Military museum, fortification and viewpoint

Forte de Copacabana

Military history with one of Copacabana’s most famous views

Rio de JaneiroBetween 1½ and 3 hours.

What you will find

Forte de Copacabana brings together a fortification, museum, enormous cannons, historic exhibitions, cafés and a privileged view of the entire beach.

You can walk through the outdoor area, visit Museu Histórico do Exército, enter sections of the former fortification and see the gun turrets.

History

It opened in 1914 to reinforce the defence of Guanabara Bay’s entrance. It was also the setting of the Revolta dos 18 do Forte in 1922.

What makes this place special

The Copacabana view, enormous cannons and museum inside the fortification.

Before you go

Address: Praça Coronel Eugênio Franco, 1 — Posto 6, Copacabana.
Opening hours: Usually Tuesday to Sunday and holidays. Hours may vary, and some rooms may close before the outdoor area.
Admission and price: Paid admission, with full-price, reduced-price and possible free tickets. Confirm current prices before going.
Approximate duration: Between 1½ and 3 hours.
Booking: Individual visits usually do not require booking. Groups should enquire beforehand.
Accessibility: The outdoor area allows easy movement, but some historic sections have stairs and narrow passages.
Getting there: It is at the end of Copacabana, near General Osório station and several bus routes.
Documents: Bring photo ID.

My tip

Do not come just for coffee. Enter the fortification, discover the cannons and read about the 18 do Forte. Morning light is usually excellent for beach photos.

Opening hours, prices, visits, accessibility and operations may change. Confirm information with the venue for your visit date.