Rio de Janeiro History Walking Tour

Rio de Janeiro History Walking Tour

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About This Tour in Rio de Janeiro

The tour offers a guided walk through the main historical and cultural landmarks of downtown Rio de Janeiro, combining history, and gastronomy. The tour begins in Cinelândia, famous for its cinemas, and buildings such as the Municipal Theater, the National Library, and others. Next, the tour continues to the Church of São Francisco da Penitência, notable for the splendor of Brazilian Baroque architecture. Visitors then visit the Real Gabinete Português de Leitura, one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. The gastronomic stop takes place at the traditional Confeitaria Colombo, where you can taste typical Brazilian delicacies. The tour continues to Praça XV, passing by historical sites such as the Church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo, and the Chafariz do Mestre Valentim fountain. The walk continues through Arco do Teles, a hub of bars and samba, and Casa Tucum, a cultural center with works by indigenous peoples. At the end, visitors can try a typical Brazilian lunch.

Why Visit Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil offers a wealth of attractions, cultural experiences, and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, Rio de Janeiro provides an unforgettable travel experience with something to discover around every corner. Explore local cuisine, discover unique culture, and create lasting memories in this remarkable destination.

Getting to Rio de Janeiro

The easiest way to reach Rio de Janeiro is by flying into Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport (GIG) or Santos Dumont Airport (SDU). The city offers various transportation options including taxis, public transit, and private transfers to help you reach your destination. Many hotels can arrange airport transfers, and local transportation options vary by location.

What's Included

  • Professional tour guide with live commentary in Portuguese, English, and Spanish
  • Entrance to the Sacred Museum of the Convent of Saint Anthony
  • Guided half-day walking tour
  • Lunch with appetizer, main course, and dessert

What's Not Included

  • Snacks and Drinks (available for purchase at Confeitaria Colombo)
  • Gratuities (optional)

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • The lunch includes admission, main course, and dessert per person. Drinks are paid separately.
  • Entrance: Chevre salad (mixed greens, nuts, balsamic vinegar, and goat cheese with herbs), Italian eggplant – served with house bread, Café Paris salad (iceberg lettuce, roasted tomatoes, pastrami, ricotta, and sauce), Campagne pâté (French pork and chicken terrine) served with mini green salad and house bread, and ricotta paste with green olives – served with house bread.
  • Main course: Fish and shrimp moqueca with white rice and dendê farofa; picadinho carioca with rice, beans, farofa, and poached egg; cassava escondidinho with dried meat; pork ribs with tropeiro beans; red feijoada (made with our meats smoked in-house over apple wood – pork loin, ribs, dried beef, paio sausage and calabresa sausage, with rice, farofa and kale (always on FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS)
  • Dessert: Chocolate-filled profiteroles, condensed milk pudding; chocolate ice cream cake with Negresco crumbs and pineapple with lemon zest.
  • Customers will have access to the restaurant with the possibility of shared tables (to be determined, subject to availability).

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Meeting and Pickup

Meeting Point

Start

Cinelândia Square - Exit A of the subway, in front of the Floriano Peixoto monument.

End Point

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant with 15 years of tradition located on the most famous, elegant, and charming street at the time when Rio de Janeiro

Pickup Information

Pickup Option: All travelers must meet at start point

Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

Start your tour here 5 minutes

Start your tour here. This famous square was once a hub of art and culture due to the many theaters and cinemas that were concentrated there

Discover this imposing building from the era of the Portuguese Empire 5 minutes

Discover this imposing building from the era of the Portuguese Empire.

With over 200 years of history, the National... 30 minutes

With over 200 years of history, the National Library is the oldest Brazilian institution, predating even the constitution of Brazil as an independent nation.

one of the largest museums in the country,... 20 minutes

one of the largest museums in the country, owner of the largest collection of 19th-century Brazilian art.

Visit the Church of São Francisco da Penitência 40 minutes

Visit the Church of São Francisco da Penitência.

One of the most beautiful libraries in the world 30 minutes

One of the most beautiful libraries in the world! Perfect for beautiful pictures.

A permanent member of all the “must-visit cafes” rankings around the world 30 minutes

Main port of entry for Colonial and Imperial Brazil 30 minutes

Main port of entry for Colonial and Imperial Brazil. Home to the Imperial Palace and the Mestre Valentim Fountain.

A hotspot for lively bars with lots of samba

A hotspot for lively bars with lots of samba.

A cultural center with exhibitions and handicrafts created... 30 minutes

A cultural center with exhibitions and handicrafts created by different indigenous peoples of Brazil.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant with... 1 hour

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a restaurant with 15 years of tradition located on the most famous, elegant, and charming street at the time when Rio de Janeiro was the capital of the Empire.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cancellation policy?

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

How do I book this tour?

Click the "Book Now" button on this page to complete your reservation through Viator's secure booking platform. You'll receive instant confirmation via email.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?

Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.

Book Your Experience

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