Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Wandering through the streets of Santa Luzia e São Raimundo Nonato feels like flipping through a faded photo album. This quiet neighborhood carries Rio’s spiritual roots while radiating authentic everyday charm. Low-key churches, rusted iron gates, and warm corn sold by an elderly vendor on every corner—each step echoes real life. When afternoon sun slants across the pavement, locals chat on doorsteps, kids chase each other laughing, and suddenly, you grasp what “slow Rio” truly means. Come during a festival, and you’ll witness traditional parades and folk performances that instantly pull you into the city’s rhythm.
Everything you need to know about Santa Luzia e São Raimundo Nonato
While Santa Luzia e São Raimundo Nonato is a quieter neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro, consider staying at Hotel Santa Cruz or Pousada do Mar, both offering authentic Brazilian charm and private beach access. These boutique accommodations provide seaside views and a peaceful retreat just 15 minutes from Copacabana Beach. Ideal for travelers seeking tranquility and local culture, they’re also conveniently located near attractions like the Rio de Janeiro City Museum and the scenic Cristo Redentor hiking trail, blending urban exploration with natural beauty.
The most convenient option is using Uber or DiDi, taking about 20–25 minutes from downtown Rio, costing roughly 30–45 BRL. For budget travelers, take Metro Line 1 to Largo do Machado Station, then transfer to bus line 378 for a short ride. Though less frequent, it’s affordable. The area features wide roads ideal for walking or renting a bicycle—perfect for those who enjoy slow travel and authentic local immersion.
Though not a major tourist spot, this neighborhood offers authentic Brazilian cultural experiences. Visit the weekly local market to taste fresh tapioca and açaí bowls made on-site. Attend traditional church ceremonies and live music events held at nearby temples, showcasing deep-rooted religious and artistic heritage. For a memorable experience, join a small community dance workshop to learn rhythms of samba or bossa nova, immersing yourself in Rio’s vibrant cultural soul.
While primarily urban, the area is close to the Tijuca National Forest, one of the world’s largest urban forests. Hike the Trilha do Maracanã trail to discover lush rainforest, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. From here, you can also catch panoramic views of Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor) on clear days, especially during sunset when the sky turns golden and blends with Rio’s skyline. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers seeking serene escapes within the city.
Yes, the neighborhood offers excellent connectivity. It’s just a 15-minute drive from Copacabana Beach, and within 30 minutes of key sites like Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Penha and the Rio de Janeiro Museum. With Uber or public transit, reaching cultural hubs such as Santa Teresa and São Cristóvão is effortless. Local restaurants and street vendors provide authentic flavors and daily convenience, making it an ideal base for travelers who value both accessibility and local authenticity.
This neighborhood offers plenty of family-oriented fun. Head to Copacabana Beach for sandcastle building, swimming, and water sports. Local parks are perfect for picnics and kids’ playtime. Many guesthouses offer family-friendly tours, including Brazilian craft workshops and marine life education sessions. On weekends, enjoy outdoor movie screenings hosted by the community—ideal for bonding time. The safe, welcoming atmosphere makes it a top choice for family travelers.
Nightlife here is relaxed and community-focused. Local botequins open in the evening, serving craft beer and traditional Brazilian snacks in a cozy setting. Independent bands occasionally perform live, playing jazz, folk, and Brazilian pop. While there are no large clubs, this quiet charm suits travelers seeking calm evenings with friends. Well-lit streets and strong local security make nighttime outings safe and enjoyable.
See what other travelers say about Santa Luzia e São Raimundo Nonato
Located right near the dock, this hotel is a bit off the beaten path with limited dining options nearby, but it's still conveniently within the city center. Getting around by taxi is super easy—just a short ride to most attractions. What made our stay extra special was catching a Chinese senior tour group during our visit; the lobby was buzzing with energy and lively chatter, adding a unique cultural vibe. Despite the quiet surroundings, the hotel offers excellent service, modern amenities, and great value for money. If you're looking for convenience, comfort, and a touch of local charm, this place is definitely worth considering.
The hotel is incredibly convenient, just a 2-3 minute walk from the bus station—perfect for travelers arriving by land transport. The room was much larger than expected, with plenty of space and a spacious bathroom that felt very luxurious. The rooftop terrace is a real highlight, offering panoramic views of the city, especially stunning at sunset. It’s a great spot to relax with a drink or enjoy some quiet time. Clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed, this place delivers excellent value. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Rio.
Staying at Ibis Rio Porto Atlantico was a fantastic choice, especially given its close proximity to GIG Rio de Janeiro International Airport. Located in a well-planned new district, the area boasts wide, clean streets and a notably safer atmosphere compared to other parts of the city. Public transport is convenient—taking trams 1 and 4 to connect with the metro makes it easy to reach major tourist attractions without hassle. What really stood out was that room rates didn’t increase during Carnival season, which is incredibly fair and refreshing. The only minor downside is the lack of nearby restaurants—there’s just one large supermarket within walking distance, so dining options require a short trip. Still, the excellent location, reliable transport links, and great value make this hotel a top recommendation for travelers who prioritize convenience and peace of mind.
Staying at Jo&Joe Rio de Janeiro Largo do Boticario was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from Christ the Redeemer, making it perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the iconic views. The breakfast was exceptional, with a great variety of fresh local treats, including delicious jams and freshly squeezed juices. The staff went above and beyond—they even helped arrange tickets to a local match, which was incredibly thoughtful. The rooms are clean, modern, and well-designed, offering a comfortable retreat after a day exploring the city. Public transport access is excellent, with the metro just steps away. Everything about this place feels thoughtfully put together, and the overall experience was truly memorable. Highly recommended for travelers who value convenience, quality, and a touch of local charm.
This hotel absolutely delivers on its promise! The room was spotless, with fresh and fragrant linens that made for a very comfortable stay. Breakfast was outstanding—worth every penny. The location is fantastic; we walked to the Maracanã Stadium for a game and back without any hassle. Right outside the hotel is a great restaurant and bar, and getting an Uber was never an issue. The 24-hour front desk was incredibly helpful—we needed pharmacy assistance, and they promptly provided the contact info. Staff were polite, attentive, and professional throughout our visit. The only minor downside was the pillow—it could have been a bit higher and more supportive, but honestly, it didn’t detract from the overall experience. We had a wonderful stay and would highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Rio.
We stayed at Gallant Hotel with a group of five, and it was an excellent choice for our trip to Rio. While not located in the South Zone, the hotel's location is surprisingly convenient—just a short walk from the metro station and close to major tourist attractions. The area is quiet and peaceful, making it a great base for exploring the city. The staff were attentive, friendly, and always ready to help. Breakfast was diverse, delicious, and generously served—perfect way to start the day. Overall, we were thoroughly impressed by the comfort, service, and value. I’d definitely recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Rio, and I’m already planning to stay here again on our next visit.
The place was absolutely terrible—run-down, dirty, and in desperate need of renovation. Everything looked worn out and unclean, and the overall condition was disappointing. The room wasn’t hygienic at all, and the facilities were poorly maintained. I wouldn’t recommend this hotel to anyone, not even a friend in a pinch. It’s a complete waste of time and money. Definitely not worth it.
Staying at Graja Hostel was an absolute delight! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the main attractions and easily accessible by public transit. The room was clean, cozy, and well-maintained, with fresh linens, comfortable pillows, and a solid mattress that made for a great night’s sleep. What really stood out was the amazing value for money—being so centrally located without breaking the bank is a rare find. The host was incredibly welcoming and friendly, going above and beyond to make sure I felt at home. Their warm hospitality truly made the experience special. If you're visiting Rio de Janeiro, this is definitely a top choice for a comfortable, affordable, and memorable stay.
Staying at Bella Ciao Hostel in Rio de Janeiro was one of the most memorable experiences I've had on my trip. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the metro and super close to everything worth seeing. The hostel offers incredible value for money, with clean, cozy rooms and a welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home. The common lounge is perfect for working during the day or hanging out in the evening with board games, movies, and great conversations. The staff and regular guests are genuinely warm and friendly—they go out of their way to make sure you enjoy your time in the neighborhood and the city. Special shoutout to Saulo, the owner—he’s incredibly kind, always available, and truly cares about everyone’s well-being. It’s clear he runs this place with heart. I left feeling like I’d made new friends and discovered a hidden gem. Definitely coming back, and I’ll be bringing my travel buddies next time.
Staying at this place was an absolute nightmare. The property looked nothing like the photos—dirty, poorly maintained, and frankly, unsanitary. We arrived to find mold on the walls, grime on the doors and mattresses, and no toilet paper in the bathroom. The room we were given was tiny, windowless, and overcrowded for three people—so much so that we had to request a different one after being misled by the owner. When I tried calling the house multiple times with questions, no one answered, yet moments later someone opened a door just to let in a cat. I’d sent a message through the platform before arrival, but it went completely unanswered. My daughter was already unwell upon arrival (travel sickness), and though I helped clean up, we didn’t choose to be sick. The lack of communication, basic hygiene, and overall disregard for guest comfort was shocking. There were dogs barking nonstop throughout the night, and the entrance area looked like a trash heap. It ruined the end of our trip—my kids didn’t even want to change accommodations, but I was horrified just sleeping there. Despite the location’s potential and how welcoming most Brazilians are, this experience was far from what it should’ve been. I strongly advise against staying here and believe platforms need stricter oversight to prevent such substandard listings from being available.
Absolutely loved my stay at Maraca Hostel! The accommodation was top-notch—clean, comfortable, and well-maintained throughout my visit. The vibe is super welcoming and lively, making it feel like home from the moment I arrived. Being just steps away from the world’s largest stadium and surrounded by great restaurants made every day enjoyable. Whether I wanted a quick bite or a night out, everything was within walking distance. The staff were friendly and helpful, always going the extra mile. It’s rare to find such a perfect mix of location, cleanliness, and atmosphere in a hostel. I’ll definitely be back and would highly recommend this place to anyone visiting Rio—it’s truly one of the best stays I’ve had!
Absolutely incredible experience! Words can't even begin to describe how amazing this hostel was. From the moment we arrived, the host welcomed us with such warmth and genuine care—so much so that it felt like coming home. The place is clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed with comfort in mind. The bed was cozy, the space felt safe and welcoming, and the staff went above and beyond to help us with local tips, transportation, and anything else we needed. Their kindness truly made our stay unforgettable. I’ve stayed at many hostels around the world, but this one stands out for its personal touch and attention to detail. If you're visiting Rio de Janeiro and want a memorable, authentic, and affordable stay, this is the place. Can’t wait to come back—thank you for the heartfelt hospitality!
Explore more amazing destinations