Santa Teresa was so charming that we visited twice on our trip. The second visit was in order to successfully ride the yellow tram. The neighborhood, nestled amidst the vibrant hills of Rio, exudes a captivating charm with its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial houses, and a bohemian atmosphere that transports you to a bygone era.

Bar do Mineiro— A unassuming spot a half a block down from the Largo dos Guimaraes tram strop, its walls are adorned with colorful art and its wood furniture give it a cozy atmosphere, if you can even call something cozy in 90 degree heat. This was not our first feijoada on this trip, but had to try this bar’s version. Feijoada is a Brazilian black bean stew served with various cuts of meat and accompaniments, usually farofa (toasted cassava flour with a nutty flavor and golden color).
Armazem Sao Thiago— after our meal at Bar do Mineiro, another 5 minute walk took us to this spot, a neighborhood bar on our radar because Anthony Bourdain paid it a visit on one of his shows. Beer came out, like we realized at every bar we went to in Rio, one notch above frozen and with two small glasses for a liter of beer. There was truly nothing better at that moment than drinking from those glasses, in a warm, humid climate as the sun set and neighbors gathered around this local joint.
Santa Teresa Tram— An iconic, historical railway that has transported passengers up and down it’s hills since 1877. Tourists need to get their tickets and first board the tram at Largo da Carioca, though, which is in the neighborhood over, right next to Rio’s Metropolitan Cathedral. We missed this the first visit to Santa. We had ubered directly to the area.
Rato Molhado Viewpoint— I learned my lesson on not always needing to plan out the day. In practicing Christopher’s ~just explore~ mentality, we stumbled upon this great lookout spot while walking up and down Santa Teresa’s narrow, winding streets.

Santa Teresa

Girl from Ipanema

Rio de Janeiro