Escadaria Selarón
A breathtaking public stairway adorned with thousands of colorful, hand-painted tiles from around the world, a vibrant tribute to Brazilian culture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Empty steps for photos
Escadaria Selarón
Best Time
Empty steps for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking public stairway adorned with thousands of colorful, hand-painted tiles from around the world, a vibrant tribute to Brazilian culture.
"It's literally a staircase filled up with lots of different tiles from all over the world and colors. It's beautiful and very colorful."
🎯 Go Early for Empty Steps
Arrive by 6:00 AM for the best chance at empty steps and photos.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking up and down stairs, so comfy footwear is a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Colorful Staircase
The entire length of the steps
A vibrant masterpiece of over 200 steps adorned with thousands of colorful, hand-painted tiles from around the globe.
Global Tile Collection
Throughout the steps
Hunt for tiles representing countries worldwide; a unique artistic tribute to the Brazilian people and global unity.
Artistic Details
Various sections of the steps
Discover intricate ceramic art and hidden details that make each step a unique visual experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the Tile
+1Safety & Surroundings: Stay Aware
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early for Empty Steps
Arrive by 6:00 AM for the best chance at empty steps and photos.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking up and down stairs, so comfy footwear is a must.
📸 Perfect Photo Spots
Climb to the top and turn right at the Brazilian flag for fewer people and great shots.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping Nearby
Find affordable souvenirs like mugs and keychains from vendors across the street.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early for Empty Steps
Arrive by 6:00 AM for the best chance at empty steps and photos.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking up and down stairs, so comfy footwear is a must.
📸 Perfect Photo Spots
Climb to the top and turn right at the Brazilian flag for fewer people and great shots.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping Nearby
Find affordable souvenirs like mugs and keychains from vendors across the street.
🧐 Look for Your Country's Tile
Take your time to find tiles representing your home country or state.
⚠️ Be Aware of Surroundings
Keep an eye on your belongings, especially during busy times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Escadaria Selarón is a visually stunning and iconic landmark, celebrated for its vibrant, globally-inspired tile art. Visitors love the unique photo opportunities and the chance to find tiles from their home countries. However, the main drawback is the intense crowds, which can make it difficult to fully enjoy or photograph the steps, especially on weekends.
"I took an Uber to this place and it was very easy to find. It's literally a staircase filled up with lots of different tiles from all over the world and colors. It's beautiful and very colorful. Attention to the hundreds of people trying to take pictures because on Fridays and weekends it's kinda crowded. The best time to visit it is in the afternoon during week days. It'll make a lot easier to take a nice picture. Wearing comfortable shoes is a good idea. If you go up till the top, you can even take the street over the hill and reach the ruins park."
Caio Martins
"I highly recommend this stop. We went on it with our tour guide, but you can do this one on your own. Find your home country/state. There are great vendors across the street selling jerseys. My husband came back to get another!
No tickets required."
Chelsea T-Reffet
"This spot is crazy. It is packed with tourists. I get the idea of having tiles from across the world but there are so many people taking selfies and climbing on all the steps on the side, it is impossible to really enjoy this area. Might be worth a minute or so of your time. Much better than things to do in this beautiful city."
Jonathan Ding
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Escadaria Selarón is by Uber or taxi. Public transport options exist but can be less direct. Many visitors combine a visit with other Lapa attractions. +1
While public transport is an option, many travelers recommend using ride-sharing apps like Uber for safety and convenience, especially if you're unfamiliar with Rio. +1
It depends on your starting point. It's located in the Lapa neighborhood, which is accessible from other parts of the city, but walking distances can be significant.
Uber is a popular and generally safe option for getting around Rio. For longer distances, consider using the metro system.
Escadaria Selarón is located in the Lapa district, which is a vibrant area known for its nightlife and bohemian atmosphere, but it's a bit further from the main beachside tourist hubs like Copacabana and Ipanema.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Escadaria Selarón is completely free! It's a public space open to everyone.
The steps are accessible 24/7 as it's an outdoor public space. However, for the best experience and fewer crowds, early morning is highly recommended. +1
There is no admission fee. Escadaria Selarón is a free public artwork.
Yes, it's always open. However, visiting very early in the morning (around 6 AM) is advised to avoid crowds and get the best photos. +1
No specific entry restrictions, but be mindful of your surroundings and belongings. Avoid climbing on the tiles themselves.
📸 📸 Photography & Experience
The absolute best time for photos is very early in the morning, around 6:00 AM, before the crowds arrive. Weekday afternoons can also be less crowded than weekends.
While tripods are technically allowed, some Reddit users suggest they might attract unwanted attention or be difficult to use due to crowds. Consider a monopod or stabilizing your phone.
It's a unique public art installation by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, featuring thousands of colorful tiles from over 60 countries, creating a vibrant and globally inspired staircase.
Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour exploring the steps, taking photos, and appreciating the artwork.
Climbing to the top and turning right at the Brazilian flag can lead to areas with fewer people for photos.
🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining
Yes, the Lapa neighborhood surrounding Escadaria Selarón has many bars and restaurants offering local cuisine and drinks, especially lively at night.
While there aren't vendors directly on the steps, you'll find street vendors and small shops nearby selling snacks and drinks.
Lapa offers a variety of Brazilian dishes, from traditional feijoada to grilled meats and seafood, alongside international options.
You'll find several cafes in the Lapa area, perfect for a coffee break before or after visiting the steps.
Lapa is famous for its nightlife and dining scene, but it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially late at night.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to spot tiles from different countries or look for specific shapes and colors. The steps themselves are a fun, albeit short, climb. Be sure to keep a close eye on them, as the steps can be slippery, and the area can get crowded. Comfortable shoes are a must for everyone.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Experiment with different angles, focusing on the intricate details of the tiles and the overall scale of the artwork.Consider exploring the upper sections of the stairs for unique perspectives. While tripods might be difficult to use due to crowds, a monopod or a steady hand can still yield fantastic results.
🚶 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, consider using public transport if you're comfortable, or opt for ride-sharing services. Nearby vendors offer affordable souvenirs, so you can bring a piece of Rio home without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art and Artist of Escadaria Selarón
Selarón lived and worked on the steps for years, constantly adding new tiles and details. The artwork is characterized by its vibrant colors, diverse patterns, and the sheer scale of its transformation. It's a testament to his dedication and a beloved landmark in Rio de Janeiro, drawing visitors eager to explore its intricate beauty and find tiles from their own countries.
Sadly, Jorge Selarón passed away in 2014, but his legacy lives on through this iconic staircase. The artwork continues to be maintained and appreciated by locals and tourists alike, a vibrant splash of color and culture in the heart of Lapa.
Navigating Crowds and Capturing the Perfect Shot
+1 This allows for unobstructed photos and a more peaceful appreciation of the artwork. Even at 7:00 AM, as one video shows, people are already starting to gather. For those who can't make it in the early morning, there are still ways to find slightly less crowded spots. One tip suggests climbing to the top and turning right at the Brazilian flag, where you might find more space for photos.
When planning your visit, remember that comfortable shoes are essential, as you'll be walking up and down the tiled steps.
Safety and Neighborhood Insights
Some travelers have expressed concerns about visiting early in the morning alone, as the area is close to favelas.
For transportation, Uber is frequently recommended as a safe and convenient option for getting around Rio, including to and from Escadaria Selarón.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit