- Type
- Neighborhood
- Area
- Downtown and Lapa
- Free entry
- Yes
- Requires a hike or uphill walk
- No
Lapa is the bohemian neighborhood of downtown Rio. Its landmark is the Lapa Arches, the old Carioca Aqueduct, built in colonial times to bring water from the Carioca River to downtown, according to Wikipedia. Today the Santa Teresa tram runs over the arches.
By day
The Arches stand next to the Metropolitan Cathedral, a modern cone-shaped building, and near the Selarón Steps. They are a good starting point for a walk around historic downtown.
By night
Lapa is packed with samba, choro and forró venues, bars and lively street crowds, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. See how to enjoy it in the guide to samba and nightlife in Lapa.
Getting there
Cinelândia and Carioca metro stations are a few minutes’ walk away. From downtown, the VLT light rail also helps.
Practical tips
- By day, combine it with the Selarón Steps and the Cathedral.
- At night, arrive and leave by taxi or ride-hailing app.
- Carry only what you need.
Frequently asked questions
What are the Lapa Arches?
They are the old Carioca Aqueduct, built in colonial times to carry water to downtown. Today the Santa Teresa tram runs over them.
Is Lapa safe at night?
It is very busy at weekends. Stay on streets with people, carry little and take a taxi or ride-hailing app there and back.
Pair it with
-
Free accessKids Downtown and Lapa Selarón Steps The staircase covered in colorful tiles between Lapa and Santa Teresa, the work of Chilean artist Jorge Selarón. See details -
Kids Downtown and Lapa Santa Teresa and its tram The neighborhood of cobbled streets and old mansions above downtown, with the yellow tram that crosses the Lapa Arches. See details -
Downtown and Lapa Rio de Janeiro Municipal Theater One of Brazil's most important theaters, in Cinelândia, with an illuminated facade and a program of opera, ballet and concerts. See details