Urca, Historic residential neighborhood at Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Urca is a historic residential neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro surrounded by water on three sides and nestled between Sugarloaf Mountain and Guanabara Bay. The area consists of several interconnected streets and squares that form a distinct community separated from the rest of the city by geography.
This location marks Rio de Janeiro's first Portuguese settlement, established by Estácio de Sá in 1565 and protected by the Forte São João fortress. The early fort represented the starting point of European colonization in this region.
The neighborhood holds a strong place in Rio's entertainment history, especially through the former Casino da Urca where performers like Carmen Miranda launched their careers. The streets today still echo the memory of when this was the city's hub for nightlife and cultural events.
The neighborhood is best explored on foot, with easy access to walking paths and a small beach for swimming. Plan your visit during daylight hours to take full advantage of the paths and local sights.
The Cláudio Coutinho track winds around Urca Hill and connects to paths leading to Sugarloaf Mountain's summit, offering a walking route for those who prefer to hike rather than take the cable car. This trail provides a direct alternative to the aerial access point.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
