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Palácio do Planalto

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Landmark
—°15
Palácio do Planalto (Brazil)

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The Palácio do Planalto is the official workplace of the President of Brazil in Brasília. Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, the building was inaugurated on April 21, 1960, coinciding with the establishment of the city as the new federal capital. The architecture is characterized by its lightness and distinctive white columns, which evoke the sails of a ship. The building is located on the Praça dos Três Poderes, across from the National Congress and the Supreme Court. A striking feature is the external ramp used during official ceremonies and state visits. The interior houses the cabinet room and the presidential office, furnished with works by renowned Brazilian artists. The palace is a symbol of power and the modernist vision of modern Brazil. Security-related modernizations have been carried out over the years, while the original aesthetic concept has always been preserved.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

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📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Palácio do Planalto is the official workplace of the president and is open to the public via guided tours, but only by prior appointment. The exterior with its iconic ramps can be visited at any time.
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Typical hours
Guided tours usually take place on weekdays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a lunch break. On weekends and holidays, the building is closed to visitors.
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Photography
Photography is allowed anytime outside, and inside during the guided tour without flash. The curved ramps and glass facade provide modern architectural photo subjects.
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Time needed
A guided tour of the palace usually lasts between 45 minutes and one hour. Allow an additional 15 to 20 minutes for the exterior and surroundings.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with a walk to the nearby National Congress and Cathedral of Brasília, both along the Esplanade. The adjacent Praça dos Três Poderes is another architectural highlight.
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Getting there
The palace is located at Praça dos Três Poderes in central Brasília and is easily reachable by bus or taxi. The nearest bus stop is 'Esplanada - Palácio do Planalto', just a few minutes' walk away.
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Insider tip
Sign up early for a guided tour as demand is high and spaces limited. Try to watch the changing of the guard at the main entrance, which takes place at regular intervals and is photogenic.

Geography

Coordinates
-15.79970, -47.86000

Facts

  • Seat of the executive branch of Brazil
  • Designed by architect Oscar Niemeyer
  • Inaugurated on April 21, 1960
  • Located on the Praça dos Três Poderes
  • Characteristic columns symbolize sails
  • The ramp is used for the presidential inauguration ceremony

Explore nearby

Notable places around

National Congress of BrazilNational Congress of Brazil<1 km · SExplore →
Brasília TV TowerBrasília TV Tower4 km · SExplore →
Palácio da AlvoradaPalácio da Alvorada4 km · NExplore →
BrasíliaBrasília8 km · SExplore →
PirenópolisPirenópolis122 km · SExplore →
Alto Paraiso de GoiasAlto Paraiso de Goias131 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Palácio do Planalto (15)

Jardim Botânico de Brasília🌳 park

This expansive public garden specializes in preserving and showcasing the unique flora of the Brazilian Cerrado savanna biome.

Anfiteatro Jardim Botânico🎭 culture

Located within the lush botanical gardens, this open-air amphitheater provides a natural, scenic backdrop for outdoor cultural performances.

Pira da Liberdade🏺 historical

Located in the Three Powers Plaza, this ceremonial pyre monument symbolizes the eternal flame of Brazilian liberty and sovereignty.

Espaço Cultural Lúcio Costa - Maquete de Brasília🏛 museum

Located beneath the Three Powers Plaza, this subterranean museum features a massive, detailed scale model of Lúcio Costa's urban masterplan.

🆓

Morrote Voo Livre Lago Sul🌿 nature

Overlooking Lago Sul, this elevated grassy launch pad is a favorite spot for paragliders and hang gliders seeking panoramic views of the city.

Teatro CCBB🎭 culture

A cultural theatre venue hosted within the Banco do Brasil cultural centre complex.

Mirante Jardim Botânico🌿 nature

A botanical garden viewpoint offering panoramic vistas over the surrounding green landscape.

Bay Park Aqua Park🎡 recreation

A recreational water park featuring aquatic slides and large swimming pools.

Parque Canjjerana🌿 nature

A designated nature reserve preserving local flora and natural ecosystems.

Totem🏺 historical

A sculptural monument marking the urban landscape with its distinct vertical form.

Igreja de Jesus Cristo dos Santos dos Últimos Dias📍 landmark

A Latter-day Saints Christian meetinghouse serving the local congregation.

Terceira Igreja Batista de Brasília📍 landmark

A local Baptist Christian church dedicated to community worship services.

Centro Espírita Caminheiros da Luz📍 landmark

A spiritualist Christian centre providing teachings and community support.

Assembléia de Deus⛪ religious

A Pentecostal place of worship holding regular assembly meetings and spiritual services.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you visit Palácio do Planalto?
Yes, public tours usually take place on Sundays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Do I need to book the tour in advance?
Yes, an online appointment through the official government website is required.
Is photography allowed inside?
Photography is allowed in some areas but strictly prohibited in others.
What is the function of this building?
It is the official workplace of the President of Brazil.
Is there a dress code for visitors?
Yes, appropriate clothing is required; shorts and flip-flops are not allowed.
Palácio do Planalto: where is it located?
Palácio do Planalto is located in Brazil.
Palácio do Planalto: what is there to see?
Highlights include Jardim Botânico de Brasília, Anfiteatro Jardim Botânico, Pira da Liberdade.
Palácio do Planalto: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Palácio do Planalto: why is it worth visiting?
The Palácio do Planalto is the official workplace of the President of Brazil in Brasília.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Brasília — Palácio do Planalto (Brazil)
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The modern capital of Brazil, designed from scratch in the 1950s.

History & landmarks

National Congress of Brazil — Palácio do Planalto (Brazil)
National Congress of Brazil
The National Congress of Brazil is a striking architectural complex in Brasília, housing the Chamber of Deputies and the Federal Senate.
Cathedral of Brasília — Palácio do Planalto (Brazil)
Cathedral of Brasília
The Cathedral of Brasília is a modern religious landmark designed by Oscar Niemeyer, featuring 16 curved columns that reach toward the sky.
Brasília TV Tower — Palácio do Planalto (Brazil)
Brasília TV Tower
A striking broadcast tower offering one of the best panoramic views of the geometrically planned capital.
Sanctuary of Dom Bosco — Palácio do Planalto (Brazil)
Sanctuary of Dom Bosco
An impressive church in Brasília, famous for its giant blue stained glass windows that create a mystical atmosphere.
Palácio da Alvorada — Palácio do Planalto (Brazil)
Palácio da Alvorada
The official residence of the Brazilian President, known for its elegant white columns.