Santa Teresa Walking Tour in Rio de Janeiro
Description
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.
Tour Options
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.
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.
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.
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.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
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
Reviews(6)
Glad I included this tour during my first visit; fascinating Rio de Janerio bohemian neighborhood, bought this print from the artist - obrigado Rafael for a great last morning in Rio de Janerio. Even enjoyed the Metro, bus & tram transport.
Dear Stanley H, Thank you for your review! We are glad you had such a great time with us in Santa Teresa. We hope to see you again in future visits. Thank you. Pedro Malta em nome de Diogo M.
<p>When we were approached by the Tour Guide, I was shocked as I did not expect somebody not wearing the tour operator uniform. When I confirmed our booking a day earlier, I was informed I would be meeting somebody wearing the tour uniform. Also, I thought there were others booked but I found out I was the only one. Please don't get me wrong the tour guide was very accommodating, I just wished the tour could have been handled professionally.</p>
<p>I got a lot more information on the free walking tour I took.</p>
<p>the tour did not even exist -when we phoned to confirm it was not even offered that day-cost us 13hotel phone to find out we did not have the opportunity-to see Santa Teresa-so disappointed-will not use viator ever again.Glenna Stiles</p>
<p>My fav tour! Must do! The tour guide was amazing and so passionate about the place ! He shared a lot of educational information!</p>
<p>Great tour our guide was very friendly, very knowledgable, an showed us some great sights we wouldn't have known about, 100% recommend this</p>
