Selarón Steps, Rio: Where They Are and How to Visit

The Selarón Steps are bright enough to stop a walk through Lapa in its tracks. They are also a public stairway, which is easy to forget when everyone is trying to take the same photograph. Come for the mosaic, then look closely at how the tiles change as you climb.

You do not need a ticket. A short independent visit works well, and a guided walk is worthwhile if you want the story of Jorge Selarón and the surrounding neighbourhoods. The steps sit between Lapa and Santa Teresa, so this is a useful link rather than an isolated photo stop.

Where are the Selarón Steps?

The lower entrance is by Rua Joaquim Silva in Lapa; the stairway climbs towards Rua Pinto Martins in Santa Teresa. Riotur's attraction guide places it about five minutes from the Lapa Arches. Use the lower entrance for the familiar full-staircase view.

The steps are exposed to sun and have irregular surfaces. If climbing is difficult, enjoy the lower section and mosaic details rather than feeling obliged to reach the top.

What is the story behind the tiles?

Chilean artist Jorge Selarón began covering the stairway with tiles in the 1990s and kept developing the work. Tiles from Brazil and elsewhere turn the steps into a changing patchwork rather than one uniform design. The city tourism office describes the stairs as his work and as the link between the two neighbourhoods.

Look at individual sections as well as the famous red central run. Small pictures and inscriptions reward a slower visit, and the angle from halfway up changes the composition. Do not remove or mark tiles; this is a work of art that people still walk through.

When is the best time to visit?

Earlier in the day usually gives you a calmer experience and better light on the tiles. Midday can feel crowded and hot. If your main goal is a photograph, be patient and let residents and other visitors pass; blocking the entire stairway for a long shoot is poor form.

The public stairway itself is free. Treat sellers or paid photo services around it as optional, separate services. Keep your phone and bag secure, especially in crowds, and use normal urban awareness on the connecting streets.

How can you combine the steps with Lapa?

See the Lapa Arches, walk to the steps, then decide whether to continue uphill into Santa Teresa. The Santa Teresa tram is a separate ride with its own stops and ticket; it does not run up the mosaic stairway. Our downtown route gives you a longer daytime plan.

If you prefer context and company, choose a guided Lapa and Santa Teresa walk. Check whether a tour actually visits the steps and includes the tram before booking; “Rio highlights” can mean many different routes.

FAQ - Selarón Steps, Rio

Are the Selarón Steps free?

Yes. They are a public stairway; guided walks and other services are optional.

Where should you start the visit?

Start at the lower end by Rua Joaquim Silva for the classic upward view.

Who created the Selarón Steps?

Chilean artist Jorge Selarón covered the stairway with a mosaic of tiles.

How long do you need?

Around 20 to 30 minutes for the stairs and details, longer if you continue through Lapa or Santa Teresa.

Can you walk all the way up?

Yes when the public stairway is open, but the uneven steps can be uncomfortable for some visitors.

Do the steps connect directly to the Santa Teresa tram?

No. The tram has its own route and stops. Plan the connection separately.

Is the area busy?

Often, particularly at popular photo times. Visit earlier and keep pedestrian access clear.

What else is nearby?

The Lapa Arches, Santa Teresa streets and parts of central Rio make sensible daytime pairings.