Rio de Janeiro

Secret Rio: Artists’ Alleys, Garden Views & Ceramics Below the Surface

Hidden Gems • 3 hours 5

(69)

Secret Rio: Artists’ Alleys, Garden Views & Ceramics Below the Surface

Wander into Rio’s lesser-seen side with a local host, your pace, your path, your kind of depth.

What makes this experience special

In just a few hours, discover another side of Rio: gentle, expressive, and deeply local. Your host will lead you through quiet spaces shaped by art, memory, and mood.

Key highlights

Explore tucked-away ateliers in a cobbled alley off Catete
Pause in a secret garden terrace once used for poetry salons
Sense quiet creativity in different spaces
Notice a mosaic wall shaped slowly by the neighborhood
Choose when to linger or shift, your host adapts to you
Feel part of the city’s rhythm, far from the spotlight

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

At a glance What’s included Things to know

3 hours

Fully tailored to your preferences

English Other languages may be requested

Walking experience may use public transport for long distances

What’s included

Tailored itinerary based on your preferences

A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems

Flexible start times to fit your day

What’s not included

Food, drinks and shopping expenses

Transport fares or attraction entry fees

Meeting point

Largo do Machado, Largo do Machado - Catete, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, Brazil

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

Here’s what your experience could look like

These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes

Meeting point

Largo do Machado, Largo do Machado - Catete, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, Brazil

A Quiet Lane in Catete

A cobbled alley where the city feels unhurried

Secret Rio: Artists’ Alleys, Garden Views & Ceramics Below the Surface

Down a narrow street, your host may point out a passage where time seems to stretch. You might pause near open doorways, catch a scent of something familiar, or notice small signs of a slower, creative life tucked just out of view.

A Garden Terrace Above the Bay

A soft view, a shaded seat, and space to slow down

Behind old walls, there may be a garden where past and present linger. It’s the kind of place you might sit for a moment, listen to birdsong, or hear a quiet story, less about what happened here, more about how it still feels.

Signs of Making and Marking

Textures and traces left quietly over time

Your host might take you past a low entry or shaded gate where creative signs catch the eye, a glimpse of shaped clay, a faint scent of glaze, or patterns layered onto a nearby wall. Some guests pause, others pass through, drawn by the feeling more than the form.

Music Beneath the Banyan Tree

A soft rhythm shared among neighbors

If the timing feels right, your host might lead you past a tree where music sometimes drifts through the air. Whether it’s voices, strings, or simple silence, you’ll have space to sit, listen, or just watch how the moment moves.

Optional Close: A Rooftop Few People Mention

A final view, if you feel like ending above it all

There could be steps nearby that lead somewhere quiet, a rooftop lookout without signs or fanfare. If it calls to you, your host might suggest heading up. There’s nothing to do there but look, breathe, and let the day settle in.

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

A colorful embrace against iconic tiles

Relaxing on the water with friends

City strolls and bright conversations

Tasting local flavors, one bite at a time

Balcony views and happy family vibes

Exploring grand architecture together

Capturing memories inside a stunning landmark

Immersed in Mexico’s Colorful Fiesta Spirit

Exploring Mexico City’s Bustling Streets with New Friends

Sun-Soaked Stroll Through Historic Streets

Laughs on the move

Capturing Moments by the Iconic Talavera Tiles

Taco Time and Local Flavors Shared Around the Table

Good Company, Great Tacos, and Cold Cervezas

Smiles Over the Mercado Sonora Skyline

Toasting to Authentic Cantina Vibes

See what happens when you travel unscripted!

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What travelers think of our Hidden Gems experiences in South America

Ray Aug 2025

Very nice tour of the city. Informative as well. A great way to start your trip. Highly recommended.

John Aug 2025

Ray Aug 2025

Nicha Aug 2025

Sheenam was one of the kindest and friendliest people I’ve ever met. She knows all the landmarks in the city well, and she took a beautiful picture of me. By the end of the trip, we had become good friends. I highly recommend her! Hope to see you again soon.

Osam Aug 2025

I enjoyed the interactions with thr tour guide. Very knowledgeable and attentive.

Jessica Aug 2025

Sheenam was extremely knowledgeable about each site we visited as well as the local culture and history. I had an excellent time and would highly recommend.

SEE ALL REVIEWS

FAQs

Your questions, answered

Is this a traditional tour?

No. Our experiences are unscripted and designed around you. Instead of following a rigid itinerary, your host will plan a personalized journey that feels natural, immersive, and unique.

What if I don’t know what I want to explore?

That’s completely fine! Select an experience theme or a flexible discovery experience, and after booking, answer a few questions so your host can design the perfect experience for you.

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about your interests and travel style. We’ll match you with the best host who will tailor the experience to you. You'll have the opportunity to chat with them before the experience and agree on a plan.

Will I know my itinerary in advance?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!

Will I see famous landmarks or just hidden gems?

Both! Your host will take you to iconic sights if you want to see them, but they’ll also introduce you to places and stories most travelers miss.

Can I request specific places to visit?

Yes! After booking, you will receive a questionnaire where you can highlight must-visit spots and anything else you’d like to include, and your host will craft your experience around them.

Can I change the meeting place?

Yes, you will be in touch with your host before your experience, and you can agree on a different meeting point with them. Your host can meet you anywhere central that’s convenient.

How much walking is involved?

This depends on the experience, but your host can adjust the pace to suit your comfort level.

Can my host meet me at my accommodation?

Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.