Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Board your air-conditioned transport, and travel through downtown Rio with its mix of dazzling high-rises and colonial architecture as you embark on the approximately one and a half hour-long drive to Petropolis. Travel the Rio-Petropolis Highway, traversing concrete bridges boarding lush tropical valleys as the road climbs some 2,750 feet.

Climb the dense green hills of the Serra dos Órgãos (Range of the Organs) National Park, in the valley of the Quitandinha and Piabanha rivers, and arrive at Petropolis. Your scenic drive through the old mountain city travels down the cobblestones of Avenida 7 de Setembro, passing the old resort's charming rose-colored 19th century homes and shady parks. Stop for pictures at Quitandinha Palace.

After your first stop, grab lunch at a local churrascaria restaurant in Petropolis. Enjoy a Brazilian-style barbeque accompanied by salads.

Later, board your transportation and travel to the former summer palace and mountain retreat of Dom Pedro II, the second Brazilian Emperor and the man for whom the town is named.

Completed in 1855, and converted into the Imperial Museum in 1943, this historic monument houses the imperial crown jewels as well as fine china, furniture, paintings and tapestries from the imperial court. Your visit includes a guided tour of the interior and the royal gardens. You will also have a chance to view the French Gothic Catedral de Sao Pedro de Alcantara, where Brazil's last emperor and his wife are buried.

At the end of your tour board your transportation and head back to your ship.