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An update from Evaneos
Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa (Brazil)

Practical information about Santa Teresa

  • Family
  • Relaxation
  • Encounters with locals
  • Romantic
  • Place or Religious Monument
  • Handicraft
  • Place or Historical Monument
4 / 5 - 2 reviews
How to get there
A 30 minute bus or taxi ride from Rio
When to go
All year round
Minimum stay
Half a day

Reviews of Santa Teresa

Ariadne M Travel writer
37 travel articles

This is a charming, artistic neighborhood, situated on the higher parts of Rio, far away from the famous, frenzied Copacabana area. Santa Teresa is calm, relaxed and will show you the real 'carioca' flavor of a Rio that is not suffocated by tourists or commerce.

My suggestion:
When staying in Rio, opt for a 'pousada' at Santa Teresa, to get away from the incessant noise and chaos of the seaside quarters.
Summary:

Rio is a sprawling city and an arrival point for almost anyone on a trip to Brazil. Even so, the town still has certain parts that remain quietly attractive. And, nestled on the heights of the city, Santa Teresa is a perfect example. If you're not a beach bum, then basing yourself here could be a great option. You can still easily get to the beaches when you want.

Strolling around these streets, you'll find beautiful villas alongside friendly, laid back bars. Santa Teresa attracts interesting, fun people, many of whom are artists or academics.

And if want to party, the lively quarter of Lapa is just next door. This is the place to be for tourists, young people and creative types who enjoy a gentle, 'samba' way of life.

Santa Teresa and Sugarloaf Mountain
Travel writer
32 travel articles

Santa Teresa is the bohemian neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, and one of the nicest.

My suggestion:
There are many small and charming pousadas in the neighborhood. They are much better than the expensive international-style hotels in Copacabana. However, you should know that taxis often refuse to go into the neighborhood.
Summary:

Although the Brazilians don't find much to interest them there, the Santa Teresa neighborhood is often a favorite with foreign tourists. Although it's not right by the ocean like Ipanema or Copacabana, it's a part of Rio de Janeiro where I love to go. It's charm lies undoubtedly with the ever-present vegetation, the pretty colored houses, and the many artists' studios that can be visited there. It also has excellent restaurants which are less like tourist traps than those on the beach. I have a particularly clear memory of a delicious plate of seafood pasta...

I would particularly recommend that you go to the Parque das Ruinas, which has a fabulous view over Sugarloaf Mountain, Guanabara Bay, and the Centro de Rio. One of the must-sees is the multi-colored ceramic steps by the Chilean artist Selaron.

The area has always had a tended to become a bit too touristy over recent years, for my taste, and has gradually lost part of its authenticity. You also need to take care in this area because tourists are an easy target for muggers.