Thing to do
Copacabana Beach
A 4-kilometre curve of white sand along Avenida Atlântica, framed by Roberto Burle Marx's wave-patterned promenade and two historic forts.
Santa Teresa Tram (Bonde de Santa Teresa)
Rio's historic hilltop tramway, opened in 1877, which crosses the Lapa Arches from the centre and climbs through Santa Teresa in replica cars.
At a glance
- Type
- Historic tram ride
- Area
- Centro / Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Good to know
- Crosses the Lapa Arches
- Replica historic cars
Why we recommend it
The Santa Teresa tram is a historic hilltop tramway and one of the most enjoyable rides in Rio. Its cars leave from a terminus near Largo da Carioca in the centre, cross the old Carioca Aqueduct, known as the Arcos da Lapa, and wind up into the hillside neighbourhood of Santa Teresa.
The line opened on 13 March 1877 with horse-drawn cars and was electrified in 1896, when the route was extended across the aqueduct. The aqueduct itself was built in 1750 and stands 17.6 metres high, and crossing it by tram, with views down over Lapa, is the highlight of the ride. The tramway was designated a national historic monument in 1985.
Its recent history has been eventful. In August 2011 a tram derailed, killing six people and injuring at least 50, and all service was suspended. The line reopened in stages from 27 July 2015, using new cars built as replicas of the old ones and no longer allowing passengers to stand on the running boards. The full route from Carioca to Dois Irmãos was restored on 21 January 2019, the Paula Mattos branch to Largo das Neves came back in January 2025, and in June 2026 the section from Dois Irmãos to Silvestre reopened, bringing the full line to about 8.9 kilometres. It is run by a state transport company.
Along the way the tram passes Largo do Guimarães, the small square at the heart of Santa Teresa, where many visitors get off to explore the neighbourhood's restaurants and bars, including Bar do Mineiro on Rua Paschoal Carlos Magno. The Paula Mattos branch ends at Largo das Neves, another quiet square.
According to Wikipedia, trams between Carioca and Dois Irmãos run about every 30 minutes, from 08:00 to 18:30 on weekdays and from 09:00 to 17:00 at weekends and on public holidays, with less frequent services on the branches and only a few trips a day to Silvestre. Timetables can change, so confirm on the day.
The ride suits all ages. Combine it with the Escadaria Selarón, whose lower end sits by the Lapa Arches, or with lunch in Santa Teresa before walking or riding back down to the centre.
Santa Teresa Tram (Bonde de Santa Teresa) FAQs
Where does the Santa Teresa tram start?
At the Carioca terminus near Largo da Carioca in the centre of Rio.
When did the tram open?
On 13 March 1877, with horse-drawn cars; it was electrified in 1896.
Does it cross the Lapa Arches?
Yes. The route crosses the old Carioca Aqueduct, built in 1750 and 17.6 metres high.
Is the tram running now?
Yes. It reopened in stages from 2015, and the Silvestre section returned in June 2026.
How often do trams run?
According to Wikipedia, about every 30 minutes on the main route between Carioca and Dois Irmãos.
Where should you get off in Santa Teresa?
Largo do Guimarães, the small square at the heart of the neighbourhood, is a good stop.
Can you stand on the running boards?
No. Since the 2015 reopening, passengers are no longer allowed to ride on the running boards.
What is nearby?
The Escadaria Selarón by the Lapa Arches and the restaurants of Santa Teresa.