Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Walking Tour in Santa Teresa and Lapa

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About this experience

Join us for a magical walking tour through Santa Teresa, Rio’s most artistic and bohemian neighborhood! Explore the charm of Largo dos Guimarães and Curvelo, take in the stunning views from Parque das Ruínas, and walk down the iconic Escadaria Selarón. We end in lively Lapa, home to samba and history.

Throughout the tour, your guide (a local expert) will share fascinating stories about Rio’s history, music, and spiritual life, while also pointing out street art, hidden alleys, and secret spots most tourists miss. This tour is a deep dive into the soul of Rio

Available options

Walking Tour in Santa Teresa and Lapa

What's included

the Ticket to the local Tram from the Center to Santa Tereza is included

Detailed itinerary

The tour begins with the ride of the local Tram from the Center of Rio de Janeiro to the first stop at the largo de Guimaraes in Santa Tereza. Largo dos Guimaraes is considered the bohemian heart of Santa Tereza with lots of Bars, Restaurants and Shops with handcrafted souvenirs made by the local artists

From the Largo dos Guimaraes we will walk to the Largo do Curvelo stopping to appreciate the views of the center of Rio de Janeiro and admire the buildings from the 50 th and it´s history.

Stop 3

The park of the Ruins is know known as the Park of Gloria Maria a very well known Brasilian Jornalist. It is a great point to take pictures with the best views of Rio de Janeiro: The Center, the aeroport Santos Dumont , Niteroi, The Guanabara Bay and Sugar Loaf and have some drinks

Stop 4

From the Park of the ruins we will walk tradicional streets of Santa Tereza stopping by to admire the houses and the buildings unti´ll we reach the famous Stair case of Selaron which is decorated with tiles from all over the world. We will be able to take lots of pictures.

Stop 5

In Lapa i will show you the Arch of Lapa, some famous bars, Lapa is known as the heart of Rio´s night life.And i will also show you the Altar of Zé Pilintra which is considered an entity that is street wise according to the Umbanda Religion
the tour ends at the subway station of Carioca.

What's not included

Alcoholic Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Take line 1 or 2 of the subway to get to Carioca station. The closest exit is B – República do Chile. Walk for about 400 meters . It is located at Rua Lélio Gama, no. 2. In other words, in the central area of Rio de Janeiro, practically next to the Petrobrás Building.

Important notes

the meeting point is at: Follow the staircase you will see a booth i will be waiting theyre Do not go all the way up the staircases.it is very close to the entrance of the tram to Santa Tereza

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