Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 7 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour worth booking?
Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour is a 4-hour experience in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from $225 per person. It scores 57 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 5/5 rating across 7 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 57 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (7)
- Duration
- 4 hours
- From
- $225 per person
Santa Teresa is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Rio. The bucolic atmosphere, its old buildings, and the traditional yellow cable car turn the neighborhood into one must-see place. Moreover, Santa Teresa is also famous for its gastronomy diversities. There are many bars, restaurants, and cafes, each with its particular style. At Santa Teresa, you can find haute cuisine, German food, a carioca typical bar, besides, the popular Brazilian northeastern food. Therefore, Santa Teresa is an eclectic place. It is a true paradise for those who like to eat well and discover new flavors. However, on our walking tour, we focused on simple, traditional bars and restaurants that represent Rio's street life soul. After Santa Teresa, we go down the hill to explore the other bohemian stronghold of Rio - The Lapa neighborhood! At Lapa, besides, browsing around, we will visit nice places to hear and enjoy Samba music.
What you get
About this experience
Santa Teresa is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Rio. The bucolic atmosphere, its old buildings, and the traditional yellow cable car turn the neighborhood into one must-see place. Moreover, Santa Teresa is also famous for its gastronomy diversities. There are many bars, restaurants, and cafes, each with its particular style. At Santa Teresa, you can find haute cuisine, German food, a carioca typical bar, besides, the popular Brazilian northeastern food. Therefore, Santa Teresa is an eclectic place. It is a true paradise for those who like to eat well and discover new flavors. However, on our walking tour, we focused on simple, traditional bars and restaurants that represent Rio's street life soul. After Santa Teresa, we go down the hill to explore the other bohemian stronghold of Rio - The Lapa neighborhood! At Lapa, besides, browsing around, we will visit nice places to hear and enjoy Samba music.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
What you'll see and do
The bucolic atmosphere of its old buildings and the traditional yellow cable car turn the Santa Teresa neighborhood into one must-see. It is a perfect place for a walking tour. Moreover, the Santa Teresa neighborhood is also famous for its gastronomy diversities. There are many bars, restaurants, and cafes, each with its particular style. In the Santa Teresa neighborhood, you can find haute cuisine, German food, and Carioca typical bars, besides, popular Brazilian northeastern food. Therefore, the Santa Teresa neighborhood is an eclectic place. It is a true paradise for those who like to eat well and discover new flavors. However, on our walking tour, we focused on simple, traditional bars and restaurants that represent Rio's street life soul. After the Santa Teresa neighborhood, we go down the hill to explore the other bohemian stronghold of Rio - The Lapa neighborhood. In the Lapa neighborhood, besides, browsing around, we will visit nice places to hear and enjoy Samba music.
Pass by without stopping
Our first stop will be at the "Armazém São Joaquim" Located in one of the most traditional, rustic, and charming townhouses in the center of Santa Teresa, a neighborhood in the central area of the city of Rio de Janeiro. The "Armazém Cultural São Joaquim" is a cultural, artistic, and gastronomic center where the public can find in a single place the specialty of Brazilian cuisine, in an old-fashioned tavern, combined with a multitude of activities and artistic events that include workshops and art workshops, poetry and philosophy, music, photography, in addition to a rich cultural program consisting of dramatized readings, poetic soirées, theater shows, acoustic musical shows, and literary releases. At Armazém São Joaquim you will try one of their famous snacks - Espetinhos (skewers). You'll be kindly invited to choose between Noble beef skewer (The favorite one among meat lovers): Rare, medium rare, or well-done barbecue.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Second Stop - Bar do Mineiro (Miner's Bar) A classic carioca the bar do Mineiro is super traditional in Santa Teresa, it gathers many tourists and Cariocas every day. With a bohemian atmosphere, walls of old tiles, simplicity, and zero luxury. The house is famous for its snacks and cold beer. At Bar do Mineiro you'll try: The Famous Caldinho de feijão (Brothy beans) - A well-seasoned and very nutritious bean broth served in a cup or bowl. The bean broth is a tasty appetizer, much loved among Brazilians, special those bohemians who like to have a cup of "Caldinho de Feijão" once in while through the night to balance the drunkenness and avoid a hangover. Delicious!!!
Pass by without stopping
3rd Stop - Armazém de São Thiago in Santa Teresa | Bar do Gomes. Even the path from the center of Santa Teresa neighborhood to the Bar do Gomes, a little further away from the center (10 min walk) is like a trip back in time. Also known as Bar do Gomez, this quaint bar offering a variety of snacks in a cool 1920s-style gallery has been on the same corner since 1919. The Bar do Gomes is one of the most iconic and traditional in Rio de Janeiro. It's a unique retro environment. The place is one of the most popular sites in the Santa Teresa neighborhood. In 2011 the establishment acquired the status of "Cultural Heritage of the city of Rio de Janeiro", after being listed by the city hall. At Armazém São Joaquim/Bar do Gomes you will try: The beef jerky with gorgonzola ball The Codfish ball For drinks, we highly suggest you try the Caipirinha! It is said to be the best one in town! Cheers!
Pass by without stopping
Agô - Bar da Encruza is the newest bar in Santa Teresa. The space celebrates religions of African origin. Our last stop in Santa Teresa's neighborhood is at Agô - Bar da Encruza. It is one of the newest bars in Santa Teresa's neighborhood. The space celebrates religions of African origin. The expression “Agô” means a license request for entry/exit, and passage movements in Yoruba religious temples. Therefore, Agô is an Afro-centric bar and restaurant. The Agô-Bar da Encruza was created by businesswoman Kananda Soares, in 2001. Before, Kanada had created another very unique place in the Santa Teresa neighborhood: "The Favela Hype". At Agô, the decoration, the menu, and even the crafted drinks are a tribute to the terreiros. Therefore, Agô-Bar da Encruza honors terreiros (Afro-Brazilian religious temples) in their dishes and delicious drinks and appetizers. Agô - Bar da Encruza is about a black protagonist. Agô!
30 minutes here · Admission included
Leviano Bar
At Leviano Bar there is a mix of Samba, forró and even acrobatic shows With a beautiful view of the Arcos da Lapa and the Cathedral, the Leviano Bar has a wonderful kitchen, with well-prepared meals, snacks, and sweets. The drinks are made by bartenders who put on a show while preparing the drinks that are the main highlights of the house, such as the Sexy Delícia and the Amante.
Pass by without stopping
The last attraction: Beco do Rato Located in a hidden corner, between Lapa and Gloria Neighborhood, Beco do Rato has been operating since 2005. A place of good music, culture, beautiful people, personalities, cold beer, and great snacks. In charge of the counter is Marcio Pacheco, also responsible for the best samba circle in Rio, Samba Luzia. A devotee of São Jorge, Márcio did a bit of everything during his career, but he always knew that his home would be the tavern. Indeed, the area was in a previously neglected space where he created his bar, initially opened as a beverage warehouse, and later it helped to revitalize the region, close to the famous Escadaria Selarón. You will love this place! We can't wait to have you on our tour!
60 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Rio de Janeiro
Um Guia com o uniforme Branco ou cor Laranja da Florencios Tour estará a sua espera na porta do Cine Santa Teresa - Rua Paschoal Carlos Magno, 136 - Largo do Guimarães Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Restaurant and Samba Club.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- pt, en, it, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
- Group size
- Up to 6 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Florencios Tour
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 7 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Traveler reviews
7 verified traveler reviews for Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Santa Teresa Bohemian District
The Santa Teresa Bohemian district was exciting!
Response from the operator: So glad you enjoyed Santa Teresa! 🧡 It’s one of those neighborhoods where Rio’s art, history, and bohemian spirit come together in such a special way. Thank you for exploring it with us! 🇧🇷
via Tripadvisor
Finding special samba concerts and more--great tour!
We had a great time on this tour--Santa Teresa is a charming neighborhood, Lapa has an interesting history, and Damiana was a charming and well-informed guide! She knows so much about Brazilian history, music, art, religions, and other topics, and I thoroughly enjoyed the time with her! She found great Samba music for us, even on a Monday, including places mainly known to locals. I highly recommend this tour!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your review! Our goal is always to deliver the best local experience to our travelers.
via Tripadvisor
Fantastic night tour!
This was a wonderful way to get a taste of Rio’s nightlife and different kinds of samba! Damiana is a wonderful guide - so knowledgeable and energizing. She provides terrific history and background that helps us appreciate more deeply what we are seeing. We went to places we never would have found on our own.
Response from the operator: Thank you very much to share. We are very glad you enjoyed our Samba by Night Tour! Best wishes.
via Tripadvisor
Best way to explore Rio at night
We highly recommend this tour. The food was amazing, the guide was entertaining and knowledgeable and checking out the areas at night with the music was a treat.
via Tripadvisor
Fun fun fun tour
This tour was extremely fun and Damania and Florencio tours definitely showed me how versatile Lapa can be. I was ushered through different arenas where I was able to shop late, encounter and be part of an outdoor dance party, encounter a swing party, and watch live samba. It is a fun night time event I would recommend for anyone.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 4 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
- Price range
- $225 to $320
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 2
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 57
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Rio de Janeiro.
How much does Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour cost?
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Prices start at $225 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Rio de Janeiro usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour take?
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Plan for about 4 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Rio de Janeiro is not rushed.
Is Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 57 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 7 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Rio de Janeiro, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour?
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Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Rio de Janeiro can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Rio de Janeiro and add a light layer if any part of the 4-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Rio de Janeiro within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro?
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On Outty we rank every Rio de Janeiro experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Pedra da Gávea hike, your best experience in Rio, Favela Tour Rio de Janeiro - Vidigal Walking Tour by Russo Guide, Rio's Full Day: Selarón Steps, Christ & Sugarloaf – Tickets & Lunch Included. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Rio de Janeiro?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour?
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Included: Private transportation. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour?
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Um Guia com o uniforme Branco ou cor Laranja da Florencios Tour estará a sua espera na porta do Cine Santa Teresa - Rua Paschoal Carlos Magno, 136 - Largo do Guimarães Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour offered in?
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It is offered in Portuguese, English, Italian and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Rio Santa Teresa and Lapa Samba Tour?
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Across 7 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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