Vila Santa Teresa

Around the last curve of Rua Almirante Alexandrino before it descends into Cosme Velho, Vila Santa Teresa occupies a restored mansion on Rio's hillside bonde tram line, a five-star property built for travelers who want the Corcovado view without the Zona Sul crowds.

Rooms keep original tile floors and iron balconies overlooking the Santa Teresa rooftops; the tram stop sits two minutes downhill for the ride to Largo do Guimarães.

Lapa's arches and nightlife lie a fifteen-minute walk down the same slope, making this a base suited to couples and design-minded travelers over families needing beach proximity.