The Best Samba Clubs In Rio De Janeiro
Ask anyone what music they think of when they hear Rio de Janeiro and they’ll almost definitely say: “samba”. Samba is the life blood of Rio with its rhythmic beats that relentlessly course down the streets throughout the city, putting an unshakeable spring in everyone’s step. Whether you can dance to samba or not, a visit to a samba club is a must in Rio.
1. Carioca da Gema
Carioca da Gema
One of the first samba dance clubs in Lapa, this warm and intimate spot hosts some of the best samba bands in Rio. The main room unfolds as a large dance floor with the band playing at the front. Its unpretentious and relaxed atmosphere is perfect for newbies to samba to, so don’t feel shy trying to throw some samba-shaped moves on the dance floor. The waiters wander around the club with trays of drinks, freeing your time to enjoy the best in samba music, watch mesmerizing samba dancing or trying it out for yourself if you’re feeling brave.
Av. Mem de Sá, 79 – Centro, RJ, +55 21 3147 9000
2. Beco do Rato
Beco do Rato
Located in the heart of Lapa, many locals will fondly call Beco do Rato one of the best places for samba in the area. It’s warm and cozy, with staff so friendly that everyone feels like they’re tonight’s special guest. The venue is famous for its spontaneous rodas de samba, which is an informal jamming session between a group of samba players, yet the music is of the highest quality, playing the classic beats. It’s almost impossible not to get swept up with the crowd singing and dancing as everyone wholeheartedly embraces the passion and warmth of samba’s tradition.
R. Joaquim Silva, 11 – Centro, RJ, +55 21 2508 5600
3. Democráticos
Music Venue, Theater, Concert Hall, Building, Sports Center
4. Lapa 40 Graus
Lapa 40 Graus
Lapa 40 Graus is a club in Lapa that’s famous for sertanejo as well as its live samba bands. It’s one of the best nights to go to during the week where the party starts late and finishes after sunrise. The wide variety of music means it attracts a mixed crowd of students and older dancers, making it feel welcoming to everyone. After dancing to the live samba, there are snooker tables too to take a break at, before returning back to the dance floor to enjoy the best of samba.
R. Riachuelo, 97 – Centro, RJ, +55 21 3970 1334
5. Rio Scenarium
Bar
Rio Scenarium
Located in downtown Lapa, Rio Scenarium is one of the largest and most famous clubs in Rio de Janeiro. It’s also one of the best spots for live samba. Almost every night, the club invites several live samba bands or musicians that start playing at 7pm and continue throughout the night. With a capacity of 2,000 people, the club is huge and spreads out over three floors. The ground floor is where the band plays and is open for viewing from the other levels, making it seem at times almost like a concert venue. The atmosphere is dynamic, everyone’s in high spirits, and there are always a few good samba dancers on the dance floor showing how it’s done.
R. do Lavradio, 20 – Centro, RJ, +55 21 2221 0043
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