Tour in the Center of Rio de Janeiro: From the Foundation to the Modern River.

Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Tour in the Center of Rio de Janeiro: From the Foundation to the Modern River.

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About this experience

Knowing the historic center of Rio de Janeiro is essential to decolonize narratives. Exploring its historic streets is delving into untold history, revealing Afro-indigenous roots and black resistance beyond widespread colonial history.

This experience challenges Eurocentric views and rescues the memory of the marginalized, strengthening plural identities. Discover the origins of Rio and support responsible tourism by discovering important places, facts and characters in the history of Brazil through the Colonial, Imperial and Republican periods.

Guided tour with guides licensed by the Ministry of Tourism.

Heritage and decolonial historical narrative where Afro-Brazilian and indigenous culture are highlighted.‌

Purchase your tour now and discover the true essence of the city.

Available options

Historic Center in Portuguese

Duration: 3 hours

Historic Center in English

Duration: 3 hours

What's included

Tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

One of the most important cultural heritages in the country.

Stop 2

The Church of Nossa Senhora da Candelária is a Catholic temple located in the center of the city of Rio de Janeiro, in Brazil. It is one of the main religious monuments in the city, a traditional venue for weddings in Rio society.

Stop 3

Opened on October 12, 1989, CCBB Rio de Janeiro quickly became one of the most important cultural centers in the country. It is the most visited cultural institution in Brazil and 20th in the world, according to the ranking of the English publication The Art Newspaper (April/2014).

Stop 4

It is a national cultural heritage, listed by the National Historical and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN). It is an imposing neoclassical manor house, designed by Grandjean de Montigny, member of the French Artistic Mission (1816) and professor at the Imperial Academy of Fine Arts. Commissioned by João VI of Portugal in 1819 for the installation of the city's first Commerce Square, it was inaugurated on May 13, 1820.

Stop 5

Arco do Teles, a time tunnel to the 18th century in Praça XV.

Stop 6

The Paço Imperial is a historic building located in the current Praça XV de Novembro, in the center of the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Stop 7

Palácio Tiradentes was opened on May 6, 1926 and is located in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It was the former building of the Chamber of Deputies, between 1926 and 1960, and is the current headquarters of the Legislative Assembly of the State of Rio de Janeiro.

The Largo da Carioca is a landmark place in the city of Rio de Janeiro, located in the city center, between Plaza XV and Plaza Tiradentes. It is a place that brings together history, culture and urban architecture.

Stop 9

External visit to one of the most important Opera houses in Brazil.

Stop 10

External visit to the art museum that concentrates the largest collection of artwork of the 19th century, being one of the most important museums of the genre in the country.

Stop 11

Library depositary of the bibliographic and documentary heritage of Brazil, considered by UNESCO one of the ten largest national libraries in the world and the largest in Latin America. External visit.

Stop 12

External visit to the construction of Broadway Carioca. History of urban reforms and processes of removal of marginalized social groups and urban expansion.

What's not included

Alcoholic Beverages

Coffee and/or Tea

Soda/Pop

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN

Reviews breakdown

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1 reviews

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Look for our Tourist Guide at the entrance. Our Tourist Guide will be dressed in Royal Blue uniform, carrying credentials from the Ministry of Tourism.

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