From the Past to the Present: A Historical Walking Tour of Rio

5.0 (119 reviews) 4–5 hours Free cancellation

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119 reviews

5.0

From the Past to the Present: A Historical Walking Tour of Rio — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

The world famous Selaron stairs. 215 Steps of pure art. — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Limited Time in Rio? Discover Hidden Gems & Local Life!

Maximize your Rio adventure with our unique tour, perfect for those who want to go beyond the usual tourist spots. Escape the crowds, breathe in the fresh air, and truly connect with the city by mingling with locals. Along the way, you'll explore unique buildings and uncover fascinating stories about Rio's history and culture. Experience the authentic Carioca spirit in a way that fits your schedule. Book your unforgettable glimpse into the real Rio today!"

Half-day Tours Private and Luxury Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours Small Group Excellent Quality Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate

At a glance

Duration: 4–5 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 10 people
People per booking: 1–6
Guide: English
Operated by: Boston Bruno Tours

Ages: Youth (12–17 years) · Adults (18–60 years)

What is included

Included

Included: We use the VLT train system to access some of the locations on the list.
Included: Licensed Tour Guide

Itinerary

Cinelandia

20 min

This is where our experience will start. We will meet at Starbucks. Cinelandia is an area where some of the prettiest buildings in Rio are located. Theatro Municipal, Biblioteca Nacional, Museu Nacional de Artes and the old Supremo Tribunal Federal buildings.
Passeio Publico

30 min

Here we'll visit the first public park in Latin America.
Escadaria Selaron

20 min

Here we'll visit the world famous Selaron Steps. This amazing art work measures 125 meters long with over 2000 tiles.
Arcos da Lapa

Passing by

Here we'll see an engineering marvel from the the 1700's. This water aqueduct was used to supply water to the city and now is used by the Bondinho de Santa Teresa.
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian

20 min

Here we'll visit a very unique and different Cathedral.
Stop 6

10 min

One of the most beautiful churches in the city and the second-largest temple in the city.
Largo da Carioca

Passing by

Here we'll see how the city changed since its beginning.
Mosteiro De Sao Bento

15 min

The Monastery of São Bento do Rio de Janeiro is a historic monastery located on Morro de São Bento, in the center of the city of Rio de Janeiro. It is one of the main monuments of colonial art in the city and in the country.
Maua Square

Passing by

We'll pass by Mauá Square on our way to the famous Kobra Graffiti.
Stop 10

5 min

Largo de São Francisco da Prainha is a charming historic square in Rio’s Little Africa district. Surrounded by colorful colonial buildings and the Church of São Francisco da Prainha, it reflects the city’s port history, Afro-Brazilian culture, and the traditions that helped shape samba and Rio’s identity.
Pedra do Sal

5 min

Pedra do Sal is one of Rio de Janeiro’s most important Afro-Brazilian cultural landmarks. Located in Little Africa, it became a gathering place for formerly enslaved people, musicians, and workers. Today, it is celebrated as one of the birthplaces of samba and a proud symbol of Black history in Rio.
Cais do Valongo

5 min

The Cais do Valongo (Valongo Wharf) is an archaeological site located in the port area of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It holds immense historical and spiritual significance as it was the main landing point and trading center for enslaved Africans brought to Brazil between 1811 and 1831.
Painel Etnias

5 min

The largest graffiti in the world.