If you come to Rio to revel in samba, Lapa is the place for you. This festive neighborhood ignites at night, when locals swing their hips and sip on delectable cocktails. Brimming with rows of tapas bars, clubs and live music venues, Lapa's seductive night crawl certainly isn't lacking excitement or charm.

You'll definitely want to check out Rio Scenarium, the most popular Brazilian club that features three stories, vintage decor and a long list of craft cocktails. Other popular bars and nightclubs in the neighborhood include Lapa 40 Graus and Clube Dos Democraticos, which has been home to Brazilian music and dancing since 1867.

A quick downhill walk from the Santa Teresa neighborhood, Lapa serves as the heart of Rio's night scene. Taxis are easy to flag, but keep your wits about you and don't walk in unpopulated areas after dark. We recommend visiting during the weekend, when prime clubs fill up. If you're staying near Copacabana and Ipanema Beach in Zona Sul, Lapa is a brief cab ride away.