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- Portuguese
- English
- Spanish
Discover the Best of Rio: Selarón Steps, Lapa Arches, Cathedral, Real Gabinete, and Confeitaria Colombo
Experience Rio de Janeiro's cultural icons on a safe and charming tour! Begin at the vibrant Selarón Steps, stroll through the historic Lapa Arches, and visit the stunning Metropolitan Cathedral. Dive into the literary beauty of the Real Gabinete Português de Leitura, then unwind at the elegant Confeitaria Colombo, where history meets culinary delights.
This tour offers a complete and unhurried exploration of Rio’s treasures, ensuring a relaxed and authentic experience. It is perfect for travelers looking to discover Rio with ease and authenticity.
It is important to clarify that the travel time at each site and the tour time, in general, may differ due to the waiting conditions to enter each site and the transportation time between one site and another.
For this reason, the estimated time of the tour is generally 4 to 5 hours, and the accumulated time at each site is 3 hours.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Meeting Point: Selarón Steps Our tour starts at the iconic Selarón Steps, located between Lapa and Santa Teresa. This easily accessible spot is famous for its vibrant, colorful mosaics. The guide will be waiting for you at the bottom of the steps, close to the main entrance.
To end the tour on a high note, we will finish at Confeitaria Colombo, one of the most traditional and elegant spots in Rio de Janeiro. Founded in 1894, this iconic café is known for its grand architecture and its delicious selection of sweets and savory treats.
Itinerary
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1Escalera De Selaron
Selarón Steps is one of Rio de Janeiro's most vibrant and colorful attractions, nestled between Lapa and Santa Teresa. Created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, the staircase features over 2,000 tiles from around the world, transforming it into a living, ever-evolving masterpiece. This cultural icon is bursting with creativity and history. Visiting the Selarón Steps is a deep dive into Rio’s artistic and multicultural soul, making it an absolute must-see on any trip to the city.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Arcos da Lapa
Lapa Arches: History and Culture in the Bohemian Heart of Rio The Lapa Arches are one of Rio de Janeiro's most iconic landmarks, where history and culture converge in the heart of the city. Built-in the 18th century, this colonial engineering marvel holds a key place in Brazil’s history and Rio’s urban development. During the tour, you’ll learn about the historical significance of the arches and their role in the city’s transformation. Beyond their historical importance, the Lapa Arches are the epicenter of Rio’s bohemian nightlife. Surrounding the monument, you'll find a vibrant cultural scene with bars, music venues, restaurants, and artistic spaces celebrating samba and other Brazilian rhythms.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian
Metropolitan Cathedral of São Sebastião: A Modern Icon of Rio de Janeiro With its striking modern architecture, the Metropolitan Cathedral of São Sebastião is one of Rio de Janeiro's most impressive attractions. Inside, the cathedral is equally breathtaking, with vibrant stained glass windows stretching from floor to ceiling, creating a stunning light display. Dedicated to the city's patron saint São Sebastião, this cathedral is a religious and cultural center and a major tourist landmark in Rio.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Real Gabinete Portugues de Leitura
Real Gabinete Português de Leitura: A Literary Gem in the Heart of Rio The Real Gabinete Português de Leitura is one of Rio de Janeiro's most stunning architectural and cultural treasures. Founded in 1837, this magnificent building houses the largest collection of Portuguese-language works outside Portugal. Its neo-Manueline façade and breathtaking interior, with carved wooden bookshelves and a majestic glass ceiling, create a setting that captivates every visitor. More than just a library, the Real Gabinete is a monument to the culture and history of the Portuguese language, making it a must-visit for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Confeitaria Colombo
Confeitaria Colombo: A Historic and Culinary Landmark in Rio Founded in 1894, Confeitaria Colombo is one of Rio de Janeiro's most beautiful and traditional cafés. Located in the heart of the city, this charming spot boasts Belle Époque architecture, featuring grand Belgian mirrors, jacaranda wood furniture, and colorful stained glass, evoking the glamour of a bygone era. Beyond its elegant atmosphere, Colombo is famous for its exquisite selection of pastries, savory treats, and teas, offering visitors a unique culinary experience. It's a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in Rio’s rich history and gastronomic delights.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Travel time was included to the total duration of the Tour
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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