I have long held an ambition to go to Lapa and I wasn't disappointed. Lovely old buildings, little bars and restaurants and a very lively scene. This, in the most vibrant city in South America, is a real bonus as so much of lovely old Rio has been destroyed and utter concrete ugliness, covered in grafitti, has been put in... More

The arches of Lapa are an attraction for some and if you're in Cinelandia and in the central region, access is easy. But what attracts your bohemian neighborhood full of bars and samba and pagode are offered in every corner. Simply select a bar and enjoy the night and the lights of this wonderful city. It's worth.

The arches bears a great story. Several ones actually. The abcient water-ways from the Tijuca forest to the city - that originally spanned no further than from Praça XV to Lapa. And later the proud bridge for the legendary Santa Teresa tram - now dysfunctional and a disgrace for the city. The arches look magic though - like something from... More

Don't walk around there..two guys just robbed us out on the way from the arches to the cathedral. Two cameras gone..just sad about the pictures. No police car to be found.

Drove by the arches on our way to Lapa steps. The arches look worn out and sorrounding area is full of shady characters...they look like druggies and some sleep under the arches so be careful.

Once an aqueduct which supplied water to Rio, then a bridge for the cable car to Santa Theresa, the arches themselves in Lapa are now just a big bunch of arches with no real use. While the cable car may, or may not, return one day, they are certainly a landmark and perhaps worthwhile for that purpose. Despite being cleaned... More

Reviews may differ based on the period you visit! We visited Rio during carnival-2013. What an experience!!!! Lapa during carnival is bubbly. Perky crowd up all night bouncing on the best of the beats and songs played. Its amazing to see the crowed just drunk and riveted dancing. You actually get to see the superlatives. We didn’t find it unsafe... More

Crack smokers, pickpockets and thousands of passers-by. Better be in groups or in a taxi which will stop for you to take pictures and go. At night the place becomes a gathering place for cariocas - Rio born people - of all age and origin. The surrounding area bubbles with bars, young and beautiful people. At night you usually stay... More

I'm local. It's a nice place to visit on weekdays, with friends. Is dangerous on Sunday mornings and afternoons. There's a lot of bars and typical restaurants in the area. And a big party/show house - Fundição Progresso - to enjoy on weekend nights.