Overview
Rio de Janeiro Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana) is a cone-shaped modernist landmark designed by architect Edgar de Oliveira da Fonseca, drawing on Mayan pyramid style, and built between 1964 and 1979. Standing 75m tall with a 106m diameter, the concrete structure features four massive floor-to-ceiling stained glass windows that create a mystical atmosphere when lit. It can hold up to 20,000 people and sits between the Lapa and Cinelândia districts, making it easy to combine with a visit to the Selarón Steps. Entry is free, though the attached Museum of Sacred Art charges a small fee. Reachable on foot from Carioca or Cinelândia metro stations.
💰 Tickets
Free admission to the cathedral. The attached Museum of Sacred Art charges a small separate fee.
🎟️ Check ticket prices →Opening Hours
Daily 07:00-17:00, Sunday Mass at 10:00 (subject to change; verify before visiting).
Travel Tips
Visit between 10am and 3pm for the best light through the stained glass. Avoid shorts or tank tops, and stay quiet during Mass.
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🇰🇷 Tips for Korean Travelers
Practical info for Korean travelers heading to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from Seoul (ICN).
Korean Passport · Visa
Check visa rules for Brazil on the Korean MOFA travel advisory site before flying — visa-free, visa-on-arrival or e-visa rules change often. Keep at least 6 months of passport validity.
Flight from Incheon (ICN)
Compare direct and connecting flights from Incheon (ICN) to Rio de Janeiro on Skyscanner or Google Flights. Early-morning departures from Korea are usually the cheapest option.
KRW ↔ Local Currency
Check the live FX widget above for the latest KRW rate. Korean travel cards like Travel Wallet, Hana EZ and Toss FX offer free local ATM withdrawals and competitive rates.
Korean Community · Korean Food
Many cities have an active Korean community in Rio de Janeiro with Korean restaurants, mini-marts, and Korean-speaking guides. Search Naver Cafe or KakaoTalk open chats for "Rio de Janeiro 한인" before you go.
Attractions near Rio de Janeiro Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana)
Tap a pin on the map to jump to that attraction.
Quinta da Boa Vista
The former royal palace gardens, landscaped in French style with grottoes and lakes.
📍 4.8km away
Sugarloaf Mountain
Ride the cable car for sweeping views of Rio's coastline and skyline.
📍 4.8km away
Copacabana Beach
A world-famous 4km beach, with its iconic wave-patterned promenade.
📍 6.7km away
Ipanema Beach
The trendy Rio beach made famous by the bossa nova classic 'The Girl from Ipanema.'
📍 8.8km away
Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro
Sugarloaf Mountain Cable Car
Ride a two-stage cable car to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain for 360-degree panoramic views of Rio. Visiting at sunset rewards you with the city's most spectacular golden-hour views.
Samba Dance Class
Learn samba basics from local dancers at a Rio samba school. Open to beginners, and some classes include a follow-up visit to a Lapa samba club to dance for real.
Favela Community Tour
Visit a favela community with a local guide to experience community projects, street art, and local food. Tours run in Rocinha or Vidigal, with a portion of proceeds going back to the community.