Rio De Janeiro tours

Things to do in Rio De Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro basks in sunlight, with samba's rhythm coursing through its streets. With a local guide, a tour of Rio transforms the well-known into something special. You can sense the city's energy on a stroll through Lapa, where vivid street art narrates tales of both history and today. A private tour allows you to skip past the queues at Christ the Redeemer, taking in the stunning views at a leisurely pace. Whether you're tasting your way through Santa Teresa's bustling markets on a food and wine tour or uncovering hidden beaches along the coast, your guide offers a unique perspective on Rio, where every turn presents a new experience. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Rio De Janeiro. Explore Rio De Janeiro your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Rio De Janeiro tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Rio De Janeiro for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Hike in Tijuca National Park to Cascatinha Taunay and up to Pedra Bonita for sweeping views, with chances to see marmosets and toucans. Your guide can also lead a dawn walk along the Arpoador rocks or a gentle paddle on Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon for birdwatching and calm scenery. Art and Culture tours: Explore Santa Teresa’s ateliers and ride the tram past murals before climbing the Selarón Steps, then see MAR and the Kobra “Etnias” mural along the Boulevard Olímpico. In the evening, join a samba school rehearsal in Cidade do Samba or enjoy a roda de samba at Pedra do Sal with your private tour timed to the music. History tours: Walk Centro’s landmarks with stops at Paço Imperial, Candelária Church, and the Real Gabinete Português de Leitura, plus coffee and pastries at Confeitaria Colombo. Learn about the African diaspora at Cais do Valongo and the nearby memorial sites that your guide brings to life with archival photos. Beach zones and the historic core are easy to explore on foot, and the metro, VLT tram, and buses connect most sights; for steep hills or longer hops to Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf, you can book chauffeured tours or tours with private transportation to keep your day smooth. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Rio De Janeiro inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods In Rio de Janeiro, a private tour with a local guide lets you dive into neighborhoods that capture the city's vibrant spirit and stunning landscapes. - Copacabana: Famous for its iconic beach, Copacabana is great for families and those looking to experience Rio’s energetic vibe. The bustling promenade is lined with restaurants and shops, making it a lively spot for all ages. - Santa Teresa: Known for its bohemian flair, this hilltop neighborhood offers winding streets filled with art studios and quaint cafes. It's perfect for cultural tourists and those looking to connect with Rio's artistic soul. - Ipanema: Beyond its famous beach, Ipanema is a hub for fashion and local markets. It's ideal for those who enjoy shopping and exploring trendy cafes, all with stunning views of the coastline. Day trip ideas from Rio De Janeiro From Rio de Janeiro, day trips open up beaches, islands, and mountain towns nearby, and you can keep things simple or go deep with your tour based on what you like most. Niterói: Cross the bay for wide views from Parque da Cidade, modern design at the MAC museum, and calmer beaches like Itacoatiara; suits fans of architecture, viewpoints, and surf, and your guide can link lookouts with a relaxed seafood lunch. Petrópolis: Cooler hills, imperial palaces, and tree‑lined streets make a clear contrast to the coast, with short nature walks and historic stops around town; a smart pick for history, architecture, and mountain air, planned at an easy pace by your tour. Ilha Grande and Angra dos Reis: Cruise island coves with clear water, swim and snorkel, and, time allowing, walk to Lopes Mendes for soft sand; great for beach days and boat time, and your guide coordinates transport so you spend more hours on the water. Arraial do Cabo: Bright water and simple boat trips to sheltered bays make this a favourite for snorkelling and relaxed beach time, with viewpoints at Pontal do Atalaia for photos; your tour can focus on swimming spots or add a short hike. Paraty: Cobblestone lanes, whitewashed houses, and calm bay islands give you a colonial core plus easy boat outings; fits culture fans who also want a slow harbour cruise, and your guide can blend a town walk with time on the water. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Rio De Janeiro most travellers miss.