Lapa district, Rio de Janeiro

Lapa district is considered one of the most picturesque places in Rio de Janeiro. Even before the Second World War it was often called local Montmartre. Now it has a reputation as a nightlife center, as well as a place where you can spend time to evaluate the quality of the national cuisine, listen to good music and feel the atmosphere of the modern Rio. A fair share of the district's charm is created by the colonial-era buildings. Despite the abundance of people here is very quiet and safe and the crimes are rare. In general, this is the area of fun and exciting pastime, the sounds of music and fiery rhythms. 

Slightly more than half a century ago, the area was home to a huge number of seedy places, including taverns, dance halls and restaurants for different social groups. In the 60-70s Lapa went through a period of stagnation, but by the end of the century it transformed into a cultural and entertainment center, which attracts local residents and tourists alike. For the general public there are concert halls like Rio Scenarium, Estrela da Lapa and Carioca da Gema, as well as a superb restaurant Café Sacrilegio. The streets Rua Joaquim Silva and Rua da Lapa are famous for their rhythms of salsa, reggae and hip-hop, so they are always full of young people. There is a significant amount of the renowned samba schools in Lapa as well. 

The atmosphere in the Lapa neighborhood is so friendly that it is quite common to run into groups of people of different religions and nationalities having fun together. What can be better than to have a glass of Caipirinha and communicate in English with a previously unknown person living in another part of the world, and to share your feelings about staying in one of the most vibrant cities in the world? Often, people end up hanging out at Lapa for days, since there is so much to experience. Various nearby hostels and quite comfortable hotels are provided for accomodation. 

To visit Rio de Janeiro and not to visit Lapa district is considered just wrong, so everyone is strongly advised to go and experience this amazing area.

Gallery: Lapa district, the nightlife center In Rio de Janeiro