• Sao Bento Monastery - The tour begins at the Monastery of São Bento, established in 1590 by Benedictine monks. This monastery is a remarkable example of Baroque architecture in Brazil. Its church, dedicated to Our Lady of Montserrat, is lavishly adorned with gilded carvings.
• Church of Our Lady of the Candelaria - The Candelária Church is among the largest and oldest churches in Rio. Initially a small chapel in the early 16th century, it was rebuilt between 1775 and 1898. The church features a blend of Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical styles and is situated on one of Rio’s most significant avenues.
• Feira da Praca XV - The next stop is Praça XV (Square XV), the center of Rio’s main events from the colonial to the republican era. At the square, visitors will see the Master Valentim Fountain, once located near the entrance of the old harbor. The tour also includes the Imperial Palace and the ancient coin house, a building rich in history.
• Igreja Nossa Senhora do Carmo da Antiga Se - Across the street, visitors will explore one of the city’s most important churches: Our Lady of Carmo Church, the former cathedral of Rio. It has hosted significant historical events, such as the coronations of Dom Pedro I and Dom Pedro II, and royal weddings.
• Tiradentes Palace - Adjacent to the Imperial Palace is the Tiradentes Palace, which served as the National Congress headquarters in 1926. Today, it stands as a national political symbol and is one of the most representative buildings of eclecticism from the 1920s. The tour will view it from the outside.
• Real Gabinete Portugues Da Leitura - After a stroll through the city center, the tour stops at the renowned “Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading.” Founded in 1877 by the Portuguese, the Cabinet houses approximately 350,000 volumes, including the first edition of “Os Lusíadas” from 1572. It gained fame recently for its resemblance to a Hogwarts library.
• The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian - The tour then moves to a newer part of the city to visit the modern Metropolitan Cathedral. Inspired by the Mayan Pyramids, the Cathedral impresses with its contemporary and unique architecture, illuminated by four 64-meter-high (209 feet) stained glass windows.
• Cinelandia - The next stop is Cinelândia, known for being a political and cultural hub in the early 20th century. The tour offers a panoramic view of Theatro Municipal, Ernesto Palace, and the National Library.
• Santa Teresa - The tour proceeds to the tram station to board the “Bondinho,” a historic tram connecting downtown Rio to Santa Teresa, providing a nostalgic experience and breathtaking views. The tram ride passes over the famous “Arcos da Lapa,” the largest colonial structure in Rio, and through Santa Teresa’s most important streets with stunning views of Downtown.
• Centro Cultural Municipal Parque das Ruinas - On the return journey, the tour stops at Largo do Guimarães, the neighborhood’s gastronomic center. From there, the walking tour begins in Santa Teresa, with the first stop at Glória Maria Park (formerly Ruin Park). This mansion, once the site of famous Belle Époque parties in Rio, was abandoned after its owner’s death and is now a cultural center hosting exhibitions and events, offering a spectacular view of Rio’s downtown and Sugar Loaf.
• Escadaria Selaron - To conclude the tour on a high note, the tour descends the streets of Santa Teresa to one of Rio’s top three tourist attractions: the Selarón Steps. Adorned with over 2,000 tiles from more than 60 countries, the steps are a tribute to Brazil by the eccentric artist Jorge Selarón.

• Bottled water
• Ticket to Subway Station
• Certified Tour Guide
• Tickets to Museums and Sightseeings
• Ticket to Santa Teresa Tram

• Lunch

This exceptional journey invites you to explore the historic streets of Rio, visiting the city’s oldest and most stunning buildings. This private tour is fully customizable for you, your partner, family, and friends.

The guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you downtown via subway for a walking tour. Our guides provide exclusive insights into the rich history and distinctiveness of Rio de Janeiro.

Afterward, you’ll ride the city’s last tram to the bohemian and historic Santa Teresa neighborhood, home to houses from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Perched on hilltops, this area offers breathtaking city views and is conveniently located near downtown, providing a genuine Rio experience.

There is an option to have lunch downtown or in Santa Teresa (lunch not included). The tour can also be conducted by private car for an additional fee.

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