Praia de São Francisco: A Tranquil Beach Escape in Niterói
Escape to the tranquil shores of Praia de São Francisco in Niterói, offering stunning views, calm waters, and a relaxing beach experience.
Praia de São Francisco, located in Niterói, offers a serene escape with its calm waters and scenic views of Guanabara Bay and Rio de Janeiro. This urban beach is a favorite among locals and tourists seeking relaxation and leisure by the sea.
A brief summary to Praia de São Francisco
- Av. Quintino Bocaiúva, 509-643, Niterói, São Francisco, State of Rio de Janeiro, BR
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Try the local seafood at one of the beachside kiosks for an authentic culinary experience.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun can be strong, especially during midday.
- Take a walk along the Avenida Quintino Bocaiúva to enjoy the scenic views and explore the local shops and restaurants.
- Check the water quality before swimming, as it can vary depending on the weather and tides.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the Niterói bus terminal, take bus line 740D towards Charitas. Get off at the bus stop on Avenida Quintino Bocaiúva near Praia de São Francisco. The ride takes approximately 20-30 minutes, and the fare is around R$4.50.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From downtown Niterói, a taxi or ride-sharing service to Praia de São Francisco typically costs between R$20 and R$30, depending on traffic. The journey usually takes 10-15 minutes. Parking near the beach is limited, so consider this when choosing your mode of transport.
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Walking
If you are in the Charitas neighborhood, you can walk to Praia de São Francisco along Avenida Quintino Bocaiúva. The walk is approximately 1.5 kilometers and offers scenic views of the coastline. It should take around 20 minutes at a leisurely pace.
Discover more about Praia de São Francisco
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Praça da Fundação do Rio de Janeiro
7.0 km
Discover the historical heart of Rio de Janeiro at Praça da Fundação, where the city's story began amidst stunning natural beauty.
Portão Histórico da Fortaleza de São João
7.0 km
Step back in time at Rio's Portão Histórico da Fortaleza de São João, a colonial military landmark with breathtaking views of Guanabara Bay.
Fortaleza de São João
7.2 km
Explore Rio's oldest historical site: Fortaleza de São João in Urca, a fortress with stunning views and rich military heritage.
Brazilian Academy of Letters
8.0 km
Explore Brazil's literary heart at the Academia Brasileira de Letras in Rio de Janeiro, a neoclassical masterpiece dedicated to the Portuguese language.
Monumento Nacional aos Mortos da Segunda Guerra Mundial
8.0 km
A striking memorial in Rio de Janeiro honoring the Brazilian soldiers who fought and died during World War II in the Italian Campaign.
Monumento Natural dos Morros do Pão de Açúcar e da Urca
8.1 km
Discover Rio's iconic Sugarloaf Mountain and Urca Hill: stunning views, historic trails, and natural beauty in one unforgettable monument.
Tiradentes Palace
8.2 km
Explore the Tiradentes Palace in Rio de Janeiro, a landmark of Brazilian history, architecture, and democracy in the heart of Centro.
Chafariz do Mestre Valentim
8.2 km
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Statue General Osorio
8.3 km
A historical landmark in Rio de Janeiro honoring General Osório, a celebrated military leader and symbol of Brazilian heritage.
Estátua de Frédéric Chopin
8.3 km
A peaceful tribute to Chopin in Urca, Rio de Janeiro, offering serenity and scenic beauty.
Arco do Teles
8.3 km
Step back in time at Arco do Teles, a historical archway in Rio de Janeiro's city center, offering a glimpse into Brazil's colonial past.
Museu Carmen Miranda
8.4 km
Discover the vibrant legacy of Carmen Miranda at this Rio museum, showcasing her dazzling costumes and contributions to Brazilian culture.
IHGRJ - Historical and Geographical Institute of Rio de Janeiro
8.4 km
Explore Rio de Janeiro's past at the Historical and Geographical Institute, a treasure trove of local history and culture.
Câmara Municipal do Rio de Janeiro
8.4 km
Visit the Câmara Municipal in the Palácio Pedro Ernesto, a landmark of Rio de Janeiro's Cinelândia, steeped in history and political significance.
Lampadário da Lapa
8.5 km
Discover the Lampadário da Lapa, a historical landmark in Rio de Janeiro's vibrant Lapa, showcasing art, culture, and stunning urban beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Praia de Charitas
1.0 km
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Niterói City Park
1.6 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro and Guanabara Bay from Niterói's stunning hilltop park.
Praia de Icaraí
2.1 km
Niterói's iconic beach with stunning views of Rio, perfect for recreation, relaxation, and local events against a backdrop of natural beauty.
ADAM BEACH
3.1 km
Discover Niterói's tranquil Adam Beach: golden sands, clear waters, and stunning views of Sugarloaf Mountain await!
Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Niterói
3.3 km
Experience art and architecture with panoramic views at Niterói's iconic Museu de Arte Contemporânea, designed by Oscar Niemeyer.
Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem
3.7 km
Discover Niterói's Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem: A historic seaside church offering art, history, and tranquil coastal views.
Ilha da Boa Viagem
3.7 km
Discover history and breathtaking views at Ilha da Boa Viagem, a serene island escape in Guanabara Bay with a historic chapel and fort.
Horto do Fonseca
3.9 km
Escape to Niterói's Horto do Fonseca: A green sanctuary offering nature, recreation, and tranquility for all ages.
Caminho Niemeyer
4.4 km
Discover the architectural brilliance of Oscar Niemeyer along Niterói's stunning waterfront, a unique blend of art, culture, and breathtaking views.
Fortaleza de Santa Cruz da Barra
4.4 km
Explore a 16th-century fortress in Niterói with panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro and a rich military history.
Teatro Popular Oscar Niemeyer
4.6 km
Discover Niterói's architectural gem, the Teatro Popular Oscar Niemeyer, a vibrant hub for arts and culture on Guanabara Bay.
Praia de Fora
7.0 km
Escape to Praia de Fora: A serene beach in Rio de Janeiro with golden sands, tranquil waters, and stunning natural beauty.
Sugarloaf Mountain
7.1 km
Ascend Rio's iconic Sugarloaf Mountain for panoramic views, thrilling cable car rides, and unforgettable Brazilian vistas.
Inside Beach - St. John Fortress
7.1 km
Explore Rio's Fortress of São João: a historic landmark offering a glimpse into Brazil's colonial past and stunning views of Guanabara Bay.
Mureta da Urca
7.3 km
Experience Rio's iconic sunset spot: Mureta da Urca, where stunning views meet cold beer and Carioca vibes.
Essential places to dine
Clássico Beach Club - Urca
7.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite flavors at Clássico Beach Club in Urca - your ultimate beachside retreat in Rio de Janeiro.
Bar e Restaurante Urca
7.3 km
Experience authentic Brazilian flavors at Bar e Restaurante Urca in Rio de Janeiro – where great food meets stunning views.
Art à la Cart
7.8 km
Discover Art à la Cart: A delightful restaurant in Rio de Janeiro offering authentic Brazilian cuisine with an artistic twist.
Albamar Restaurante e Eventos
7.8 km
Discover exquisite seafood at Albamar Restaurante e Eventos, where fresh flavors meet stunning views in the heart of Rio de Janeiro.
Razzi Restaurante
8.1 km
Discover the authentic taste of Brazil at Razzi Restaurante in Rio de Janeiro's vibrant Centro district.
Hachiko
8.2 km
Discover authentic Japanese flavors at Hachiko - Rio's premier destination for exquisite sushi and traditional cuisine.
Demi-Glace
8.4 km
Experience authentic Brazilian cuisine at Demi-Glace, a premier restaurant in Rio de Janeiro's vibrant Centro district.
Restaurante Casa Urich
8.4 km
Discover Restaurante Casa Urich: A Culinary Journey Through Authentic German Flavors in the Heart of Rio de Janeiro.
Terra Brasilis
8.4 km
Discover authentic Brazilian flavors at Terra Brasilis - where great food meets live music in Urca, Rio de Janeiro.
Panka Peruvian Kitchen
8.4 km
Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Panka Peruvian Kitchen in Lapa, Rio de Janeiro – where every dish tells a story.
Bistrô Villarino
8.4 km
Experience exceptional cuisine at Bistrô Villarino in Rio's Centro – where tradition meets modern gastronomy in an elegant setting.
Bistrô Ouvidor
8.5 km
Discover exquisite French cuisine at Bistrô Ouvidor in Rio de Janeiro's vibrant Centro district, perfect for food enthusiasts seeking authentic flavors.
Giuseppe Italiano
8.5 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Giuseppe Italiano in Rio de Janeiro's vibrant Centro district – an unforgettable dining experience awaits.
Bar Ernesto
8.5 km
Discover Bar Ernesto: A vibrant German bar in Lapa offering authentic cuisine and local brews amidst Rio de Janeiro's energetic nightlife.
Adega Flor de Coimbra
8.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Plaza Shopping
3.8 km
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Bossa Nova Mall
7.4 km
Experience the vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment at Bossa Nova Mall, a premier destination in the heart of Rio de Janeiro.
MD Too
8.2 km
Discover unique fashion trends at MD Too, a premier clothing store in Rio de Janeiro's vibrant Centro district.
Cose - Moda Elegante Feminina
8.3 km
Discover elegance at Cose - Moda Elegante Feminina, Rio de Janeiro's premier destination for women's formal wear.
Dufry Shopping
8.4 km
Explore Dufry Shopping in Rio de Janeiro for an eclectic mix of perfumes, chocolates, clothing, and more, capturing the essence of Brazilian retail therapy.
Aviator
8.4 km
Discover stylish men's clothing at Aviator in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, blending quality with contemporary fashion for every occasion.
A & M Colecionáveis e Antiguidades - Rio De Janeiro
8.4 km
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BAGGIO
8.4 km
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Jumps
8.5 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Jumps, a trendy clothing store in the heart of Rio de Janeiro's vibrant Centro district.
Marioca Moda
8.5 km
Explore the vibrant styles at Marioca Moda, a top women's clothing store in Rio de Janeiro's bustling Centro district.
Maria Rendeira Arte e decoração
8.5 km
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Gift
8.5 km
Explore a delightful gift shop in Rio's Centro, offering unique souvenirs and authentic Brazilian crafts that capture the spirit of your travels.
Cristalit II
8.5 km
Explore Cristalit II in Rio's Lapa district for exquisite mirrors and picture frames that capture the essence of Brazilian craftsmanship.
BRAZUCA STORE
8.5 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Rio de Janeiro through unique T-shirts at the Brazuca Store, your go-to destination for authentic Brazilian souvenirs.
Esplendor Joias Estilo & Luxo
8.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Friends Pub
2.2 km
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Black Belt Drinks
8.3 km
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Bar do Serginho
8.8 km
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Booze Bar Lapa
8.8 km
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Pub Kriok
8.9 km
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Improviso Lounge Bar
8.9 km
Discover the lively Improviso Lounge Bar in Lapa, Rio de Janeiro, where creative cocktails and live music create an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Antonio's Bar
8.9 km
Experience the vibrant Brazilian nightlife at Antonio's Bar in Lapa, where delicious food and lively atmosphere come together.
Bohemian Lapa Cavern Pub
9.0 km
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Boteco Carioquinha
9.0 km
Experience the essence of Rio de Janeiro's nightlife at Boteco Carioquinha, where vibrant culture and delicious drinks meet in perfect harmony.
Sky Leme | Rooftop & Lounge
9.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Sky Leme, the premier rooftop bar in Rio de Janeiro's Leme neighborhood.
Bar da Cachaça Original
9.1 km
Dive into the heart of Rio's nightlife at Bar da Cachaça Original, where vibrant music, authentic drinks, and local flavors await.
The Maze Rio
9.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and cultural richness of The Maze Rio, a unique bar experience in the heart of Catete, Rio de Janeiro.
Explorer Bar
9.2 km
Explore the vibrant cocktail culture of Santa Teresa at Explorer Bar, where creative drinks and lively ambiance come together for an unforgettable night.
Casa Nossa Lounge
9.4 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Rio at Casa Nossa Lounge, a lively bar and restaurant nestled in the charming Santa Teresa neighborhood.
Bar Simplesmente
9.4 km
Discover the vibrant cocktails and lively atmosphere of Bar Simplesmente, a charming bar in Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro, perfect for a night out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Sobraderia
8.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Lapa at Sobraderia, a premier night club in Rio de Janeiro, with electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Febarj
8.7 km
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Teatro Odisséia
8.8 km
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Portal Club
8.9 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Portal Club, a premier night club in Lapa, Rio de Janeiro, where music and energy come alive.
LADIES' CLUB - O Clube das Mulheres
9.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Ladies' Club - O Clube das Mulheres, a night club that celebrates women in the heart of Rio de Janeiro's Lapa district.
Insensato
9.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Insensato, a premier night club in Lapa, Rio de Janeiro, where music, dance, and culture collide for an unforgettable evening.
Termas Up House Night Club - Casa Noturna na Lapa
9.0 km
Discover the unique nightlife blend of clubbing and relaxation at Termas Up House in Lapa, Rio de Janeiro.
Indiscretus
9.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Lapa at Indiscretus, where unforgettable dance parties and electrifying music await every night.
ROXXY Rio
9.0 km
Discover the exhilarating nightlife at ROXXY Rio, where music, dance, and the spirit of Lapa come alive in an unforgettable party experience.
Pub Lapa
9.0 km
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Street Lapa
9.1 km
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Heaven Club Rio
9.1 km
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PIPPER CLUB
9.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rio de Janeiro at Pipper Club, where music and culture blend in a lively atmosphere.
Spazio Vip
9.4 km
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Festa Trash
9.4 km
Dive into the pulsating nightlife of Rio de Janeiro at Festa Trash, a premier night club in Botafogo renowned for its electrifying atmosphere and unforgettable parties.