
The landmarks in every guidebook — and the tours that tell you what guidebooks don't.
Rio de Janeiro, affectionately known as "Rio," is not just a city; it is a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and resilience. Founded in 1565 by the Portuguese, Rio de Janeiro has evolved from a colonial outpost to a bustling metropolis and a global cultural icon.
Rio de Janeiro was founded on March 1, 1565, by the Portuguese explorer Estácio de Sá, who named it São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro in honor of St. Sebastian. The name translates to "Saint Sebastian of the January River," derived from the month the Portuguese first encountered Guanabara Bay in 1502. The port's natural beauty attracted settlers, and the city quickly grew.

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4.8 across the App Store and Google Play. Here's a few we keep coming back to.
This tour was such a great way to see the city. The stories were interesting without feeling too scripted, and I loved being able to explore at my own pace.
This was a solid way to get to know Brighton without feeling like a tourist. The narration had depth and context, but didn't overdo it.
Started this tour with a croissant in one hand and zero expectations. The app just vibes with you, no pressure, just you, your headphones, and some cool stories.