Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Rio Like a Local

Active

3h - 4h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Escape the tourist path with this locals’ tour of Rio de Janeiro. Your carioca guide will share insider knowledge of the city as you explore on foot and by public transport. See Copacabana, the Municipal Teather, Selaron steps and other major sites through the eyes of a local, as your guide points out hidden cafés, rare specialist shops, and little-known architectural details.

Available options

Rio Like a Local

What's included

Public Transportation.

Private excursion with English-Spanish speaking Guide.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The tour starts at 9 am in the meeting point: in front of the famous "Copacabana Palace Hotel", icon of the 30´s / 40´s golden Copacabana years. After learning a bit about this place, you will walk a few blocks to get to the Subway Metro Station, main´s Carioca´s transport around the city every day.

Stop 2

You will then reach the Municipal Theatre built on an eclectic style on the first years of the XX century, located in the center of the city. A few blocks away, you will find and jump in the Bondinho Santa Teresa, a cable car built on 1872 that runs on the top of an old aqueduct called “Arcos da Lapa”.

After few stations, we reach the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa, passing by many old antique mansions from the first years of the XX century. You will find here the Parque das Ruinas (closed on Mondays), an old Palace ruins that was rebuilt and became the center of many art and cultural activities of the city with panoramic views in all its splendor. If clouds allow, you will see from here the City Center, Sugar loaf, Guanabara Bay and many others.
A few “Kodak” moments later, you will get to the Selaron Colorfull Stairs, a cultural main spot at Lapa neighbourhood, core of the Carioca´s nights.

Finally, you will enjoy the Confiteria Colombo, an old Art Nouveau coffe store from latest 1800, chosen as one of the ten beautiest coffe stores in the world (closed on Sundays).
When this visit is over, you will either we dropped at the Sugarloaf to get into the cable car or take the metro back to the Copacabana Palace where the tour ends.
Our guide will give you directions on how to get to the Christ the Redeemer by your own in the afternoon or can pre buy your Christ the Redeemer entrance fee as availability can be little during some periods.

What's not included

Entrance tickets and visits inside museums.

Tips, Personal Expenses.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

We meet in front of the famous "Copacabana Palace Hotel".

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