Maracanã

Maracanã is more than just a stadium; it’s an icon of Brazilian football and cultural history. Located in Rio de Janeiro’s Southeast Region, this tour offers a deep dive into the heart of Brazil’s beloved sport. Priced at $50 per person and lasting about 4 hours, it’s perfect for football fans, history buffs, or anyone keen to experience a legendary sports venue from the inside. You’ll start at the PortoBay Rio de Janeiro Hotel, then head to the stadium itself, with the journey culminating back at your hotel.

What we particularly love about this experience is the chance to go behind the scenes—visiting the museum, changing rooms, and even taking photos on the pitch. The guides are described as fun and humane, making the tour feel personalized and genuine. Plus, the opportunity to shoot goals or snap photos adds an interactive twist.

A possible consideration is that on game days, internal visits might be limited or unavailable, so check availability ahead of your visit. This tour suits sports enthusiasts, history lovers, and travelers who appreciate authentic, immersive experiences. If you’re looking for a meaningful glimpse into Rio’s sports culture with a flexible, private group setup, this tour might just be your perfect fit.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a comprehensive behind-the-scenes look at Maracanã.
• Personalized treatment with friendly guides who share fun stories.
• Includes museum visit, changing rooms, and optional photo opportunities.
• Flexible schedule and private group tours tailored to your needs.
• Ideal for football fans and those interested in Brazil’s sports and cultural history.
• Limited on game days, so verify availability if planning around a match.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Maracanã: The Heart of Brazilian Football

Stepping into Maracanã Stadium is like walking into a cathedral of sport—massive, storied, and full of energy. This tour, operated by Kerotur Turismo e Eventos, promises a balanced blend of history, culture, and fun that’s accessible for most travelers. It’s designed to give you a genuine feel of what it’s like to be part of a game day, without needing to be a football fanatic.

While the price of $50 might seem modest for such an immersive experience, it’s the value of insider access—from the museum exhibits to the dressing rooms—that elevates this tour. The 4-hour length makes it a manageable addition to your Rio itinerary, especially if you’re staying near the PortoBay hotel or want an easy, guided activity that doesn’t eat up your whole day.

Why We Love This Tour

Two standout features catch our attention. First, the “fun guide” who keeps the mood lively and helps time fly by. You’ll feel like you’re visiting a friend who knows every corner of the stadium and loves sharing its stories. Second, the personalized, humane treatment—meaning your guide isn’t just reciting facts but genuinely connecting with you, making your visit memorable.

The interactive options are also a big plus. Want to shoot a goal? Take a photo in the dressing room? These are optional but memorable moments that make the visit more engaging. Plus, the museum offers a historical overview, including Pelé’s famous 1,000th goal, which is a must-see for football fans.

Considerations Before Booking

One potential caveat is that on match days or during special events, part of the internal visit might be restricted. This is understandable given the stadium’s primary function as a sports venue. Make sure to check availability and plan your visit around the stadium’s schedule for the best experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

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Starting at PortoBay Rio de Janeiro

Your adventure begins conveniently at the hotel’s reception. The guide, dressed in blue with a Panama hat and a badge, will greet you warmly. This familiar start sets the tone for a relaxed, engaging experience. The tour is private, ensuring personalized attention, and the group size is manageable for easy interaction.

The Maracanã Stadium Visit

The two-hour stadium tour is the heart of the experience. First, you’ll visit the Maracanã Museum, which showcases the stadium’s history from the 1950 World Cup final to the 2014 event, and the many concerts held there—including legendary performances by Frank Sinatra, Queen, and Paul McCartney. We loved the way the museum contextualizes not just the sports achievements but also the stadium’s place in Brazil’s cultural landscape.

Next, you’ll see the changing rooms, which are surprisingly intimate spaces compared to the grandstand view. Here, you can imagine yourself as a player preparing for a match. Some reviews mention that you can shoot goals or take photos in these areas, although that might be optional or limited during match days.

Walking onto the pitch is a highlight—standing where Pelé scored his 1,000th goal is a moment of genuine emotion. You’ll love the views from the stands, which are as iconic as the stadium itself. The press room, often off-limits to the public, becomes accessible here, giving you a sense of what it’s like behind the scenes during a game or event.

Additional Stops and Photo Opportunities

Some travelers appreciate the photo shoots of the stands and field, capturing memories of the legendary venue. Since the tour is flexible and private, your guide can tailor some moments to your interests, making it more than just a passive sightseeing walk.

End of the Tour

You’ll return to the hotel, having enjoyed a full 4 hours of insights, photos, and stories. The experience ends back at the PortoBay, making logistics straightforward and stress-free.

The Value of the Experience

At $50, this tour offers excellent value for what you get. Compared to more generic city tours, the access to behind-the-scenes areas and personalized attention makes it stand out. The museum alone provides a deep dive into Brazil’s football history—something that’s hard to find elsewhere in such an accessible format.

While tickets for the stadium are not included, the tour’s value lies in the guided experience, which enhances your understanding and appreciation of the venue’s significance. On top of that, the option to shoot goals or take photos adds fun and personal touchpoints that elevate the visit beyond just a walk-through.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for football fans, sports history buffs, or curious travelers wanting to experience a cultural landmark of Rio. It’s also suitable for families or groups seeking an interactive, relaxed activity. Because it’s private and customizable, it’s flexible for those with mobility considerations or specific interests.

If you’re short on time but want an authentic glimpse of Rio’s sports history, this tour fits nicely into a day’s agenda. Those looking for a more in-depth or exclusive experience might look elsewhere, but for most visitors, this strikes a fine balance of accessibility, authenticity, and fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation is not included. It’s suggested to use Uber, taxis, or public transport to reach the starting point. This gives you flexibility and control over your schedule.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, although this can vary depending on traffic, queues, and other delays.

Can I take photos inside the stadium?
Yes, photos are encouraged, especially in certain areas like the pitch, dressing rooms, and stands. Shooting goals might be optional, and availability can depend on match schedules.

Are tickets to Maracanã included?
No, tickets are not included. You will visit the stadium’s attractions as part of the tour, but you’ll need to purchase tickets separately if you want to attend a game or access additional areas.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but remember to bring their ID or passports if needed. The tour is accessible and private, making it adaptable for families.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with a camera, credit card, cash, and ID. Refrain from bringing pets, drones, or open-toed shoes, and avoid food or drinks inside the stadium.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Maracanã through this guided tour offers a rich, personal experience of one of football’s most famous landmarks. It’s a chance to go beyond the stadium’s exterior, exploring its history, its spirit, and even stepping onto the pitch. The combination of knowledgeable guides, flexible options, and access to areas usually off-limits makes this tour stand out.

While it’s not a match ticket or an all-access VIP experience, it’s an authentic and meaningful way to connect with Brazil’s football culture. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply curious about what makes this stadium so legendary, we believe this tour delivers value, insight, and a memorable day in Rio.

If you’re seeking a well-rounded, engaging, and reasonably priced visit to Maracanã, this tour is highly recommended. Just remember to check the schedule in advance, especially if you’re visiting on a match day, to ensure you get the most out of your experience.

Disclaimer: As with all tours, availability and access might change, so it’s best to confirm details before booking.

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