If you visit Rio de Janeiro and have time to explore the smaller cities nearby, you should definitely do so. You can go on day-trips or weekend trips to nearby towns to explore different scenery, culture, and even weather. Petrópolis is one of those cities in the state of Rio de Janeiro, just about 43 miles away from the capital. So what to do in Petrópolis?
Petrópolis in Rio de Janeiro
Petrópolis is a city in the mountain region of the state of Rio de Janeiro. It is a historical city due to being the summer residence of the imperial family during the 19th century in Brazil. Petrópolis means ‘city of Peter’, because of emperor Pedro II of Brazil. Hence, the town is also nicknamed ‘The Imperial City’.
Because the city is located on the mountain range, the climate is also cooler when compared to the capital. Furthermore, the architecture has influences from European buildings and the ’60s.
What To Do in Petrópolis, Rio de Janeiro?
Imperial Museum of Brazil
The old imperial home is now a historical museum with clothes, furniture, art, jewelry, and documents both from the Portuguese royal family and the Imperial Era of Brazil.
Home of Santos Dumont
Sit down for a controversial subject. Brazilians believe Santos Dumont was the true inventor of the airplane. The Wright brothers have no place here. And Santos Dumont used to live in Petrópolis. His home is now a museum that showcases many of his work as an inventor, including the wristwatch and the alcohol-heated shower.
Palacio Quitandinha
Palacio Quitandinha was once a luxury hotel. Nowadays, it serves as a cultural and leisure center. It is one of the city’s most famous landmarks due to its greatness.
Serra dos Órgãos National Park
If you are looking for what to do in Petrópolis, Rio de Janeiro, visiting the Serra dos Órgãos National Park is an awesome choice. You can go on hikes and camping. There are many peaks at Serra dos Órgãos National Park. The most famous one is Dedo de Deus (Finger of God), a rock formation of 1,692 meters in height that resembles a hand pointing a finger at the sky.
Bohemia Brewery
For those who love beer, you should visit the first brewery in Brazil. Founded in 1853, Bohemia currently offers different types of beer, such as Vienna lager, Weiss, and barley wine. A guided visit to their brewery offers a complete experience, telling the history of the beverage, visiting the production process, and an exclusive beer tasting.
Wax Museum
The Petrópolis Wax Museum showcases over 35 statues of Brazilian and foreign celebrities and other important people. These statues include Madonna, Jhonny Depp, and Emperor Pedro II of Brazil.
Crystal Palace
The Crystal Palace is the main landmark of the city and hosts events and expositions. It is like a glass greenhouse originally made to host agricultural exhibitions.
Cathedral of Petropolis
This Catholic cathedral guards the tombs of Pedro II and his family, serving as a resting place for the imperial members.
Itaipava Castle
This is a medieval castle in Petrópolis. Nowadays, it hosts events, weddings, and film productions. However, it was built in the ’20s by aristocrat Rodolfo Smith de Vasconcellos.
Itaipava’s Fair
If you like shopping, the Itaipava’s Fair is the answer to your question about what to do in Petrópolis. This is the right place to buy affordable good-quality clothes, especially winter clothes, boots, and leather products.
