Santa Teresa Tram Ride, Selaron Steps and Lapa Tour Rio de Janeiro

The Santa Teresa tram and the Lapa Arches

The yellow Santa Teresa tram is a symbol of old Rio, running on tracks that cross the Carioca Aqueduct, better known as the Arcos da Lapa. The stone arches were built in the 18th century to bring water to the city, and later the tram line was laid across the top. The tram climbs from the city centre up to the hilltop neighbourhood of Santa Teresa, and the ride is one of the most charming things to do in Rio.

The tram is open-sided and rattles slowly along narrow streets, so hold on and enjoy the views of the bay and the old town from above. The ride is included in the tour, so you do not need to queue or buy a ticket yourself. Your guide explains the history of the line and the neighbourhoods it links.

Santa Teresa, the hilltop artists' quarter

Santa Teresa sits on a hill above the city centre and is known for its cobbled streets, old mansions, small art studios and views over Guanabara Bay. Many artists and craftspeople have lived here, and the mix of colonial houses, gardens and small galleries gives it a village feel that is unusual in a big city. It is the perfect place to walk slowly for a while.

On the tour you see the neighbourhood from the tram and on foot, and your guide points out the details of the architecture and the everyday life. It is best to keep your bag close and your phone in your pocket when walking, as in any busy part of a city. Wear comfortable shoes, since the streets are steep and cobbled in places.

The Selarón Steps

The Selarón Steps link Lapa with Santa Teresa and are covered in tiles from countries all over the world. The steps have about 215 stairs, and Chilean artist Jorge Selarón worked on them from the early 1990s until 2013, when he died. Each tile has its own story, and visitors still add their own. A visit to the Selarón Steps is a favourite for photos, and it is more colourful in person than in any picture.

You walk up and down the staircase with your guide, who tells the story of the artist and points out tiles with special meaning. Try to be there early in the day, before it gets crowded. The steps can be slippery when wet, so watch where you place your feet.

Lapa and the road to the South Zone

Lapa is the old bohemian district of Rio, famous for samba, live music and a lively street life at night. During the day it is quieter, and you can see the white arches, historic buildings and street art, and hear how the area became a birthplace of Brazilian music. Lapa is a highlight for anyone curious about Rio's culture, and a half-day tour gives you a safe way to see it in daylight.

The tour starts at 09:00 with hotel pickup in Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon and Leme, and lasts about four hours. The van takes up to 19 passengers, so the group is small enough to move easily. Food and drinks are not included, and tips for the guide are optional.