From the Past to the Present: A Historical Walking Tour of Rio

Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

From the Past to the Present: A Historical Walking Tour of Rio

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(109 reviews)

4h - 5h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Limited Time in Rio? Discover Hidden Gems & Local Life!

Maximize your Rio adventure with our unique tour, perfect for those who want to go beyond the usual tourist spots. Escape the crowds, breathe in the fresh air, and truly connect with the city by mingling with locals. Along the way, you'll explore unique buildings and uncover fascinating stories about Rio's history and culture. Experience the authentic Carioca spirit in a way that fits your schedule. Book your unforgettable glimpse into the real Rio today!"

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From the Past to the Present: A Historical Walking Tour of Rio

What's included

Licensed Tour Guide

We use the VLT train system to access some of the locations on the list.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This is where our experience will start. We will meet at Starbucks. Cinelandia is an area where some of the prettiest buildings in Rio are located. Theatro Municipal, Biblioteca Nacional, Museu Nacional de Artes and the old Supremo Tribunal Federal buildings.

Here we'll visit the first public park in Latin America.

Stop 3

Here we'll visit the world famous Selaron Steps. This amazing art work measures 125 meters long with over 2000 tiles.

Stop 4 Pass by

Here we'll see an engineering marvel from the the 1700's. This water aqueduct was used to supply water to the city and now is used by the Bondinho de Santa Teresa.

Stop 5

Here we'll visit a very unique and different Cathedral.

A quick stop at Praça Tiradentes

Stop 7

The Royal Portuguese Reading Room is a truly stunning place, but it can get incredibly busy with long lines. This might affect how much time we can spend inside. To keep our tour on schedule, we might only be able to see the outside of the building.

One of the most beautiful churches in the city and the second-largest temple in the city.

Here we'll see how the city changed since its beginning.

Stop 10

The Monastery of São Bento do Rio de Janeiro is a historic monastery located on Morro de São Bento, in the center of the city of Rio de Janeiro. It is one of the main monuments of colonial art in the city and in the country.

We'll pass by Mauá Square on our way to the famous Kobra Graffiti.

The largest graffiti in the world.

The Cais do Valongo (Valongo Wharf) is an archaeological site located in the port area of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It holds immense historical and spiritual significance as it was the main landing point and trading center for enslaved Africans brought to Brazil between 1811 and 1831.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

109 reviews

5★

109

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We'll meet in front of Starbucks.

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