses on recording, preserving, and disseminating the history of the Maré communities in Rio de Janeiro. This includes various cultural, social, and economic aspects of the community's history. The museum's mission is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Maré communities' rich and diverse history.
  34. Museu das Remoções34

    Museu das Remoções

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Museu das Remoções is an open-air community museum situated in Vila Autódromo, a community in the West Zone of Rio de Janeiro. This unique museum offers a different perspective on the city's history and culture, providing an immersive experience for visitors.
  35. Museum of Army History35

    Museum of Army History

     Rio de Janeiro
  36. Museum of Astronomy and Related Sciences36

    Museum of Astronomy and Related Sciences

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Museum of Astronomy and Related Sciences (MAST) is a public institution run by the Brazilian Government. It is dedicated to the study and dissemination of the history of science and technology in Brazil. The museum also focuses on museology and science education. It is located at 586 General Bruce Street in the Imperial District of São Cristóvão, in the North Zone of Rio de Janeiro.
  37. Museu Penitenciário do Estado do Rio de Janeiro37

    Museu Penitenciário do Estado do Rio de Janeiro

     Rio de Janeiro
    One of the unique aspects of the MPERJ is its display of illicit materials that have been seized from visitors and prisoners in prison units. These items range from cell phones to objects used for escape attempts. This exhibit provides a stark and tangible connection to the current reality of prisons, offering visitors a rare insight into the challenges and realities faced within these institutions.
  38. Museum of the State Civil Police of Rio de Janeiro38

    Museum of the State Civil Police of Rio de Janeiro

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Civil Police Museum of Rio de Janeiro is a historical institution situated in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It offers a unique insight into the activities of the Civil Police throughout the history of Rio de Janeiro, dating back to the colonial era. The museum is housed in a French eclectic style building, constructed in 1910 by architect Heitor de Mello, adding an architectural charm to the historical significance of the museum.
  39. 39

    Museu e Centro Cultural da Casa da Moeda do Brasil

     Rio de Janeiro
  40. 40

    Casa da Tia Ciata

     Rio de Janeiro
  41. 41

    Museu da Polícia Militar do Estado do Rio de Janeiro

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Museu da Polícia Militar do Estado do Rio de Janeiro is a thematic museum dedicated to the first military and official police force established in Brazil. This museum provides a unique insight into the history and evolution of the police force in Brazil, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in history, law enforcement, or military affairs.
  42. 42

    Jewish Museum

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Jewish Museum of Rio de Janeiro, established in 1977, serves as a cultural hub dedicated to the preservation of Jewish memory and culture. It is a place where visitors can learn about the history and traditions of Judaism in all its aspects -- religious, cultural, and historical. The museum's mission is to keep alive the memory of the Jewish community in Rio de Janeiro and to promote understanding of Jewish culture and history.
  43. 43

    Museo de la Geodiversidad

     Rio de Janeiro
    The Museo de la Geodiversidad, also known as MGeo, is a museum that is affiliated with the Institute of Geosciences of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. It was inaugurated in 2007 with the purpose of preserving, researching, and disseminating the geological and paleontological heritage of the Earth.
  44. 44

    Rio de Janeiro's State Court Museum

     Rio de Janeiro