Fun Classes for Expats Living in Rio de Janeiro

For expats and digital nomads in Rio de Janeiro, immersing yourself in the local culture and community is a fantastic way to enrich your experience. Engaging in classes tailored to English-speaking adults can be both enjoyable and educational, offering opportunities to learn new skills, explore Brazilian culture, and meet like-minded individuals. From cooking classes that delve into the flavors of Brazilian cuisine to language courses designed to help you communicate more effectively, there's a variety of options available. Below is a curated list of classes in Rio that cater to English speakers or those still mastering Portuguese, ensuring that language barriers won't keep you from enjoying these experiences.

Cook in Rio

Type of Class(es): Brazilian Cooking Classes
Location: Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro

Cook in Rio offers hands-on cooking classes where you can learn to prepare traditional Brazilian dishes. The classes are conducted in English and are perfect for those who want to dive into the local cuisine and learn recipes that they can take back home. The atmosphere is fun and social, making it a great place to meet fellow expats and food enthusiasts.

Rio & Learn Portuguese School

Type of Class(es): Portuguese Language Courses
Location: Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro
Website: rioandlearn.com

Rio & Learn offers Portuguese classes that are designed to help foreigners pick up the language quickly. Their approach combines learning with cultural experiences, allowing students to practice Portuguese in real-life situations. This is an excellent choice for expats and digital nomads who want to improve their communication skills while enjoying the vibrant culture of Rio.

Atelier Clementtina

Type of Class(es): Jewelry Making and Design
Location: Laranjeiras, Rio de Janeiro

Atelier Clementtina provides a creative outlet for those interested in the art of jewelry making. Classes are intimate, offering personalized instruction that can cater to English speakers. It's a unique opportunity to learn a new craft while creating beautiful pieces that reflect Brazilian design aesthetics.

Academia Internacional de Cinema

Type of Class(es): Film and Cinema Courses
Location: Botafogo, Rio de Janeiro
Website: aicinema.com.br

The International Academy of Cinema offers a range of courses in filmmaking, acting, and screenwriting. While some proficiency in Portuguese is helpful, the visual nature of the courses allows for a more inclusive environment for English speakers. It's a great way to learn about the film industry while engaging with local and international creatives.

Escola de Artes Visuais do Parque Lage

Type of Class(es): Visual Arts and Painting
Location: Jardim Botânico, Rio de Janeiro
Website: eavparquelage.rj.gov.br

Set in a picturesque location, the School of Visual Arts at Parque Lage offers a variety of art classes, including painting and sculpture. While classes are primarily in Portuguese, the visual nature of the arts makes these classes accessible to those still learning the language. Plus, the stunning setting of the school is sure to inspire any budding artist.

Enoteca Fasano

Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Appreciation
Location: Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro

Enoteca Fasano, part of the renowned Fasano group, provides wine tasting classes where you can learn about and sample fine wines. The classes are designed to be accessible to English speakers, offering a sophisticated experience for wine lovers looking to expand their palate and knowledge of wines from Brazil and beyond.

Casa do Caminho Language Centre

Type of Class(es): Portuguese Language Courses
Location: Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro
Website: caminhoslanguages.com

Casa do Caminho Language Centre specializes in teaching Portuguese to foreigners. With a focus on conversational skills and a friendly atmosphere, the school offers a variety of courses that cater to different levels. They also organize cultural activities, making it a great place to learn and socialize.

Ateliê da Imagem

Type of Class(es): Photography Workshops and Courses
Location: Urca, Rio de Janeiro
Website: ateliedaimagem.com.br

Ateliê da Imagem is a space dedicated to photography and visual arts. They offer workshops and courses that cover various aspects of photography, from the basics to more advanced techniques. The school's environment is conducive to creativity and is welcoming to English-speaking participants.

Studio do Cais

Type of Class(es): Acting and Theater Workshops
Location: Centro, Rio de Janeiro

Studio do Cais offers acting and theater workshops for all levels. While the workshops are primarily in Portuguese, they provide a supportive environment where non-fluent speakers can still participate and learn. It's a great way to explore the performing arts and connect with the local theater community.

Oficina de Escrita Criativa

Type of Class(es): Creative Writing Workshops
Location: Various locations in Rio de Janeiro

For those with a passion for writing, Oficina de Escrita Criativa conducts workshops that focus on developing creative writing skills. The workshops encourage a collaborative and supportive environment, and while they are typically in Portuguese, they can be a valuable experience for English speakers looking to improve their language proficiency through the art of storytelling.