Meeting 13:15h at Rio & Learn
Cost of the activity: 7,90 reais (metro) + 20,00 reais bonde de Santa Teresa (historical tram) + drinks or food at your choice
Get ready to discover one of the most bohemian, artistic, and charming neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro! In this RioLIVE! activity, we’ll explore Santa Teresa, a neighborhood known for its historic streets, old mansions, artists’ studios, traditional restaurants, and some of the most beautiful views in the city. Located in the hills of Rio, Santa Teresa preserves an atmosphere that seems to transport visitors back in time. During our tour, we’ll visit some of the neighborhood’s most famous spots, discover interesting facts about its history, and, of course, practice Portuguese while experiencing Carioca culture up close.
One of the neighborhood’s biggest attractions is the famous Santa Teresa Tram, one of the area’s most iconic symbols. Exploring its streets while admiring the old mansions and historic architecture is a great opportunity to discover a side of Rio that is very different from its beaches and more modern neighborhoods.
Santa Teresa is also known for its strong connection to art and culture. Many artists have chosen the neighborhood as a place to live and work, creating studios, galleries, and cultural spaces throughout its streets. During our tour, we’ll enjoy this bohemian atmosphere while talking about history, art, architecture, and everyday Carioca life.
Our experience also includes a visit to Parque das Ruínas, one of Santa Teresa’s most interesting cultural spaces. Built around the ruins of the former residence of Laurinda Santos Lobo, who hosted artists and intellectuals in the early 20th century, the site today combines history, culture, and beautiful views of Rio.
Afterward, we’ll visit the famous Selarón Steps, created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón. The steps are covered with thousands of colorful tiles from different parts of the world, transforming the staircase into a true open-air work of art. As we explore, you can even try to find a tile from your own country!
In addition to its art and history, Santa Teresa is also known for its food scene. Among its traditional bars and restaurants is Bar do Mineiro, famous for Brazilian and Minas Gerais cuisine, especially the traditional feijoada. It will be a great opportunity to discover more about Brazilian cuisine, learn vocabulary related to food and drinks, and, most importantly, continue practicing Portuguese in a real and relaxed setting.
Because few neighborhoods bring together so many different sides of Rio in one place. Santa Teresa combines history, art, architecture, gastronomy, bohemian culture, and incredible views, while preserving a unique personality within the city. During this RioLIVE!, we’ll practice Portuguese outside the classroom while discovering local stories, tasting Brazilian flavors, and experiencing one of Rio’s most authentic and cultural neighborhoods.
So grab your camera, bring your curiosity and your desire to explore. Let’s climb the hills of Santa Teresa and discover together all the charm of this special corner of the Marvelous City!
Click here and check out our last Santa Teresa RioLIVE! Activities
Yasmin Teixeira is Rio & Learn’s RioLIVE! Supervisor, bringing a strong background in hospitality, tourism, and event operations, which makes her a perfect match for leading unforgettable experiences in Rio. With hands-on experience coordinating corporate events and service teams in major hotels, she’s skilled at planning logistics, ensuring high service standards, and delivering smooth, guest-focused execution from start to finish. Her international experience in Germany and a natural talent for welcoming and assisting people means she knows how to create a warm, organized, and engaging environment for our students. Yasmin blends professionalism, energy, and attention to detail, exactly what RioLIVE! needs to run with excellence.
Subscribe to A Dica do Dia and get short, daily lessons in Portuguese completely free.
