Half Day in Rio: Christ by Train, Maracanã, Cathedral & Selarón

Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Half Day in Rio: Christ by Train, Maracanã, Cathedral & Selarón

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(108 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Make the most of your limited time in Rio de Janeiro with our Half Day Tour, perfect for travelers who want to see the city’s highlights in a single morning. Start with the iconic Christ the Redeemer, reached by scenic train ride up Corcovado Mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Explore the colorful Selarón Steps, admire the legendary Maracanã Stadium from the outside, and pass by the world-famous Sambadrome — home of Rio’s spectacular Carnival parades — without stopping. Complete your tour with a visit to the striking Metropolitan Cathedral, a modern architectural gem. This convenient tour includes roundtrip transportation from your hotel, allowing you to enjoy Rio’s must-see attractions in comfort and style, even on a tight schedule.

Available options

Half Day in Rio Christ by Train, Maracanã, Sambadrome, Cathedral & Selarón Steps

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off from main hotels in South Zone (Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon and Leme)

Professional guide with live tour commentary in English, Spanish, Italian, French & Portuguese.

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle

Guided half-day tour in Rio de Janeiro via air-conditioned bus

Detailed itinerary

Avenue in front of Copacabana Beach.

Stop 2 Pass by

Pass by the edge of the Copacabana Beach and get a panoramic view of one of the most famous beaches in Brazil.

Statue of a famous brazilian poet at Copacabana beach.

Stop 4 Pass by

Pass by the edge of the Ipanema Beach and get a panoramic view of the legendary beach that inspired the famous song "Garota de Ipanema".

Board the train through the forest on your way up to Christ the Redeemer.

Stop 6 Pass by

Pass by Tijuca Forest on your way up to Christ the Redeemer.

Stop 7

Go up by train to the top of the Corcovado Mountain, where is the Christ the Redeemer statue, pass by Tijuca Forest.

The total time includes transportation from Cosme Velho Station to the statue, the period at the top of Corcovado Mountain and the return.

Stop 8

Extern visit with a stop in front of the Bellini Statue. Entry admission not included. On event days on the stadium the stop might not be allowed by traffic authorities.

Stop 9 Pass by

The tour passes in front of the Sambadrome — the venue where Rio’s famous Carnival parades take place. This is a panoramic visit only, without stopping.

Stop 10

Internal visit.

Stop 11

Stop for photos.

What's not included

Drinks (available to purchase at Christ the Redeemer)

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

104 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Roundtrip transportation available from South Zone’s (Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leme) seafront hotels via air-conditioned bus.

Passengers not staying at one of the seafront hotels will be informed of the nearest pickup point and time.

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Children 4 and younger are complimentary, provided they do not occupy a seat

This tour operates rain or shine

Meeting point

Hotels in Leme.

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

Pick up from the hotel takes place before the start time of the activity. If you do not receive confirmation of your departure time, please contact us.

About Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, known as the 'Marvelous City,' is famous for its natural settings, Carnival, samba, bossa nova, and Balneario beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema. It's a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, including the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain.

Top Attractions

Christ the Redeemer

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this iconic statue offers breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours R$84 (including train ticket)

Sugarloaf Mountain

A famous peak offering stunning views of Rio de Janeiro and its beaches.

Nature 2-3 hours R$88 (round-trip cable car)

Copacabana Beach

One of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful sunsets.

Beach Half day or full day Free

Tijuca National Park

The world's largest urban forest, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Nature Half day or full day Free (some attractions may have fees)

Santa Teresa

A historic and bohemian neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and scenic views.

Cultural Half day Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Feijoada

A hearty stew made with black beans and various cuts of pork, often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.

Dinner Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Pão de Queijo

Cheese bread made with tapioca flour, giving it a unique texture and flavor.

Snack Vegetarian, but contains dairy.

Moqueca

A traditional fish stew cooked in coconut milk and dendê oil, with various seafood and vegetables.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan with vegetable broth and tofu.

Açaí

A thick, creamy fruit pulp from the açaí palm, often served with granola and condensed milk.

Dessert/Drink Can be made vegan with plant-based milk.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Tijuca National Park Surfing in Arpoador Paragliding in Pedra Bonita Beach lounging in Ipanema Spa treatments in Copacabana Yoga in Botafogo Visiting museums in Centro Attending a samba show

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and the famous Carnival in February/March. Expect crowded beaches and higher prices.

25-30°C 77-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Time Zone

GMT-3 (Brasília Time)

Electricity

110V/220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Rio de Janeiro is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and violence can occur. Exercise caution, especially in less touristy areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night in unsafe areas
• Use common sense and stay alert to your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
Santos Dumont Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center

By train

Central do Brasil

By bus

Rodoviária Novo Rio, Terminal Rodoviário da Gavea

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and air-conditioned, the metro is a great way to avoid traffic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, 99 Taxis

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Copacabana Ipanema Santa Teresa Lapa Botafogo

Day trips

Petrópolis

65 km (40 miles) • Full day

A charming colonial town in the mountains, known for its historic architecture and cool climate.

Paraty

170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight

A historic coastal town with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches.

Búzios

170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight

A picturesque beach town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

Festivals

Carnival • February/March (dates vary) Rio Carnival Samba Parade • February/March (dates vary) New Year's Eve (Réveillon) • December 31

Pro tips

Visit Christ the Redeemer early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views
Take a helicopter tour for a unique perspective of the city
Explore the less touristy neighborhoods like Santa Teresa and Botafogo for a more authentic experience
Try local street food like pão de queijo and coxinha for a taste of Brazilian flavors
Learn some basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals