One of the most popular landmarks in Brazil, the Selaron Steps are a highlight of the Lapa neighborhood. 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. read more

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This is one of the major tourist spots (after Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mt) in Rio. It's just 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. read more

Yelp Review 2025 #180: One of the most popular landmarks in Brazil. I chose a hotel close to Escadaria Selaron or Selaron Steps because I know it gets super crowded here from noon to late afternoon. Individual tourists and big tour groups from Brazil and around the world - this is on everyone's itinerary. I had to come here twice. The first time I came here was before 10am and there was already a crowd. Cars couldn't pass through so my Uber dropped me off a few hundred feet away. There were vendors on the side of the narrow street leading to the stairs. A few inconsiderate people who took their sweet time taking hundreds of photos while other people were waiting. There's just no way to get good pictures without photobombers. I knew I was better off coming back early the next day. But I climbed up all the way to the top of the stairs anyway and enjoyed the colorful tiles covering the stairs. I came back the next day at 6:15am and it was just me and this local homeless lady who was drunk or high or both. She was having a great time talking to people that weren't there, stumbling as she slowly climbed up the stairs. I was able to take good pictures with nobody around. A few minutes later, another traveler from another part of Brazil joined me and we took turns taking pictures. In 10 minutes or less, I got all the pictures I wanted. Now, there's quite a few stairs in Lapa but none as popular, colorful and interesting as Escadaria Selaron. read more

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Did our online legwork before coming here and it def paid off. Was suggested we arrived as early as possible to avoid crowds so we went right at sunrise amd it was a total win. Absolutely no crowds! Just 1 couple a single traveler and 1 small group of 4 women... We basically had the place to ourselves so we were able to take our time and get all the pics we wanted. Was really cool seeing and person.. amd there are so many small details aside from taking photos you can literally spend hours here trying to see them all and still miss alot. In short: go early & enjoy it all read more

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Let me preface this review by saying I visited around the peak of Carnival. I imagine my experience here would be better. Given that context I'm sure you can imagine that the steps were PACKED. It just so happened that a bloco was coming by right when we were around the steps. There's not much to say. An artist picked out a bunch of tiles and put them around these steps. There are a lot of steps so wear some comfy shoes. The plus side of there being so many people was that it made for good people watching. I also heard that the Lapa neighborhood isn't the safest. But don't let that deter you from visiting; go during the day, don't go alone, and don't be stupid. You'll be fine. The Selaron Steps are insanely popular and they'll show up towards the top of any list of things to see in Rio. read more

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This is a very popular touristy spot. Luckily the walking route we took, placed us at the top of the stairs. I took a picture here right away. As we walked down and as we reached the bottom, we realized that people were lining up to take photos. So my pro tip - pass up all the people in line at thr bottom of thr steps and head to the top to get more photos with less people in the background. read more

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What a cool story. This is a fantastic way to spend a few hours in Rio. These are the Selarón steps done by Jorge Selarón. In 1990, Jorge started fixing and painting the dilapidated steps outside his home. Neighbors mocked his color choices of the Brazilian flag but he persisted. This is vibrant testament to artistic dedication, and now offers tourists a captivating experience in Rio. Jorge Selarón's transformative work on these 215 steps, adorned with tiles from 60+ countries, reflects his unwavering passion. The evolving masterpiece invites visitors to explore the Lapa and Santa Teresa neighborhoods of Rio. This relentless pursuit of art creates an unforgettable and ever-changing cultural landmark. read more

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My buddies hit up Escadaria Selaron without me (how rude) so I had to make my way to check it out myself. I have always been a fan of street art and outdoor displays of art. Escadaria Selaron is an impressive example. I Ubered over but they can only get you so close. They leave you at the base of a narrow and busy street which you walk up to get to these hand-painted tile stairs. As you walk toward the attraction, there are a bunch of souvenir shops, bars, and restaurants. Part of what makes Escaderia Selaron impressive is the scale of it. We're talking a lot of steps! Walking up them all is a workout. But you should do it. Beyond the exercise, you'll see a mural at the top. Lots of people stop and take pictures along the way. I was lucky enough to run into a tourist from Hong Kong who took some pics of me and I returned the favor. As always, since this is a popular attraction, be aware of your surroundings as it's ripe for pickpocketing. And it's in a part of town that's a little sketch. Well worth the trouble though because this is one of the coolest attractions in Rio. read more

This is an amazing art space in Rio, where art takes center stage in the form of beautifully tiles steps. The cool back story is Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, Selarón Steps are one of Brazil's most famous pieces of street art. Colorful mosaics and an environment that oozes expression through art make this trip a must for art seekers. Did I mention there are over 2,000 tiles to look at? Treat yourself and your imagination will thank you. read more

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The 215 steps got its name from Jorge Selarón (1947-2013), a Chilean painter, the steps ran along the front of his house. The entire 410-foot long concrete staircase is covered in decorative, over 2000 colorful tile, many of which were sent to him from around the world depicting the city/countries where it originated. This was on my list of to do while visiting the RIO area. It was not far from my hotel Windsor Leme, 7 stops on the train line north bound, took maybe 20 minutes. From the metro about 10 min walk, learn some conversational Spanish, so you can ask for help if needed. There were plenty of law enforcement officers along the way for safety. I would highly recommend you going early due to the steps being a popular tour destination. Be careful of pick pocketers and other dangers all over, lots of people in the area. The city has info in English on some of the directional signs. The steps are gorgeous and a site to see for sure, you can climb them to the top. I did stand in line to take a picture in front of the RIO sign, took approx. 15min. You can take a pic anywhere lots of steps for photo opportunities. Remember very crowed to so stay alert and safe. And of course lots of people selling things all over...for your shopping needs! read more

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Beautiful artwork in a lovely country. The craftmanship is amazing. Brazilian culture is wonderful.

This is a very tall stucture of steps, each intrically detailed with colorful art and hand made tiles. When you look closely at the tiles, they each tell a small story. Its a beautiful piece of artwork. You can climb to the top of the steps and take pictures along the way. If you go during the daytime, expect crowds. Everyone wants to take a picture on the stairs. Don't feel like you are rushed. Take your pictures, make sure they come out ok. If you are going there solo, take a good selfie-stick and take your time!!! Wear comfortable shoes since the steps can get steep. I've been twice. The first time I wore sneakers and I was fine. The second time, I wore sandals with a small heel and I thought I was going to fall! So wear comfortable shoes!! As you climb the stairs, there are mini-stores along the way. You can buy a beer or caparinha, or hand made tiles with art on them, souveniers as well. Across the street there is a famous restaurant with delicous feijoida and other popular Brazilian dishes. The steps are within walking distance to Lapa as well. read more

Ambiance: 9 out of 10; Staff: n/a Price: $ out of $$$$. There is always a linle but it goes fast. Something incredibly cool is that they have a business that will take the picture for you and put it on a ceramic tile. My mother and I both got a tile and have it hung up on our home. I love this little souvenir!! Everyone was polite and no one rushed you when you were taking your own picture. Lots of vendors nearby to make the wait go by first. read more

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I have never heard of this attraction nor was it on our private tour's itinerary, but it was cool to visit! It wasn't overly crowded while we were there and good photo ops are available. THE STAR: The steps got its name from Jorge Selarón (1947-2013), a Chilean painter who made it his goal to beautify the then-dilapidated steps that ran along the front of his house. The entire 410-foot long concrete staircase is covered in decorative, colorful tile, many of which were sent to him from around the world depicting the city/country where it originated. I thought I had climbed the entire thing but stopped at the top of the straightaway as I was winded. The stairs went up further bending to the right but our tour guide advised not to go further as there were some shady characters at the very top. SHOPPERS: There were several vendor selling all kinds of knick knacks on the stairs itself. My spouse is a sucker for that kind of thing so we ended up at a vender who took our picture on the stairs and affixed it somehow to a piece of ceramic tile, which actually turned out pretty cool. Another vendor was making keys. The keys are like regular house door lock keys but are cleverly cut with some type of guitar-looking string on a jigsaw to create word(s) of your choice along its shaft. Super cool! Yes, the spouse had to get one, lol. OVERALL: Free, good exercise, vibrant photo ops. read more

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Simply amazing! We were expecting to be impressed by the Selaron Steps, but we were blown away. You truly have to see them in person to understand their beauty and fine craftsmanship. It took artist Jorge Selaron over 20 years to complete this masterpiece with over 2,000 tiles that he collected from around the world. A marvelous work of art! The steps are located in the Lapa neighborhood, about a 20 minute taxi ride from Copacabana. read more

Loved the beauty of these steps. They are so colorful and vibrant. When you come be ready to be in the huge crowds of people. They also have little vendors right there selling items. I thought it was a great site to see after hearing about the artists passion for creating these steps. read more

Escadaria Selarón - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rio de Janeiro, RJ

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A must do bucket item for Rio. Jorge Barton chose, crafted and designed every tile in this piece, its unbelievable when you think about it. The colors and beauty will leave you infatuated. Tons of tourist around to take your picture for you, taking one without ppl around maybe tricky though. read more

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Is it beautiful? Heck yeah!! Is it safe? *nervous laugh* Coming here put me on edge. It was starting to get dark and walking there was extremely sketchy. There were lots of tourists by the foot of the stairs so we started walking up to take better pictures; but that's where the favelas are and you better keep your eye on your stuff!! I wish I visited when it was lighter outside, because when we walked back the locals tried luring us into these side shops and it was one of the scarier walks in rio. I know this post sounds bad; but for the record we DID get robbed in rio at knife point on the copa cabana beach at sunset. Be safe! read more

Escadaria Selarón - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rio de Janeiro, RJ

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I like this spot because it's so colorful and you can spend plenty of time looking at each of the tiles and wonder how they made their way to Rio. The area surrounding it is a little sketchy to say the least. Lapa is apparently the place to be for nightclubs but it's kind of a strange tourist district. I haven't explore Santa Theresa much but it's an up and coming artist district. If it's super crowded, work your way up and the crowds tend to thin out higher up where you can take a clear shot of the stairs. They'll never be completely empty to just crop out as many people as you can from the shot. Everyone climbs the first spot on the right for the title of the stairs. Be careful because it's steep and a bit slick especially when wet. There's a couple of vendors at the bottom selling drinks and souvenirs. I got a mid-sized key from the guys hand carving it at the bottom. It's actually pretty impressive work for a hand saw, though probably too brittle to carry around with your keys in your pocket. It has all the good landmarks on it. The larger the key, the more the details. You can order one with your name on it but have to wait around for an hour. read more

Escadaria Selarón - Maybe a little cheesy but you can get a hand carved key at the base of the stairs with Rio landmarks and even your name for R$30 - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rio de Janeiro, RJ

More beautiful in person. Smaller than what I thought (width wise) but there was a lot of stairs going up. Really cool. Nothing cool around that area. In Santa Teresa town. read more

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Very easy to get there. I took the subway train from Ipanema, Nossa Senhora da Paz station to Cinelândia station and after crossing a big avenue, I was there. It's a very touristic place.There were many people taking photos there and the street crossing it is full of bars, restaurants and old houses, it's very picturesque. There is a cool souvenir shop near by. There is an artist there who can create a personalized tile for you with your own personal photos that you take there. Next time I will do it. read more

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If you are into art and a bohemian vibe, this the place for you. The street art is something not to missed as you recognize several artist from around the world. Great pictures of the stairs or the homes that surround them. Its walling distance from the cathedral and the nearest metro stop is about 8 short blocks. Across the street from the aqueduct. read more

I've always wanted to visit the famous stairs featured in the Pharrell and Snoop Dog "Beautiful" video and I finally got the opportunity to visit this summer. It's been updated since the video was shot, but it still has it's authentic feel. Not commercialized at all. Lapa is such an eclectic neighborhood, there's art on every block. There are about 10 flights of stairs (just an estimate). Definitely venture up to the top for a shot of the red wall, as well as an opportunity for a photo-bomb free picture. Do not visit Rio without visiting! read more

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I feel so fortunate to have seen this work of art not once but twice! The love and time that went into creating this one of a kind artwork is truly amazing. Each tile has a story to tell. If you have the time, make sure to peruse as much as you can. The tiles came from all over the world and was lovingly used and placed by the artist (RIP). It might not be in the best area but it is worth the trip. The color and vibrancy is amazing to see. The pictures do not do it justice. Bonus: plenty of small museums in the area! read more

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Total Tourist Trap but definitely a MUST-SEE! We UBER'd here - no problem. All the taxi/Uber drivers know this place. The crowds come in bursts it seemed like. At one point - it was so claustrophobic because of all the people crowding the bottom of the stairs to get a picture on the iconic 'Rio De Janeiro' tiled steps & then there was also a point where there wasn't a single person taking a picture at the bottom. So my suggestion would be waiting it out - you'll get a chance to take at least one pic at the bottom. The stairs go up a way - btw. Went all the way to the top just so I can say I did. There are tiles that have cities & countries represented - it's awesome! I found WA and CA :) There are a ton of nice people that offered to take our picture for us. I would say to be careful of this - just practice caution. I mean there are more than enough people here that if someone were to take your phone/camera that there would be someone to stop them. As you go up the stairs - there are vendors selling you tiles as well as other souvenirs. At the very bottom you can get a tile that has the FAMOUS Pharrell and Snoop Dogg music video clip on it as well as other designs. All in all - it is A MUST when you come to Rio. Yes, yes, it's a tourist trap but worth it. read more

These famous steps are a work of art by chilean artist Jorge Selarón who claimed it as "my tribute to the Brazilian people" with 215 steps are a vivid explosion of color. They are located right at the beginning of the neighbourhood of Santa Tereza, before you go up the hills. It's definitely something you can't miss if you're visiting Rio, but you need to be aware of your surroundings. Go during the day only, and do not let your cab or uber driver leave you anywhere else other than AT the steps. The street in front of the steps is crowded with homeless people and heavy-drug users. I might be from Rio and we Cariocas love to defend our city, but I gotta be real with you here. To get out, just walk along the street in the directions of the bigger venue with cars and get a cab or call an uber while you're still on the steps. Upon leaving the steps you will already be in Lapa, a neighbourhood full of bars and cafes with Brazilian Jazz and Bossa Nova. read more

The Selaron Steps were the highlight of Lapa for me! If you don't know, Lapa is a small neighborhood in Rio De Janeiro very worthy of exploring. Everyone recommended my friend and I go to the Selaron Steps during the daytime - even a police officer we asked directions from advised against us going around 6pm - but we explored anyway. For the record, it was totally fine. Area is a bit sketchy, but with my handy dandy pepper spray, I felt safe walking to the Selaron Steps. It was so worth it! The steps are magnificent, and the artist is truly talented. His work is beautiful. We couldn't take enough pictures. There are tiles dedicated to various cities and countries all around the world, and also tiles of random pictures that are meaningful to Selaron, the artist. Work this spot into your Rio itinerary - you won't regret it! read more

This is an overrated tourist trap located in a sketchy neighborhood. People are always telling me they want to see the stairs and I'm always asking them why. It seems like it's one of those things people want to see because they hear that they have to see it. If you come to Rio and don't visit the steps you won't be missing anything. I guess it's good so you can get your touristy picture (like standing with your arms outstretched in front of Cristo) but that's it. Next time someone tells me they want to go here I'm gonna lose it. read more

Definitely a fun touristy spot to take a pic in Brazil. I think reading a little about the backstory of Selaron and why he built the steps makes the location much more interesting. No need to spend a lot of time here, it is a bit of a tourist trap, but it is definitely a place to check out if you have time. read more

So many cool and interesting tiles. Interesting for all ages. Its not about climbing the stairs, it's about what you see along the way read more

Simply an amazing thing to see. We went there on a Saturday and really there were not too many people around the centro area. In fact the stair st were probably one of the only crowded things in the area. Much longer than I expected the stairs offer a lot to look at. A bit touristy yes but worth it totally. I love checking out things like this when in a new city. I'm sure this spot will continue to be used in all kinds of videos featuring tilde janero read more

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The steps are really beautiful. The artist was able to take tiles from all over the world and incorporate them into this landmark. Be sure to stop by and enjoy this wonderful piece of art. read more

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This was my second time in Rio, but my first time making it to the steps. While we got great photos, there were moments where I didn't feel too safe and we definitely saw a drug deal as we were leaving. I strongly suggest going midday and being sure to watch you things closely at all times. read more

so beautiful (apropos being that the song "beautiful" by pharell and snoop dogg was filmed here). so many colors and textures and walks of life and music and bustling and seemingly endless steps of mosaic patterns and collages of history and visual storytelling and... basically this place was just amazing. super easy to get to on foot via the underground. nestled into the lapa neighborhood, this is the epicenter of rio's bohemian/artsy heartbeat, but to be fair the area may be a little too "real" for some people thinking that this area is properly gentrified to accommodate tourists and such. likeminded picture takers are always happy to spare you of your clumsily awkward selfie maneuvering as long as you return the favor. bring water! or if you don't, you can always buy some from the people who actually live along the steps- they sell them off of their patios. charming little destination. read more

Escadaria Selarón - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rio de Janeiro, RJ

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