Where the Teatro Municipal stands in the shadow of skyscrapers and the Museu do Amanhã announces Rio's bold reinvention as a global city.
Long overlooked by visitors who preferred the beaches, Rio's Centro and its recently revitalized Port Zone are now must-visit areas. It's here that Rio's profound contrasts become most apparent: centuries of imperial history coexist side by side with hypermodern architecture and technological innovation.
Along the streets of the historic center — around Cinelândia and Praça XV — walking is like turning the pages of Brazil's history. You'll encounter the grand Biblioteca Nacional, the Teatro Municipal inspired by the Paris Opera House, and beautiful Baroque churches hidden between modern commercial skyscrapers.
But it's at Praça Mauá and the Boulevard Olímpico that Rio reveals its futuristic face. The port area was transformed into a vibrant bayfront promenade. There stands the futuristic Museu do Amanhã (designed by Santiago Calatrava), the Museu de Arte do Rio (MAR) and the enormous urban art mural "Etnias" by muralist Kobra. It's a region that proves Rio de Janeiro is so much more than natural beauty.
Cariocando Tip: Hop on the modern VLT (Light Rail Vehicle) to travel easily and in air-conditioned comfort throughout the central area. Don't leave without stopping for tea and a pastry at the legendary Confeitaria Colombo — a jewel of Belle Époque architecture nestled in the heart of the commercial district.
