Samba City (Cidade do Samba)

The basics

The colorful complex of Samba City is where 14 of the city’s top samba schools plan, prepare, and prep their floats for the world-renowned Rio Carnaval. Behind-the-scenes tours typically include a peek into the workshops of each samba school; the chance to try on costumes from previous years; and even a lesson in basic samba steps with a professional dancer. The location is also a popular stop on samba walking tours of Rio de Janeiro, which typically focus on significant sites such as the Portuary Zone and Mauá Square.

Things to know before you go

• Cameras and devices capable of photography are not permitted inside Samba City.
• There’s an admission fee to enter the complex–most tours of Samba City include this as standard.
• The metal walkways that connect the complex are wheelchair accessible, but not all of the former warehouse is.

How to get there

You can find Samba City between the Morro do Pinto hill and Avenida Rodrigues Alves, close to the old warehouses (Armazéns 10 and 11). If you’re taking the metro, Samba City has its own stop on the blue metro line 1.

When to get there

Samba City is open Tuesday through Saturday, from mid-morning to early evening. It’s closed during Rio’s Carnival week, typically held towards the end of February, when the samba schools are performing.

Celebrating Rio Carnaval

While Samba City offers a backstage look at the preparations for Rio Carnaval, there’s nothing quite like witnessing the real thing–hailed as one of the most extravagant celebrations in the world. It’s typically held towards the end of February, and you can book front-row seats in advance to secure the best spots to watch the samba schools in all their glory.