Largo dos Guimarães is a square in Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro, surrounded by bars, restaurants and shops. It is a useful starting point for exploring the neighborhood’s small galleries, handmade crafts and steep streets, with places to stop for a meal or a caipirinha. On weekends, live music can be heard from bars around the square. Visit in daylight and stay on the main streets; take care if you wander beyond the busiest area. From here, you can walk downhill through Santa Teresa toward the Selarón Steps.
A starting point in Santa Teresa
Largo dos Guimarães is one of Santa Teresa’s neighborhood squares, with bars and restaurants around it and shops nearby. The area’s small galleries sell handmade art, and its streets climb across the hillside. The square gives you a convenient place to begin exploring on foot, with options to stop for food or a drink along the way.
On weekends, live music spills out from bars around the square. The area also hosts street parties. If you want to see the neighborhood at a slower pace, allow about three hours for a visit and make your way downhill toward the Selarón Steps.
Getting there and walking around
The Bondinho tram is a scenic way to reach Santa Teresa, but it can mean waiting an hour or two, particularly at busy times. Local passengers have priority. Taking an Uber to Largo dos Guimarães and walking downhill is another option; the tram runs through the area as you go.
Keep your walk to the main streets and visit in daylight. Take care on the steep routes and be alert around side streets and less-travelled areas. If you are leaving late, arrange a ride before 10pm, since taxis may be reluctant to climb the hill.
FAQ
How long should I spend at Largo dos Guimarães and Santa Teresa?
Allow about three hours for a visit to the neighborhood, including time to explore on foot.
Is the Bondinho tram a quick way to get there?
It can involve a wait of an hour or two, and local passengers have priority. An Uber to the square is an alternative.
When is a good time to visit?
Plan a daytime visit, starting after 9am and finishing before sunset.
What can I do near Largo dos Guimarães?
Stop at a nearby bar or restaurant, browse small galleries and craft shops, or walk downhill through Santa Teresa toward the Selarón Steps.
