Escadaria Selarón
Selarón Steps
"A colorful mosaic staircase created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón. 250 steps covered in tiles from 60+ countries. An ever-evolving art project that became Rio's most photographed staircase."
Logistics
Free
Vibe
Colorful and artistic
Duration
30 mins
Best For
Instagram photos
The Backstory
Selarón started the project in 1990 as a tribute to the Brazilian people. He worked on it obsessively until his death in 2013. The steps connect Lapa and Santa Teresa.
Local Secret
"Go early (8-9am) or late afternoon (5pm) to avoid tour groups. The steps are public and free. Watch for pickpockets—it's crowded. Combine with a walk through Santa Teresa."