Samba City, or Cidade do Samba, is a cultural complex in Rio de Janeiro’s Santo Cristo district, where samba schools prepare for Carnival. A backstage tour can take you close to the parade floats and costumes, explain how the festival is made, and introduce the history of Rio’s samba schools. Some tours include trying on a costume, a short samba lesson and a caipirinha. Tour schedules and activities can change, so check what is included before you go.
A working home for samba schools
Cidade do Samba is a complex in Rio de Janeiro dedicated to samba and Carnival. Its workshops are used by samba schools as they prepare for the city’s parade. The work behind the event includes building large floats and making costumes, crafts you can see at close range on a backstage tour.
Rio’s official Carnival parades are a competition between samba schools. A tour can help explain the preparation behind the performances and the traditions connected to the festival.
What a backstage tour can include
Tours can combine a look at floats and costumes with an introduction to Carnival’s history. Some include the chance to try on a costume, a short samba lesson led by a professional and a caipirinha at the end. These activities depend on the tour, so confirm the schedule and what is included when planning your visit.
The complex is at R. Rivadávia Corrêa, 60, in Santo Cristo. Carnival season is a useful time to visit if you want to see preparations underway. Activities can be more limited in July, when some structures are being dismantled.
FAQ
What can you see at Samba City?
A backstage tour can bring you close to Carnival parade floats and costumes and show you the workshops where samba schools prepare.
Can you try on a Carnival costume at Samba City?
Some tours include the chance to try on a costume. Check the tour details before booking.
Is there a samba lesson at Samba City?
Some tours include a short lesson led by a professional.
When is the best time to visit Samba City?
Carnival season is a good time to see preparations in progress. Activities may be limited in July during dismantling.
