One of the most popular landmarks in Brazil, the Selaron Steps are a highlight of the Lapa…read moreneighborhood. we were lucky to be able to stop by twice first time at night which was great because there were not that many people around & the next time during the day so glad we came before just way too many people during the day hard to really enjoy the area. The steps are a fun colorful display of different countries, art, bright colors & traditions infused together to make these crazy colorful steps. This was a nice stop for sure & definitely worth the look.

This is one of the major tourist spots (after Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mt) in Rio. It's…read morejust as crowded but not as much? Maybe I'm used to the chaos of Rio by now haha. It's mainly crowded at the bottom of the steps (duh, you have to walk up the steps). I think it's actually better at the top with the Brazil flag. Also, it's fun to find the tiles with the different cities from all over the world. I loved the Paris ones. You have to go to the other sites early in the morning but this one is fine if you can just walk to the top.

Take a moment to stop in to this cathedral- it's stunning. No entrance fee, just take off your hat…read moreand follow the rules. Our guide said this cathedral can hold 21,000 people standing and they fill it to capacity when the pope visits. Absolutely stunning architecture!!

I did not have any expectations for this place and it really exceeded my non-existent expectations…read more It's free entry and easy to find (totally sticks out in Centro). It looks like a spaceship from the outside and definitely does not look like a church. The stained glass windows were huge and it's a sight to see. I think it's worth a visit if you have time, definitely a unique sight in Rio.

Stumbled upon this museum after getting off the Cinelandia metro station in Rio, and we loved it…read more Takes about 45 min to browse the entire museum. Some of the art is outstanding. There are enormous paintings, small paintings, sculptures, statues, vases, and more. Best of all, it's free and air conditioned :)

Our concierge recommended that place. It's both a tourist and local spot. It's a huge space…read moreboasting 3 floors and a speakeasy nightclub inside. Live band and service is good. Pretty good system - There's an entrance fee. You then receive a card which you must present to any server to order food and drinks. That tracks your tab which allows you to walk around freely after you eat. Multiple bars. To settle your tab, you pay upfront as they have several cashiers to cash you out. They take credit cards including Amex. Fun times and great cocktails. The passion fruit caipirinhas were delicious!!!

Stunning interior, lively music, delicious and strong drinks, friendly staff, great way to spend an…read moreevening dancing and singing. This used to be an antique store, and there are still beautiful antique items throughout the place. Absolutely adored this spot.

In front of Amanhã Museum. It's not that good, but I would go anyway…read more I had the chance to see the Samba exhibition and it was very good indeed! The rooftop is totally worth it too. En frente al Museo del Mañana. No es tan bueno, pero iría de todos modos. Tuve la suerte de ver la exhibición de Samba y fue muy muy buena! La terraza vale la pena también.

It is too bad that a museum that appears to be recently renovated houses quite a poor collection of…read moreartwork. It has random artwork that is placed haphazardly throughout the various spaces. I thought it was a waste of my money and time to visit this museum. I'd save your money and visit the more substantial Tomorrow Museum diagonally across from the Museu de Arte do Rio.

The Museu da República is housed within the Palácio do Catete and was Brazil's presidential palace…read morefrom 1894 to 1960. It was turned into a museum after the capital of Brazil was moved from Rio to Brasília. The outside is very unassuming and not well-marked, so you could easily walk right past it. But the inside is nothing short of amazing. Most of the rooms have been preserved with original furniture and the paintings, statues, and frescos have been kept in excellent condition as well. Honestly, I'm having a hard time describing what the rooms look like, and I'm not sure words can do them justice. This is an important part of Brazil's history and I can't recommend a visit highly enough (come here instead of seeing the painted stairs). You can tour the old ballrooms, the dining area, the meeting area, see the former Presidential Office, and many other rooms. There is a third floor where President Getúlio Vargas killed himself (the Presidential Bedroom), but it's closed for renovations/preservation. Well worth the visit - take exit B from the Catete Metro Station and you're right there. The entrance fee was R$6, and there are lockers where you can leave your bag or coat.

Absolutely an incredible experience! One of the best things I did in Rio de Janeiro. There could…read morenot have been a better way to see a more authentic side of this city. Thanks for an amazing afternoon!!

From the owner: Turismo,Entretenimento,Arte,Grafite,Toursread more