“Bohemian chic at this luxury hotel in the enviable location of Santa Teresa. Brazilian designs combine with the utmost designer elegance - rich wooden furnishings, soft sandstone and unrivalled views from the fabulous loft suite. A very special place to stay with a wonderful restaurant. ”

Hotel review

Copacabana, Ipanema eat your heart out, Santa Teresa and the Santa Teresa Hotel are the real sweet spot of Rio. Set high above Rio with panoramic views to Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf Mountain, downtown Rio and Guanabara Bay, the Santa Teresa sits discreetly amongst the old colonial houses in a lively and bohemian neighbourhood filled with art galleries and local restaurants. The same vibe flows throughout the hotel, at the pool, in the Térèze restaurant and in the Bar dos Descasados. There's always something going on whether it's a jazz festival followed by feijoada, samba and cocktails, a BBQ or early morning yoga. The rooms are spacious and full of light, some with balconies, most with spectacular views and super comfy beds. The amenities are modern yet the decor is simple with white walls and shuttered windows.

For those not looking to explore the immediate surroundings or take in Rio's sites, the Santa Teresa is a relaxing retreat with a good size lap pool nestled in a tropical garden lined with sun loungers. Below the pool you will find Térèze - a restaurant serving beautifully presented dishes inspired by French cuisine with a Latin American twist. The most sought after tables come with a view but don't worry -  the food, diverse wine list and friendly, smiley service will ensure a great time. It's a restaurant enjoyed by guests and locals, making it popular and, unlike many hotel restaurants one not to be missed. And to round off the laid back experience the pool bar serves up some of the best Caipirinhas in Rio.

Recommended for

  • City Style

    • A neo-colonial former coffee finca in Rio's boho chic Santa Teresa, exuding ethnic Brazilian swag through interiors and art.
  • Total relaxation

    • An indulgent getaway with glorious modern spa, fantastic cuisine, and unrivalled service, in an arty laid back part of town.
  • Museums

    • Check out nearby Chácara do Céu, a small museum based in an old mansion house with an eclectic selection of contemporary art.
  • Sights nearby

    • Visit the Selaron Steps, one of the most iconic attractions in Rio and the work of Chilean artist Jorge Selarón.
  • Hotel Entertainment

    • Spend a lazy day at the poolside bar admiring the awesome views up to the mountains and down over Guanabara Bay.
  • Close to nightlife

    • Warm up at the trendy hotel bar, then hop in cab to Lapa for Rio's hottest choro music spots.
  • Child friendly

    • UNder 12s stay for free in parents' rooms and babysitting on request.
  • Local markets

    • Splurge in the trendy monthly Rio Antigo Market.
  • Yoga

    • By arrangement
  • Views

    • Over Rio
  • Spa

    • Le Spa
  • Rooms with balcony/terrace

  • Designer

  • Colonial

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Good wine list

  • Restaurant

  • Historic

  • Chic

  • Gym

  • Spa breaks

  • Beach nearby

  • Conference facilities

  • Disabled access

  • Wellbeing

  • Luxury

  • Air conditioning

Facilities

  • Rooms

    43 rooms in this hotel
  • Child friendly

    UNder 12s stay for free in parents' rooms and babysitting on request.
  • Garden

    Tropical garden
  • Spa

    Le Spa
  • Meeting Room

  • Bath robes

  • Parking

  • Bar

  • Rooms with balcony/terrace

  • Airport transfer

  • Walking distance restaurants

  • Sauna/Steam

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Cots available

  • Massage

  • No pets

  • Wifi

  • Good wine list

  • 24 Hour room service

  • Restaurant

  • Swimming Pool

  • Gym

  • Room service

  • Safe

  • Disabled access

  • Suites

  • Hot Tub

  • Concierge

  • Satellite / Cable TV

  • Air conditioning

  • Business Centre

  • Conference facilities

Activities

  • Museums

    • Check out nearby Chácara do Céu, a small museum based in an old mansion house with an eclectic selection of contemporary art.
  • Sights nearby

    • Visit the Selaron Steps, one of the most iconic attractions in Rio and the work of Chilean artist Jorge Selarón.
  • Hotel Entertainment

    • Spend a lazy day at the poolside bar admiring the awesome views up to the mountains and down over Guanabara Bay.
  • Close to nightlife

    • Warm up at the trendy hotel bar, then hop in cab to Lapa for Rio's hottest choro music spots.
  • Local markets

    • Splurge in the trendy monthly Rio Antigo Market.
  • Yoga

    • By arrangement

Map & Location

See what they say

Why do people love staying at your hotel? Hotel Santa Teresa MGallery is the perfect retreat for those looking to relax and connect with nature. Located in one of Rio de Janeiro’s most charming neighborhoods, the hotel offers a unique experience, with a design that preserves its historical roots while incorporating contemporary elements. In addition, the Le SPA offers relaxing treatments that allow guests to recharge while enjoying a tranquil and sophisticated atmosphere. The pool overlooking Guanabara Bay also provides a peaceful space to soak up the sun and take in Rio’s natural beauty, creating a complete sensory experience.

What is there to do in the area? Santa Teresa is a vibrant, artistic neighborhood filled with studios and art galleries that showcase local creativity. Guests exploring the area will discover works by both renowned and emerging artists in intimate galleries that celebrate Rio’s art and culture. The neighborhood is also known for its winding streets, historic homes, and a unique atmosphere that blends the charm of the past with the artistic energy of the present. For those who appreciate art and culture, Santa Teresa offers an immersive experience in Rio’s creative scene.

What kind of breakfast do you offer? Breakfast at Hotel Santa Teresa MGallery is now served à la carte, offering a personalized and exclusive experience for our guests. Instead of the traditional buffet, guests can choose from a variety of fresh, made-to-order options, including artisanal breads, regional cheeses, fresh fruits, and hot dishes such as eggs, tapiocas, and vegetarian options.
Inspired by the charm of the old coffee farms that shaped the neighborhood's history, our breakfast style evokes a warm and authentic atmosphere, blending contemporary comfort with Brazilian tradition.
To complete the experience, we offer a special selection of local coffees, with beans sourced from renowned Brazilian coffee regions, highlighting the authentic flavors and aromas of our terroir.

Do you offer other meals? And could you recommend good places to eat nearby? Yes, the hotel offers a high-quality dining experience at Térèze, a French restaurant with a Brazilian twist. Under the leadership of Cluster Culinary Director Jérôme Dardillac and the talented Chef Luanna Malheiros, Térèze features sophisticated dishes that blend classical French techniques with authentic Brazilian flavors, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
For guests, the ambiance at Térèze is ideal for a unique gastronomic journey, in an elegant and welcoming space overlooking the charming Santa Teresa landscape.
Additionally, on weekends, the hotel hosts the BBQ — Gourmet Seafood Barbecue, a celebration of Brazilian flavors, with seafood prepared in a refined and flavorful way, served in the hotel’s garden. A unique open-air experience that brings together cuisine, nature, and the relaxed spirit of Rio.

What are the most popular room types and why? Our most popular accommodations are the suites with views of Guanabara Bay, offering breathtaking scenery and a peaceful setting for relaxation. Highlights include the stylish Design Loft 49, known for its creative and contemporary design, and the exclusive Royal Suite 51, which features a piano in the room — an invitation to artistic expression and inspiration, reflecting the bohemian and musical spirit of Santa Teresa, a neighborhood rich in cultural heritage.
Each suite is carefully designed to provide comfort and sophistication, with a touch of Brazilian elegance. The contemporary design combined with the historical charm of the hotel creates a welcoming and unique atmosphere.
Many guests also appreciate the rooms facing the hotel’s internal gardens, offering a direct connection with nature and a serene environment — perfect for those seeking tranquility amidst Rio’s greenery and history.

What facilities do you have for children, and can you add extra beds to the rooms? Hotel Santa Teresa MGallery offers a welcoming environment for families. While the hotel primarily serves as a tranquil and relaxing retreat, our team is always attentive to the needs of families, ensuring comfort and convenience for all guests.
Extra beds can be added to rooms, subject to availability, and all spaces are carefully tailored to the child’s age — from in-room amenities to thoughtful details, everything is designed to create a warm and special experience for little ones.
Additionally, Térèze restaurant features a lovingly crafted kids' menu, offering tasty and balanced options that cater to younger palates. The calm, nature-surrounded setting makes the hotel ideal for families seeking rest and reconnection within the city.

What message would you like to share with The Hotel Guru readers? At Hotel Santa Teresa MGallery, we offer more than just a stay — we provide a unique experience of connection with Rio’s culture and nature. With our exclusive location overlooking Guanabara Bay, the relaxing Le SPA, and a beautiful pool area, we ensure guests enjoy a truly unforgettable experience.
The hotel is also the perfect setting for memorable occasions, including weddings and special celebrations. The romantic and welcoming atmosphere, combined with the refined cuisine of Térèze, creates the ideal environment for unforgettable moments. We are ready to make your special occasion even more unique — right in the heart of Rio de Janeiro.

Other reviews

Santa Teresa

"The Hotel Santa Teresa has the air of a hillside retreat, but packs in all the amenities of a five-star hotel, including one of the city’s best spas."

Originally published by The Telegraph

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