“Anyone planning a trip to Rio de Janeiro usually expects sunshine as the backdrop. But if it rains instead, what’s the plan? Cancel the trip? Not at all. At the Bamboo Rio Hostel, we’ve put together a list of ten things to do in Rio on a rainy day and have proven that the city can be just as interesting—and wonderful—no matter the weather.

 

Museum of Tomorrow

Located in Rio’s recently revitalized Port Region, with a super-modern concept, the Museum of Tomorrow is a place for interaction and reflection. The museum explores the multimedia universe and presents possibilities for the future, connecting science, art, and technology in one space.

Other features:

Accessibility, both to enter the museum and access interactive environments.
No parking available. It’s best to plan your trip by taxi or ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify. If using public transport, the ideal option is to take the Metro-VLT, which has a station right in front of the museum.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM).

Website: https://museudoamanha.org.br/

Address: Praça Mauá, 1 – Downtown

Best route from Bamboo Rio Hostel: Metro + VLT (Museums Station)

 

AquaRio

The largest marine aquarium in South America is also located in Rio’s Port Region and offers 4.5 million liters of water, many aquatic species (around 3,000), modern facilities, and education. Visitors are invited into an underwater wonderland. The site also features temporary exhibitions and ecological projects that educate the public on environmental conservation.

Hours: open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last admission at 5:00 PM)

Website: https://www.aquariomarinhodorio.com.br/

Address: Praça Muhammad Ali, Gambôa

 

MAR – Museum of Art of Rio

The Museum of Art of Rio aims to provide an experience of art and visual culture. A neighbor of the Museum of Tomorrow, it is also part of the revitalized Port area and offers exhibitions, educational activities, music, and courses—always bringing cultural news and innovation.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. On Tuesdays, entry is free for all.

Website: https://www.museudeartedorio.org.br/

Best route from Bamboo Rio Hostel: VLT (Museums Station)

Address: Rua Sacadura Cabral, 133 – Saúde – Port Region

 

Planetarium

The Rio Planetarium offers a unique experience of contact with the Universe through a very realistic and educational approach to astronomy, along with exhibitions and fairs. It’s worth attending a dome session to travel among the stars and understand how the Universe works.

Visit hours for the Museum of the Universe, dome sessions, and sky observation: see https://www.planetariodorio.com.br/

Website: https://www.planetariodorio.com.br/

Address: Rua Vice-Governador Rubens Berardo, 100 – Gávea

Best route from Bamboo Rio Hostel: by car or bus (several lines listed on the website)

 

Banco do Brasil Cultural Center (CCBB)

The CCBB is a place that radiates culture—exhibits, plays, shows, a library, and films not usually found in mainstream theaters. It’s a must for anyone seeking artistic inspiration.

Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday, from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Website: https://culturabancodobrasil.com.br/portal/rio-de-janeiro/

Address: Rua Primeiro de Março, 66 – Downtown

Best route from Bamboo Rio Hostel: Metro (Uruguaiana Station) and bus

 

Municipal Theater

The Municipal Theater is worth visiting even without a performance: the lavish architecture and rich history are a feast for the eyes. In addition to its visual grandeur, it hosts ballets and orchestras from around the world, with affordable prices (some concerts from R$20).

Other notes: On performance days, the theater does not allow entry wearing shorts or flip-flops. If you’re planning to stop by, come prepared—they don’t make exceptions.

Schedules: vary by performance. Best to check the website.

Website: https://theatromunicipal.rj.gov.br/

Address: Praça Floriano, no number | Cinelândia, Rio de Janeiro

Best route from Bamboo Rio Hostel: Metro (Cinelândia Station)

 

Museum of Fine Arts

The history of fine arts in Brazil is on display at the Museum of Fine Arts, located in downtown Rio. Among its collection are works brought by King João VI, who left them in Brazil when he returned to Portugal in 1821. The museum brings history to life in every painting, artwork, and corridor.

Hours: Tuesday to Friday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; weekends and holidays, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Website: https://www.gov.br/museus/pt-br/museus-ibram/mnba

Address: Avenida Rio Branco, 199 – Downtown (Cinelândia)

Best route from Bamboo Rio Hostel: Metro (Cinelândia Station)

 

Cidade das Artes

Located in Barra da Tijuca, Cidade das Artes hosts events covering dance, music, theater, sculpture, audiovisual, sports, and gastronomy. It’s a cultural space for every taste—from classical music to forró, from adult to children’s plays, and from cooking classes to yoga, cycling, percussion, and literature. There are also restaurants and movie theaters.

Box office hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM. On show days, until 30 minutes after the show starts.

Website: http://cidadedasartes.rio.rj.gov.br/

Address: Avenida das Américas, 5,300 – Barra da Tijuca

Best route from Bamboo Rio Hostel: Metro (Jardim Oceânico Station) + BRT (Alvorada Terminal). There’s an underpass from the terminal to Cidade das Artes.

 

Royal Portuguese Reading Room

This is a library straight out of a movie, with stunning architecture and decor worthy of a museum. Founded by Portuguese immigrants, it’s a cultural gem of Portugal in Brazil. The space houses a majestic book collection, many of which are rare editions. It’s an inspiring setting open to all who want to explore its architecture, history, or simply enjoy a good read in a magical atmosphere.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Website: https://www.realgabinete.com.br/

Address: Rua Luís de Camões, 30 – Downtown

Best route from Bamboo Rio Hostel: bus + VLT (Praça Tiradentes Station)

 

Fundição Progresso

An alternative venue in Lapa offering concerts of various musical styles in a rustic, affordable setting. There are also art exhibitions and workshops like circus, theater, and music. Plus, the view of the Lapa Arches from the balcony adds to the truly carioca vibe.

Opening hours: vary depending on the schedule. Check the website for details.

Website: https://www.fundicaoprogresso.com.br/

Address: Rua dos Arcos, 24 – Downtown

Best route from Bamboo Rio Hostel: bus + Metro (Cinelândia Station)

 

We hope you enjoy this list our hostel has prepared and have a great time in our city, rain or shine. By the way, when it rains in Rio, it’s easy to buy cheap umbrellas everywhere—so there’s no excuse not to go out. Our list doesn’t require much money and even includes free options to enjoy, and you can get to all locations listed by public transport. So—happy Rio, happy rain, and happy exploring!”