Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Rio de Janeiro History Walking Tour

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About this experience

The tour offers a guided walk through the main historical and cultural landmarks of downtown Rio de Janeiro, combining history, and gastronomy. The tour begins in Cinelândia, famous for its cinemas, and buildings such as the Municipal Theater, the National Library, and others.
Next, the tour continues to the Church of São Francisco da Penitência, notable for the splendor of Brazilian Baroque architecture. Visitors then visit the Real Gabinete Português de Leitura, one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.
The gastronomic stop takes place at the traditional Confeitaria Colombo, where you can taste typical Brazilian delicacies.
The tour continues to Praça XV, passing by historical sites such as the Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo, and the Chafariz do Mestre Valentim fountain. The walk continues through Arco do Teles, a hub of bars and samba, and Casa Tucum, a cultural center with works by indigenous peoples.
At the end, visitors can try a typical Brazilian lunch.

Available options

Rio de Janeiro History Walking Tour

What's included

Professional tour guide with live commentary in Portuguese, English, and Spanish

Entrance to the Sacred Museum of the Convent of Saint Anthony

Guided half-day walking tour

Lunch with appetizer, main course, and dessert

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Start your tour here. This famous square was once a hub of art and culture due to the many theaters and cinemas that were concentrated there

Discover this imposing building from the era of the Portuguese Empire.

Stop 3

With over 200 years of history, the National Library is the oldest Brazilian institution, predating even the constitution of Brazil as an independent nation.

Stop 4

one of the largest museums in the country, owner of the largest collection of 19th-century Brazilian art.

Visit the Church of São Francisco da Penitência.

Stop 6

One of the most beautiful libraries in the world! Perfect for beautiful pictures.

A permanent member of all the “must-visit cafes” rankings around the world

Main port of entry for Colonial and Imperial Brazil. Home to the Imperial Palace and the Mestre Valentim Fountain.

Stop 9 Pass by

A hotspot for lively bars with lots of samba.

A cultural center with exhibitions and handicrafts created by different indigenous peoples of Brazil.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant with 15 years of tradition located on the most famous, elegant, and charming street at the time when Rio de Janeiro was the capital of the Empire.

What's not included

Snacks and Drinks (available for purchase at Confeitaria Colombo)

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The lunch includes admission, main course, and dessert per person. Drinks are paid separately.

Entrance: Chevre salad (mixed greens, nuts, balsamic vinegar, and goat cheese with herbs), Italian eggplant – served with house bread, Café Paris salad (iceberg lettuce, roasted tomatoes, pastrami, ricotta, and sauce), Campagne pâté (French pork and chicken terrine) served with mini green salad and house bread, and ricotta paste with green olives – served with house bread.

Main course: Fish and shrimp moqueca with white rice and dendê farofa; picadinho carioca with rice, beans, farofa, and poached egg; cassava escondidinho with dried meat; pork ribs with tropeiro beans; red feijoada (made with our meats smoked in-house over apple wood – pork loin, ribs, dried beef, paio sausage and calabresa sausage, with rice, farofa and kale (always on FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS)

Dessert: Chocolate-filled profiteroles, condensed milk pudding; chocolate ice cream cake with Negresco crumbs and pineapple with lemon zest.

Customers will have access to the restaurant with the possibility of shared tables (to be determined, subject to availability).

Meeting point

Cinelândia Square - Exit A of the subway, in front of the Floriano Peixoto monument.

Important notes

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.

Meeting point: Cinelândia, in front of the Floriano Peixoto monument - Subway exit A (Theatro Municipal).

Please be punctual. Arrive 5 minutes early. The tour will follow its itinerary regardless of delays.

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours.

The tour includes admission to religious temples, so please do not wear overly short clothing, swimwear, sports tops, or enter the site shirtless.

It is recommended to bring water, sunglasses, a hat, identification, and preferably smaller bags and backpacks.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

The adult price applies to all travelers.

The maximum group size is 20 people.

This tour operates in rain or shine.

Wear comfortable shoes for a walking tour.

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