Top Rated Attractions in Manaus

Museu Numismatica Bernardo Campos is well worth a visit, not just for the collection it houses, but also because of its location within Palacete Provincial at the historic center of Manaus. Those stopping by solely to look at the currency will not be disappointed, for this museum features a very well organized collection of coins and notes not just from different historical periods, but also from many parts of the world. Taking a guided tour is the best option, for only then can you fully appreciate the value of the items on display.

Having twice served as the Governor of the state of Amazonas, Eduardo Gonçalves Ribeiro was one of the most respected men in the country, and it is only natural that there is a lot of curiosity about his life and times, which Museu Casa Eduardo Ribeiro attempts to satiate. The museum is home to Riberiro's personal belongings, art collection and furniture, giving visitors a peek into a completely different time period. Museu Casa Eduardo Ribeiro is one of the most interesting historical attractions in the city of Manaus.

Bosque da Ciência is a forest rich in local flora and fauna. This area is home to several wild animals like monkeys, sloths, turtles, otters and myriad tropical birds. There is also a manatee pool with underwater windows. Many species of plants, including poisonous and medicinal plants, and many trails and treks that attract hoards of tourists can be found here. Tours are held here throughout the year.

Tucked away on the leafy Avenida Eduardo Ribeiro, this stately edifice is one of the most recognizable feature of the street. Constructed in a harmonious blend of French and English styles, Palácio da Justiça is one of the city's architectural gems. Built in 1900, the beautiful edifice functioned as the region's courthouse for a large part of the century, before being transformed into a cultural center. Today, Palácio da Justiça hosts a steady program of artistic and cultural events, and is open for visits to the general public.

Flowing through the Colombian rainforest, the Rio Negro meets the tawny waters of Rio Solimoes 10 kilometers (6.21 miles) off the coast of the Brazilian city of Manaus. Instead of merging as most confluences do, these two tributaries seem to meet without visibly flowing into each other, flowing side by side for six kilometers (3.72 miles) until they merge into the vast waterway that is the Lower Amazon River. The Rio Negro picks up leaf and plant matter on its journey and this tinges the water with its distinctive rich hue while the Solimoes is tinted from the sediment it carries through its voyage over the Andes. The cooler Solimoes flows at a faster pace and is much denser than the warmer and slower Rio Negro, and it is this contrast in speed, density and temperature that causes the natural phenomenon that's visible even from outer space.

Established in 2013, Arena da Amazônia was built on the site of the former Estádio Vivaldo Lima. Its design resembles a wicker basket, and its grandstand can accommodate more than 42,000 spectators. With sustainable leanings like rainwater harvesting and renewable energy sources, it is a one-of-a-kind in Brazil, and a pride of Manaus. This venue is one of the hosts for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.