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Activities in Rio de Janeiro

Free Tour of Rio's Historic Center

  • 2,952 reviews | 66,122 travellers
    The guide Victoria was very good, both for the information provided and for her kindness.
    10 Mariel

If you're in Rio de Janeiro and want to discover iconic landmarks of the city, then you can't miss out on this free tour of the historic centre of Rio. You'll love it!

If you're in Rio de Janeiro and want to discover iconic landmarks of the city, then you can't miss out on this free tour of the historic centre of Rio. You'll love it!

Tour Details

At the indicated time, we'll meet at a central point in Rio, where we'll start a free tour through the historical centre of Rio, an essential neighbourhood to visit in Rio de Janeiro.

We'll admire the façade of Confeitaria Colombo, Brazil's most famous pastry shop. Opened in 1894, it's a true Art Nouveau architectural gem that will transport you back to Rio's Belle Époque. It's the perfect place to imagine what social life was like for Rio's elite in the early 20th century.

We'll stroll through Praça XV, the political and historical heart of colonial and imperial Rio. In the past, it was the main gateway to the city, where travellers and royalty disembarked.

Next to Praça XV, we can admire the Paço Imperial. This elegant building was the residence and seat of government of the royal families of Portugal and Brazil. From here, King João VI ruled the Portuguese Empire and, later, Pedro I declared independence.

Our free tour of Rio's historic centre will also take us to Cinelândia, known as Rio's Broadway. The square was designed to house majestic Beaux-Arts style buildings, such as the Municipal Theatre, which will dazzle you with its neo-Renaissance façade, rich decorations and golden dome.

We'll bring the tour to an end after between 2.5 hours and 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Itinerary Order

Please note that, for organisational reasons, the order of the visits described in the itinerary may vary.

Groups

This free tour doesn't admit groups of more than 6 people, even if they book the activity separately.

View complete description

More Information

Duration

2h 30m - 2h 45m.

Language The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

Included

English–speaking guide

Not included

Tips

When to book?

You can book up to the tour start time subject to availability. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability conditions

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.

Sustainability Code

Our providers commit to:

  • Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle.
  • Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
  • Uphold fair employment standards.
  • Foster the growth of local communities.
  • Preserve the integrity of local culture.
  • Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
  • Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Operate with honesty and transparency.
  • Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

  • No printing of documentation required.

Pets

Permitted.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

    A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

  • Q - How to book?

    A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

  • Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?

    A - Depending on the date, time, or language selected, this tour may be offered by different local suppliers: Free Walker Tours Corporate name: FREEWALKERTOURS TURISMO LTDA ­ ME Registered Office: Av. Rio Branco, 156, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): CNPJ 24955594000152 Contact information Email: luanasassuncao@gmail.com Phone: +55 21 99501-0667 Be Free Tur Corporate name: Marcelo Gomes Elias Serviços de Promotor Turístico e Locação - EIRELI - ME Registered Office: Rua Conde de Bonfim, 644 / 1002, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): CNPJ 19400673000167 Contact information Email: marcelo@befreetours.com.br Phone: +55 21 99867-6290

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Meeting point

Where does the activity end?

Largo da Carioca Historical Clock

Cinelândia

View map
Where does the activity end?

Cinelândia

Depending on the date and time you have selected, your meeting point may change.

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