A comprehensive guide on getting to AquaRio

Where is AquaRio located?

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

Find on Maps

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.

Red Rio de Janeiro hop-on hop-off bus with tourists boarding near city buildings.

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.

Person sitting on a train, looking out the window, with a backpack beside them.

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

Maua Square in Rio de Janeiro with Museum of Tomorrow and Guanabara Bay in view.

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.

Frequently asked questions about getting to AquaRio Rio

In Rio’s Port Zone, near Olympic Boulevard and the Museum of Tomorrow.

More reads

Plan your visit

About

Timings