Four Seasons in Rio in 2029: The Rebirth of Marina Palace and What It Means

The luxury hotel group Four Seasons plans to open a new hotel in Rio de Janeiro in 2029. The project will reuse the old Marina Palace building in the upscale neighborhood of Leblon. The investment is estimated at around R$ 600 million. The redevelopment aims to restore the historic seafront icon and offer a new level of five-star hospitality to both locals and international visitors.

Background: from Marina Palace to Four Seasons

The original Marina Palace closed its doors in 2017 after decades as a landmark hotel on Rio’s coastline. Its closure left a gap in the high-end hospitality offering in Leblon. For years, speculation hovered over the future of the building. In 2025, reports confirmed that Four Seasons signed to bring the property back to life under its global luxury brand — marking its return to Brazil after the closure of its São Paulo hotel in 2020.

What the New Hotel Will Offer

The renovation plan maintains the original façade, yet the interiors will be fully rebuilt to meet Four Seasons’ global standards. The new hotel is expected to feature about 120 rooms — most of them suites. Facilities will include a spa, gym, pool, event spaces and an international-cuisine restaurant. In short, it aims to deliver the full breadth of luxury services associated with the brand.

Projected Timeline and Investment

According to published reports, the retrofit should gain momentum around 2026, with the hotel slated to open at the beginning of 2029. The total investment is around R$ 600 million. Given the local real-estate context, this marks a major infusion of capital in the luxury hospitality segment of Rio.

Implications for Rio’s Luxury Real Estate Market

The arrival of Four Seasons in Leblon could significantly boost the appeal of luxury real estate nearby. Areas such as Leblon itself, Ipanema, Lagoa, and Jardim Botânico often benefit from proximity to high-end hotels. For investors and high-net-worth buyers, the increased prestige and improved amenities may raise demand for premium residences. Additionally, the renewed hotel-scene may encourage urban revitalization and infrastructural investment in the coastal zone. Consequently, demand for luxury condos, penthouses or houses near the hotel zone is likely to rise.

Why This Move Matters for International Visitors and Expats

For international travelers used to global standards of service, the new Four Seasons will offer reliability, high quality and global-standard hospitality in Rio. This may attract more foreign visitors seeking a refined stay, especially those interested in combining travel with luxury real estate exploration. As a result, the reopening of such an iconic building under a high-end brand could strengthen Rio’s position as a global luxury destination.

What Remains Uncertain

Although the project appears confirmed, Four Seasons itself has not yet issued an official public statement. The timeline, final room count and amenities still may change. Also, given the history of delays at Marina Palace (the building remained closed since 2017 and renovation deadlines have already postponements), investors and future guests should monitor progress carefully.

For Real Estate Buyers: What to Watch

If you consider purchasing a luxury property near Leblon or Ipanema, the Four Seasons reopening may influence value. Look for residences with good sea-view orientation, high floor levels, and proximity to the new hotel. Also, properties with high-end building amenities may benefit most from rising demand. For investment-minded buyers, this could be a strategic moment to act.

Conclusion

The planned arrival of Four Seasons in Rio de Janeiro at Marina Palace promises a revival of one of the city’s iconic buildings and a boost for luxury hospitality. For locals, investors or international visitors, this can mark a new era of refined tourism and high-end real estate interest. As the project moves toward its 2029 opening, all eyes will be on progress, market impact and how this development shapes Rio’s coastal luxury lifestyle.

Learn more about the Rio de Janeiro real estate market or browse all properties for sale.