How to Get to AquaRio Rio de Janeiro

Where is AquaRio located?

Address: Praça Muhammad Ali, Gamboa, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20220-360, Brazil

AquaRio sits right in the heart of Rio’s vibrant Port Zone, near the iconic Olympic Boulevard. It’s just steps from the Museum of Tomorrow and overlooks the sparkling Guanabara Bay, a scenic, sea-kissed location perfect for marine lovers.

Closest landmark: Museum of Tomorrow, 700 meters away

The smartest way to see Rio

With 29 convenient stops near Rio’s top sights and buses every 45 minutes, the Samba hop-on hop-off tour lets you explore more and stress less. One stop drops you right at AquaRio’s gate.

Get your pass and start exploring

Getting to AquaRio by public transport

Best for: Avoiding traffic, saving time

Closest stop: Central do Brasil (30-minute walk away)

Take the L1 (orange) or L2 (green) line to Central do Brasil, then transfer to the VLT tram bound for Praia Formosa. Hop off at Cidade do Samba, and you’re a short stroll from the aquarium.

Best for: Budget travelers, local experience

Closest stop: AquaRio (2-minute walk away)

Hop on bus lines 167, 265, or 350 from the city center. Get off at AquaRio’s doorstep! Affordable and convenient if you’re exploring other stops along the way.

Best for: Long-distance travelers, commuters

Closest stop: Central do Brasil (2.2 km from AquaRio)

Take a train to Central do Brasil, then hop on the VLT tram or grab a quick taxi to AquaRio. It’s a smooth option for those arriving from the suburbs or nearby towns.

Getting to AquaRio by car

Driving route

Travel time: About 10-15 minutes from Cinelândia

Faster route: From Cinelândia, head north on Av. Rio Branco toward Av. Presidente Vargas. Continue straight until Av. Rodrigues Alves and follow the signs to Praça Muhammad Ali. AquaRio will appear on your right, facing the port.
Alternate route: From Copacabana, take Av. Atlântica and then merge onto Av. Rodrigues Alves via the Rio–Niterói Bridge access. This route offers scenic waterfront views and takes about 25 minutes. It’s slightly longer, but prettier!

Parking facilities

Location: Right next to the main entrance at Praça Muhammad Ali
Timings: 8am to 8pm (same as aquarium hours)
Charges: Around R$15-R$20 for a few hours
Disabled parking: Designated spaces are available near the entrance for easy access.

Walking to AquaRio

Best for: Sightseeing and soaking in Rio’s waterfront vibe

Stroll along the Olympic Boulevard from the Museum of Tomorrow, passing colorful murals and breezy waterfront cafés. It’s an easy, flat walk with plenty of photo stops along the way, perfect for first-time visitors who love discovering a city on foot.