Located 68 km from the city of Rio de Janeiro, at the top of Serra da Estrela, is one of the favorite retreats of the cariocas (cariocas is 
the name given to those born in Rio): Petrópolis.
D. Pedro II loved the mild climate of Petrópolis. So much so that he ordered the construction of a palace there as the summer residence of the imperial family.
Hence the name given to the city, the words Petro (Pedro) and Polis (City). Since then, the region gained notoriety and continued 
to develop infrastructure to host heads of state, ministers, and nobles. Considered a must-see tourist attraction in the city, the Imperial Palace was transformed into the rich Imperial Museum.
You cannot leave the city center without first visiting the Palácio Rio 
Negro, dedicated to the memory of the Republic in the former imperial city, and the Crystal Palace, where the last slaves of Petrópolis were freed. The latter is currently a venue for cultural events and exhibitions.
Another highlight of Petrópolis is the Cathedral of São Pedro de Alcântara, which houses a mausoleum containing the remains of D. Pedro II and Dona Teresa Cristina. Add to your visit the Museu Casa de Santos Dumont, an attraction dedicated to the history of aviation, and the guided tour of the Beer Experience Center.
The neighborhoods of Petrópolis have artists’ studios, antique shops, and art stores.
Beautiful and luxurious inns await you, to enjoy the Cultural Heritage of the city and the lush nature of the Atlantic Forest.
Source: www.visitbrasil.com