The Itamaraty Palace (Palácio do Itamaraty) is a 19th Century neoclassical style building that is strictly symmetrical, bearing noble proportions of great historical and artistic value. The palace is now home to the city's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Other parts of the building also house the great collections of the Museum of History (open to the public) and the Diplomatic Historical Archives and Map Collection, as well as the country's UN Information Office.

The Candelaria Church is a major architectural and artistic work of 19th Century Brazil. Built by the best names of its era, the building integrates neoclassical architecture with spectacular interior decoration. The effect is redoubled by the beautiful facade, a masterpiece of its time. The facade shows great harmony in the contrast between white paint and dark granite, as well as with its varied window profiles, two towers and classical gable.

The Tiradentes Palace is the former home of the National Congress of Brazil. It's currently the headquarters of the Legislative Assembly of the state of Rio de Janeiro. The building has an eclectic style, with a facade lined with concrete. Watch out for the palace dome, which is adorned with allegorical sculptures representing Independence and the Republic.

Praça Quinze de Novembro - or simply the Quinze Square - is a public plaza located in the center of the city, close to the historic Praça Marechal Anchor between Assembly Street and the Alley Barbers. Up until the beginning of the 20th Century, Praça Quinze was the main point of entry and landing in Rio de Janeiro.

Located at Praça Quinze, the Arco do Telles is a remnant of colonial Brazil. It's characterized by narrow streets and alleys, with charming historical buildings that have been revitalized and transformed into a range of restaurants, bars, art galleries and bookstores. It is also known as the preferred location for those interested in an after-work happy hour.

One of the oldest buildings in Rio, the Paco Imerial (or Imperial Palace) was built back in the 1700s as a residence for Brazil's viceroys. A cultural centre today, the palace hosts exhibitions and various special cultural events. There is also a visitors' cafe. Apart from the great cultural events, the palace itself is worth seeing as one of Rio's architectural treasures.

One of the most breathtaking sights in Downtown Rio is the Mosteiro de São Bento, or Church of the Benedictine Monastery. The monastery was built in the early 1600s shortly after the foundation of the city itself. The outside may seem pleasantly simple but the silver and gold carved baroque interior is just astonishing. Furthermore, this place of peace and silence offers the visitor both an interesting slice of history and a good example of colonial architecture.