Petrópolis Day Trip from Rio: Imperial Museum, Brewery & Lunch

Summary

Imperial palaces, brewery tastings and Petrópolis charm on a day trip from Rio

You’ll step into Brazil’s imperial history with a local guide in Petrópolis: walk palace halls where emperors lived, taste fresh beer at Bohemia Brewery, wander lively shopping streets and enjoy a hearty buffet lunch with locals. Expect cool mountain air and small surprises — this day trip from Rio is more than just sightseeing.

What’s the experience like?

“Dom Pedro II loved this view — he’d come here to escape the heat,” our guide Ana said, waving her hand toward the pale pink palace peeking through the trees. I could see why. The air in Petrópolis felt cooler than Rio, almost sweet with that morning rain smell. We’d barely left the van when an older man in a flat cap nodded at us and pointed out where to get the best pão de queijo. I still think about that cheese bread, honestly.

The Imperial Museum was quieter than I expected — just the sound of shoes on old wood and Ana’s stories about emperors and family drama. She showed us Dom Pedro II’s crown behind glass, all gold and impossible to imagine on someone’s head. There was this faint scent of polish and old paper in the rooms, like time itself had settled into the floorboards. Afterward we wandered outside; my friend tried to count all the statues but gave up after ten.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much at a brewery tour, but Bohemia’s guides were hilarious — they teased us for sipping too slowly (“Cariocas drink faster!”). The tasting room smelled like toasted grain and hops, which reminded me of my grandfather’s kitchen for some reason. Walking along Rua Teresa later was a blur of color: shopkeepers calling out deals, teenagers posing for selfies under bright awnings, me trying (and failing) not to buy another scarf.

Lunch was at a buffet place Ana recommended — not fancy but packed with locals and loud with conversation. The feijoada was rich and smoky; I probably ate more than I should have before we strolled toward the Crystal Palace, its ironwork shining even under gray skies. By then my feet hurt but I didn’t really care — there was something about watching families laugh together in front of those glass walls that made it feel like you could belong here if you stayed long enough.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full day tour of Petrópolis

• Pass sanitary barrier and temperature check
• Visit Imperial Museum collection
• Explore large six-floor building and dome
• See French neo-Gothic style mausoleum
• Visit Crystal Palace exhibitions
• Shop at chocolate factory store
• Tour Santos Dumont House Museum
• Walk Rua Teresa fashion hub
• Optional visit to Bohemia Brewery

Top questions

How long is the Petrópolis day trip from Rio?

The full-day excursion typically lasts around 8–10 hours including transfers.

Is hotel pickup included in the Petrópolis tour?

Yes, air-conditioned vehicle pickup is included from central Rio de Janeiro hotels.

What attractions are visited during this day trip?

You visit the Imperial Museum, Santos Dumont House Museum, Crystal Palace, Rua Teresa shopping street, and optionally Bohemia Brewery.

Is lunch included on this Petrópolis tour?

A free buffet lunch is included; drinks and desserts are extra.

Are entrance fees covered?

The ticket for the Imperial Museum is included in your tour price.

Can children join this day trip to Petrópolis?

Yes, infants and children are welcome; prams or strollers can be used.

Is there time for shopping on Rua Teresa?

Yes, there’s free time to explore shops along Rua Teresa during your visit.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel in Rio de Janeiro by air-conditioned vehicle, entry to the Imperial Museum with stories from an accredited guide, plenty of time exploring palaces and museums around Petrópolis, a generous buffet lunch (drinks and desserts not included), plus optional stops for local chocolate or beer before heading back in the evening.