Santa Teresa Walking Tour in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Santa Teresa Walking Tour in Rio de Janeiro

Active

(6 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Leave behind the glitz of Copacabana and discover another side of Rio on this 4-hour walking tour. Follow an expert guide into the cobblestoned hilly neighborhood of Santa Teresa, where old meets the new. Inside revitalized belle-epoque mansions, uncover a thriving bohemian spirit: art studios, trendy bars and shops. Capture sweeping views from Ruins Park, browse through spontaneously organized art exhibits and then descend the well-known steps of Selarón Stairs. Learn history and receive tips on the latest hotspots of Santa Teresa from your in-the-know guide.

Available options

Santa Teresa Walking Tour in Rio de Janeiro

What's included

Professional guide

Detailed itinerary

Meeting point is at Cine Odeon right in front of Cinelândia Metro Station. The common way to get up to Santa Teresa is by Tram through the Lapa Arcs (Arcos da Lapa) a former aqueduct, but the tram line is temporarily deactivated, so we go up by bus. From there the little cobblestone streets invite you to be acquainted with the charming neighborhood of Santa Teresa.

Stop 2

The neighborhood has a complete different vibe from the rest of Rio. Here Old Rio comes alive. Santa Teresa is a neighborhood where casualty and tradition meet.

It is full of artists who find in Santa Teresa an inspiring scenery and way of life that helps them create their art and work on their craft whatever that is. At night, it hosts the bohemian crowd of Rio, who dodge the most popular places and go for the lesser known little spots amongst Santa Teresa’s inspiring architecture.

Stop 3

In Santa Teresa there is a wild variety of interesting places to get to know. From the Ruins Park (Parque das Ruínas) where you get to see one of the most beautiful views of the lesser known Rio, to the random exhibits organized by the different artists’ workshops around the neighborhood.

Stop 4

Leave Santa Teresa’s treasured little secrets behind as you walk down the Selaron stairway steps to reach Lapa. The beautiful steps done in ceramic by artist Jorge Selarón are one of a kind. The Chilean Selarón was in love with Rio and that love shows on these very steps. The pieces of ceramic were placed on top of the paintings done by the locals who were decorating the stairs in show of support for the National Soccer Team in 1994’s World Cup, won by Brazil.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Gratuities

Food and Drinks

Tickets to attractions

Public Transportation Fees

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 2.6

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Hotel pick ups and drop offs are not available. The meeting point is at Municipal Theater stairs. Address: Praça Floriano, s/n - Centro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20031-050

Meeting point

Hotel pick ups and drop offs are not available. The meeting point is at Municipal Theater stairs.
Address: Praça Floriano, s/n - Centro, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20031-050

Important notes

Please contact Gray Line Brazil at 55 (21) 3586-8687 or 55 (21) 99777‑5888 to confirm your tour at least 48 hours prior to the activity time. Please have your voucher in hand to present to the guide upon boarding. Office working hours: from 7am to 9pm (local time) daily.

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