This tour is operated by our partner Free Walker Tours.
Rio de Janeiro is known worldwide for its beaches and Christ the Redeemer, but the real soul of the city can be found in its historic downtown. On this free walking tour, you’ll explore the streets where Brazil began, uncovering more than 400 years of history through colonial squares, royal palaces, and vibrant cultural landmarks.
Our passionate local guides bring Rio’s story to life from multiple perspectives — European, Indigenous, and African — giving you a deeper and more honest understanding of the city’s past and present. From the elegance of the Belle Époque Confeitaria Colombo to the resilience of Indigenous culture at Casa Tucum, each stop reveals another layer of Rio’s identity.
More than just sightseeing, this tour is an invitation to connect with Rio on a personal level. You’ll discover hidden stories often left out of the history books, walk through neighborhoods where past and present still meet, and see how Brazil’s monarchy, culture, and society shaped the city we know today. Whether it’s the grandeur of the Imperial Palace, the charm of colonial alleyways, or the artistic buzz of Cinelândia, you’ll return home with unforgettable memories, fascinating insights, and a new appreciation for Rio.
The Rio Downtown Free Tour has welcomed more than 200,000 visitors and continues to be one of the best ways to explore the city. Participation is free — at the end, you decide the value of the experience.
Insider tips on where to eat, drink, and explore in Rio
What’s not included
Food and drinks (optional)
Entrance to paid attractions (optional, after the tour)
Tips for the guide (optional)
Additional Information
This activity is operated by our partner Free Walker Tours. This experience is not provided by SANDEMANs, but has been chosen by our specialists from an array of offers based on their quality and value.
Please arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes before the tour starts.
MAP
Your Rio Downtown Free Tour starts at the Clock Tower in Largo da Carioca.
Tour starts here
Tour usually covers
What is the SANDEMANs Partner Network?
Tours in Rio de Janeiro are offered by a partner, not SANDEMANs Tours.
We only work with partners we know, trust, and who have been vetted by us to ensure they meet the same standards you are used to enjoying in SANDEMANs’ own cities.
We are proud to partner with Free Walker Tours and are sure you’ll love their tours as much as we do.
Book a tour with one of our partners
SANDEMANs only works with partners that meet the same quality standards than us
Tours are chosen by our specialists from an array of offers based on their quality and value
We connect the best local guides with travelers from all around the world
Tour starts here
