A Neighbourhood Guide to Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro

This hillside hotel occupies a former coffee farm dating from 1850, and you’ll see reminders of the earlier incarnation throughout the swish, updated interiors. Much of the decor is inspired by the golden era of coffee and cocoa, together with traditional Brazilian materials such as tropical woods and banana fiber. Added to this are five-star features, such as spa treatments and a rooftop pool with spectacular views over the neighborhood. Many guest rooms share this lovely vista from their balcony, too – best enjoyed over a cup of steaming coffee.

You won’t find anywhere in Santa Teresa with more eye-popping views over Rio than this hotel on a lush hilltop bordering the Laranjeiras neighborhood. Enjoy Sugarloaf Mountain vistas from all over the property, from your poolside lounger and – in many cases – without even getting out of bed. You’ll find them from the terrace, too, as you dine on French and Brazilian fusion cuisine. Alternatively, escape to the spa for a holistic therapy session.

The Monte Alegre is an easy-on-the-budget hotel, housed in a wonderful piece of elegantly restored architecture, smack dab in the center of Santa Teresa. As well as being surrounded by numerous bars and restaurants, you’ll find top attractions such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and Carioca Aqueduct within walking distance. After a day exploring, cool off in the hotel swimming pool before retiring to your room – ask for one with a balcony for views over the neighborhood.

Set on a steep leafy hillside in the south end of Santa Teresa, Villa Alexandrino is an elegant late-19th-century building with oodles of historic charm. The house is filled with flamboyant neoclassical flourishes, colorful murals and striking architectural elements such as a stained-glass ceiling dome and sweeping staircase. There’s also a secluded swimming pool, large enough for a few strokes, and many of the characterful guest rooms provide sweeping views over the Rio metropolis.

A pastel pink facade awash with classical elegance certainly grabs your attention at the Vila Galé Rio de Janeiro. Located where Santa Teresa meets the colorful Lapa district, it’s a lively part of town, full of live-music clubs and bars. The hotel is split in two, with the more palatial accommodation in the 19th-century palace wing, and a 13-story tower housing more modern rooms. A palm-lined swimming pool is long enough for your morning laps, and there are plenty of poolside sunbeds for daytime lounging.

While its fabulously ornate historic architecture suggests otherwise, the Selina Lapa is a budget-friendly hostel, chock-full of hip and youthful attitude. Passing through its corridors are a mix of international backpackers, creatives and local musicians arriving for sessions with the in-house radio station. Choose between shared dorms or private rooms; if you’re up for a drink and a mingle, sunset at the rooftop bar is the time and place to do it.