Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro
Travel back in time in our Rio Free Walking Tour of Downtown and relive the past while walking through the charming colonial streets of Rio and learning about the four centuries of the history of the city. Join our tour to understand more about the Brazilian culture and society since the colonization until today.
We will visit some of the most important places in Brazilian history as the Imperial Palace and ALERJ , some of the most famous places in Rio as Municipal Theater and Colombo Bakery, and a few hidden gems that we'll keep secret until the tour.
Come on and booking now this tour with us!
When visiting Brazil, it’s impossible not to talk about the influence of Africa on our culture! Just imagine samba, capoeira, or feijoada, the things that Brazil is known for in the world. All these things have their roots in the African enslaved communities of Brazil! Learn stories about how the Brazilian cultural identity was formed during the years since slavery times until today. Meanwhile, visit important historical & contemporaneous landmarks in this less-visited area of downtown Rio de Janeiro!
Small Africa is the historic home of the Afro-Brazilian community in the Port Region of Rio de Janeiro. The region became known as Little Africa after the slave trade was made illegal in Brazil in 1831 (although the abolition of slavery did not take place until 50 years later). Between 1850 and 1920, freed slaves remained working in the region. Blacks and freed Africans from Bahia or the interior traveled to Little Africa in search of work and a sense of community. Today the area is known as a place of the black resistance.
Places we will cover:
- Praça Mauá
- MAR - Rio Art Museum
- Museu do Amanhã
- Eduardo Kobra Ethnicities Graffiti
- Largo São Francisco da Prainha
- São Francisco da Prainha Church
- Conceição Hill
- Salt Stone (Pedra do Sal)
- Cais do Valongo (Valongo Wharf)
In small groups, we'll take you on a tour of the Santa Teresa neighborhood, which is perched on a hilltop with wonderful bars, shops, and views of the city of Rio de Janeiro.
We will reach the neighborhood on the famous Santa Teresa cable car. We will pass over the Arcos da Lapa, run all the way from the gondola to the end and get off at Largo dos Guimarães.
From there we will continue on foot passing through bars, restaurants and shops and graffiti to Parque das Ruinas.
We will then go down the Santa Teresa hill, until we reach the Selarón Staircase, built by the artist Jorge Selarón, famous for containing more than 200 steps with more than 2,000 tiles from more than 60 countries. We go to the staircase for photos and get to know a little bit about the life of your builder.
To pick up the Santa Teresa hill you have to buy a ticket that costs R$ 20,00 (twenty reais)
The bohemian heart of Rio de Janeiro awaits you. During the free tour of the Santa Teresa neighborhood you will discover beautiful mansions, charming yellow trams and numerous urban art murals. The journey will take us approximately 15 minutes. We will begin to walk through its cobblestone streets while we chat about the history of this area. Did you know that its fame as a bohemian comes from the wave of artists who moved here in the sixties? During the tour we will enjoy privileged views of the popular Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro. Between colonial houses, palaces and the passage of the famous yellow trams of the Santa Teresa neighborhood, we will arrive at Parque das Ruinas. There we can enter the house of Laurinda Santos Lobo, a mansion abandoned more than 50 years ago that once represented the splendor of the Brazilian belle époque. The space, which has been rehabilitated, will offer us a spectacular panoramic view of Rio de Janeiro and will show us what life was like in the ancient Brazilian Empire. This guided tour will not miss a walk through the main urban art murals. Let's remember that we are in a place full of artists.
Come and discover the charming Santa Teresa neighborhood on our Free Walking Tour, a journey through the history and culture of Rio de Janeiro that passes through emblematic places full of fascinating stories. We start at Largo dos Guimarães, the bohemian heart of the neighborhood, full of street art and a vibrant atmosphere. We headed to Bar dos Descasados, a picturesque place perfect for photos.
Next, we visit Atelier Bonzolandia, where you can discover local art and see how artists transform common materials into true works of art. We cannot miss visiting Bar do Gomes, one of the oldest and most emblematic bars in the city. We continue to Parque das Ruínas, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Rio while exploring the ruins of an ancient palace. And finally, we arrive at the famous Escadaria Selarón, one of the most photographed tourist attractions in the city.
Choosing our tour means having experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the history and secrets of Santa Teresa and a welcoming environment, perfect for those traveling alone, groups of friends or families. Book your place now and discover Santa Teresa in a unique and unforgettable way!
“Rio de Janeiro is still gorgeous”, is one of the most beautiful and simple quotes that portrays the Amazing Rio de Janeiro. The energy, monuments and the spectacular mix of sea and mountains, makes the landscape of Rio breathtaking. Did you know Rio is considered part of the world’s heritage? We from Rio By foot invite you to learn little bit more about the history and culture of the incredible Rio de Janeiro city. We’ll walk through historical downtown and take you back to times of kings and queens, emperors, freedom fighters and revolutionaries. We’re certain that you will fall in love with Rio de Janeiro even more. You’ll discover that Rio is not only home the most beautiful beaches of the world, but also the gorgeous architectural heritage of one of the most classical European courts. Rio By Foot is the only Free Tour company in Rio de Janeiro city with 5 stars on Trip Advisor. Walk through the historical downtown with us to learn about the city history in one of our Free Walking Tours in Rio. Our guides really love Rio and are going to enjoy showing you all Rio wonders and make your stay the most pleasant, interesting and economic as possible.
Walk through the most famous historical places of Afro-Rio de Janeiro, an immersion in Afro-Brazilian culture, gastronomy and traditions. In this walking tour you will learn about important black personalities who fought with all their hearts to end slavery in Brazil in emblematic places of resistance and culture. You will learn about the beautiful history of resistance that exists behind the samba, of course, end the day with a tasty caipirinha.
Ditch the guidebook and uncover the beating heart of Rio de Janeiro! On this unforgettable walking tour, we'll guide you through a city rich in history, culture, and vibrant energy.
Here's a taste of what you'll experience:
- Cinelandia
- Escadaria Selaron
- Confeitaria Colombo
- Paço Imperial
- Praça XV
And that's just the beginning! Our local guides will share insider stories, hidden gems, and insights that will make you fall in love with Rio in every step. Get ready for a sensory adventure that will awaken your senses and leave you with lasting memories.
Ready to experience the real Rio? Let's take a walk!
