CCBB Rio
A grand neoclassical cultural center in Rio, offering free art exhibitions, stunning architecture, and unique interactive installations.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
CCBB Rio
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A grand neoclassical cultural center in Rio, offering free art exhibitions, stunning architecture, and unique interactive installations.
"Incredible building, great use of space. Free tickets and diverse expos make it a must-visit."
🎟️ Book Free Tickets Online
Secure your spot for popular exhibitions like Leandro Erlich's 'Swimming Pool' via Eventim to avoid disappointment.
📸 Capture Unique Photos
The 'Swimming Pool' illusion and the grand architecture offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Leandro Erlich's 'Swimming Pool'
CCBB Rio
An iconic optical illusion where you can walk 'underwater' without getting wet. A must-see for unique photos!

Ancestral: Afro-Américas Exhibition
CCBB Rio
Explore the rich heritage and connections between Afro-Brazilian and North American peoples through visual arts.

Historic Architecture
CCBB Rio
Marvel at the grandeur of the 1906 neoclassical building, a former bank, with its antique fixtures and elegant spaces.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Explore Beyond the Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Free Tickets Online
Secure your spot for popular exhibitions like Leandro Erlich's 'Swimming Pool' via Eventim to avoid disappointment.
📸 Capture Unique Photos
The 'Swimming Pool' illusion and the grand architecture offer fantastic photo opportunities.
☕ Enjoy a Coffee Break
Relax at the Confeitaria Colombo within CCBB for a delightful culinary experience.
📚 Study or Read
The 5th floor boasts libraries perfect for quiet study or reading sessions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Free Tickets Online
Secure your spot for popular exhibitions like Leandro Erlich's 'Swimming Pool' via Eventim to avoid disappointment.
📸 Capture Unique Photos
The 'Swimming Pool' illusion and the grand architecture offer fantastic photo opportunities.
☕ Enjoy a Coffee Break
Relax at the Confeitaria Colombo within CCBB for a delightful culinary experience.
📚 Study or Read
The 5th floor boasts libraries perfect for quiet study or reading sessions.
🚶♀️ Explore the Building
Don't just focus on exhibits; admire the historic neoclassical architecture and antique elements.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise CCBB Rio for its impressive neoclassical architecture and the quality of its diverse, often free, exhibitions. The 'Swimming Pool' installation is a standout attraction for its interactive nature and photo opportunities. However, some find the ticketing system cumbersome and navigating the exhibition paths less intuitive.
"Incredible building, great use of space.
Pro:
- free tickets
- easy 3 hour spent
- diverse expo (temp and permanent)
- antique fixtures and elevator
- good A/C
Con:
- hard to get tickets (you need tickets for each expo and it isn't user friendly) use the real person booth if you are a foreigner (you need a cpf to use the self service machines)
- path isn't self explanatory (sometimes hard to figure out where to go next)
Overall it was a great museum,"
Brian “CoFii” Adams
"Cultural centre in a former bank building which still keeps some of its old interiors. Top notch modern and contemporary art exhibitions, with superb museography, design and insight. They also have a very good library and gift shop and a nice restaurant."
Carlos Sarasola Orio
"Experience was very good. Very nice to visit. It's not too big."
miggs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
CCBB Rio is located at Rua Primeiro de Março, 66 – Centro. It's easily accessible by public transport, including buses that stop nearby. Many visitors also arrive by metro to Uruguaiana station and then take a short walk.
While CCBB Rio doesn't have its own parking, there are several public parking lots in the surrounding Centro area. It's often recommended to use public transport due to traffic and parking availability in the city center.
From Copacabana, you can take a bus or the metro to the Centro area. The metro is often a more predictable option, followed by a short walk or a quick taxi/ride-share to CCBB Rio.
Yes, CCBB Rio is centrally located. You can walk from attractions like Praça XV, Candelária Church, and the Museum of Art of Rio (MAR) if you enjoy exploring the historic downtown area.
The building is generally accessible, with elevators available to reach different floors and exhibitions. It's always a good idea to check with the venue directly for specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Many exhibitions at CCBB Rio are free to enter. However, a timed-entry ticket is usually required, and it's highly recommended to book these online in advance through Eventim to guarantee your entry.
Tickets can be booked online via the Eventim website or app. For those who prefer in-person assistance or are foreigners without a CPF, using the ticket booth at the venue is an option, though it can involve queues.
CCBB Rio is typically open from Wednesday to Monday, usually from 9 AM to 8 PM or 9 PM, depending on the exhibition. It is closed on Tuesdays. Always check the official website for the most current hours.
Yes, even for free exhibitions, a timed-entry ticket is generally required. This helps manage visitor flow and ensures a better experience for everyone.
While some tickets might be available on the day, it's strongly advised to book in advance online, especially for popular or limited-run exhibitions, as they can sell out quickly.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Highlights often include interactive installations like Leandro Erlich's 'Swimming Pool', and major art exhibitions such as 'Ancestral: Afro-Américas' and retrospectives of renowned artists.
A visit can range from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibitions and whether you plan to visit the library or enjoy a meal.
Absolutely! The 'Swimming Pool' exhibit is a prime spot for creative shots. The building's architecture and various art installations also provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Information on guided tours can vary depending on the exhibition. It's best to check the CCBB Rio website or inquire at the information desk upon arrival for availability and schedules.
CCBB Rio offers restrooms, a gift shop, a library, and dining options like cafes and restaurants.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, CCBB Rio features dining options, including the famous Confeitaria Colombo for a classic experience, and other cafes and restaurants offering various cuisines.
You can find a range of options, from traditional Brazilian pastries and coffee at Confeitaria Colombo to more contemporary cafe fare and light meals at other onsite eateries.
Prices can vary. Confeitaria Colombo is known for its historic charm and can be moderately priced. There are also more casual options available.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition halls. However, there might be designated areas or cafes where you can consume purchased items.
The Centro area has many local eateries and 'lanchonetes' offering more budget-friendly options like pastels and juices, such as the recommended Pastelaria Chic's.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is usually allowed for personal use, but flash photography is often prohibited to protect the artworks. Some specific exhibitions might have restrictions, so always check signage.
Leandro Erlich's 'Swimming Pool' is a major highlight for unique photos. The grand architecture of the building itself, including its staircases and halls, also makes for stunning shots.
Professional photoshoots or commercial photography typically require special permits and advance arrangements. It's best to contact CCBB Rio directly for their policy on this.
CCBB Rio frequently hosts photography exhibitions, showcasing the work of renowned Brazilian and international photographers, such as Evandro Teixeira.
A versatile camera that handles low light well is ideal. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the architecture, while a standard zoom is good for exhibition details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid the largest crowds. While there are cafes onsite, packing some snacks might be a good idea for younger children. The libraries on the 5th floor can also be a quiet retreat if needed.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding Centro area, which offers affordable food options like pastels and juices from local vendors. This makes CCBB Rio an excellent anchor for a day of affordable exploration in Rio de Janeiro.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Keep an eye out for temporary exhibitions, as they often feature incredible visual art, including photography retrospectives like that of Evandro Teixeira. Remember to check photography rules, especially regarding flash, to ensure you can capture the best images without disturbing others or damaging artworks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Illusion: Leandro Erlich's 'Swimming Pool'
The genius of the piece lies in its clever use of mirrors and perspective, transforming a simple architectural element into an immersive experience. It's a perfect spot for creating memorable and shareable photos, making it a highlight for many visitors. Remember to book your tickets in advance, as this exhibition is incredibly popular.
Beyond the visual trickery, the 'Swimming Pool' invites contemplation on perception and reality. It’s a testament to how art can challenge our understanding of the everyday and provide moments of wonder and amusement.
Exploring Afro-Brazilian Culture at CCBB Rio
These exhibitions often showcase a diverse range of works, from traditional artifacts to contemporary art, highlighting themes of representation, spirituality, and ancestry. They provide a crucial platform for Black Brazilian artists and offer visitors a deeper understanding of the rich cultural tapestry of Brazil.
Events like the 'Black Bom' invasion, featuring black music and culture, further enrich the CCBB's programming, making it a vibrant hub for cultural exchange and celebration.
A Cultural Hub in a Historic Setting
Beyond its stunning facade, CCBB Rio functions as a dynamic cultural center, hosting a wide array of exhibitions, film screenings, theater performances, and educational programs. Its diverse programming ensures there's always something new and engaging for visitors, catering to a broad range of interests.
The center also includes valuable resources like libraries, making it a place for both leisure and learning. Its central location in Rio de Janeiro makes it an accessible and essential destination for anyone interested in art, culture, and history.
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