what is the tourism in rio de janeiro

Tourism in Rio De Janeiro

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Tourism in Rio De Janeiro is big business, but what? And what are the most important things that we should know about tourism here? Read on to find out!

The geography of Rio De Janeiro 

Rio de janeiro’s tourism industry, key statistics about tourism in rio de janeiro , popular tourist attractions in rio de janeiro , popular types of tourism in rio de janeiro , economic impacts of tourism in rio de janeiro, social impacts of tourism in rio de janeiro , environmental impacts of tourism in rio de janeiro , crime and safety in rio de janeiro , faqs about tourism in rio de janeiro , to conclude- tourism in rio de janeiro.

Nestled between towering mountains and the vast Atlantic, Rio de Janeiro stands as a vibrant fusion of cultural dynamism and natural splendour. Renowned for its iconic landmarks, from the statue of Christ the Redeemer to the bustling Copacabana beach, this city represents the heart of Brazilian tourism. This article offers a succinct and comprehensive examination of Rio’s touristic highlights, appealing to both first-time visitors and experienced travellers.

Rio de Janeiro is a city located in the southeastern region of Brazil, and it is the second most populous city in the country after São Paulo. The city is situated on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, and it is known for its natural beauty, including its beaches, mountains, and forests.

The city is divided into several distinct regions, including the historic downtown area, known as Centro, which is home to many colonial-era buildings and landmarks such as the Municipal Theatre, the National Library, and the Candelária Church. Another notable region is the South Zone, which includes the famous beach neighborhoods of Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon, as well as the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer, located atop the Corcovado mountain.

To the west of the city lies the Tijuca Forest, which is one of the largest urban forests in the world, and features a diverse range of flora and fauna. The forest is also home to several attractions, including the Parque Lage, the Tijuca National Park, and the Vista Chinesa lookout point.

Rio de Janeiro is also known for its bay, Guanabara Bay, which is the largest bay in Brazil and features several islands, such as the Governor’s Island and the Paquetá Island. The bay is surrounded by mountains and provides a stunning backdrop for the city.

Overall, Rio de Janeiro’s geography is diverse and offers visitors a wide range of natural and cultural attractions to explore

The tourism industry in Rio de Janeiro is a major contributor to the city’s economy, providing jobs and generating revenue for local businesses. The city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Brazil, and attracts millions of visitors each year from around the world.

Rio de Janeiro’s tourism industry is largely centered around its natural beauty, including its beaches, mountains, forests, and bay. The city’s most famous landmarks, such as the Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain, are also major draws for tourists.

In addition to its natural attractions, Rio de Janeiro is also known for its vibrant culture, including its music, dance, and cuisine. The city is home to several museums, theaters, and festivals that celebrate Brazilian art and culture, and its nightlife is renowned for its energy and diversity.

The tourism industry in Rio de Janeiro is supported by a range of businesses, including hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and transportation services. The city’s government has also invested in infrastructure and marketing campaigns to attract more visitors and improve the overall tourism experience.

Overall, the tourism industry in Rio de Janeiro plays a vital role in the city’s economy and cultural identity, and continues to evolve and expand to meet the needs and interests of travelers from around the world

Now that we know a little bit more about tourism in Rio De Janeiro, lets take a look at some of the key statistics about the tourism industry here:

• Rio de Janeiro is the second most visited city in Brazil, after São Paulo.
• In 2019, Rio de Janeiro received over 2.8 million international visitors.
• Tourism contributes over 9% to the city’s GDP.
• The city has over 1,000 hotels, with a total of more than 60,000 rooms.
• The average length of stay for international visitors in Rio de Janeiro is 6.5 days.
• In 2019, the city hosted over 2,200 events, including conferences, exhibitions, and festivals.
• The top five source countries for international visitors to Rio de Janeiro are Argentina, the United States, Chile, France, and Uruguay.
• The tourism industry in Rio de Janeiro employs over 300,000 people.
• The most visited attractions in Rio de Janeiro are Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema.
• In 2019, the tourism industry in Rio de Janeiro generated over $6 billion in revenue.

Rio de Janeiro is home to many popular tourist attractions, including:

• Christ the Redeemer: This iconic statue stands at the top of Corcovado Mountain and offers stunning panoramic views of the city.
• Sugarloaf Mountain: This granite peak rises 396 meters above Guanabara Bay and provides another excellent viewpoint of Rio de Janeiro.
• Copacabana Beach: One of the world’s most famous beaches, Copacabana is known for its wide stretch of sand, lively atmosphere, and numerous bars and restaurants.
• Ipanema Beach: Another popular beach, Ipanema is known for its upscale vibe and gorgeous views of the sunset.
• Lapa Steps: Also known as the Selarón Steps, this colorful staircase was created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón and features over 2000 tiles from around the world.
• Tijuca National Park: This urban park covers over 3,000 hectares and is home to many hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife.
• Maracanã Stadium: One of the world’s largest football stadiums, Maracanã has hosted many historic matches and events.
• Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden: This 140-hectare garden features over 6,000 species of plants and is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
• The Museum of Tomorrow: This modern science museum explores the future of humanity and the planet through interactive exhibits and displays.
• Samba City: This complex of warehouses is where Rio’s top samba schools create and store their costumes and floats for the annual Carnival parade. It is open for visitors year-round.

There are many different types of tourism that occur in Rio De Janeiro. Here are some of the most common:

• Beach tourism: Rio de Janeiro is famous for its beautiful beaches, such as Copacabana and Ipanema, which attract visitors from around the world.
• Cultural tourism: Rio de Janeiro is rich in history and culture, with many museums, galleries, and historic sites to explore.
• Nature tourism: The city is home to many natural attractions, including Tijuca National Park, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the beautiful botanical gardens.
• Sports tourism: Rio de Janeiro has a strong sporting culture and hosts major events such as the Rio Carnival, the Rio Open tennis tournament, and the Rio Half Marathon.
• Adventure tourism: The city offers many opportunities for adventure tourism, such as hang gliding, rock climbing, and hiking in the surrounding mountains.
• Food tourism: Brazilian cuisine is a fusion of different cultures, and Rio de Janeiro has a vibrant food scene, with many traditional and contemporary restaurants to explore.
• Nightlife tourism: Rio de Janeiro is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues offering a range of entertainment options.
• Shopping tourism: The city has many shopping options, from street markets and independent boutiques to large malls and luxury shopping centers.
• Medical tourism: Brazil is becoming increasingly popular as a destination for medical tourism, and Rio de Janeiro has many excellent hospitals and clinics offering a range of medical treatments.
• Ecotourism: With its many natural parks, beaches, and islands, Rio de Janeiro offers many opportunities for ecotourism, including birdwatching, whale watching, and exploring the Atlantic Forest ecosystem.

Tourism is a significant contributor to the economy of Rio de Janeiro, generating jobs and income for the city and the wider region. Here are some of the economic impacts of tourism in Rio de Janeiro:

• Employment: The tourism industry is a major employer in Rio de Janeiro, creating jobs in a variety of sectors, including accommodation, food and beverage, transportation, and entertainment.
• Revenue: Tourism generates significant revenue for the city, through taxes, fees, and other charges on tourism-related activities and services.
• Investment: Tourism attracts investment in infrastructure, including hotels, transportation, and other facilities, which supports economic growth and development.
• Trade: Tourism generates trade opportunities, as visitors purchase local goods and services, supporting local businesses and industries.
• Regional development: Tourism can support the development of regional economies, by providing a market for local products and services, and creating new opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation.
• Economic diversification: Tourism can contribute to economic diversification, by creating new opportunities in sectors beyond traditional industries such as manufacturing and finance.
• Foreign exchange: Tourism generates foreign exchange earnings, as visitors spend money in the local economy, which can help to strengthen the national economy and support currency stability.

Tourism plays an important role in the economy of Rio de Janeiro, contributing to employment, revenue, investment, and regional development, and supporting economic growth and diversification

Tourism can have a range of social impacts on the city of Rio de Janeiro and its communities. Here are some of the social impacts of tourism in Rio de Janeiro:

• Cultural exchange: Tourism in Rio De Janeiro can facilitate cultural exchange between visitors and local residents, providing opportunities for learning and understanding of different cultures.
• Employment opportunities: Tourism can create employment opportunities for local residents, particularly in the hospitality and service sectors.
• Poverty reduction: Tourism can contribute to poverty reduction, by creating jobs and generating income for local communities.
• Infrastructure development: Tourism in Rio De Janeiro can support the development of infrastructure in local communities, by attracting investment in public facilities such as transportation, health care, and education.
• Social tension: Tourism can sometimes cause social tension between visitors and local residents, particularly if there are cultural or economic differences between the two groups.
• Gentrification: Tourism can contribute to gentrification, by increasing demand for housing and other amenities, and driving up prices, which can displace local residents.
• Environmental degradation: Tourism can have negative environmental impacts, such as pollution and habitat destruction, which can impact the quality of life for local residents.

The social impacts of tourism in Rio de Janeiro are complex and varied, with both positive and negative effects on the city and its communities. It is important for tourism to be managed in a way that balances the economic benefits of the industry with the social and environmental impacts.

Tourism can have significant environmental impacts in Rio de Janeiro, particularly as the city is located in a region of high biodiversity and natural beauty. Here are some of the environmental impacts of tourism in Rio de Janeiro:

• Habitat destruction: Tourism development can lead to the destruction of natural habitats, such as forests and wetlands, which can impact biodiversity and ecosystem services.
• Pollution: Tourism in Rio De Janeiro can contribute to pollution of air, water, and soil, particularly if there is inadequate waste management and sewage treatment infrastructure.
• Resource depletion: Tourism can place pressure on natural resources, such as water and energy, particularly in areas of high demand such as hotels and resorts.
• Climate change: Tourism in Rio De Janeiro can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly through air and road transport, which can contribute to climate change and impact the environment.
• Biodiversity loss: Tourism can contribute to biodiversity loss, through habitat destruction, fragmentation, and overexploitation of natural resources, such as wildlife and flora.
• Natural hazards: Tourism can expose visitors and local residents to natural hazards, such as hurricanes and floods, particularly in coastal areas.

The environmental impacts of tourism in Rio de Janeiro can be significant and have long-term effects on the natural environment and local communities. It is important for tourism to be managed in a sustainable way, which takes into account the environmental impacts and seeks to minimize them through best practices and innovative solutions.

Rio de Janeiro has a reputation for high levels of crime, particularly violent crime. However, it is important to note that crime rates can vary significantly depending on the location and time of day. Here are some key points to consider regarding crime and safety in Rio de Janeiro:

• Violent crime: Rio de Janeiro has a high level of violent crime, particularly in certain neighborhoods and favelas. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid high-risk areas.
• Street crime: Street crime, such as theft and robbery, is common in tourist areas, particularly at night. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect their belongings.
• Scams: Scams targeting tourists are common in Rio de Janeiro, particularly around popular attractions and areas with high tourist traffic. Visitors should be cautious of anyone offering unsolicited services or deals.
• Transportation safety: Public transportation in Rio de Janeiro can be unsafe, particularly at night. Visitors should take licensed taxis or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft.
• Beach safety: Rio de Janeiro’s beaches can be crowded and have strong currents. Visitors should only swim in designated areas and follow safety guidelines.
• Police presence: There is a significant police presence in Rio de Janeiro, particularly in high-tourist areas. Visitors should cooperate with police and follow their instructions.
• Emergency services: In case of an emergency, visitors can call the emergency number 190 for police, 192 for ambulance services, and 193 for the fire department.

Overall, visitors to Rio de Janeiro should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. By taking appropriate safety measures and being mindful of potential risks, visitors can enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to this vibrant and culturally-rich city.

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Rio De Janeiro, lets answer some of the most common questions on this topic:

What are the most popular tourist attractions in Rio de Janeiro?

Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Rio de Janeiro include Christ the Redeemer statue, Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, Tijuca Forest, and the Sambadrome.

When is the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro?

The best time to visit Rio de Janeiro is during the summer months from December to February when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

What is the local currency in Rio de Janeiro?

The local currency in Rio de Janeiro is the Brazilian Real (BRL).

Is Rio de Janeiro a safe city for tourists?

Rio de Janeiro can be safe for tourists as long as certain precautions are taken, such as avoiding certain areas at night, not carrying large amounts of cash, and being aware of pickpocketing.

What is the main language spoken in Rio de Janeiro?

The main language spoken in Rio de Janeiro is Portuguese, but English and Spanish are also widely spoken in tourist areas.

Do I need a visa to visit Rio de Janeiro?

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of some countries are required to obtain a visa before traveling to Brazil, while citizens of others can stay for up to 90 days without a visa.

What is the transportation system like in Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, subways, and trains. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also widely available.

What is the nightlife like in Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. The Lapa neighborhood is particularly famous for its lively nightlife.

What is the food like in Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro is known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, with influences from African, European, and Indigenous cultures. Popular dishes include feijoada, churrasco, and seafood.

What are some outdoor activities to do in Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro offers many outdoor activities, including hiking in Tijuca Forest, surfing at the beaches, hang gliding over the city, and taking a boat tour of Guanabara Bay.

Rio de Janeiro, with its iconic landmarks and vibrant cultural landscape, is an integral epicentre of Brazilian tourism. As the city’s tourism dynamics evolve, a judicious balance between development and preservation is essential. Stakeholders and tourists alike are tasked with the responsibility of sustaining Rio’s rich heritage while accommodating modern growth.

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rio de Janeiro

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Jan 19, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The city of Rio de Janeiro, with its evocative name, brings to mind golden sand beaches populated by sun-kissed bodies by day and the passion of the samba by night. Many people consider this to be the most beautiful city setting in the world, and UNESCO cited "the staggeringly beautiful location for one of the world's biggest cities" in naming Rio a World Heritage Site .

The best way to appreciate Rio is to rush headlong into the experiences and attractions with passion and gusto. Corcovado, Sugarloaf, Copacabana, and Ipanema are the top places to start but there are many must-see places. When you're done touring the sites, hit the beach, and then head out in the evening for first-class dining, to see a football game, or to enjoy the nightlife.

Discover the best this city offers with our list of the top attractions in Rio de Janeiro.

See also: Where to Stay in Rio de Janeiro

1. Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor)

2. sugarloaf, 3. copacabana, 5. carnaval (carnival), 6. escadaria selarón (selaraón steps), 7. jardim botânico (botanical garden), 8. prainha beach (little beach), 9. maracanã, 10. são bento, 11. tijuca national park, 12. são francisco da penitência, 13. teatro municipal (municipal theater), 14. quinta da boa vista, 15. nossa senhora do carmo and monte do carmo, 16. ilha fiscal, 17. catedral de são sebastião, 18. take a boat trip to ilha de paquetá, 19. day trip to petrópolis, where to stay in rio de janeiro for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to rio de janeiro, map of tourist attractions in rio de janeiro, rio de janeiro, brazil - climate chart.

Towering over the city with its welcoming arms, the Christ the Redeemer statue is the iconic symbol of Rio de Janeiro and it's something you must visit while you're here. Set atop 709 meter-high Corcovado Mountain , this monument has been watching over the city for nearly 100 years.

Views from the deck below the 30-meter-high monument out over the city, ocean, and surrounding mountains are incredible on a clear day.

For the famous shot of yourself in front of the statue, walk about halfway down the stairs to the lower deck and shoot backward towards the statue.

Visiting Christ the Redeemer isn't all about views and selfies, the ride up to the top on the incline railway is half the fun. Ascending through the lush jungle, the steep ride to the top takes about 20 minutes and provides beautiful views.

Visiting Christ the Redeemer is one of the most popular things to do in Rio de Janeiro, with over 800,000 people visiting annually. Be prepared for crowds at the top. To avoid long queues for the train, book your tickets in advance online and select a time. Another option for getting to the top is taking a van ride, which is cheaper but far less scenic and enjoyable.

The best time to visit is early in the day, as the statue can become foggy as the day progresses.

Note: The former restaurant at the top is permanently closed; the only food and drink option is a small snack bar, although there are plenty of places to buy souvenirs!

It's hard to imagine a more perfectly placed mountain than Sugarloaf. Just slightly offshore from mainland Rio de Janeiro, this towering monolith provides sweeping views of the city and across to Christ the Redeemer. At the top, you'll find multiple viewing platforms, most of which are protected from the punishing equatorial sun. Views also extend to Rio's famed harbor with the Ponte Pres. Costa e Silva bridge in the foreground and back towards Copacabana and Christ the Redeemer.

The ride to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain is via a scenic two-stage cable car ride. Don't be distracted by the first stopping area with its shopping mall; the best views are from the top. As you exit the first station, just keep walking to your left and you'll eventually find the second station. The ride up from here is stunning, keep an eye out below for mountain climbers ascending the sheer face of the mountain.

As with Christ the Redeemer, lines can be long, so book your tickets in advance . You can book for specific days but not times. The best option, if you don't mind paying a little more, is to buy the VIP ticket which allows you to skip the lines on the way up and down (surprisingly you need to show your ticket to get down). This is an excellent investment!

The attraction is also known as Pão de açúcar when searching for the drop-off point using UBER .

This 2.5-mile stretch of golden sand is synonymous with Rio de Janeiro. Packed with people on warm summer weekends and throughout the Christmas holidays, it's a lively and fun scene and the beach where people from all walks of life come for sun, surf, and fun. The beach is wide, so be prepared for a significant walk to the water's edge.

The water is refreshingly cool and the waves can be surprisingly large depending on the day. Rio does a good job of keeping people on the beach safe, don't be surprised if you see a red helicopter doing water rescues if the surf is up. Chairs and umbrellas can be rented for a reasonable fee from organized beach service operators, who also provide cold drinks and meals. They also provide free showers.

Back from the beach is a wide walkway with black and white stones arranged in a decorative pattern. Here, you'll also find beachside restaurants and, in the evening, vendors selling all manner of handicrafts and souvenirs. At the far northern end of the beach are restaurants, many with live music, clustered under the large headland. Be sure to plan to come here in the early evening. It is an excellent spot to enjoy the sunset with expansive views of the beach.

If you can tear yourself from your towel, the early 18 th century Fort Copacabana and Military Museum at the south end of the beach is worth a look.

Note: The mood on Copacabana Beach varies. It's generally very family-oriented on weekends and holidays during the day. Night on the beach can be rowdy at times, especially on holidays in the late evening. Normal weekdays are much quieter.

Address: Praça Coronel Eugênio Franco, Rio de Janeiro

Continuing on westward from Copacabana's four-kilometer strand, the beaches of Ipanema and Leblon are separated by the Jardim de Alá Canal, which drains the lagoon, Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas. Along the seafront promenade are large hotels, sidewalk cafés, and restaurants.

These two districts, although best known for their beaches (one of which was made world-famous by the song The Girl from Ipanema ) have a lively cultural life, with art galleries, cinemas, and an avant-garde theater. Praça de Quental in Leblon is the scene of an antiques market every Sunday, and Praca General Osorio hosts the Sunday Feira de Artesanato de Ipanema featuring crafts, music, art, and local foods.

Carnaval is the biggest event of the year on the city's calendar. The festival brings a riot of color and endless action to the streets of Rio each February (sometimes late January, depending on the year). Some visitors plan their entire trip to Brazil around Carnival, and if you are going to attend, you need to do some serious advanced planning.

The celebrations begin shortly after New Year, but the splendor and extravagance reaches its spectacular climax in the four days before Ash Wednesday, attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators to its street parades, samba parties, and shows. Other Brazilian cities celebrate Carnaval; it is also a major tourist event in Bahia and Recife, but Rio's is the most lavish.

The most spectacular events are the parades of the samba schools, which are held in a unique venue designed by renowned Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer. The Sambódromo is a long parade route lined by stadium-style boxes designed so that up to 90,000 spectators can watch the parades of brilliantly costumed dancers as they compete. The parade route is 700 meters long and 13 meters wide. It was first used in 1984 and updated as a venue for the 2016 Olympic Games.

Address: Rua Marquês de Sapucaí, Rio de Janeiro

Official site: www.sambadrome.com

A fun distraction when visiting Rio is the Selaraón Steps. Colorful stairs wind their way up a steep incline, each decorated with an assortment of tiles.

Work on the stairs began in 1983 by Jorge Selearón, who collected tile castoffs and affixed them to the dilapidated staircase running outside his home. Until his suspicious death in 2013, the somewhat eccentric artist kept adding, replacing, and repairing the tiles on stairs in the colors of the Brazilian flag and the tiles on the edges of the staircase in red.

The stairs are exceptionally photogenic and attract large crowds during the day. If you want to get the iconic shot with the staircase name, those tiles are near the bottom of the 125-meter-high staircase. Be sure to walk to the top of the stairs to get a feel for the amount of work Selearón put into this monument.

Small restaurants on shops selling cold beverages line the stairs. A good stop is a small restaurant at the top; it has a shady patio, a bit of a breeze, decent food, is well-priced, and provides good views of the stairs and a bit of downtown Rio.

The area around the stairs is a bit gritty (some call it Bohemian), I wouldn't recommend venturing too far away from the stairs, and I wouldn't come here at night.

If you've had enough of the urban beat of Rio de Janeiro and crave a bit of nature, take a trip over to the Botanical Gardens. The wide trails under the canopy of green are well-maintained and provide an oasis of calm and a pleasant change from the concrete jungle nearby.

A highlight is Aleia Barbosa Rodrigues, a wonderful wide walkway lined on both sides by towering Royal Palm trees with the famous Fountain of the Muses in the middle. Near the fountain is a giant Kapok tree.

The gardens are a UNESCO World Biosphere site and are home to over 8,000 species of plant life. Trails are well marked in English and be sure to follow the signs to both the Orchidarium, an iron-and-glass greenhouse built in the 1930s, and the Japanese Gardens.

Note that an admission fee is charged to enter and at the time of writing only cash was accepted.

Address: R. Jardim Botânico, Rio de Janeiro

If you have visited the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema and still crave more, but at the same time are looking for something a bit different, take the 20-kilometer jaunt down to Prainha. Where the rainforest meets the ocean, this beach is more natural than the ones in the heart of Rio.

Golden sands and large round boulders are lapped by the sea, and finding your own patch of sand to soak up the sun is never an issue. If you like to surf, this is the place to do it. Nice right and left breaks provide consistent rides in May, then flatten out until September.

A must-see for football (soccer) fans when a game is scheduled, Brazil's largest stadium was home to the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2016 Summer Olympic Games. It was completely renovated for the FIFA World Cup 2014 and holds more than 78,000 fans.

The stadium is used for matches between Rio's major football clubs, the Flamengo, Botafogo, Fluminense, and Vasco da Gama, as well as for concerts. The brief tour would be of interest to avid fans, but others should give it a miss.

The shore of Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas , near Copacabana and Ipanema, where many other Olympic events took place, is lined by parks and sports clubs, and its waters are popular for regattas and other water sports.

Address: Av. Pres. Castelo Branco, Rio de Janeiro

On the hill just above the harbor are the church and monastery of São Bento, one of the finest Benedictine complexes in Brazil. The original 1617 church was without aisles until it was enlarged in the second half of the 17th century by the addition of eight side chapels. The finest artists of the Benedictine order were involved in decorating the interior.

The exuberant carving that covers the walls and ceiling was mainly the work of a monk named Domingos da Conceição, who was also responsible for the figures of St. Benedict and St. Scholastica on the high altar.

The choir chapel has silver work by Mestre Valentim and 14 paintings by Ricardo do Pilar, a monk who was the foremost Benedictine painter of colonial Brazil. His masterpiece, Senhor dos Martírios (Christ of the Passion), is in the sacristy of the monastery.

Tijuca National Park protects the Tijuca Forest and several viewpoints overlooking the city, and surrounds Cristo Redentor , the giant-sized statue of Christ on Corcovado. To explore the park, you can leave the train up to Corcovado at a midpoint and follow the road through the forest.

The 3,300-hectare Tijuca Forest, one of the world's largest forests within a city , was planted in the late 1850s on land that had been destroyed by coffee plantations, to safeguard the springs that supplied Rio de Janeiro's water. Most of the trees are native species and provide habitat for Capuchin monkeys, quatis (Brazilian raccoon), colorful toucans, hawks, brilliant blue butterflies, and many other species of wildlife, which you may spot while exploring its trails and roads.

Near the station of the Corcovado railway is Largo do Boticário , one of Rio's most picturesque squares, surrounded by colonial-style houses. From the pagoda-style pavilion at Morro da Vista Chinesa, 380 meters above the shore, are views of the Municipal Park, the Botanic Garden, and a long stretch of the south coast.

There are more views from Mirante Dona Marta, a viewpoint on a spur of rock above Botafogo Bay. Several waterfalls drop from the forest springs, including the 30-meter Cascatinha Taunay .

Set in extensive gardens near the park is the Museu do Açude , with the valuable porcelain collections of the West India Company; old views of Rio de Janeiro by Brazilian and foreign artists; and azulejos, traditional Portuguese tiles from the 17th through 19th centuries.

The Igreja da Ordem Terceira de São Francisco da Penitência is divided into three sections with separate entrances, and the simple façade of this church belies the riches within. The interior, which was begun in 1657 and completed in 1773, is a riot of gilded wood carving.

Among those who contributed to the decoration of the interior were Manuel and Francisco Xavier de Brito, two leading Portuguese sculptors and woodcarvers. They had very similar styles, known as Brito, using decorative forms that influenced Aleijadinho and other masters of Brazilian Baroque.

The ceiling of the choir has the earliest trompe-l'oeil painting in Brazil, completed in 1736, the work of Caetano da Costa Coelho, who later painted the ceiling of the nave in the same style.

Address: Rua da Carioca, Rio de Janeiro

The grand Municipal Theater, built in the early 20th century, was inspired by the Paris Opera of Charles Garnier, and its interior is even more ornate and luxurious than the dramatic towered façade. Important highlights to see are the sculptures by Henrique Bernardelli and paintings by Rodolfo Amoedo and Eliseu Visconti, as well as the drop curtain, the proscenium frieze, and the ceilings.

Guided tours, some in English, are available or, better yet, attend a classical concert or ballet performance here.

Address: Praça Floriano, Rio de Janeiro

The gardens, villas, and imperial palaces of São Cristóvão are now public parks and museums, the foremost of which is Quinta da Boa Vista. From 1808 to 1889, the palace was the residence of the royal and the imperial family and was later altered and rebuilt as the Palácio de São Cristóvão. It houses the National Museum , which has the largest zoological, botanical, ethnographic, and archaeology collections in the country, totaling more than a million items.

In the expansive park are gardens with lakes, woodlands, and caves, which you can reach via a miniature railway. Also inside the park is a zoo with more than 2,000 species of mammals, birds, and reptiles from Brazil and around the world.

Address: São Cristóvão, Rio de Janeiro

The parish church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo was the Capela Real (Royal Chapel) from 1808 to 1889 and the cathedral until the modern one replaced it in 1976. Connected to it by a passage is a second Carmelite church, Monte do Carmo, begun in 1755.

Highlights are its Baroque façade, stone doorway, and the white and gold carving by Mestre Valentim in the Chapel of the Novitiate. The 1761 former cathedral is richly decorated with carving and has a silver high altar. In a side street is the chapel of Nossa Senhora do Cabo da Boa Esperança (Our Lady of the Cape of Good Hope), the last surviving street oratory in the city.

Address: Rua 1 de Maráo (off Rua do Ouvidor), Rio de Janeiro

This neo-Gothic castle in Rio de Janeiro's harbor was built in 1889 and used for many years as a customs inspection building. Today this architectural gem, complete with turrets and towers, is open to the public.

Inside Ilha Fiscal, you'll find smooth hardwood floors with mosaic patterns throughout, while impressive stained-glass windows glow in Rio's tropical sun. As you wander around, take a stroll through the museum that showcases Brazilian naval history.

Access to the island is generally by boat , which passes some spectacular scenery along the way including colonial architecture on Ilha das Cobras and the skyline of downtown Rio. The ride is about 20 minutes .

Prior to departure, you are welcome to wander around and check out some military hardware including a helicopter, tank, and a submarine which you can go inside. Buying tickets can be done in person but it's best to purchase them in advance online at the official website where you can select the date and time of your tour.

Architect Edgar Fonseca, who designed Rio's Catedral de São Sebastião, took his inspiration from Mayan pyramids, interpreting their soaring forms in a modern context. Built between 1964 and 1979 and often referred to as the New Cathedral to distinguish it from its immediate predecessor, Nossa Senhora do Carmo, the church seats 5,000 in its 96-meter interior. Four stained glass windows rise 64 meters from the floor to light the interior with brilliantly colored natural light. At night, the church is lit from within, a bright beacon in the central skyline.

If you are visiting the Selaraón Steps, the church is visible from the restaurant at the top of the staircase, just look off to your left.

Address: Av. Chile 245, Rio de Janeiro

The island of Paquetá, with an area of a little more than a square kilometer, lies in Guanabara Bay, an hour's boat trip from Praça 15 de Novembro . It became a fashionable resort in the early 1800s, when Portuguese Emperor Dom João VI spent his summers here (the colony of Brazil became the seat of the Portuguese Empire in 1808, when Napoleon's armies occupied Portugal).

Solar del Rey, a palace in which Dom João VI frequently stayed, is among the interesting old buildings, which also include the 1698 chapel of São Roque and the house of José Bonifácio de Andrada e Silva, father of Brazilian independence. No cars invade the peace of the island, but you can explore it on foot, by rented bicycle, or in a horse-drawn carriage. Palms line the island's beaches, where you'll find impromptu food stands grilling fresh fish.

Petrópolis, 68 kilometers from Rio de Janeiro, sits high in a forested valley of the Serra dos Órgãos and was chosen by King Pedro II of Brazil as his summer home. Aristocrats quickly followed, building their own summer palaces and villas and making Petrópolis an elegant upper-class resort.

It was later a favorite of artists and intellectuals and a popular tourist destination for its beautiful buildings and pleasant year-round climate. Today, the former Summer Palace is the Imperial Museum , filled with memorabilia from the days of the Brazilian Empire. Also worth seeing are the Cathedral of Saint Peter of Alcântara , the Crystal Palace, and the house of aviation pioneer Santos-Dumont.

Rio de Janeiro stretches between the bay and mountains, its attractions so spread out that there is no neighborhood convenient to more than a few of them. Fortunately, Rio's Metro system is fast and efficient, so the best hotels for tourists are in the safe beach neighborhoods of Copacabana and Ipanema, amid restaurants and shops and handy to Metro access. Another option is Botafogo, a residential area adjacent to Copacabana, near the cable car to Sugarloaf. Here are some highly-rated hotels in Rio de Janeiro.

Luxury Hotels :

• Featuring a scenic rooftop pool, Miramar Hotel by Windsor is right on Copacabana beach, where sun chairs and umbrellas are available for guests; it's a short walk from Ipanema.
• Belmond Copacabana Palace is an icon of Copacabana's reputation for sophistication and glamor, a place where film stars and royalty have basked in Old World elegance.
• The rooftop pool at JW Marriott Hotel Rio de Janeiro overlooks Copacabana Beach (umbrellas and chairs are reserved for guests) and there is a spa and fitness center.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A block off the beach, the friendly Ipanema Inn offers personal service in the midst of Ipanema's vibrant dining and arts scene.
• On a quiet street in the heart of Copacabana, Hotel Sesc Copacabana is a block from the beach and surrounded by restaurants and shops.
• Also a block off the beach, Windsor Palace Hotel has a small rooftop pool, a large breakfast buffet, and a free airport shuttle.

Budget Hotels:

• Ibis Copacabana Posto 5 is a few blocks off the beach and near the Metro station, with plenty of dining options nearby.
• Close to the Metro in residential Botafogo, one stop from Copacabana, Ibis Rio de Janeiro Botafogo is near the Sugarloaf cable car.
• So is Mercure Botafogo Mourisco , whose higher rooms have a view of Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado.
• Day Tour: On an eight-hour Full Day Complete Tour of Rio de Janeiro, you'll get a good overview of the city, with stops to visit the major highlights, including Copacabana beach, the Tijuca Forest, Christ the Redeemer statue on Corcovado, the Metropolitan Cathedral, Escadaria Selarón, and the Baroque São Bento Monastery. Also included in the tour is the cable car ride to Sugarloaf and lunch at a steakhouse.
• Corcovado and Sugarloaf Tour: See Rio from the two most prominent points in the city on the Corcovado Mountain, Christ Redeemer, and Sugarloaf Mountain Day Tour . This full day of Rio's most famous landmarks includes a cable car ride to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain and travel by van or cog train through the Tijuca Rainforest to the Christ the Redeemer statue.
• Jeep Tour: Explore the immense National Park on the slopes of Corcovado on a Tijuca Rain Forest Jeep Tour from Rio de Janeiro. As you ride through the rainforest in an open-top Jeep, you'll have a four-hour eco-tour, with a hike to observe butterflies, monkeys, sloths, and birds. Stop to see the Cachoeira dos Macacos (Waterfall of the Monkeys) and for panoramic views from Vista Chinesa (Chinese View) as you learn about the flora of the Mata Atlântica from your guide.

More on Brazil

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The 19 best things to do in Rio de Janeiro

Feel the pulse of this thrilling, culturally-rich city with our list of the very best things to do in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro lives up to its reputation, don’t you worry. The Miraculous City is a melting pot of football, samba, carnival, beaches , gigantic statues of Jesus Christ, and all the rest. The food is deliciou , and the parties go all night long. Rio isn’t for the half-hearted. What are the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro? We’ve compiled the best of the best below, taking in everything from gorgeous hikes to rambunctious street antics, with plenty in between. The Miraculous City? That feels like something of an understatement to us.

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Best things to do in Rio de Janeiro

1.  Museum of Tomorrow

What is it?  One of the 2016 Olympics’ most successful legacies, this groundbreaking science museum poses the big questions about the future inside an extraordinary neo-futurist building.

Why go?  Covering everything from geology to human nervous systems to smart cities, this is as far from a dusty, dry old museum as it gets. Immersive exhibits make powerful arguments for sustainability. Seemingly floating above the regenerated port zone, even the architecture is eco: it is powered by solar panels and cooled by water from the bay.

2.  Christ the Redeemer

What is it?  You’ll catch glimpses of this 98-feet-tall figure all around Rio, but don’t miss out on ascending Mount Corcovado to admire the iconic statue up close.

Why go?  Standing at the base of this concrete colossus, it is hard to know what to gawp at first: the feat of engineering by French sculptor Paul Landowski and Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa or the bird’s eye view of the city sprawling below. Reach the site via a scenic tram ride from Cosme Velho.

3.  Jardim Botânico

What is it?  Not all of Rio’s natural wonders are at soaring heights – these 140-hectare gardens are a haven for over 9,000 different plant species, created by Brazil’s Prince Regent in 1808.

Why go?  It’s the perfect paradise to chill out in after Rio’s more frenetic, hedonistic times. Among the soaring imperial palm trees, delicate orchids, and Amazonian lily ponds, resident marsupials provide entertainment. Keep your eyes peeled for toucans, tortoises, and sloths, too.

4.  Copacabana Beach

What is it?  This world-famous, 2.5-mile stretch of golden sand is  the  place for fun in the sun.

Why go?  You were hardly going to visit the home of Havaianas without hitting the beach at some point, were you? Sun-worshipping locals flock here to play beach volleyball or football, top up their enviable tans and catch some waves. Mobile vendors of everything from grilled cheese to sardines to caipirinhas provide sustenance while you’re a beach bum.

5.  Sugarloaf Mountain

What is it?  Here’s the money shot: this tree-covered natural dome rising 1,299 ft above the harbor is one of Rio’s most recognizable symbols.

Why go?  The ascent by cable car goes in two stages – first to neighboring Urca Hill, then another steep journey up to Sugarloaf – while the jaw-dropping panoramas of beaches, skyscrapers and hills unfold beneath you. Glorious at any time of day, there’s something extra magical about being there for sunset, as the city lights flicker into life.

6.  Parque Lage

What is it?  A rambling 19th-century estate turned public park at the foot of Corcovado mountain.

Why go?  Music fans may recognize this opulent mansion, with its exotic jungle and mountain backdrop, from the Snoop Dogg and Pharrell Williams video for ‘Beautiful’. Caves, a hidden aquarium, free art exhibitions (the palace is now an art school), and palm-shaded pathways await discovery. Feeling adventurous? Follow the hiking trail all the way up to the Cristo.

7.  Museum of Modern Art (MAM)

What is it?  Poised on the edge of Guanabara Bay, MAM is a temple to art from the 20th and the 21st centuries.

Why go?  Despite a devastating fire in 1978, the museum’s permanent collection still dazzles – you’ll come across paintings by international modern masters Pollock and Miró, as well as leading Brazilian artists Tarsila Amaral and Hélio Oiticica. The modernist gardens by Roberto Burle Marx and dynamic temporary exhibitions add to the edifying experience.

8.  Real Gabinete Portugues de Leitura (Royal Portuguese Reading Room)

What is it?  This little-known library in Rio’s city center is a bookworm’s paradise, home to a vast array of Portuguese literature.

Why go?  The collection is the biggest outside Portugal; even if you can’t read a word of it, the sight of three levels of rare manuscripts and leather-bound novels lining ornately-carved shelves is pretty spectacular. Constructed in the 1880s, its stained-glass skylight and dramatic chandelier would be at home in a cathedral – the library’s façade was even based on a Lisbon monastery.

9.  Pedra do Sal

What is it?  Historically known as 'Little Africa', this is the best area for immersing in Rio’s vibrant musical heritage.

Why go?  You’re walking (or, most likely, swaying) through the birthplace of samba, created by the slave community that once lived here. Live bands draw crowds of music lovers from near and far – especially for the free Monday and Friday night street parties. Cheap caipirinha stalls and colorful street art add to the carnival vibe.

10.  Casa das Canoas

What is it?  The former home of iconic Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, who designed the building in 1951.

Why go?  Resplendent after recent renovations, the building’s curvaceous white contours, slender steel columns, and glass walls are textbook Niemeyer – this is the man who said he “deliberately disregarded the right angle.” While he’s responsible for dozens of iconic public buildings around Brazil, there’s something special about seeing the place he created for his family.

11.  Mangueira’s Palacio de Samba

What is it?  One of Rio’s oldest samba schools, with 19 parade prizes under its spangled belt.

Why go?  Preparing for the world’s greatest party is a year-round operation, so get a taste of the carnival magic even when visiting Rio outside the annual Ash Wednesday celebrations. The school opens its doors for regular evening performances and runs behind-the-scenes tours of its practice halls and workshops, where the dance routines are drilled, and parade floats constructed.

12.  Largo do Boticário

What is it?  Tucked away in Cosme Velho, this square of colorful neocolonial houses is a photogenic, fascinating time-warp.

Why go?  Visiting  Largo do Boticário  100 years ago, you’d have found glittering parties for the city’s artistic and political elite; a scene in the 007 movie  Moonraker  was shot here. The square later fell on hard times, its grand buildings abandoned and reclaimed by rainforest foliage. Wander through what’s effectively an open-air museum and visit restored properties like number 32, now home to an art gallery.

13.  Carretão Ipanema

What is it?  A bustling, hugely popular barbecue restaurant for an all-you-can-eat feast.

Why go?  Everyone (okay, maybe not vegans) should sample an authentic churrascaria, aka grilled meat restaurant, while in Rio – they’re a staple of the Carioca food scene. Let the skewer-wielding waiters carve you all manner of grilled meats, and dig into a buffet heaped with salads and sides.

14.  Metropolitan Cathedral

What is it?  Designed by architect Edgar Fonseca and built through the 1960s-70s, this may well be the wackiest church you’ve ever laid eyes on.

Why go?  If Mayans and aliens collaborated on a building, it would probably look something like Rio’s vast Metropolitan Cathedral. Step inside this angular, technicolor pyramid to admire the soaring stained-glass windows, honeycomb walls and bronze plaques. Visit for Sunday Mass at 10 a.m. to get the full experience.

15.  Aprazível

What is it?  Fine dining with a mesmerizing view, this family-run hilltop restaurant comes up trumps.

Why go?  Dine in quirky thatched huts while the palms sway and city lights twinkle below. The food matches the setting, hopping around traditional recipes from Brazil’s regions and paired with fruity craft cocktails or house-brewed beer. Leave plenty of time to wander Santa Teresa’s steep cobblestone streets before diner – it’s one of Rio’s prettiest quarters.

16.  Ilha Fiscal

What is it?  A neo-gothic palace perched on a tiny island out in Guanabara Bay.

Why go?  Once upon a time, this was the managerial home of Rio’s port operations; fast-forward 100 years, and it has been repurposed as a cultural museum. Take a guided tour of the grand lounges and fairytale-like tower for a fascinating slice of city history and a fresh perspective of Rio’s dramatic bay, Sugarloaf, and Christ the Redeemer.

17.  Bar do Gomez

What is it?  A quintessential neighborhood bar on the picturesque, cobbled streets of Santa Teresa.

Why go?  Take your pick from over sixty types of cachaça or a cold draught beer as you settle down to soak up the laidback atmosphere of this former Spanish grocery. It’s now a century old but as charming as ever. Salt cod fritters drizzled with the house hot sauce, or heartier meat dishes, sustain through languid afternoon drinking sessions.

18.  Bip Bip

What is it?  A tiny, eccentric Copacabana bar renowned for its live music.

Why go?  If you want silver service and a polite babble of conversation, keep on walking. But to hear authentic bossa nova (Brazil’s ‘new wave’ music style, born in the 1950s) or samba among a carioca crowd, grab a beer from the self-serve fridge and jostle into a good spot for a memorable evening. A local band occupies the main table while photos of musical legends adorn the walls.

19.  Feira Livre da Glória

What is it?  Gloria’s vibrant Sunday morning market is a magnet for diehard foodies.

Why go?  Off the tourist trail, this is the place to sample fresh Brazilian produce, from exotic fruits ( jabuticaba, anyone? ) to fish to artisanal cachaça, the national spirit. Feeling worse for wear after Saturday night? The classic market breakfast of  pastels  – hot pastries stuffed with meat, cheese, or heart of palm – and a shot of pure sugarcane juice is like manna from heaven.

More great things to do in Rio de Janeiro

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Must-see attractions in Rio de Janeiro

Parque Nacional da Tijuca

Rio de Janeiro

The Tijuca is all that's left of the Atlantic rainforest that once surrounded Rio de Janeiro. This 39-sq-km tropical-jungle preserve is an exuberant green…

Pão de Açúcar

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Ipanema Beach

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Cristo Redentor

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Jardim Botânico

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Museu de Arte do Rio

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Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas

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Escadaria Selarón

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Arcos da Lapa

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Boulevard Olímpico

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Sítio Burle Marx

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Ponta do Arpoador

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Parque Lage

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The largest aquarium in South America is Rio's newest major downtown attraction. You can get an up-close look at some 350 different species (there are…

Museu Chácara do Céu

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Praia de Leblon

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Praia Vermelha

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Parque do Flamengo

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Mosteiro de São Bento

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Centro Cultural Oi Futuro

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Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil

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Real Gabinete Português de Leitura

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Igreja São Francisco da Penitência & Convento de Santo Antônio

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Feira Nordestina

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Theatro Municipal

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Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide

Rio is unlike any other place in the world, with more natural beauty per square inch—and more flip-flops per capita—than any major city. Its “urban setting,” tucked dramatically between and amid mountains and sea, is itself a UNESCO World Heritage site. With a beachy, informal vibe infusing its street life, Rio’s natives, Cariocas, are at once so raucous and relaxed that other Brazilians parody them relentlessly, as much with jealousy as with disdain. — Seth Kugel

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Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Rio de Janeiro

• 1 Districts
• 2.1 History
• 2.2 Climate
• 2.3 Visitor information
• 3.1.1 Public transport from the airports of Rio
• 3.1.2 Taxis
• 3.1.3 Money
• 3.1.4 Destinations
• 3.2 By train
• 3.4 By boat
• 4.1 By boat
• 4.2 By light rails/tram
• 4.3 By cable car
• 4.5 By Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)
• 4.6 By subway
• 4.7 By SuperVia suburban trains
• 4.8 By taxi
• 4.9 By e-hailing
• 4.10 By car
• 4.11 By bicycle
• 5.1 Beaches
• 5.3 Buildings
• 5.4 Museums
• 6.1 Carnaval
• 6.3 New Year's Eve celebrations
• 6.4 Gay Travel
• 6.5 Hang gliding and paragliding
• 6.6 Hiking and Trekking
• 6.7 Panoramic flights
• 6.8 Favela (Shantytown) tours
• 6.9 Out of town trips
• 10.3 Samba clubs
• 10.4 Clubbing
• 12 Stay healthy
• 13 Stay safe
• 14.1 Consulates General
• 15.1 Grande Rio
• 15.2 On the southeastern coast of Rio State
• 15.3 In the northwest
• 15.4 In the north
• 15.5 In the west

Rio de Janeiro is the second largest city in Brazil , on the South Atlantic coast. Rio is famous for its breathtaking landscape, its laid-back beach culture and its annual carnival. The "Carioca Landscapes between the Mountain and the Sea" has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list .

The harbour of Rio de Janeiro is comprised of a unique entry from the ocean that makes it appear as the mouth of a river. Additionally, the harbor is surrounded by spectacular geographic features including Sugarloaf mountain at 395 meters (1,296 feet), Corcovado Peak at 704 meters (2,310 feet), and the hills of Tijuca at 1,021 meters (3,350 feet). These features work together to collectively make the harbor one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World .

Rio de Janeiro hosted many of the 2014 FIFA World Cup games, including the final. It also hosted the 2016 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, becoming the first South American city to host the Summer Olympics.

Districts [ edit ]

Understand [ edit ]

It is a common mistake to think of Rio as Brazil 's capital, a distinction it lost on April 21, 1960 when Brasilia became the capital. Beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema , the Christ The Redeemer ( Cristo Redentor ) statue, the stadium of Maracanã and Sugarloaf Mountain ( Pão de Açúcar ) are all well-known sights of what the inhabitants call the "marvelous city" ( cidade maravilhosa ), and are also among the first images to pop up in travelers´ minds, along with the Carnaval celebration.

The South Zone holds most of Rio's landmarks and world-famous beaches, in an area of only 43.87 square kilometres (16.94 sq mi). Many of them are within walking distance of each other (for instance, the Sugarloaf lies about 8 km (5.0 mi) from Copacabana beach). Most hotels and hostels are located in this part of the city, which is compressed between the Tijuca Range ( Maciço da Tijuca ) and the sea. There are important places in other regions as well, such as Maracanã stadium in the North Zone and the many fascinating buildings in the centre.

Sadly, most people also know Rio for its violence and crime, especially related to drugs. And social problems, as slums or favelas , areas of poor-quality housing and living; these slums are usually located on the city's many mountain slopes, juxtaposed with middle-class neighbourhoods.

History [ edit ]

Rio was founded in 1565 by the Portuguese as a fortification against French privateers who trafficked wood and goods from Brazil. Piracy played a major role in the city's history, and there are still colonial fortresses to be visited (check below). The Portuguese fought the French for nearly 10 years, both sides having rival native tribes as allies. For the next two centuries it was an unimportant outpost of the Portuguese Empire, until gold, diamonds, and ore were found in Minas Gerais in 1720. Then, as the nearest port, Rio became the port for these minerals and replaced Salvador as the main city in the colony in 1763. When Napoleon invaded Portugal, the Royal Family moved to Brazil and made Rio capital of the Kingdom (so it was the only city outside Europe to be capital of a European country). When Brazil became independent in 1822, it adopted Monarchy as its form of government (with Emperors Pedro I and Pedro II). Many historians and Brazilians from other places say cariocas are nostalgic of the Royal and Imperial times, which is reflected in many place names and shop names. In 2009, the city won their bid to host the games of the XXXI Olympics in the summer of 2016. This was the fifth bid by the city, whose 1936, 1940, 2004, and 2012 bids lost.

Climate [ edit ]

The climate of the city of Rio de Janeiro is tropical with a hot, humid and sometimes rainy summer and a mild and dry winter. In December and January, the heat and humidity are usually constant, reaching up to 45°C (113°F), However, it rains less in Rio de Janeiro than in other cities in the Southeast (for example, São Paulo) and the rains are usually sudden and rapid, giving a welcoming relief from the sizzling afternoon temperatures. During winter in the southern hemisphere, temperatures in Rio are usually milder. In these months rainfall decreases, and average temperatures are typically 19°C (66°F) to maximums of 25°C (77°F).

Visitor information [ edit ]

• Riotur website

Get in [ edit ]

Rio is one of the country's major transportation hubs, second only to São Paulo.

By plane [ edit ]

Metropolitan area airport code for the two airports of the city is unsurprisingly RIO  IATA .

If the flight connections to Rio don't suit you, you can check flights to the airports of São Paulo , Belo Horizonte , Campinas or Vitoria . From there you can take an intercity bus to Rio.

Public transport from the airports of Rio [ edit ]

From Galeão (GIG) two bus lines operated by Real [dead link] depart from right outside the arrival section. Buses are air-conditioned and comfy, with ample luggage space. They run roughly every 30 minutes from 5:30AM to 10PM.

• Bus line 2018 Aeroporto Internacional do RJ/Alvorada (Via Orla da Zona Sul) runs between both airports, the main bus terminal and further along the beachfront of Botafogo , Copacabana , Ipanema and Leblon , and has its terminus at the Alvorada terminal near Barra Shopping in Barra da Tijuca . The full run takes at least 60 minutes, often double that. Tickets are R$16 (Dec 2016).
• Bus line 2918 Aeroporto Internacional do RJ/Alvorada (Via Linha Amarela) runs to the Alvorada bus terminal, via Jacarapaguá (the best spot for taxis) from Galeão airport along the Linha Amarela in as little as 35 minutes, traffic allowing.

For a slightly cheaper option, go ahead as follows. From the airport , take BRT (Bus Rapid Transport System) (R$3.60, RioCard (R$3) needed, but can be used on Metro as well) to Vicente de Carvalho and transfer to the metro. The BRT does not go into the center, but north around Rio towards Alvorada Bus Terminal and Terminal Jardim Oceãnico. From Alvorada they connect to other BRT to Santa Cruz and Campo Grande west. The BRT also connects to the commuter rail system in Madureira. If you head to the airport , you need to take BRT bus #30 semi direto to Galeão , from Vicente de Carvalho . The bus goes every 30 min or so, from the middle doors of the 100 m long bus stop. Allow 1.5 hr for the trip between center and airport, especially if you do it the first time. Connect to Vicente de Carvalho using metro line 2 (R$4.30). Between metro and BRT at Vicente de Carvalho , walk the white footpath. At the airport, you get off at Terminal 2, when all people get off.

Taxis [ edit ]

There are two types of taxis . As you leave Customs you will see booths of different companies offering their services. These are considerably more expensive than the standard yellow taxis that are to be found outside the terminal building but the quality of the cars is generally better and the price is pre-set and final and you pay at the booth before going to the car with no need to pay (or tip) the driver. These taxis can often charge double the price of those ordinary taxis from the rank around 100 metres from the arrivals exit. It is possible to reserve airport transfers. Standard yellow taxis are cheaper but usually run on meters meaning that, due to high traffic, you may end up paying more than originally expected. Also, although very rare nowadays, you will need to keep the eye on the road (maybe following your route on Google Maps or similar) to ensure that the driver does not make a (long) diversion running up a high fare at the end. Many will also want payment in cash rather than card.

Money [ edit ]

Money change facilities are limited and high commissions are charged. Slightly better rates can be obtained, illegally, at the taxi booths but they may want you to use their cabs before changing money for you. In any event, don't change more than you have to as much better rates are available downtown. However, if you have a VISA or Mastercard Debit Card, you may use the Airport's ATMs (Banco 24 Horas) which will allow you to withdraw cash for a fee. IN this case, do not accept the suggest exchange rate but ask for it to be debited in Reals in your account since your bank will almost certainly havea better rate to offer.

Destinations [ edit ]

From Europe, LATAM Airlines offers direct flights from Paris (daily), London and Frankfurt (both three times a week). Air France flies twice a day from Paris, British Airways three times a week from London, TAP twice a day from Lisbon and on Fridays and Sundays to Porto , Lufthansa four days a week from Frankfurt, KLM four days a week from Amsterdam and Iberia daily from Madrid . From Africa, Taag connects Rio to Luanda four times a week, and from Asia, Emirates has a daily non-stop flight to Dubai , where is possible to continue to many Asian destinations (also, from Rio this flight continues to Buenos Aires ).

From North America, there are non-stop flights to Rio de Janeiro from Charlotte , New York City and Miami with either American Airlines or LATAM Airlines, Washington, D.C. and Houston with United Airlines, Dallas with American Airlines, and Atlanta with Delta Air Lines. Travellers from elsewhere in the region have to make a stop in the aforementioned U.S. cities or in São Paulo to get to Rio.

Gol, LATAM , Emirates, Aerolíneas Argentinas and other carriers connect Rio de Janeiro to Argentina ( Buenos Aires and Cordoba ), Venezuela ( Caracas ), Paraguay ( Asuncion ), Uruguay ( Montevideo ) and Chile ( Santiago ). Avianca and Copa Airlines connect Rio with Bogotá , Lima and Panama City , respectively, offering onward connections to Central America or other South American cities. LATAM and Aerolineas Argentinas offer connections from their respective hubs to Australia and New Zealand .

By train [ edit ]

By bus [ edit ]

• -22.9021 -43.556 5 Rodoviário de Campo Grande Bus station ( Terminal Rodoviário de Campo Grande ), Rua Aurélio de Figueiredo, Campo Grande, Zone Norte ( BRT TransOeste terminated here. ). Buses to/from Duque de Caxias, Nova Iguaçu, Itaguaí, Mangaratiba, Niterói and São Gonçalo cities.  

Several companies offer bus passes from Rio to the rest of the country. The Green Toad Bus also offer bus tickets online for buses from Rio de Janeiro to Ilha Grande , Paraty , São Paulo , Florianopolis , Campo Grande , Foz do Iguacu and some other destinations in Brazil. They have bus passes to take you to other countries as well.

By boat [ edit ]

Ferries ( barcas ) connect neighbouring Niterói to Rio de Janeiro and arrive at Praça XV (see down), in the city centre.

By car [ edit ]

Rio is connected by many roads to neighboring cities and states, but access can be confusing as there are insufficient traffic signs or indications of how to get downtown.

The main interstate highways passing through Rio are:

• BR-116 , which connects the city to the southern region of Brazil. Also known as Rodovia Presidente Dutra
• BR-101 , which leads to the north, northwest plus Costa Verde (Green Coast - Paraty, Mangaratiba, Angra dos Reis) and São Paulo Coast (Ubatuba, Caraguatatuba, Bertioga, Santos) and beyond towards the South of Brazil , and
• BR-040 , which will take you in the central and western areas.

Get around [ edit ]

Rio de Janeiro possesses an extensive and complex, highly multi-modal public transportation system, adapted to the city's unique topography - large areas covered by mountains surrounded by pockets of densely populated flat lands. Among the public transportation modes, there is subway, heavy rail, light rail, bus rapid transit, local buses, microbuses, cable cars and ferry boats.

The city uses a prepaid transport SmartCard, the RioCard Bilhete Único Carioca , which costs R$3.00 (refundable) and gives access to nearly all available public transportation (mostly excluding tourist rides), also offering discounts if the user takes more than one transportation within a 2-hr time period and stays within the Rio de Janeiro municipality. Cards can be returned with getting the money on it back. This can be a good way to get cash off credit cards that have a minimum cash withdrawal of like €50, but in case you only need another R$40 before leaving the country.

Unfortunately, the RioCard cannot be returned at the airport.

It is very convenient to get a Bilhete Único if you plan to use public transport on a regular basis during your stay in Rio, as it saves you the hassle of constantly figuring out which type of integration ticket to buy. If you stick to subway, heavy rail, bus rapid transit and local buses (not including executive buses), a public transport trip using the Bilhete Único shall cost between US$1-2.

By light rails/tram [ edit ]

• Santa Teresa Tram, Centro
• Corcovado Rack Railway, Zona Sul
• The VLT ("Veículo Leve sobre Trilhos", Portuguese for "light rail vehicle") connects Rodoviária Novo Rio, Santos Dumont Airport, Praça XV ferry station, Central do Brasil train station, and a couple of subway stations. Can only be paid with a Bilhete Único card (R$ 3,80; each person must have a separate card), which can be bought in any stop but not within the vehicle. The ticket must be validated immediately after entering the vehicle, otherwise a R$ 170 fine will be levied.

By cable car [ edit ]

• Sugarloaf Cable Car ( Zona Sul )

Buses are still the cheapest and most convenient way to get around the South Zone (Zona Sul) of the city due to the high number and frequency of lines running through the area. For the adventurous or budget traveller, it is worth asking your hotel or hostel employees how to navigate the system or which routes to take to arrive at specific locations. However, you should be mindful of questionable characters and your belongings. By night buses are more scarce, and most lines will usually not be running by the time the bars and clubs are full. Buses start at R$4.05 (May 2020); buses with air conditioning charge higher fares. The fare is paid in cash to a controller or the driver inside the bus, by passing through a roulette. There are no tickets, and try to have change/small bills. Some residents and students have a digital pass card. Keep an eye out for pickpockets when the bus is crowded, and don't be surprised if your driver goes a little faster and brakes a little more suddenly than you'd like. Except for minibuses, buses now have two doors: passengers get in through the front door and get off through the back (it was otherwise until 2001-2002).

Some bus stops in the South Zone are equipped with a shelter and a bench, but sometimes, far from tourist areas, they are less obvious and have no signs at all - you might have to ask. As a general rule in most parts of Brazil, buses stop only when you hail them, by extending the arm. If you don't hail and there are no passengers waiting to get off, the bus simply won't stop. The same can be said if you are on the bus wanting to get off at a particular stop. You should know the surroundings or the name of the intersection of the area you are going, or inquire to the employee operating the roulette, so you can signal to the driver that you want to get off, or he may not stop! There are no schedules nor timetables, but there is an invaluable book called Ruas de Rio de Janeiro (The streets of Rio de Janeiro) that has maps of Rio and lists bus routes by bus line. Although it does not list the exact schedule of arrivals and departures, it lists the bus stops, and one an easily orient oneself and navigate the city using it. Usually, buses run no less infrequently than every 15 minutes. However, they can run just once an hour or more infrequently late at night or in remote areas of town.

There are a baffling 1000+ bus lines in Rio (including variants), covering nearly all of the city, operated by perhaps a dozen independent operations. (At least 6 operations ply the streets of Copacabana and Ipanema.) The website contains a catalog of the lines and offers the option to plan a bus trip, but little help when offline, a great alternative is the site, The site Bus Schedule , for offering a catalog with several constantly updated lines. Many lines differ only a few streets from each other in their itineraries, and some even have variants within the same line. Bus lines with a * or a letter mean that this bus has a variant. It means that there may be a bus with the same name, same number, same origin, even the same destination but with a completely different route. Lines are numbered according to the general route they serve:

• beginning with 1 - South Zone/Downtown
• beginning with 2 - North Zone/Downtown
• beginning with 3 - West Zone/Downtown
• beginning with 4 - North Zone/South Zone
• beginning with 5 - within South Zone
• beginning with 6 - North Zone/West Zone
• beginning with 7 and 9 - within North Zone
• beginning with 8 - within West Zone

Most popular lines for tourists are 583 and 584 (from Copacabana and Ipanema to Corcovado railway station), as well as 464 and 435 (from Copacabana to Maracanã). Buses 511 (Ataulfo de Paiva) and 512 (Bartholomeu Mitre) are also popular as they take you to Urca for the station to take the cable car up the Sugarloaf mountain. Typically bus drivers and controllers won't understand any foreign language. If you can't speak Portuguese at all, use a map. Trying to speak Spanish is usually not particularly useful.

By Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) [ edit ]

The BRT is a mass rapid transit system based on multiple-car buses running on exclusive lanes, inspired by similar systems in Curitiba , Bogota and Jakarta . There are three BRT lines:

• TransCarioca: links the Galeão - Antônio Carlos Jobim International Airport to the Barra da Tijuca neighbourhood, also connecting with the Line 2 (Green) subway line that gives access to Zona Sul and the Centro . Useful for visitors who want to go from the Galeão airport to the touristic neighbourhoods (Barra and the beaches of Zona Sul) and are on a tight budget;
• TransOeste: links the future Jardim Oceânico subway station (which shall be operating before the 2016 Olympics) to the extreme northwest of the municipality ( Santa Cruz and Campo Grande neighbourhoods ). Useful for visitors staying in Barra da Tijuca to move around in the area or to go to the Zona Sul or the Centro by connecting to the subway;
• TransOlímpico: inaugurated during the 2016 Summer Olympics, it connects the Deodoro neighbourhood in Zona Norte to Barra da Tijuca , passing through several Olympic facilities. Basically useful to visitors to the Olympic events.

By subway [ edit ]

The Metrô Rio subway system is very useful for travel from Jardim Oceânico (in Barra da Tijuca ) to Downtown and beyond, passing through the Zona Sul beaches including Leblon, Ipanema and Copacabana (the extension to Leblon and Barra da Tijuca shall be inaugurated before the 2016 Summer Olympics). It closes after midnight (24 hours during Carnaval). The air-conditioned subway is safe, clean, comfortable, and quick, and has much better signage than most transport in Rio, making the lives of foreign tourists easier. There are two main lines: Line   1   has service to Ipanema (General Osorio), the Saara district, and much of Downtown, as well as Tijuca. Line   2   stops at the zoo, Maracanã stadium, and Rio State University. The two lines are integrated between Central and Botafogo, so check the train's destination if you board within the integrated section for a destination in the Zona Norte. A one-way subway-only "unitário" ticket is R$4.60 (May 2020). The ticket window will give you a card that you insert in the turnstile; do not pull it out unless you've purchased a multi-trip or transfer pass. Rechargeable IC cards (minimum charge R$5, no deposit required) are also available and definitely worth getting if you'll be in town for a few days.

The Metrô company operates bus lines from some stations to nearby neighborhoods which are not served by the subway system. This is particularly helpful for places uphill such as Gávea, Laranjeiras, Grajaú and Usina. Since the city grew around the Tijuca Range mountains, these neighborhoods will never be served by the subway, but you now can take the integração (connection) minibuses. The company calls it Metrônibus and Metrô na Superfície (literally, Subway on Ground ), but actually they are ordinary buses in special routes for subway commuters. You can buy tickets for these - just ask for expresso (pronounced "eysh-PREH-sso", not "express-o") when buying a ticket, then keep it after crossing the roulette (prices range from R$ 2.80 to 4.40, depending on the transfer you want, as of Sep 2010). When you leave the subway, give the ticket to the bus driver (who shall be waiting in the bus stop just outside of the station). If you buy an ordinary ticket, you won't be able to get this bus for free - then it will cost a regular fee.

The last car of each train is marked for women-only with a pink window sticker, in order to avoid potential harassment in crowded trains. Some men, however, are not yet used to this separation, and many women, who are accustomed to hassle-free everyday travel in Rio's subway, also think the measure is unnecessary. Anyway, if you're a man, avoid getting into trouble with local security staff and stay off the pink-marked cars. The women-only policy for the wagon is valid only in the rush hour.

By SuperVia suburban trains [ edit ]

Eight lines operating. Five of them from Central station (see above). They can be useful exploring the northern and western suburbs and bairros (quarters).

By taxi [ edit ]

Simply use Uber or the 99Taxi app.

In the areas without subway, trams, SuperVia or BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) use a cab. All legal cabs are yellow with a blue stripe painted on the sides. Taxis not designed like this are special service cars (to the airport or bus stations) or illegal. Rio taxis are not too expensive on a kilometre basis, but distances can be quite considerable. A journey from Zona Sul to the Centro will cost around R$20, and from the airport to Copacabana is around R$50 for example. The car can usually hold four people. You can ask a cab for a city tour, and arrange a fixed price (may be around US$20). Major taxi companies include Central de Taxi, Ouro Taxi and Yellow Taxi.

After getting into the taxi, check to see if the taximeter has been started, it charges R$5.50 (July 2018) for the minimum ride, called bandeirada ), and R$2.50 per kilometer. If not, ask the taxi driver to do so. Some taxi drivers may wish to negotiate a fixed price in lieu of using the taximeter stating that they want to help you out and give you a cheaper fare. This is common for taxi drivers queued at tourist stops such as Pão de Açúcar and may be a confidence trick. Keep in mind that the taximeter may give you a better price. When in doubt, use the taximeter. You are the customer and you are in control. If the taxi driver will not comply, leave the taxi and find another.

You may be ripped off by some taxi drivers. If you have any doubt about drivers being completely honest, consider having your route mapped out on your smart phone with Google Maps and GPS turned on and ready to go before entering the taxi. By doing so, you can see if your taxi driver closely follows this ideal route. Remember that Avenida Atlântica switches traffic directions during the day, so Google Maps might get it wrong during the morning or evening hours on that road.

If you want to avoid being ripped off then it may be worth taking a 'radio-taxi', particularly when arriving at the airport. Radio Taxis are usually the blue, green, or white taxis and they do cost a little more than the typical yellow taxi. The advantage of a radio taxi is that you pay a fixed rate regardless of the time of day or if there's heavy traffic etc., this means that you do not risk the price increasing at the drivers discretion. To book in advance you can contact Cootramo Radio Taxi via their website https://www.cootramo.com.br/ [dead link] , or Rio Airport Transfer (English Speaking) via their website http://www.rioairporttransfer.com/

For those traveling to Rio for Carnaval it's worth using a company that allows you to book and pay in advance, and to try and pay as much in advance as possible as prices tend to increase a few weeks before Carnaval.

Be aware that traffic jams in Rio can be terrible at times. A taxi ride from Ipanema to the bus terminal for instance can take an hour and a half if you get seriously stuck, so make sure you have margins in case you really can't afford to be late.

By e-hailing [ edit ]

Rio de Janeiro is covered by some e-hailing services, Uber being the largest of them. Notable e-hailing services in the city, are:

• T81 (Brazilian service)
• Easy (Brazilian service)
• TeLevo (Brazilian service)

Traffic within some parts of Rio can be daunting, but a car may be the best way to reach distant beaches like Grumari, and that can be an extra adventure. Avoid rush-hour traffic jams in neighborhoods such as Copacabana, Botafogo, Laranjeiras, and Tijuca, where moms line up their cars to pick up their children after school. Buy a map or use Waze or Google Maps (or similar), and have fun.

Rio has an interesting programme of traffic management. Between 7AM and 10AM on weekday mornings the traffic flow of one carriageway on the beachfront roads of Ipanema and Copacabana is reversed, i.e. all traffic on those roads flows in the same direction, towards the city. On Sundays the carriageway closest to the beach is closed to allow pedestrians, cyclists, skateboarders, skaters and others to exercise.

By bicycle [ edit ]

There are Itaú rental bicycle available in Rio: https://bikeitau.com.br (bookable by app).

See [ edit ]

Beaches [ edit ]

• -22.83877 -43.25015 1 Ramos (in-bay) - inappropriate for bathing
• -22.9287 -43.171 2 Flamengo (in-bay) - inappropriate for bathing
• -22.9455 -43.1809 3 Botafogo (in-bay) - inappropriate for bathing
• -22.948 -43.16316 4 Urca (in-bay) - usually inappropriate for bathing
• -22.95544 -43.16471 5 Vermelha (in-bay) - sometimes inappropriate for bathing
• -22.9642 -43.1693 6 Leme (oceanic)
• -22.9707 -43.1818 7 Copacabana (oceanic)
• -22.9887 -43.1925 8 Arpoador (oceanic)
• -22.987 -43.213 9 Ipanema (oceanic)
• -22.988 -43.2247 10 Leblon (oceanic)
• -22.99901 -43.256 11 São Conrado (oceanic) - sometimes inappropriate for bathing
• -23.0111 -43.3603 12 Barra da Tijuca (oceanic)
• -23.0265 -43.46 13 Recreio dos Bandeirantes (oceanic)
• -23.0352 -43.493 14 Macumba (oceanic)
• -23.0409 -43.5055 15 Prainha (oceanic)
• -23.0481 -43.5203 16 Grumari (oceanic)
• -23.0481 -43.51286 17 Abricó (oceanic, nudist beach)

Abricó is the only official nudist beach in the city of Rio de Janeiro, it lies next to Grumari beach. Only accessible by car/taxi. A cheaper option is taking the bus numbered 360 (Recreio) that passes along Copacabana/Ipanema/Leblon, and from the end of the line (ponto final) take a cab.

It is also worth visiting the beaches in Paquetá , particularly:

• Praia da Moreninha (on the Guanabara Bay, but often not clean enough for swimming)

Cariocas have a unique beach culture , with a code of customs which outlanders (even Brazilians from other cities) can misconstrue easily. Women may wear tiny string bikinis, but that does not mean they are trying to attract a man. Until the 1990s, men and boys wore speedos , but since then wearing Bermuda shorts or boardshorts has become more common, although speedos ("sungas" in Portuguese) seem to now be making a comeback. Jammers are less common but still accepted.

Waves in Rio vary from tiny and calm in the Guanabara bay beaches (Paquetá, Ramos, Flamengo, Botafogo, Urca) to high, surf-ideal waves in Recreio. In Leme, Copacabana, Arpoador, Ipanema, and Leblon, there's a popular way of "riding" the waves called pegar jacaré (pe-GAHR zha-kah-REH; literally, "to grab an alligator"). You wait for the wave to come behind you then swim on top of it until it crumbles next to the sand.

Commerce is common in Rio's beaches, with thousands of walking vendors selling everything from sun glasses to fried shrimp to cooling beverages (try mate com limão , a local ice tea mixed with lemonade, or suco de laranja com cenoura , orange and carrot juice). For food, there is also empada (baked flour pastry filled with meat or cheese) and sanduíche natural (cool sandwich with vegetables and mayo). Vendors typically shout out loud what they're selling, but they won't usually bother you unless you call them. All along the beaches there are also permanent vendors who will sell you a beer and also rent you a beach chair and an umbrella for a few Reais.

Leblon and Ipanema are the most cool beaches. The beaches in Barra and Recreio (Quebra-Mar, Pepê, Pontal, Prainha, Grumari) are the best and cleanest beaches, being the favorite among surfers, paragliders and nautical sports. São Conrado beach is a hang gliders paradise.

In the West Zone you can find some of the best beaches of Rio de Janeiro. Barra da Tijuca's beach is a 17 km (11 mi) sand line of clear waters. Surfers love it, and many people also. The sunset is beautiful, especially during the winter. The beach is relatively safe at night, although development of tourism by big hotels such as the Sheraton have brought with it the inevitable appearance of (discreet but ever present) prostitutes. As you go along you get to Recreio, which is even clearer, and much less crowded. Prainha is now very far away from the crowded Copacabana. Its perfect waves made it famous. It is also on a biological reserve, with restricted car parking spaces. Avoid the weekends and enjoy this between mountains-beauty of the nature on the week-days. There are many surfing schools all along the Barra beach that hold one and half hour surfing classes. The classes are fairly inexpensive and are mostly populated with locals. Some of the surf instructors do speak English.

Sights [ edit ]

Corcovado , the 710 m (2,330 ft) granite peak located in the Tijuca Forest in central Rio is known worldwide for the Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) statue . The funicular train up costs R$62 (low season) or R$75 (high season) for a round trip up to Cristo Redentor, and it is definitely worth the view. The queue for the train, in Cosme Velho, can get rather long; you purchase a ticket for a particular departure time (that day only). The box office at the station does not sell same-day tickets. The trains run every 30 minutes. Try going when the morning coach parties have already passed through, i.e. when most tourists are having their lunch. Don't take the train too late in the day since late afternoon trains may be canceled if delays throughout the day build up. This is common over holiday weekends. Take a taxi to Cosme Velho, or take the Metro-Onibus Expresso combination (see above) from the Largo do Machado station. After dark, be aware that the steep descent down Corcovado in a shuttle can be dangerous since some less-professional park drivers choose to speed down the mountain to create a roller-coaster type effect and even turn the headlights off temporarily to thrill the passengers. If this occurs, passengers should tell the driver to stop by shouting "Pare!" (PAH-ree). Report any such conduct to a police officer at the base of the park before you descend to the base of the mountain by taxi. There's also a hiking trail that begins at Parque Lage and gets there (see Hiking and Trekking on the 'Do' section below).

Pão de Açúcar, the Sugarloaf Mountain (one taller, the other shorter), Brazil's top landmark, with a two-stage aerial tramway to the top; a definite must-see. There is also an unsigned trail leading to the second station. Ask locals for directions. The buses number 511, 512, 591 and 592 and the subway buses from Botafogo bring you to the base station. Do not make the mistake of thinking you have seen enough once you have seen the view from Cristo Redentor. Try Sugarloaf at sunset for a truly mind-blowing experience.

Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas is a large lagoon in the middle of South Zone, with great views to Corcovado and Ipanema and Leblon beaches; you can jog or cycle all the way round; there are skating areas and you can hire little pedal-operated boats.

Maracanã the largest football stadium in South America and once the largest on Earth. It is in a state of disrepair following the Summer 2016 Olympics, and daily tours have been suspended. There is also a Soccer Museum inside it.

Streetcar of Santa Teresa , Brazil's only remaining metropolitan heritage streetcar.

Jardim Botânico , the Botanical Garden, planted in the 1800s. It is both a park and a scientific laboratory contains a huge collection of plants from all over the world, not only tropical ones.

Parque Lage a small park containing some interesting plants and wildlife as well as strange concrete structures that will entertain the kids. The park is the beginning of a hiking trail Corcovado, through sub-tropical rain forest.

Parque do Flamengo , also known as Aterro do Flamengo is along the bay between Flamengo and Glória. 1.2 million square metres with broad walkways, Flamengo Beach, various monuments, and over 10,000 trees.

Buildings [ edit ]

• Ilha Fiscal Palace (1889) - Located in the Guanabara Bay, next to the Navy Museum
• Gloria Church (1739). Small but interesting church reached by a funicular. Nice views. (metro: Gloria)
• Palácio Gustavo Capanema - Former ministry of culture, designed by French architect Le Corbusier; though small, it is regarded as an important pioneering in modern architecture (downtown).
• Arcos da Lapa (1750) - Lapa Aqueduct, colonial structure that brought water from springs to downtown.
• Catedral Metropolitana - a modern, cone-shaped cathedral, designed by Edgar de Oliveira da Fonseca (in Lapa).
• São Francisco da Penitência church (1773) - Colonial church.
• Teatro Municipal (1909) - City Theater, inspired by the Paris Opéra House (in Cinelândia square).
• Biblioteca Nacional (1910) - National Library (in Cinelândia square).
• Câmara Municipal - The City Hall, hosts the city council (in Cinelândia square).
• Palácio do Catete - The former presidential palace (1893-1960), now hosts a museum of recent history and nice gardens (in Catete).
• Itamaraty - Former presidential palace (1889-1893) and foreign office; now hosts a museum of South American diplomacy, a library and the UN information offices in Brazil (in Downtown, next to the Central station).
• Palácio Guanabara - Former palace of the Imperial Princess, now governor's office; eclectic architecture; not open to public (in Laranjeiras).
• Art Deco . Rio is a major centre for the Art Deco style of architecture. Indeed, the statue of Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado is considered a classic example of Art Deco work. There are numerous buildings in Copacabana and elsewhere that employ this style.

Museums [ edit ]

There is no shortage of things to do on a rainy day. In addition to a wide range of museums, Rio has many cultural centres, which are run by banks and other organizations and usually host free exhibitions. Details of what is on can be found in the Segundo Caderno section of the daily O Globo newspaper, which provides more detail in a weekly Friday supplement. Also very useful is the Mapa das Artes Rio de Janeiro , which provides detailed bi-monthly listings as well as detailed maps of the city. This is free and can be picked up at most museums.

Downtown you can find a number of museums. Museu Histórico Nacional is covers Brazilian history stretching from colonial to imperial times with a big collection of paintings and artifacts. The Museu Nacional de Belas Artes , Museum of Fine Arts in Cinelândia square includes large paintings from Academicist and Neoclassical Brazilian artists, as well as many copies of European sculptures. The second most important contemporary art museum in Brazil, after MASP is the * MAM - Museu de Arte Moderna . The Museu da Imagem e do Som (Image and Sound Museum) is the place to go for researchers about Brazilian film, radio, and broadcasting industry. Also downtown check out the Navy Museum or the Museu Chácara do Céu an important collection of South American modern art in Santa Tereza).

In the south zone, hosted in the former presidential Catete palace is the Museu da República , this museum hosts permanent exhibitions about recent Brazilian history (from 1889 on); one of main features is the room where president Getúlio Vargas shot himself in 1954. Also in Catete, Oi Futuro hosts a fine gallery with temporary exhibitions of digital art or art with interactive medias. Museu Carmen Miranda about this Brazilian actress and singer (the lady with pineapples-and-bananas hat), the national icon in the 1940s and 50s is in Flamengo. Museu do Índio is a small museum in Botafogo with a collection of Brazilian Indian ( povos indígenas ) photographs, paintings, artifacts and other craft. Very popular with local schoolchildren, but has much for adults as well. Museu Villa-Lobos is a modest collection about Brazil's most important composer.

In the North Zone, Museu Museu de Astronomia e Ciências Afins the Astronomy Museum in São Cristóvão has an observatory. Museu do Trem is a modest collection of 19th century engines, train cars and streetcars in Engenho de Dentro.

In the West Zone, Museu Casa do Pontal is an important collection of popular arts and crafts can be found in Recreio dos Bandeirantes. Museu Aeroespacial an Aerospace Museum located in Campo dos Afonsos.

Do [ edit ]

Carnaval [ edit ].

Still the greatest reason for visiting Rio seems to be the Carnaval . This highly advertised party lasts for almost two weeks and it is well known for the escolas de samba (samba schools) that parade in Centro, on a gigantic structure called Sambódromo (Sambadrome). During Carnaval, Rio has much more to offer though, with the blocos de rua , that parade on the streets. There are now hundreds of these street "samba blocks", that parade almost in every neighborhood, especially in Centro and the South Zone, gathering thousands of people. Some are very famous, and there are few cariocas that have not heard of "Carmelitas", "Suvaco de Cristo", "Escravos da Mauá" or "Simpatia É Quase Amor".

The rest of the year, samba shows are popular with tourists, and are held at several venues like Plataforma and Scala . These are expensive and not really representative of Brazilian culture, they present a lot of almost naked women and bad musicians, a tourist trap (much like the real thing.) Much more interesting and genuine, though, are the night practice sessions held by the various samba schools in the months leading up to Carnaval. You will find only a small number of tourists here, and you will be served the best caipirinhas of your trip! These go on into the wee hours of the morning, with the fun really only starting at 1-2AM A good cab driver should be able to hook you up, and cabs will be available to take you back when you are samba-ed out. Salgueiro and Mangueira are good choices, as they are two of the larger samba schools, and are located relatively close to the tourist areas in a fairly safe area.

A change is afoot that may make this genuine experience a thing of the past (or more convenient, depending on your viewpoint) for all but the most savvy tourists. The local government built a complex of buildings ( Cidade do Samba [dead link] ) where many of the samba schools moved their practice halls and float-construction facilities from the gritty warehouses typically located in or near their home favelas. One can expect many more tourists, and shows made-up for the tourists as the tourist bureau milks this facility for all it's worth year-round.

• Cidade do Samba .  

Here is a list of some of the samba schools:

• Mangueira , Rua Visconde de Niterói, 1072, Mangueira , ☏ +55 21 3872-6786 , fax : +55 21 2567-4637 , [email protected] . Rehearsals every Saturday, 10PM .  
• Salgueiro , Rua Silva Teles, 104, Andaraí , ☏ +55 21 2238-9258 , [email protected] . Rehearsals every Wednesday, 8PM .  

Music [ edit ]

Rio was the cradle of three of Brazil's most important musical genres: samba, choro, and bossa nova. There has been a boom of traditional samba and choro venues. A lot of them are in the downtown district of Lapa . There are good and cheap nightlife options, where you will see some of the best musicians of the country. Any of the city newspapers provide pointers to the best shows.

If you're not such an anthropological type of tourist, you can check out the same papers for tips on other kinds of music. Being a big city, Rio has big and small clubs that play almost every kind of music. The major mainstream clubs mostly play whatever's on the Radio - which is usually whatever's on the USA radios and MTV - but the underground scene has a lot to offer on Rock, EDM, Rap and such. The best way to find out about those are the flyers handed or left at hostels, cinema and theater lobbies, nightclub lines, etc.

New Year's Eve celebrations [ edit ]

Rio hosts the country's largest and most popular New Year's Eve celebrations. The huge fireworks display and music shows attract 2 million people to the sands of Copacabana beach every year. People dress in white for luck and toast the arrival of the new year. It's usual also to have some national and international concerts on the beach for free.

Gay Travel [ edit ]

Rio de Janeiro is the main destination for lesbian and gay travellers from all over Brazil and the rest of the world. The city has been chosen as the best lesbian and gay international destination in 2009, and the sexiest gay place in the world in 2010 and 2011.

Hang gliding and paragliding [ edit ]

The Hangliding and Paragliding flights have found in Rio de Janeiro, the ideal land for its high hills and favorable wind. Different from other places in the world, in Rio, the sport could be done in urban areas and landing on the beach! These conditions naturally attract many tourists who get the courage to enjoy a flight. And even the most inexperienced person can flight since there's no training or special gear needed.

Hiking and Trekking [ edit ]

Not surprisingly, a huge city that has an actual forest within its limits has lots to offer for hikers. It's always advisable to have a local with you when trekking in Rio ( Couchsurfing's Rio de Janeiro group usually organizes hikes around the city), as some treks are not very well-marked. Since the early 2000s there hasn't been any reports of violence/burglary on the city's trails (a problem in the 90s), but the rules on the Stay safe section apply as anywhere else in the city. Some of Rio's hiking trails include:

• Parque Lage - Corcovado

The trek is fairly demanding and steep, and takes about 1h30/2h to complete, but yet very popular among locals - it's normal to see whole families doing it, as well as groups of friends and foreigners. Buy the "Metrô + Metrô Na Superfície" ticket and go to Botafogo . From there, take the metrô bus to the station Hospital da Lagoa , which is close to the Parque Lage . Ask the park's staff or look for signs that say "Trilha" to get to the start of the trail, just behind the ruins of an old house. From there you have two paths: going straight ahead leads to a waterfall that is usually full of families on the weekends (it's a good spot to stop on your way back if you go back the same way), and left leads straight to the main path of the trek. Along the way there are 3 waterfalls (just one you can actually bath in, though) and a small path where you have to hang on to a chain to pass through some rocks. Until this point you will be going up, but always surrounded by forest. The first views of the city will start after the chain (about 1h/1h30 in). Then you get to the train tracks, either follow the rail tracks or the road up to the Christ (another 15 minutes). Views from here on are breathtaking. To go back down, you can get a van or walk about half a mile down to the parking place.

This is a short and fairly easy hike, taking about 20/30' to complete, also very popular among locals, specially because you can go up for free then hitch a ride back on the cable car (after 7PM, it's free to return on it). The hike begins at Pista Cláudio Coutinho in Urca, and is very popular among the locals. If you ask the guards they'll point you to the start. It's uphill, but just the first five minutes are really steep and will need you to use your hands. From there on just keep to your left. There are amazing views of Urca and the Guanabara Bay during the final 20 minutes, some of which are angles you don't get from the vantage points above. The trek actually ends on top of Morro da Urca, the smallest of the two.

Panoramic flights [ edit ]

If you have the money the following operators give you panoramic flights in helicopters:

• Riocopter - Helicopter Tour in Rio de Janeiro
• Helipoint.Rio - Helicopter Tour in Rio de Janeiro

Favela (Shantytown) tours [ edit ]

A number of operators offer tours of Rocinha, the largest and safest Favela in Rio. Many tours are done by outside companies in safari-like buses, which can lead to awkward interactions with the locals. Try to go with someone who lives in Rocinha on a walking tour. It is also possible to arrange tours to other favelas, although Rocinha has a longer history of tourism and is one of the more developed favelas.

You may hear stories about people being invited by locals to visit their home in a favela. If you receive such an invitation do think carefully about it and perhaps ask around about the person that has invited you. Many of the favelas are rife with drugs and guns so think carefully about how much you trust the person that is inviting you. A search on the Internet may reveal some accounts of tours others have taken. A visit like this will obviously be more authentic than a book tour and could be the highlight of your visit to Rio; on the other hand you are taking a risk. Also consider that favelas are normal neighbourhoods in Rio and not a zoo.

Out of town trips [ edit ]

• Praia do Abricó – 50 km in the west. The best public naturist beach around Rio, located in Grumari, right after Prainha. Facilities and telephone service are quite limited, so plan ahead.
• Paquetá - Though not exactly outside of Rio, because it is an island and can only be reached by a 70 minutes ferry ride, this district of Rio makes an excellent (and inexpensive) day trip. The island is a car-free zone, so travel is limited to bicycles and electric golf carts. There's not a lot to do on this island, but the ferry ride is worth it.

Learn [ edit ]

For tourists there are many interesting things to learn. Why not take a rainy day in town to have samba (the national rhythm) classes or capoeira , a mix of dance and fighting created by the then enslaved African community. Is not as hard as outsiders may think, and it's original and fun.

If you are staying in Brazil for an extended time, major universities offer Portuguese courses for foreigners, usually for a very low price and with high educational standards.

• Cultura Inglesa .  
• Instituto Cervantes
• Aliança Francesa
• Instituto Nacional de Matemática Pura e Aplicada [dead link] (IMPA) - the National Institute for Pure and Applied Mathematics. A centre with an international renown for scientific excellence and superb working conditions in Mathematics. You can take any course for free. The summer courses (Jan-Feb) are very popular and there is even the possibility of getting some modest funding for the summer.
• Casa do Caminho Language Centre [dead link] - Learn Portuguese here with the profits going back into the Casa do Caminho

Buy [ edit ]

When shopping in street commerce, always bargain; this can lower prices considerably. Bargaining in stores and malls, though, is not welcome. But naturally merchants won't bargain unless you ask, especially if you are clearly a tourist. To tourists, items can easily be overpriced by a factor of 20% especially in highly informal markets such as Saara or on the beach.

For trinkets, your best bet is the "hippie fair" in Praça General Osório in Ipanema every Sunday.

Great bargains can be had on Brazilian-made clothing, as well as some European imports. Most imported items, however, such as electronics, tend to be insanely expensive due to protective import duties. For example, you will find digital cameras sell for about twice what they sell for in Europe or the U.S.

Store managers in Rio often speak some English, as this gains employees an almost-automatic promotion. But "some" can be very little, so it is useful to learn at least some very basic Portuguese. Just knowing basic greetings, numbers, and how to ask directions and prices will get you at least a "B" for effort, and despite finding that store clerks may know more English than you Portuguese, it can still come in handy to know a bit of the language. Don't be afraid to resort to writing numbers, pictures, or resorting to pantomime. Shop assistants will often tap out prices for you on a calculator. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted in Brazil, with American Express to a slightly lower degree but this have been improving.

A great choice of gift, since they do not take much space in the suitcase back home, are bikinis, a trademark from Rio for its quality and fashion style.

Shopping malls can be found all over town, with the cheaper ones in the Zona Norte like Shopping Tijuca and Shopping Iguatemi and popular upscale shopping malls concentrated in the Zona Sul like Shopping Rio Sul and Shopping Leblon and São Conrado Fashion Mall and BarraShopping in Zona Oeste .

Organic Food

Organic food arrived in the Brazilian supermarkets but if you want to support local small scale farmers you might consider the following fairs of Circuito Feiras Organicas Carioca :

Ipanema, Praça Nossa Senhora da Paz, from 7h to 13h

Tijuca, Praça Afonso Pena, from 7h to 13h | LEBLON, Praça Antero de Quental, from 7h to 13h

Bairro Peixoto, Praça Edmundo Bittencourt, from 8h to 13h | GLÓRIA, Rua do Russel, from 7h to 13h | JARDIM BOTÂNICO, Praça da Igreja São José da Lagoa, from 7h to 13h

Eat [ edit ]

In Rio de Janeiro you can probably find something to fit any craving. A good approach to local food is "comida a kilo" - buffet style restaurants where you pay by the weight of the food on your plate. An excellent place to go with your friend or even with your partner is the Fellini restaurant. Located in Leblon, the place has a "pay for what you eat" buffet, with really good and beautiful food. Great for all tastes, it has even Asian food on the menu. Another one is Ming Yue, Rue do Lavradio 106, near Lapa. Ming Ye offers a wide range of Chinese stir-fry and delicious sushi, as well as Brazilian dishes for cheaper prices.

Don't miss the most famous Brazilian dish, feijoada (fay-zho-AH-da), a black bean stew filled with big chunks of meat, like sausage, pork and beef. Along with the "feijoada", you also get some colorful side dishes that come with it, such as rice, cassava (roasted manioc), collard greens, fried pork rinds, and some orange slices, to sweeten things up a bit. This is bonafide, authentic carioca culinary excellence, almost worth the trip alone! Best while sipping down a "caipirinha".

For the hungry, nothing beats a good rodízio (all-you-can-eat service). These are available in numerous types, although the most well-known are the churrascaria , all-you-can-eat grilled meats. Marius , in Leme has arguably the best churrascaria in town. Carretão has a good and cheap(er) rodizio. At various restaurants around town, you can also find rodízio style dining featuring seafood, pizza, or various appetizer-style snacks. The defining element of rodízio is that unlike an all-you-can-eat buffet, the servers continuously bring skewers of various meats.

If you like meat but want an alternative to the rodizios, a good place to eat at is Filé de Ouro (Rua Jardim Botânico, 731, Jardim Botânico; ☏ +55 21 2259-2396 ; see Google Maps for directions). The place is simple and cozy. During the weekends there are usually big lines, but the steak is delicious. Try "Filé à Oswaldo Aranha", with toasted garlic.

Brazil has the largest population of Japanese outside of Japan , and sushi has become widely popular in Rio too. If you are a sashimi and sushi lover, you will find a great deal of options in Rio de Janeiro. If you are in Ipanema or nearby, a great tip is Benkei [dead link] , that has an "all you can eat" buffet, with high quality products, great environment and staff for nice prices.

As a former ex Portugal colony, Brasil has maintained many influences of this country on its culinary. Therefore, you will find great authentic Portuguese restaurants in Rio. A good option, from the localization to the ambiance, and naturally the food, is the CBF Restaurant , in the Tiradentes Square, a lovely area full of antique architecture.

In Ipanema, Zazá Bistrô [dead link] is a trendy, sexy and exotic place with great South Asian dishes. Good to go as a couple.

Because its huge coast, many Brazilian specialties are in the seafood area. They are very rich in shrimps, lobster, calamaris, shellfish, clams, mollusks and many other tasty fishes. So, once in this land, don't miss the opportunity to order those lovely dishes.

The highest recommendation for a decently priced superb meal is at Sobrenatural , that has the some of the freshest fish in Rio. Go on Monday, Wednesday or Friday, when they have live samba and chorinho music by renowned artists. Try their moqueca dishes. It is located at Rua Almirante Alexandrino, 432 Santa Teresa.

For sophisticated people who enjoy simple life, Via Sete is in the heart of Ipanema, on Garcia D'Ávila. This grill restaurant offers a great bang for the buck: from their veranda you get to people-watch pretty Brazilians. There you can enjoy tasty wraps and sandwiches.

Travellers with fatter pockets may also splash out a bit at the Dias Ferreira street in Leblon, Rio's up-and-coming restaurant row.

There are many places to get pizza and lots of restaurants also offer pasta.

Rio is also famous for its pastries and street food, heritage from Portuguese and old European culture. In most cafeterias ( lanchonete ; lun-sho-NETCH) you can have a pastel (pahs-TELL) or salgado (saw-GAH-do; local pastry). Typical pastries are coxinha (ko-SHEEN-ya; chicken nugget shaped like a chicken leg), and unique Rio's joelho (zho-EH-lyo; rolled dough filled with ham and cheese). Also try pão de queijo (pawn-deh-KAY-zho; cheese baked dough), typical from Minas Gerais but very common in Rio as well, and tapioca (typical from Bahia ), a kind of crepe made out of manioca flour.

For drinking, ask for guaraná (gwa-ra-NAH; soda made from the seed of an Amazon fruit, also available as a strong drink), mate (MAHTCH; sweet ice tea; not like Rio Grande do Sul or Argentina 's hot and sour mate ), água de coco (ah-gwa-djee-KOH-ku; natural coconut water) or caldo de cana (caw-do-djee-KAH-na; sugarcane juice). There is also a common fruit called açaí (ah-sah-EEH), with a dark-purple pulp out of which are made juices, and ice-creams. Typical cariocas eat it like cream in cups or glasses, mixed with granola , oats or other flakes. The best place for such drinks are one of a number of Rio's open juice bars. Very often, these are located on street corners and have long, curved bars offering you juices from pretty much every fruit you can imagine. The best option is a small chain of juice bars called "Big Bi's" . The juices are astounding value alongside their good selection of salgados and sandwiches. Their açaí is one of the best in terms of value and taste and the staff are excellent. On top of all this, if you leave a tip, you get a big " Obrigado " from all the staff. For the best Big Bi's experience, try the Tangerina ao Limão juice along with the famous Bauru sandwich. Finish it all off with an açaí to go. Perfect. Big Bi's has a few branches dotted around Copacabana and Ipanema, one of which is on the corner of Rua Santa Clara and Rua Barata Ribeiro in Copacabana. If you then cross the road of Rua Barata Ribeiro, you will land at an exquisite ice cream parlour.

There are many specialized "health food" shops that offer an incredible variety of rich meat and vegetable sandwiches, plus an awesome variety of fruit juices, many of them delicious and usually unknown by foreigners. Among them are graviola, fruta do conde, jaca, açaí, guaraná, pitomba, mango, coconut, orange, lemon, papaya, melon, etc. (they make it as you ask and all food is 100% organic and fresh. The meal is often prepared as you wait, so you can ask them to mix whatever fruit you want and create a customized mix if you like). You must try açaí and guaraná, Amazon fruits which are famous to be the strongest energizers and anti-oxidants of the world. They also offer Brazilian snacks (including many Italian and Oriental delicacies), and other simple but delicious things to eat. I never got enough of them! These shops usually are cheap and hang many fruits at the entrance or somewhere visible to display their quality.

Warning: look for clean places, as hygiene can be poor in many street shops.

If your palate is homesick for more familiar tastes, Rio has most of the fast-food chains found around the world (McDonald's, KFC, Domino's, Outback, Subway, Pizza Hut and Burger King). Bob's and Habib's are the biggest national fast food chains.

Many foods that in other countries are simply picked up in the hands and eaten, are either eaten with knife and fork (such as pizza) or are picked up by wrapping a napkin around the food so that it is not touched with the hands (such as sandwiches). You will undoubtedly notice napkin dispensers on the tables in most restaurants for this purpose.

After Hours

Leaving a club or a bar, late in the night? The best option is Cervantes in Prado Júnior Street, in Copacabana. It closes only with the sun raising. The menu is composed by big sandwiches, with whatever you want: ham, salami, cheese, tenderloin and so on, with one home special ingredient: a big pineapple slice. It's a tropical taste to the end of your night. Look out for the legendary "Penguin Waiter", who've been working there forever. You won't have a problem to find out who he is.

Drink [ edit ]

What [ edit ].

• Botequim (pronounced 'boo-chi-KEEN') also well known as boteco - These quite unpretentious bars with simple appetizers and lots of ice-cold chope (draft beer) are everywhere and are almost inseparable from the carioca lifestyle. Try Bracarense ( 85, José Linhares street, Leblon ), one of the most traditional.
• Juice bars - Of particular note for an often hot and muggy city are the refreshing juice bars, found on nearly every corner in the city. Choose from dozens of freshly squeezed fruit juices - mix two or three fruits together or simply try the freshly squeezed orange juice. For a delicious Brazilian special try the açaí , a smoothie made from a deep purple fruit from the Amazon.
• Caipirinha , a drink made of cachaça (a Brazilian liquor made of sugarcane juice), lime, sugar and ice cubes.

Where [ edit ]

• Kiosks along the boardwalk at Copacabana and Ipanema beach stay open all night.
• Devassa . Nine locations in Rio (and one in São Paulo), including Leblon (Rua General San Martin 1241, +55 21 2540-6087) and Jardim Botânico (Av. Lineu de Paula Machado 696, 021-2294-2915). Well-crafted microbrews, a tropical take of English ale styles.  

Neighborhoods:

• Lapa - A good bet for Thursdays, several bars and clubs, but the party is in the street. There you will find people dancing and playing Samba, Choro (soft rhythm with flutes and mandolin), Reggae and Hip Hop, as well as ballroom dancing ( gafieira ), but no Rock (except for some underground, which doesn't happen often or in the same place, but usually in some less known places of Lapa) or Pop music. While drinks are sold in the bars and clubs, vendors also roam the streets wearing coolers full of beer for even cheaper prices. It can also be a very exciting and packed place on Friday and Saturday nights. Be sure not to bring valuables, as there are a lot of pick-pockets operating in the area. Don't take it for the neighborhood with the same name in São Paulo , which is totally different.

Samba clubs [ edit ]

Being in Rio and not going to one of the countless samba live music bars, certainly you've missed a lot on your trip. In Lapa , the nightlife district of Rio, there are many nice bars with great atmosphere where locals go for dancing and meeting people. There are a couple of them in the Zona Sul as well. Most of these bars work with a kind of consumption card, which is handed to you when you enter. Everything you consume is marked on this card, and losing it means you'll have to pay a really high fee! So take good care of it.

Clubbing [ edit ]

For those who like to go clubbing, Rio has some good options. You'll be seeing lots of flyers and talk about "raves" Usually Rio's raves are devoted to trance, which is pretty popular, especially with the upper-class youngsters, though some electronic parties do have good djs and live acts from around the world. The night in Rio is pretty much divided between mainstream and underground.

Mainstream would be such "raves" and big electronic festivals, as well a nightclubs like Zax Club (Barra da Tijuca), Baronetti (Ipanema) and Boate Praia (Lagoa) that are devoted to pop, dance and variations of house and trance. Those are not, however, places you go for the music. They are usually packed with "patricinhas" (tanned, long soft-haired girls with gym-built bodies) and specially "pitboys" (upper/middle-class boys, known for having various degrees of martial arts training and a certain tendency for violence). Yes, fights are one of the major problems with the mainstream clubbing scene in Rio. It's also fairly expensive.

Though with far less options, the underground clubbing scene is more available and interesting than the mainstream. Most of the underground clubs are on Zona Sul and offer different parties for each day of the week. The underground club scene has a more diverse public, from goths to punks also with strong hedonistic tints. It's very gay-friendly and most of the parties and clubs have almost the same m/f proportion. It is also far cheaper than the mainstream clubs. Some good alternative clubs are Fosfobox (Copacabana), Dama de Ferro (Ipanema) and Casa da Matriz (Botafogo).

For a real "carioca" experience, try Mariuzinn Copacabana. Brazilian Funk and electronic music, with an eccentric crowd. It just finishes when the last dancer gives up. Which means early in the morning. It will be an unforgettable experience.

Sleep [ edit ]

In the Zona Sul , you will find Rio's fanciest and most popular hotels along the beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana, but there are lots of small, cheap, clean hotels around Flamengo and Catete. The street in front of the strip of tourist hotels in Copacabana can be seedy, due to both garishly-dressed tourists, and a few opportunistic locals ready to take advantage of them. The apart-hotels in Ipanema are a much more pleasant alternative, being both better appointed and in a nicer neighborhood with fewer tourists.

Accommodation in the lower Centro can be convenient for business travellers. The surrounding areas, however, are far from pleasant at night, being nearly deserted and lacking decent restaurants and leisure options. The central Santa Teresa neighbourhood, however, is quite departed from the city centre life and has plenty of pleasant bed and breakfasts and a significant nightlife.

Given Rio's rise as a fashionable destination with creative and fashion people, some hotels that cater to the design-conscious crowd have also been popping up at the most upscale neighborhoods. The city also has a large selection of apart-hotels , which provide apartment-style accommodations with kitchen facilities. Private condominium apartments can also be rented short-term at reasonable rates, and can be found on the internet. This is probably a preferable means of finding one of these than the notes that will be passed to you by anonymous persons on the street. These apartments generally have a one-week minimum, or two weeks during Carnaval or New Years holidays.

Accommodation in Rio is probably Brazil's most expensive . There is a relative shortage of hotel rooms on the cheaper range and booking in advance is recommended. Moreover, prices for most accommodation can more than triple during New Year's and Carnaval. Those are very busy periods and booking well in advance is recommended. Most hotels in tourist areas will only sell 4-day packages and charge in advance - even if you want to stay only for a couple of days during those events. Other than those, the busiest month is January - summer holidays in Brazil.

Motels, that you will see mainly on the outskirts of the city, are not motels in the North American sense. Rather, they are places you go with your lover for a few hours. One famous motel, overlooking the Sheraton in Leblon, was taken over by the US Secret Service when George Bush Sr stayed at the Sheraton. It is not recorded whether heart-shaped beds, mirrors on the ceiling and on-tap porno movies affected their work!

If hostel life is more your style, they are easy to find in Rio. The more expensive ones boast locations that are short walking distance to either Ipanema or Copacabana beach. However, if you prefer to stay in Lapa, Glória, Catete, and Botafogo, there are many other choices available. Hostelling has become increasingly popular in Brazil, and many of them are located at walking distance from hot spots. Beware, however, not to be taken to any fraudulent scheme - you might end up being robbed. Look for accredited places with Youth Hostelling International and similar franchises.

To experience Rio from another point of view, there's also the opportunity to stay in various hostels in one of the favelas. Due to presence of many police units (called Unidade de Polícia Pacificadora, UPP), it is reasonably safe to stay in some favelas. Ask your hosts about the actual situation, though. See for example Zona Norte for a stay in the Complexo do Alemão .

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Rio is vulnerable to epidemics of dengue fever , particularly during the late summer months of February and March. If an epidemic occurs, be sure to take the appropriate precautions by using insect repellant and, if you happen to be staying at a place with a balcony, make sure there is no standing water around.

As elsewhere in Brazil, some beaches in Rio are not suitable for bathing, and conditions can change from day to day. On the day of your visit, check the latest weekly bathing bulletin (in Portuguese, boletim de balneabilidade ) of the state's Environment Department (INEA). At the bottom of the page, there is a large ad for a mobile app called Partiu Praia Inea that provides you an up-to-date map of bathing conditions.

Use sunscreen, especially in your face and shoulders, to avoid having a bad experience with sunburns. Any common drug store sells a variety of sunscreen products, and even cocoa butter lip sticks, to avoid having little cuts after dry lips.

Here is a list of medical clinics and hospitals in Rio de Janeiro:

• Hospital Copa D’Or - Address: Rua Figueiredo de Magalhães, 875 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 22031-011 - Phone: +55 (21) 2545-3600
• Hospital Rio Laranjeiras - Address: R. das Laranjeiras, 72 – Laranjeiras, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 22240-000 - Phone: +55 (21) 2555-2000
• Hospital Israelita Albert Sabin - Address: Rua Professor Gabizo, 319 – Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20271-065 - Phone: +55 (21) 2176-8800
• São Lucas Hospital-Copacabana - Address: Condomínio de Hemodinamica – Tv. Frederico Pamplona, 32 – Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 22061-080 - Phone: +55 (21) 2545-4000
• Hospital Samaritano Barra - Address: Av. Jorge Curi, 550 – Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 22775-001 - Phone: +55 (21) 3263-1000
• Ibogaina Rio de Janeiro [dead link] - Address: R. Bom Pastor, 295 – Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20521-060 - Phone: +55 (21) 2159-2300
• Hospital Unimed Rio - Address: Av. Ayrton Senna, 2550 – Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 22775-003 - Phone: 0800 031 3861

Public Hospitals of the State of Rio de Janeiro

• Hospital Estadual Getúlio Vargas - Address: Av. Lobo Júnior, 2293 – Penha Circular, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 21070-061 - Phone: +55 (21) 2334-7856
• Hospital Universitário Pedro Ernesto - Address: Boulevard 28 de Setembro, 77 – Vila Isabel, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20551-030 - Phone: +55 (21) 2868-8000

Stay safe [ edit ]

Rio De Janeiro's reputation as a dangerous city was cemented internationally by the critically acclaimed movie Cidade de Deus — a reputation that's not entirely unwarranted, but most visitors to the city have a great time with no incidents.

Still, Rio can be dangerous . As a traveler, even if you don't leave the "Zona Sul" (which includes Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, Gávea, Jardim Botânico, Flamengo, Laranjeiras, Botafogo, Urca) or Western Suburbs (Barra, Recreio), you may experience a palpable tension over security.

Generally, tourists (also called "gringos," which is not derogatory but means "outsiders") and teenagers are considered "easy" targets for criminals. Day-to-day living has also been affected by this. For example, regular banks all have fortress style security doors and armed security men. Rio can be a dangerous city and it is wise to follow these rules even if they seem exaggerated.

In order to fully enjoy your trip the traveler should pay attention to simple things. Avoid the downtown area, especially Saara , after dark. Although downtown is a relatively safe place during the day, after-dark all the people who work there have already gone home. If you are going to a theater or a show, it's all right; but do not wander in those dark streets by night. It is better to take a taxi/Uber direct from your hotel to your final destination and back rather than go around seeking for public transport. Go to Ipanema beach, which is relatively safe at night as long as you don't stand out as an obvious tourist. In general, crowded areas with good lighting are safer, and you should avoid dark, empty places.

On Sunday, most shops are closed and their security guards are absent, so the neighbourhood Centro is not safe in the daytime. Also, even the bigger streets in Copacabana are less safe after dark so the beach walk is probably the best option.

Should you find yourself being mugged, the normal advice applies:

Don't resist or do anything to aggravate the muggers. Try not to stare in their faces as they might think you are memorizing their appearance. Eyes to the ground is probably your best bet. Let them take anything they want (keep your arms limp). Afterwards, leave the scene quickly but calmly (don't run in panic screaming for the police).

In the morning, especially before the police arrive, if you are walking or jogging on, Copacabana should be considered unsafe. Even with people around, joggers are popular targets for mugging. If you plan on jogging make sure not to wear anything that may tempt a mugger (watch, iPod etc.) and if you can, wait until after 10AM.

Don't walk along the banks of the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon (South Zone) after dark, you might get robbed.

When in downtown during the rush hour, be aware of pickpockets as in any other big city centre. The difference in Rio is that the pickpocket can often be a bit violent: one of them pushing you forward in the bus or to the ground in the street while another one takes your wallet and runs away. It's not that usual or as bad as it sounds, but try to avoid being in real danger by reacting strongly as these guys often operate in armed groups (2-5 people), some unnoticed by you.

In the area around Copacabana beach (and maybe in the city centre), the tourist should be aware of a shoe shining scam. The tourist will be approached by a shoeshiner and to his astonishment discover a large, dirty blot on his shoes (which is actually shoe polish or mustard but looks like quite something else). The tourist is typically shown to a chair and has his shoes or sandals cleaned in the best manner. Only after this service is rendered, the outrageous price of somewhere around R$1000 or more is revealed. At this point, muscular friends of the shoeshiner typically appear to "oversee" the completion of the transaction.

The subway is very safe, so it is recommended to use it if you want to go from one place to another.

The suburban rail is generally not useful for tourists. If you do take it, note that trains may not come all that frequently, especially on weekends, and they tend to be filled with hawkers selling various cheap goods and sometimes evangelical preachers. Although the trains themselves are generally safe, a lot of the stations aren't, especially on the Belford Roxo (purple) line. Avoid photography on the suburban rail system.

Buses on the South Zone are fairly safe as well, but they can be quite crowded. Inside a bus, being mugged is always a threat: less so but still possible in the South and tourist zones. Don't use a phone while sat next to an open window since it can get snatched from your hand. Remember that Bus 174 movie. It happens so often that they don't even go to the news (only homicides or big cases where the police got involved such as this Bus 174 go to the news). In the subway, it is very unlikely though, which is one extra point to the subway!

Don't walk around with lots of money in your pocket. ATM's are everywhere (prefer the ones inside shopping centres) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted. But don't walk around without any money: you may need something to give to the bad guys in case you are mugged. Not having money to give a mugger can be dangerous as they may get angry and resort to violence. An excellent idea is to buy a "capanga" (literally meaning bodyguard), that is, a small frontal unisex pouch, normally used to carry your wallet, checks, money and car keys.

Avoid wearing jewelry or other signs of wealth (iPods, fancy cell phones/mobiles, digital cameras, etc.) if possible, at any time of the day, as these attract attention. Thieves have been known to run past targets and tear off necklaces, rings, and earrings without stopping. Earrings are particularly dangerous as tearing them off often harms the owner.

There are around 700 favelas in the city and some of them can potentially be unsafe in Rio: and there is always one near you (by a couple of miles or just a few yards). These are easily recognized by their expansive brick walls, and are often on a hillside. The slums grew from being impoverished neighborhoods. They were known for being ruled by drug lords prior to a concerted effort to retake them by the police. For the more adventurous, some favelas are amazingly huge, and a new experience for some—there are some travel agencies who take people on tours there. The tour operators have "safe-conduct pacts" with the local drug dealers. If you try to get a tour without using one of those agencies think carefully about whether your guide is reputable. Despite the pacifying efforts, most favelas do not have a permanent police presence, so there is often no recourse for a traveller who is ambushed by a drug baron's guards.

In Brazil, every state has two police forces: the Civil ( Polícia Civil ) and Military ( Polícia Militar ). Only the latter wear uniform (in Rio, it is navy blue). The city of Rio also has an unarmed Civil Guard, dressed in khaki. Policemen can usually be trusted, but corruption in Brazil is still rampant and a few officers may try to extort you or demand a little bribe. When this happens, it is usually very subtle, and the officer may typically say something about "some for the beer" ( cervejinha ). If you are not willing, refuse and ask for another officer. Don't ever try to bribe a policeman on your own—most of them are honest and you might end up in jail.

The local emergency dial number is 190 .

At night, especially after traffic has died down, you may hear what sounds like fireworks and explosions. This is not as menacing as it sounds, though it is still indicative of somebody up to no good. These are often firecrackers set-off as signals in the favelas. It might mean that a drug shipment has arrived and is in-transit or that the police are making a raid into the favela. It is a signal to gang operatives who act as lookouts and surrogate police to be extra-vigilant. However, real shoot-outs may occur, especially on weekends. If you are on the street and you hear a shooting, find shelter in the nearest shop or restaurant.

For your safety, cross at the crosswalks, not closer to the corner, and watch for cars regardless of traffic lights.

Carjacking can be a threat too, especially if you are outside the tourist areas and after dark. It is perfectly acceptable (even if not exactly legal) not to stop at the traffic lights if there is nobody else on the street and you feel it's okay to go (if there are no other cars). You will see even police doing this. Some major motorways such as Linha Amarela (Yellow Line: connects the west zone( Barra da Tijuca ) to the north zone - may be your way to Norte Shopping for example) and Linha Vermelha (Red Line - the main connection from the International Airport) are strongly avoided late at night. Both motorways are surrounded by favelas, so carjacking is usual and shoot-outs may occur between rival drug lords or between drug lords and the police. If you rent a car, be aware of all these issues. As a tourist, it may be better not to rent one anyway, as if you get lost and go to a bad neighbourhood (and again, there will always be one near you), you will most likely be in trouble.

If you want to go to a traditional escola de samba (samba school), Mangueira is a good place. This is close to a favela, so you should go with a guide accordingly. If you do have a trustful Brazilian friend that can take you, that's excellent. Ask the friend to take you to Maracanã as well to watch a football (soccer) match! Yet exercise great caution if you go by yourself especially if two of the local Rio teams are playing (Flamengo, Fluminense, Botafogo, and Vasco). These matches can be very exciting but also very dangerous especially if between Flamengo and Botafogo or Vasco. If it looks like the team for which the fans around you are cheering is losing, it is wise to leave the stadium before the match ends. You don't want to be in the middle of a very angry bunch of football fans when they all cram out of the stadium.

Cope [ edit ]

The Rio Times is the only English language news publication dedicated to the English speaking foreign community living and traveling in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. They have been publishing weekly online since March 2009, covering Rio Politics, Business, Real Estate, Sports, Entertainment, Travel, as well as offer Classifieds and a daily Rio Nightlife Guide.

• Lavamaq's , Praia do Flamengo, 118 - Flamengo ( two blocks south of Metro Catete ), 21 2557–5965. Self-service laundry, R$25 wash and dry.

Consulates General [ edit ]

Go next [ edit ], grande rio [ edit ].

• Niterói – 15 km from downtown . It has a wonderful unique view of Rio and an intriguing contemporary art museum, which looks like an UFO (designed by famous architect Oscar Niemeyer). Also, it has one of the state's most beautiful beaches, Itacoatiara, which can be reached by the bus # 38. From Rio to Niterói it's a short ferry ride or you go by bus.
• São Gonçalo – 25 km from downtown. The biggest city of the Leste Metropolitano region, with the second largest population in the state .
• Duque de Caxias – 20 km from downtown. The largest city of Baixada Fluminense , neighboring to the Rio de Janeiro's North Zone.
• Maricá – 55 km from downtown. The last municipality on the sea coast of Grande Rio to the east. It has several lagoons and a single strip of sand that extends along almost the entire shoreline of the municipality.
• Rio Bonito – 75 km from downtown. A peripheral municipality, with a small population and wide rural areas with lots of nature. It is the easternmost municipality in the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro.
• Cachoeiras de Macacu – 90 km from downtown. The most northeastern municipality of Rio metropolitan area, it is another peripheral municipality which has become an attraction for trekking, mountaineering, rappelling and other types of extreme sports and ecotourism. Part of the Três Picos State Park is in the municipality. There are dozens of waterfalls of extraordinary beauty. The bus company 1001 goes for around R$45.00 (Sep 2023), departing from the Rio's long-distance bus station ( Rodoviária Novo Rio ).
• Guapimirim – 75 km from downtown. The most northeastern municipality in Baixada Fluminense, at the foot of the mountain range known as Serra dos Órgãos , a section of a longer mountain range called Serra do Mar .
• Paracambi – 70 km from downtown by railway (80 km by road). The most northwestern municipality of Baixada Fluminense and of the metropolitan area, at the foot of Serra das Araras , a more western section of Serra do Mar . The bus company UTIL has a route to the municipality for around R$40,00 (Sep 2023) departing from Rodoviária Novo Rio .
• Itaguaí – 70 km from downtown. Another peripheral municipality, bathed by the Sepetiba Bay, it is the last coastal municipality of the metropolitan agglomeration of Rio to the west.

On the southeastern coast of Rio State [ edit ]

• Saquarema – 110 km. A predominantly tourist city with beautiful beaches, in the lakes region. It is known as "The national surfing capital". Further attractions are waterfalls, cascades, mountains and an archaeological site.
• Búzios – 170 km. It's a small peninsula with several nice beaches, an abundance of night clubs and the lowest rainfall in the state of Rio. It's nickname is "Saint-Brazilian Tropez".
• Cabo Frio – 170 km. A popular tourist destination. It's famous for its beautiful beaches with fine white sand and crystal clear waters.
• Arraial do Cabo – 170 km. It's a small town near Búzios. Its beaches have the most beautiful turquoise waters of Rio de Janeiro state. Beaches like Forno and Prainhas do Atalaia are surrounded by virgin lush green coastal vegetation and have clear blue waters similar to the Caribbean ones.

In the northwest [ edit ]

• Miguel Pereira – 120 km. It's famous for its exuberant nature, cool climate and tranquility, for those who want to escape the hussle of big cities. One of the most visited spots is Lake Javary, where you can ride a pedal boat and breathe the fresh mountain air. The intercity buses of Util have rides for around R$40 (Dec 2021).

In the north [ edit ]

• Petrópolis – 70 km. In the mountains outside and a good place to cool down when Rio becomes too hot. It's known as an "Imperial City", the place chosen by Brazil's Royalty to spend the summer. There's a nice imperial museum. The city also hosts one of Brazil's first breweries which can be visited.
• Serra dos Órgãos National Park , Parque Nacional da Serra dos Órgãos — National park in the mountains.
• Teresópolis — Another mountain town, near Petrópolis.

In the west [ edit ]

• Ilha Grande – 180 km. It's noted for its scenic beauty, unspoilt tropical beaches, luxuriant vegetation and rugged landscape. You will enjoy hiking.

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Best Time to Visit Rio de Janeiro: Month-by-Month Guide

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 29, 2024

Fittingly known as the ‘marvelous city’, Rio de Janeiro is set in one of the most spectacular spots imaginable, alongside white sand beaches amidst scenic rainforest-coated mountains. Each year, millions visit, come to see Copacabana and Christ the Redeemer or experience its world-famous carnival.

Very hot year-round, its natural wonders and dynamic city life make Brazil’s second-largest metropolis great to visit almost every month. While summers (so December through March) are sweltering with strong, sudden downpours, its winters (June to September) are normally sunny, warm and dry.

To help you organize your trip, let’s take a look month-by-month at what to expect in terms of Rio’s climate and crowds. We’ll also cover any exciting events going on and what periods are cheaper or more expensive to visit.

What’s the Weather Like in Rio de Janeiro?

Lying alongside the Atlantic Ocean at the entrance to Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro can be found in the southeast of Brazil . The stunning city has a tropical climate that is often almost monsoon-like in summer.

From December to March, temperatures hover around 28 to 30°C (82-86°F). Due to its high humidity though, its avenues sometimes feel much, much hotter, particularly when there is little wind around. It also rains quite a lot between 15 and 21 days on average. Its torrential downpours usually give way though to beautiful bright blue sunny skies.

Even in winter, temperatures remain around the mid-20s (chilly for Brazilians!) with its days being much drier. As always, the water at its beaches is startlingly cold due to the currents from Antarctica that run along the coast.

Best months to visit Rio de Janeiro

As summer has the best weather for beach days and is when its two biggest events carnival and Reveillon (New Year’s Eve) take place, December to February is Rio’s peak season. This is the busiest, most expensive time to visit though with it also being pretty hot and humid.

The shoulder seasons of April and May and October and November are arguably even better in Rio as the lower temperatures and humidity are more manageable. There are also fewer crowds and its accommodation and airfares are much, much cheaper.

Despite it being winter in Brazil, July and August see an influx of visitors as Europeans and Americans head here on their summer holidays. While flight prices are higher, the weather is still warm enough for sightseeing, sunbathing and swimming.

Rio de Janeiro in January

Once all its fun New Year’s Eve festivities and fireworks displays have died down, January in Rio is a bit quieter and calmer. As it is one of the hottest months of the year, both locals and tourists alike spend their days lounging on the beach at Copacabana or Ipanema. Make sure to apply sunscreen, hydrate regularly and take breaks as the sun is scorching.

While the heat and humidity do make sightseeing quite tiring, it’s the perfect month to visit one of its famous samba schools. As carnival is just around the corner, all their dancers and musicians are rehearsing in their flamboyant costumes and floats. Although prices for hotels and flights are already high, they are a bit cheaper than either December or February.

Rio de Janeiro in February

With millions pouring into the city to celebrate carnival, February is by far the busiest, most expensive month to visit Rio. It is also (for many) the most memorable too! As accommodation prices are extortionate, it’s best to start your search well in advance or risk sleeping on the beach.

While its raucous carnival only officially runs for five days, in reality, street parties or blocos pop up everywhere for two weeks. Its main beaches are packed during this time with Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf also being overrun.

Averages of 30°C (86°F) coupled with the high humidity and heaving crowds can make sightseeing challenging. Despite all the chaos, seeing the floats and parades in the Sambadrome really is an unforgettable experience.

Rio de Janeiro in March

It’s only in March that things start to settle down as cariocas return to work and the kids are already back at school. As Brazilians say: ‘the year doesn’t start until after carnival’. Still the peak tourist season, its beaches are all pretty busy with the high temperatures only slightly letting up. Prices drop considerably but are still expensive compared to the rest of the year.

While it still rains for around 15 days on average, the storms quickly give way to lovely blue skies and sunshine. As there are still lots of people visiting the city but the crowds are more manageable, it’s a good time to hit up lively nightlife spots like Lapa and Pedra do Sal.

Rio de Janeiro in April

As the heat, humidity and rain finally subside a bit, April is one of the most pleasant months weatherwise in Rio. While averages of 27°C (80°F) are more comfortable for strolling about the city and seeing its sights, you can still sunbathe and swim in the sea. Apart from around the Easter holidays, prices are also more affordable.

If you want to watch a match at Rio’s legendary Maracana stadium, Brazil’s football league, the Brasileirão, kicks off again in April. With fewer tourists around, it’s also well worth taking trips to Paraty, Ilha Grande and Arraial do Cabo. If you’ve had enough of beaches, then both Petropolis and Teresopolis up amidst the mountains are perhaps better bets.

Rio de Janeiro in May

May too is a wonderful month to visit as autumn is cooler, drier and all Rio’s picture-perfect beaches are quieter. Both its airfares and accommodation options are also cheaper as there are fewer people around. This means there will be no queues at its top attractions like Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf and the Selaron Steps.

While still sunny, the days are slightly shorter now with about 11 hours of daylight each day. As the temperatures are lower, ambling about its Botanical Gardens or along all the trails in Tijuca National Park is more pleasant. Weather conditions are also ideal for taking a flight to Iguazu Falls and seeing the world-famous waterfalls with fewer crowds around.

Rio de Janeiro in June

While winter officially starts in June, averages of 25°C (77°F) really aren’t bad at all though it can get a bit chilly in the evenings. As it is much drier and there are still around 6 hours of sunshine each day, it’s a great time to either lounge on the beach or see all the city’s iconic sights. Prices for flights and hotels do start to creep up again though.

Throughout the whole month, plenty of dances, music events and festivals are held for Festa Junina. After carnival, it is the largest celebration in Brazil with loads of tasty traditional food also served as people welcome the harvest and honor several saints.

Besides taking part in the fun festivities, you can also go hang gliding above Rio. The clear skies, gentle winds and dry weather of June are perfect with the views being out of this world.

Rio de Janeiro in July

As both Europeans and North Americans have summer holidays, flights to Rio de Janeiro are much more expensive in July. With the schools in Brazil also breaking up for winter, its idyllic beaches and amazing tourist attractions are busier again. This is despite it being the coldest month of the year – a ‘cool’ 24°C (75°F)!

While the waves are much rougher in winter, making swimming a bit challenging, conditions couldn’t be better for surfers. On land, the drier, cooler days are fantastic for cycling around Rio or hiking and rock climbing in Tijuca National Park. Prices are higher though with Paraty down the coast hosting one of the state’s biggest events – the FLIP Literary Festival.

Rio de Janeiro in August

August is much less crowded as both cariocas and Brazilians from outside of Rio are already back at work and school. Airfares, however, remain very high. With less fog and rain due to the drier, mild weather, the views from Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf and Os Dois Irmaos are even more spectacular.

As it is still winter, August is a brilliant time to either sightsee or enjoy outdoor activities and sunbathe without it being too hot. Each Sunday, you can cycle, skateboard or saunter along the avenue next to Ipanema as it is closed off to traffic. Sunsets from Arpoador alongside it are also unbelievable, especially with a caipirinha in hand!

Rio de Janeiro in September

While it does rain a bit more, September is still a very pleasant month to visit Rio. Strolling about its Botanical Gardens or Parque Lage is particularly lovely though some days are quite cloudy. There also won’t be many crowds around despite flight prices dropping considerably after August.

With about 6 hours of sunshine a day and averages of 25°C (77°F), you can always head to Ipanema and Copacabana to sunbathe if you like. If you’re after a bit of culture, its Fine Arts Museum and MAR are good bets while its Biennial Book Fair also takes place in September . Every two years, Rock in Rio – one of South America’s biggest music festivals – is also held, attracting massive crowds to the city.

Brazil Independence Day is celebrated as a national holiday on 7 September with parades, parties, and various cultural events taking place.

Rio de Janeiro in October

As it is the low-season, October is ideal for those looking to explore Rio while avoiding all the heaving crowds and high prices. While the weather is a bit more unpredictable, the days are longer with around 13 hours of daylight. Temperatures are warm enough to sunbathe, swim or go sightseeing around the city, though it does rain quite often.

Besides checking out the Christ and Copacabana, there is also its International Film Festival to enjoy. As always, you can dance to samba in Lapa or watch Flamengo or Fluminense play at the Maracana whenever you feel like it. With spring having arrived, many flowers are blooming in its gardens, parks and Tijuca rainforest. It’s also a good month to go kayaking and paddle boarding as the waves are calmer now after the winter.

Rio de Janeiro in November

In November, the heat, humidity and rain slowly start to build up again. Temperatures rise to 27°C (80°F) with it also raining for around 19 days on average. Its showers usually give way to clear skies and sunshine though quite quickly. This is a great month to visit before the summer crowds arrive and the prices of hotels and flights shoot up around Christmas.

With fewer people around, you can really enjoy its incredible beaches, iconic landmarks and astonishing views. Around Ipanema does get pretty packed though during its week-long Gay Pride when all kinds of fun street parties and parades take place. It’s also worth taking trips to Ilha Grande and Buzios in November before they get too busy.

Rio de Janeiro in December

December is when the crowds return to Rio. Prices shoot up as people flock to the city to celebrate Christmas, New Year’s Eve and bask on its glorious beaches. Averages of 28°C (82°F) and the high humidity make sightseeing tough with it raining for around 21 days of the month.

As the summer holidays start in Brazil, attractions, beaches and hotels are all rammed as millions head here for its famous end-of-year festivities. Aside from seeing the giant, floating Christmas tree out on the lagoon, there are fireworks displays, concerts and parties to take part in at Copacabana for the Reveillon.

Celebrating New Year’s Eve, all dressed in white and jumping over waves (two local traditions!), really is an unforgettable experience!

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Home » South America » Brazil » Rio de Janeiro

Where to Stay in Rio de Janeiro (Best Places in 2024)

Ahh, Rio de Janeiro. A city that captures the hearts of so many!

Rio de Janeiro is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, samba music, and Carnaval festivities. Lovingly called the Marvelous City by Brazilians, it’s full of culture, history, tasty cuisine, and friendly locals.

As well as all of this, the Harbour of Rio de Janeiro is surrounded by unique and spectacular landscapes. Part of the city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for Cultural Landscapes and it’s included in the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. It’s pretty damn beautiful!

With all these special designations, it’s no wonder that Rio is one of the most visited cities in the Southern Hemisphere.

Deciding where to stay in Rio de Janeiro is important and can be a tricky task. That’s where I come in! I’ve compiled the best areas and places to stay in Rio de Janeiro depending on your travel style and budget. This way you can focus on the things that matter to you most.

So, let’s get down to disco and find which neighbourhood in Rio de Janeiro is best for you!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Where is the Best Place to Stay in Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de janeiro neighborhood guide – best places to stay in rio de janeiro, rio de janeiro’s five best neighborhoods to stay in, faq about finding a place to stay in rio de janeiro, what to pack for rio de janeiro, don’t forget travel insurance for rio de janeiro, final thoughts on where to stay in rio de janeiro.

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are my highest recommendations for places to stay in Rio de Janeiro.

If you’re traveling on a budget, I’d recommend staying at one of Rio’s best hostels . Keep the costs low while enjoying a comfy bed and a great place to rest your head while meeting like-minded backpackers.

Ipanema Inn Hotel | Best Hotel in Rio de Janeiro

Just a 3-minute walk to beach access, this beachfront hotel is stylish and perfect for those looking for a relaxing vacation at Ipanema Beach. They offer a small continental breakfast that you can request to eat in your room. The on site restaurant and bar serve exotic caipirinhas and regional dishes. Plus, the drinks are half off during happy hour!

Chairs and towels for the beach are also provided to guests. The neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly and has lots of shops and restaurants within walking distance. Alternatively, the train station is close by if you want to venture to the city center of Rio de Janeiro.

Sugar Loft Apartments | Best Apartment in Rio de Janeiro

Located in the famous bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa, Sugar Loft is set in a 1930s building that has been renovated to have modern rooms. The apartments offer a practical dining area and full kitchen, and a supermarket is conveniently located in front of the property.

The owners are helpful and friendly too! The best part about these apartments is the views of the city. Overall, this is an affordable apartment that caters well to couples and groups who are looking to be more self-sufficient on their trip to Rio de Janeiro.

Tupiniquim | Best Hostel in Rio de Janeiro

Tupiniquim aims to provide a fully immersed Brazilian experience in a classic beach neighborhood. The cook only makes Brazilian food, the movies in the chill room are mostly Brazilian, and they play some of the best Brazilian music.

It’s located in Botafogo, which is centrally located near all of the city’s best areas, making it easy to bounce around. They also have a terrace with views of Christ the Redeemer Statue and a bar with drinks. Hunt for street art, and visit Botafogo Beach and Sugarloaf Mountain while you’re here.

It’s a wonderful option for where to stay in Rio de Janeiro, especially if you want to indulge in Brazilian culture while meeting other travelers.

Exclusive Seafront Loft | Best Airbnb in Copacabana

Stay at this apartment in Copacabana beach and you won’t be disappointed. With a rooftop pool, modern rooms, and walking distance (mere steps!) to the beach, this is a prime position on one of Rio’s most famous beaches. Christ the Redeemer and stunning ocean views out your window, what more could you want?

Make the most of the fitness center or walk the two blocks to the subway if you need a switch up from the beautiful beaches.

Copacabana is the most well-known area of Rio de Janeiro. In its heyday of the 50’s and 60’s, the name was synonymous with glitz, glamour, and luxury. Although its golden age has passed, it’s still the most popular area for travelers.

Centro is the area of the city with the largest variety of museums, and historic and cultural centers. These days, it functions as the business and financial center of the city, but it used to be the heart of the city.

Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa is a hilltop neighborhood just outside of Centro with an artsy, Bohemian vibe. It’s here that you’ll find some of the best Carnaval blocos. In fact, I stayed in this neighborhood when I was in Rio for Carnaval and the blocos would pass right by my place!

Fashionable and trendy, Ipanema is known for its iconic namesake beach. It’s a place to see and be seen. Located right next door to the famous Copacabana Beach, Ipanema is slowly stealing the spotlight as the cool place to be thanks to its younger crowd, stunning natural views and great bars and restaurants.

The neighborhood of Botafogo is centered around its namesake half-moon bay and is a very up and coming ‘hood in Rio. The sandy beach offers a nice view of Sugarloaf Mountain and there are lots of entertainment options from shopping malls and cinemas to trendy bars and restaurants.

If you’re backpacking Brazil , there is simply no way around Rio. The city isn’t the smallest, so knowing where to stay is advantageous when booking accommodation. Rio de Janeiro is split into four main zones. They are the Historic Center, the South Zone, the North Zone, and the West Zone. Each zone is then further broken down into neighborhoods.

Guanabara Bay is to the East, hence the lack of an eastern zone. The  North Zone  has the highest crime rate in Rio. It’s the ‘burbs, not a very touristy area and theft is big here. The North Zone, including Rocinha and Vila Mimosa, does not contain a lot of attractions or places to visit for tourists so I’d avoid it.

The Historic Center and the South Zone have the best neighborhoods for travelers as they have the best mix of safety, attractions, restaurants, beaches, and nightlife.

Each neighborhood in Rio has its own lifestyle and culture, making the neighborhoods feel more like small towns than neighborhoods.

Centro is the neighborhood for lovers of all things cultural. Its vibrant museums and architecture will keep you entertained for hours. Catch the Ballet at the  Teatro Municipal  (Municipal Theater) or visit the Museu Nacional de Belas Artes (Museum of Fine Arts) to take in the impressive collection.

At night the streets come alive with all-night street parties where you can dance the night away to Samba music. And let’s not forget that Rio is home to Brazil’s biggest festival – Carnival!

Lapa is the star neighborhood in Centro, and where to stay in Rio de Janeiro for nightlife. The beautiful Escadaria Selaron Steps are the iconic mosaic steps of Rio and shouldn’t be missed. The area around the Lapa arches hosts some of the most famous street parties during Carnaval season.

Santa Teresa is the coolest neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro thanks strong bohemian vibe emanating throughout the streets. Many artists who reside there paint awe-inspiring murals along the walls. There are lots of boutique shops and galleries to peruse, and it’s perched on a hill so the views of the sea are incredible.

Botafogo is full of fun restaurants and bars that get hoppin’ on the weekends. It’s located amongst the hills just south of Santa Teresa and is known for its attractions such as the Native Brazilian Museum, Casa Rui Barbosa and the Villa-Lobos Museum. There’s also a food fair with live music at Cobal Public Market. It even has its own beach with a view of Sugarloaf Mountain.

As you move further south, you’ll come into the areas most popular with travelers seeking a beach vacation. Leblon, Copacabana , and Ipanema are all neighborhoods with world-class beaches and nightlife.

Lagoa is a neighborhood situated around the saltwater lake. It has a bike path that goes the full circle around the lake and a never-ending list of entertainment possibilities.

If you’re up for a road trip from Rio de Janeiro, Buzios is an epic beach spot just down the coast. Check out the Barra de Tijuca neighborhood on your way down. Often referred to as just “Barra”, has around 15 miles of beaches and 3 lakes. Home to beautiful beaches and epic Buzios hostels to crash at.

You’re sure to have an amazing time wherever you stay in Rio de Janeiro but given the massive size of the city, it’s best to stay in the ‘hood that suits your interests. I’ve broken those down below.

Rio de Janeiro is a sprawling city but there is a metro making it easy to get from one point to the other. There are also lots of buses and taxis. Plus, Uber is there.

However, you’re going to have a much more enjoyable time if you have the things that are most important to you right around the corner. So let’s take a closer look and what you can do in each area!

1. Copacabana – Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro for the First Time

Copacabana is one of the most famous beaches in Rio de Janeiro. This neighborhood is located closer to the historic center, meaning you can easily visit the city center. Popping off in the 50’s, Copacabana Beach is still the most popular area for travellers.

Find a spot to relax and soak up the sun on the 2.5 miles of gorgeous golden sand while you’re here. I would also highly recommend strolling the sidewalk and checking out some of the handicrafts for sale. Slink back to your accommodation for a little disco nap or a freshwater dip in the swimming pool before the night begins.

Of course, with so many tourists, there are pickpockets operating day and night in the area. This isn’t the safest neighborhood at night, especially on the beach. Hitting up a happy hour for a caipirinha and a snack is probably going to be your next step. Be safe, and have fun!

Copacabana Palace | Best Luxury Hotel in Copacabana

This beachfront hotel is the epitome of elegance. Luxurious rooms with marbled bathrooms and panoramic ocean views located on Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beachfront are what you get here.

Featuring a wellness center, an outdoor swimming pool, and complimentary havianas, the Copacabana Palace is worth every Brazillian real. Make sure to enjoy at least one of the three on site restaurants during your stay at the Best Luxury Hotel in Copacabana.

Aquarela do Leme | Best Hostel in Copacabana

Aqualera do Leme has the best atmosphere and is a great place to meet other people. It’s the kind of Brazilian hostel that makes travelers extend their stay just so they can spend more time making friends and enjoying the company.

With beach access within walking distance and a fitness center, you’ll be getting your steps in at this Copacabana Beach hostel. Take advantage of the homemade breakfast buffet on offer in one of Rio’s most loved beach neighborhoods.

Top Things to Do in Copacabana:

• Stroll down the famous Avenue Nossa Senhora de Copacabana in the early hours before tourists arrive.
• Bake in the sun on the golden Copacabana beach or take up a game of beach volleyball.
• Climb the Morro do Leme for incredible views of the sea and surrounding areas. Check out the Forte do Vigia at the top.
• Music lovers should stop by Bossa Nova e Companhia to peruse the vast collection of Bossa Nova music CDs and musical instruments.
• Dance until the sun comes up at Mariuzinn Night Club. Be sure to NOT arrive before midnight! Start your night with Samba.
• Grab a board and get slotted on some tasty barrels at the Arpoador or just take in sunset if you’re not a surfer.
• Start your day with breakfast at Forte de Copacabana.
• Watch live samba music from local musicians at Bip Bip.

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2. Centro – Best Place to Stay in Rio de Janeiro on a Budget

Centro is the city with the largest variety of museums, and historic and cultural centers. These days, it functions as the business and financial center of the city, but it used to be the heart of the city center. As such, it’s full of beautiful, colonial architecture and old alleyways dotted with cafes and shops.

Nightlife options are available almost every night of the week. Happy hours begin around 5 pm and go until late in the evening. You’ll see lots of Brazilians relaxing over a drink at the end of the workday.

The street parties really get going near the small neighborhood of Lapa. The Lapa Arches are one of the most famous landmarks in the area. Not only is this one of the best places to stay in Rio de Janeiro on a budget, but you will also get your culture and nightlife fix here!

Selena Lapa | Best Hotel in Centro

The Selena Lapa Hotel is great for those who want to be in a happening part of Centro. It’s located in a small neighborhood called Lapa which is well-known for its bars, clubs, and overall nightlife. The rooms are charming and beautiful and include a minibar and air conditioning. There is an onsite restaurant and bar where the cocktails are quite famous in the area. It’s a great city center choice for where to stay in Rio de Janeiro.

Books Hostel | Best Hostel in Centro

Books is a fun, sociable hostel located in the Lapa neighborhood of Centro where all the best bars and nightlife are. This is the place to make life-long friends as well as find companions to explore the city with.

They offer a free breakfast plus lots of different day tours for waterfalls, hiking, and trips to the beach, free of charge. Who needs a fitness center?! This is a perfect choice for where to stay in Rio de Janeiro!

One Bedroom Loft | Best Airbnb in Centro

Brand new apartment located in the best and most refined neighborhood of Rio. Perfect for 2 people. Walking distance to the metro station, the best bars and restaurants you can find in Rio, and the beach, of course. It’s a one-bedroom loft with wireless internet, cable TV, a washing machine, a dryer, private parking, and a 24-hour doorman.

Top Things to Do in Centro:

• Dance in the street by the Lapa Arches at one of the many street parties.
• Enjoy the ballet or opera at the Theatro Municipal (Municipal Theater), then take in the impressive collections at the Museu Nacional de Belas Artes  (Museum of Fine Arts).
• Learn about ways to avoid climate disasters, environmental degradation, and social collapse at the Museum of Tomorrow. For a more reflective museum experience, visit the National Historical Museum
• Watch a soccer game at The Maracanã – the legendary football stadium that also hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2016 Summer Olympics.
• Relax with sunset drinks and scenic views of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as Sugar Loaf Mountain on a Sunset Sailing Tour.
• Visit the Saint Sebastian Metropolitan Cathedral and marvel at the unique architecture inspired by the Mayan Pyramids of Mexico.
• Get a taste of Baroque-style architecture by visiting the Candelaria Church and admiring the marble interior.
• Get out of town and cruise further south to Barra da Tijuca beach to enjoy a more mellow ambiance.

3. Santa Teresa – Best Area to Stay in Rio de Janeiro for Nightlife

Santa Teresa is a hilltop neighborhood just outside of Centro with an artsy, Bohemian vibe. It’s here that you’ll find some of the best Carnaval blocos (street party). In fact, I stayed in Santa Teresa when I was in Rio for Carnaval and the blocos would pass right by my place!

Santa Teresa is a traditional neighborhood which you’ll notice from the beautiful mansions and the old-school cable car taking residents up and down the steep hills. Visitors can walk up to the viewpoints at the top of the hill for incredible views of the harbor and surrounding neighborhoods.

Staying in Santa Teresa, you can still feel what the city used to be like in its golden days. Beach access is not within walking distance from Santa Teresa, hence the hotel and Airbnb I’ve recommended both have a swimming pool.

Vila Santa Teresa | Best Hotel in Santa Teresa

The best of Santa Teresa’s boutique hotels, I love the stunning ocean views from the rooftop swimming pool at Vila Santa Teresa. Enjoy the onsite restaurant or order room service as you lay by the outdoor pool on the terrace. Close to Botafago Beach, you can immerse yourself in the culture of Santa Teresa as much as you like, then relish retreating to your luxurious rooms at this modern hotel.

Mambembe Hostel | Best Hostel in Santa Teresa

Located in the lively neighborhood of Santa Teresa is Mambembe Hostel. This is the best place to stay for a social atmosphere and being close to the action. It’s the kind of hostel that has everything you need including a fully equipped kitchen, free wifi, living room, bar, and outdoor chill areas.

Vila Carioca | Best Airbnb in Santa Teresa

If you are looking for a perfectly located home in the center of Santa Teresa with a hide-away feeling, this is the right place for you. Vila Carioca has a beautiful view of the city as well as the Petropolis and Teresopolis mountains and the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. Escape from the heat in the shady outdoor pool on the ground floor after a game of basketball on your private half-court.

Top Things to Do in Santa Teresa

• Climb the colorful Escadaria Selarón Steps (aka Lapa Steps) admiring the tiles from all around the world.
• Check out the Mercado das Pulgas  every first and third Saturday of the month. Contrary to its name, it’s a Samba celebration complete with local drummers where Santa Teresa locals dance in the streets while sipping Caipirinhas.
• Celebrate Carnaval if you’re in town for it!
• Take in the impressive collection at the Museu da Chácara do Céu – one of the city’s most comprehensive art museums.
• Enjoy old-school Brazilian ambiance while sipping on a Brazilian beer at Armazém São Thiago – Santa Teresa’s trendiest restaurant and bar located in an old warehouse.
• Ride the tram from downtown up to the top of Santa Teresa then learn about the detailed history of the tram at Museu do Bonde.
• Visit the Parque das Ruinas to enjoy the art and the views built around the ruins of an old mansion.

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4. Ipanema – Coolest Place to Stay in Rio de Janeiro

Fashionable and trendy, Ipanema is known for its iconic namesake beach. It’s a place to see and be seen. Located right next door to the famous Copacabana Beach, Ipanema is slowly stealing the spotlight as the cool place to be thanks to its younger crowd, stunning natural views, and great bars and restaurants.

Considered the “Little Paris” of Rio, Ipanema is also renowned for its bookstores, movie theatres, and avant-garde galleries. You’ll also find high-end fashion boutiques, fine-dining restaurants, and relaxed bars playing bossa nova.

Ipanema Inn Hotel | Best Luxury Hotel in Ipanema

Just a 3-minute walk to beach access, this beachfront hotel is stylish and perfect for those looking for a relaxing vacation at Ipanema Beach. They offer spacious rooms and a small continental breakfast that you can request to eat in your room. The restaurant and bar serve exotic caipirinhas and regional dishes. Plus, the drinks are half off during happy hour!

Chairs and towels for Ipanema Beach are also provided to guests. The neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly and has lots of shops and restaurants within walking distance. Alternatively, the train station is close by if you want to venture to the city center of Rio de Janeiro.

Che Lagarto Hostel Ipanema | Best Hostel in Ipanema

Che Lagarto Hostel is located just one block from Ipanema Beach. They offer free caipirinhas every day for half an hour to start the night! You really can’t beat that.

In addition to that awesomeness, they have a fully equipped kitchen, free wifi, computers for guest use, lockers for all beds, air conditioning, and tourist information. The staff keeps the atmosphere lively by playing music and always offering a friendly smile. It’s a great choice for where to stay in Rio de Janeiro in this upscale neighborhood.

Beachfront Apartment | Best Airbnb in Ipanema

Why stay anywhere but the famous Ipanema Beach? If you’re going to make the trip to Rio for the beautiful beaches, this is the place to be. With a small rooftop pool, fitness center, and sauna, this apartment sleeps 4 and your stay will be one for the books!

Top Things to Do in Ipanema:

• Head to the famous Ipanema beach to sunbathe or join in a game of Frescobol.
• Shop at the Hippie Fair every Sunday for the best souvenirs and to try delicious local specialties such as Acarajé – a croquette, fried in Dendê (Palm) oil, and filled with spicy shrimp.
• Check out the Girl From Ipanema Cafe to see where the famous song was penned.
• Learn how to surf with lessons from a surf school near Arpoador, a rock at the end of the beach jutting out into the ocean where people gather to hang out.
• Get an enlightening glance into the history of human communication at Oi Futuro – the Museum of Communications.
• Enjoy classy with a night out at Fasano Club, a luxury nightclub that is frequented by celebrities and famous athletes. Entry is free so you can check it out even if it doesn’t fit your budget.
• Check out the unique concept of Galeria Cafe – a boutique clothing and jewelry shop complete with classes by day and a fun nightclub with live DJs come nightfall.
• Learn how to fight like a Brazilian by taking a Jiu-Jitsu class at Brazilian Black Belt.
• Try feijoada – the famous dish of Brazil – prepared in all kinds of ways at Casa da Feijoada.
• Enjoy an afternoon of wine and a special Brazilian cheese called Canastra at Canastra Bar.

5. Botafogo – Best Neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro for Families to Stay In

The neighborhood of Botafogo is centered around its namesake half-moon bay and is a very up-and-coming ‘hood in Rio. The sandy beach offers a nice view of Sugarloaf Mountain and there are lots of entertainment options from shopping malls and cinemas to trendy bars and restaurants.

Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro by Intercity | Best Hotel in Botafogo

The Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro is located just a short walk to the beach in Botafogo. Some of the rooms offer amazing views of Sugarloaf Mountain, the ocean, and Corcovado Mountain. Feel like you’re at the best luxury hotel and treat yourself to a spa package at the wellness center during your stay!

The Yoo has a fitness center, a rooftop bar and swimming pool with sweeping views of the city. A buffet breakfast is included in the cost of the room and the Yoo also has stunning restaurants and bars.

Tupiniquim | Best Hostel in Botafogo

Tupiniquim aims to provide a fully immersed Brazilian experience. The cook only makes Brazilian food, the movies in the chill room are mostly Brazilian, and they play some of the best Brazilian music.

They have rooms to suit all types of travelers including families, super budget travelers, and solo female travelers. They also have a terrace with views of Christ the Redeemer Statue and a bar with all kinds of drinks. It’s a wonderful option for where to stay in Rio de Janeiro.

Top Things to Do in Botafogo:

• Head to the summit of Morro Dona Marta for the best panoramic view of the city.
• Enjoy an afternoon at Parque Lage sipping on tea or coffee by the pool surrounded by a mansion while enjoying the views of Christ the Redeemer Statue above.
• Get a real taste of Brazilian life and culture by joining the Santa Vidigal Favela Tour.
• Take the cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain to enjoy the views of the incredible landscapes.
• Visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue via train and look over the city center sprawling below.
• Get some exercise in nature by going for a hike up Corcovado Mountain.
• Learn about graffiti and urban art at GaleRio where you can see the street art of some of Brazil’s best artists.
• Take in a Brazilian film at Estação Botafogo, a cinema that screens movies made by Brazilians filmmakers and actors.
• Shop for Brazilian brands at Shopping Rio Sul – this is the most popular shopping mall in the South Zone.
• Learn about indigenous societies at the Museum of Indigenous People. See Christ the Redeemer lit up to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

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Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Rio de Janeiro and where to stay.

Where should I stay in Rio de Janeiro?

Copacabana is my first choice. There are so many things to do here that portray Brazil at its finest. Luxury hotels like Copacabana Palace make the Rio experience unforgettable.

Which are the safest places to stay in Rio de Janeiro?

Botafogo. Being outside of the city center, it’s less crowded with tourists and pick pockets alike. In saying this, Rio de Janeiro is a  tourist-friendly city . Unfortunately, you can’t be sure that anywhere is 100% safe. Feel free to ask the staff at your accommodation for advice as they will know the area best. Always take good precautions, and don’t flash expensive items about.

What are the best areas for nightlife in Rio de Janeiro?

I’d pick Santa Teresa! I love the bohemian vibe of Santa Teresa. Enjoy the rooftop pool for sunset drinks at Santa Teresa Hotel and go on to samba the night away! Whatever you do, Rio is one big party so you can’t go wrong.

What are the best Airbnbs in Rio de Janeiro?

Here’s our top 3 Airbnbs in Rio de Janeiro: – Beachfront Apartment – Stylish Modern Loft – Exclusive Seafront Loft

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How long should I stay in Rio de Janeiro?

At least 5 days in my opinion. Being such a huge city, there’s heaps to see in the city center, and I imagine you’ll want to see the famous beaches too. Maybe even spend a day checking out some street art? I encourage you to stay awhile and uncover the secret side of Rio de Janeiro.

Where is the best rooftop pool in Rio de Janeiro?

With all the heat, all the partying, and all the tasty treats, regular cool down periods are a must in Rio. Here’s where I dip when I’m not at the beach;

• Modern Hotel Rooftop Pool – Enjoy the vistas of Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountains from the outdoor pool. Get the rooftop bar to refresh you with drinks and food while you’re here too.
• Rooftop Pool in Copacabana Beach – Make an evening of it, enjoy the sunset at their on site restaurant.
• Rooftop Pool in Leblon – This upscale neighborhood is worth visiting, even if it’s just to be in the outdoor pool at this beachfront hotel.

What should I do in Rio de Janeiro?

Of course, Brazil is very famous for Carnival AKA  the biggest party on the planet . It is a fun cultural experience with millions of samba dancers wearing colorful costumes and dancing the whole day with live music from all directions. Make sure you book your accommodation months in advance.

Check out the Things To Do sections I’ve listed earlier in this article for more neighborhood specific activities.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing ambience, check out all the wonderful nature Rio de Janeiro has to offer… Take a trip down the coast to Barra da Tijuca Beach, a quiet relief from Ipanema Beach and the other famous beaches further north.

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Rio de Janeiro can be overwhelming. This Marvelous City is a massive one. While it’s relatively easy to get around, you want to make sure you’re in the best area for your stay. With the help of this guide, I hope I have made it easy to figure out where to stay in Rio de Janeiro!

Just to recap, my top hostel recommendation is  Tupiniquim , thanks to the fully immersed Brazilian experience they provide.

For the best hotel in Rio de Janeiro, you’ll want to book a room at the  Ipanema Inn Hotel . Enjoy a relaxing vacation and the best sunset in Rio at Ipanema Beach.

Have you been to Rio de Janeiro and think I missed something? Let me know in the comments below! Cheers!

• Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Brazil .
• Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Rio de Janeiro .
• Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
• Our in-depth South America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.

Claire Sturzaker

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this is awesome,i had no idea.i was close minded,hotel,beach,hotel,beach etc.,thanx for opening up rio,i feel great,so xlnt,thanku!!!

Hope you enjoy Rio!

I am going to live in Rio de Janeiro for 5 months. Does anybody have a good recommendation for housing? I prefer something on travel distance from PUC-RIO and I love to live together with other people. Please let me know! Cheers, Bjorn.

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Demographics

Rio de janeiro - statistics & facts, economy and tourism, crime and violence, key insights.

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Population of Rio de Janeiro 1990-2022

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• Basic Statistic Population of Rio de Janeiro 1990-2022
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• Basic Statistic Carnival in Rio: Sambadrome audience age distribution 2022
• Basic Statistic Share of transportation used to get to the Sambadrome in 2022, by type
• Premium Statistic Carnival in Rio: top samba schools 2022

Carnival in Rio: economic impact 2020-2023

Economic impact of Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 2020, with a forecast for 2023 (in billion Brazilian reals)

Share of inhabitants in Rio de Janeiro who like the carnival 2022

Share of people residing in Rio de Janeiro who like the carnival in 2022

Worker motivation to work at the Rio de Janeiro's carnival 2022, by income

Worker main motivation to work at the carnival of Rio de Janeiro in 2022, by income bracket

Carnival in Rio: Sambadrome audience age distribution 2022

Age distribution of the audience at Sambadrome in the carnival of Rio de Janeiro in 2022

Share of transportation used to get to the Sambadrome in 2022, by type

Share of means of transportation used to get to the Sambadrome in Rio de Janeiro in 2022, by type

Carnival in Rio: top samba schools 2022

Leading samba schools at the Carnival parade in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 2022, by final points

• Basic Statistic Number of shootings per month in Rio de Janeiro 2021-2024
• Basic Statistic Number of shootings in Rio de Janeiro 2019-2023, by context
• Basic Statistic Death toll of shootings in Rio de Janeiro 2017-2023
• Basic Statistic Brazil: civilians killed by the police in Rio de Janeiro 2003-2024
• Basic Statistic Robbery rate in Rio de Janeiro 2010-2022
• Basic Statistic Brazil: mobile phones stolen in Rio de Janeiro by type 2010-2024
• Basic Statistic Number of violent deaths of LGBTI+ people Brazil 2023, by city
• Basic Statistic Violent crimes against women in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil 2022, by type
• Basic Statistic Femicide in the state of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil per year 2016-2024

Monthly number of shootings in Rio de Janeiro from 2021 to 2024

Number of shootings in Rio de Janeiro 2019-2023, by context

Number of shootings in the state of Rio de Janeiro from 2019 to 2023, by reason

Death toll of shootings in Rio de Janeiro 2017-2023

Number of fatalities due to shootings in Rio de Janeiro from 2017 and 2023

Brazil: civilians killed by the police in Rio de Janeiro 2003-2024

Number of deaths caused by police intervention in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from 2003 to 2024

Robbery rate in Rio de Janeiro 2010-2022

Annual robbery rate in the city of Rio de Janeiro from 2010 to 2022 (robberies per 100,000 inhabitants)

Brazil: mobile phones stolen in Rio de Janeiro by type 2010-2024

Number of mobile phones stolen in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from 2010 to 2024, by type (in 1,000s)

Number of violent deaths of LGBTI+ people Brazil 2023, by city

Number of violent deaths of LGBTI+ people in Brazil 2023, by city

Violent crimes against women in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil 2022, by type

Number of recorded violent crimes against women in the city of Rio de Janeiro in 2022, by type

Femicide in the state of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil per year 2016-2024

Total annual number of femicides in the state of Rio de Janeiro from 2016 to 2024

• Basic Statistic Rio de Janeiro area division 2015-2022
• Basic Statistic Urbanized area of Rio de Janeiro 2019, by municipality
• Premium Statistic Length of Rio de Janeiro city beaches in km 2022

Rio de Janeiro area division 2015-2022

Annual Rio de Janeiro area division from 2015 to 2022 (in hectares)

Urbanized area of Rio de Janeiro 2019, by municipality

Urbanized area of the state of Rio de Janeiro in 2019, by municipality (in km²)

Length of the beaches of the city of Rio de Janeiro in 2022 (in kilometers)

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10 Best Beaches In Rio de Janeiro You Should See

• Rio de Janeiro has a variety of iconic beaches beyond Ipanema and Copacabana, each with its own unique charm and appeal.
• It's possible to book hotels overlooking the beach for stunning views and a convenient stay in the city.
• Discovering more beaches in Rio is possible by planning day trips and using lifeguard stations (postos) as meeting points.

Rio de Janeiro boasts some of the world's most iconic beaches, each with unique charm. Travelers staying at least one week in the city can discover beaches beyond the famous Ipanema and Copacabana.

The beaches are part of the Cariocas lifestyle, and there is a beach to suit every taste, from the vibrant energy of Copacabana to the tranquil beauty of Prainha. Discovering Rio's beaches means basking in the sun, playing sports on the sand, and blending with friendly locals.

Travelers can also enjoy the views by booking hotels overlooking the beach . When staying longer in the city, planning a day trip from Rio and discovering more beaches is possible.

Cariocas often use the postos when giving directions on the beach. There are 12 numbered lifeguard stations ( postos ) scattered along the main beaches, and they are often used as meeting points.

Brazil's most famous beach, Copacabana , is a stretch of golden sand spanning 4.5 kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean. Hundreds of locals and tourists bask in the sun, play beach sports, or dip in the refreshing waters of Copacabana.

The stunning view of Sugarloaf Mountain creates a unique place, and the iconic boardwalk is easily recognized by its wave pattern, where the cariocas used to run or walk. Copacabana Beach is scattered with multiple kiosks, bars, and shops. As the city's most tourist beach, there are many vendors along the way, and beach-goers must arrive early if they want to find a good spot, as it tends to be crowded during the warmest days.

• Hotels in Copacabana: Copacabana Palace , Rio Design Hotel , Ibis Copacabana Posto 5
• Where to hang out: Pavão Azul Bar , Boteco Belmonte , Bar do Urso, Bodega Bar Copacabana

The beach has become famous worldwide thanks to the song Girl from Ipanema and has endured the test of time. This 4-kilometer beach is framed by the iconic Two Brothers mountain peaks, offering a stunning backdrop to beach-goers.

The neighborhood exudes a chic, cosmopolitan charm, attracting locals and tourists. Volleyball matches add to the energetic ambiance. One of the most popular spots on the Ipanema beach is the Pedra do Arpoador, where crowds gather to watch the sunset.

• Hotels: Sol Ipanema Hotel , Mar Ipanema Hotel , Hotel Vermont
• Where to hang out: Bar do Adão , Boteco Belmonte, Bar Popeye

RELATED: 10 Best Remote Places In Brazil For A Peaceful Vacation

Leblon Beach, arguably Rio's most upscale beach, is an extension of Ipanema Beach. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Copacabana and Ipanema. This golden-sand beach is surrounded by high-end restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors seeking a refined beach experience.

Of course, Leblon also impresses by its natural beauty, as it overlooks the famous Two Brothers mountains. Leblon is also known for its stunning sunsets, making it an excellent spot to enjoy the beauty of Rio's coastline.

• Recommended restaurants: Sushi Leblon , Le Blond , Giuseppe Grill Leblon

Arpoador Beach, nestled between Ipanema and Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro, is a haven for surfers and sunset enthusiasts. Renowned for its consistent waves, it attracts surfers seeking the perfect ride.

The beach is famous for its rocky formations, such as the dramatic Pedra do Arpoador, perched between Ipanema and Arpoador, which makes the place even more impressive, offering a stunning viewpoint for watching the sun dip below the horizon.

Several places host Brazilian music shows nearby, and the Arpoador beach is close to the famous Copacabana Fort.

Foreigners who want to blend with locals when on the beach should try to buy Biscoito Globo and chá mate, famous snacks on Rio's beaches.

Tourists looking for a perfect place to surf in Rio should consider visiting Prainha, a paradise for nature enthusiasts and surfers. Surrounded by the Atlantic rainforest, this beach boasts pristine golden sands and crystalline waters.

Towering cliffs create a dramatic backdrop and a secluded atmosphere. Despite its small size, as it stretches 700 meters, the beach is a designated nature reserve, a haven for wildlife and offers hiking trails for those eager to explore the surrounding forest.

Prainha is a more secluded beach with no public transportation available. The best way to reach Prainha is by car, so tourists might need to take a taxi or Uber.

Macumba Beach, located on the western outskirts of Rio de Janeiro in a preserved Atlantic forest area, maintains a local vibe, offering a glimpse into authentic Brazilian beach culture. Surrounded by lush vegetation, Macumba provides a tranquil ambiance, perfect for relaxation, and it's also popular among couples, as it's considered a romantic escape.

This beach is known for its expansive shoreline and gentle waves, making it a favored spot for sunbathers and those looking to unwind. Due to its manageable waves, it's also popular among surfers, especially beginners.

Travelers can catch buses 553 - INT8, 817, 954, and 961 to reach the Praia da Macumba. They must go down at Estrada Do Pontal and walk approximately six minutes to the beach.

Reserva Beach is the place for those aiming to avoid crowds, as it's not close to tourist attractions, and there is no public transportation. This spot is the complete opposite of the busy Copacabana and Ipanema, which has hundreds of beach-goers and vendors.

Rio's largest beach stretches for 18 km, and it's nestled in a protected area. The Praia da Reserva is the favorite among Brazilian celebrities, as they can enjoy its privacy.

Pesqueiro is the most popular restaurant at Reserva Beach. They are famous for their drinks and seafood.

Joatinga Beach, tucked away in a secluded area, is cherished by locals and in-the-know travelers. It's another spot for beach-goers who want to avoid crowded places. This undeveloped beach doesn't have kiosks, restaurants, or vendors, so it's the perfect place for quiet time. However, there are some people renting beach chairs during summer.

Joatinga is considered one of Rio's most beautiful beaches and can only be accessed during the low thighs. A parking lot is nearby, but visitors should arrive early during summer and weekends to find a spot.

It's possible to reach Joatinga Beach by car or bus 557 and 332.

Praia Vermelha

Praia Vermelha is nestled at the foot of Sugarloaf at Urca. Its name, which means "Red Beach" in Portuguese, is derived from the color of its sand during the sunset. Surrounded by greenery, it offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city and a view of Guanabara Bay.

This beach is also famous for rock climbing enthusiasts, with routes available on the adjacent granite cliffs. When planning a vacation in Rio, travelers should check the many hikes within the city .

Despite its beauty, Praia Vermelha's waters aren't calm, so it's recommended to keep an eye on children.

RELATED: 10 Incredible Natural Wonders In Brazil Worth Checking Out

Praia do Secreto

Praia do Secreto, meaning "Secret Beach" in Portuguese, lives up to its name. Tucked away near Recreio dos Bandeirantes, this place offers pristine sands and calm turquoise waters.

During the low tide, a natural pool is formed by surrounding rocks, perfect for snorkeling and relaxation. Praia do Secreto is better enjoyed during low tides and on days without waves, so visitors should check both before going to the beach.

Travelers should also keep in mind it can be challenging to reach Praia do Secreto, so it's not recommended for older people, children, and people with disabilities.

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Cities that are more popular than their country of origin

Precious Rongmei , TIMESOFINDIA.COM , TRAVEL TRENDS , WORLD Created : Jun 7, 2024, 10:00 IST

Certain cities around the world have become so renowned that they overshadow their entire country in terms of global recognition and tourism appeal. These cities often serve as cultural, economic, and historical hubs, offering a unique blend of attractions that draw millions of visitors annually. They are characterised by iconic landmarks, vibrant street life, and distinctive cultural experiences that capture the imagination of travellers. Let’s take a look at some of these cities.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, is a global metropolis known for its towering skyscrapers, cutting-edge technology, and vibrant culture. It’s famous for its iconic landmarks like the Tokyo Tower and Shibuya Crossing, as well as its diverse neighbourhoods such as Shinjuku and Harajuku. Tokyo’s unique blend of traditional temples and modern innovations makes it a destination that often eclipses the rest of Japan in global recognition.

Istanbul, Turkey

Straddling two continents, Istanbul is a city where East meets West. Known for its rich history and stunning architecture, including the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, Istanbul captures the imagination of travellers more than any other city in Turkey. Its vibrant bazaars, such as the Grand Bazaar, and its lively street life add to its allure, making it more famous than Turkey as a whole.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is synonymous with carnival, samba, and breathtaking landscapes. The city’s iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Copacabana Beach draw millions of visitors annually. Rio’s vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and lively nightlife make it a standout destination, often overshadowing the rest of Brazil.

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok, Thailand’s capital, is renowned for its bustling street life, ornate temples, and vibrant nightlife. The Grand Palace, Wat Arun, and the floating markets are just a few of the attractions that make Bangkok more famous than any other part of Thailand. Its blend of tradition and modernity attracts tourists from around the world, making it a focal point of Thai tourism.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and vibrant cultural scene. The city’s iconic windmills, tulip fields, and world-class museums like the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House make it a major draw for tourists. Amsterdam’s unique charm and liberal atmosphere often outshine the rest of the Netherlands.

Rome, Italy

Rome is a living museum of history and culture. Home to iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Vatican, and the Pantheon, Rome attracts millions of visitors who come to marvel at its ancient ruins and Renaissance art. Its historical significance and cultural heritage make it more renowned than any other city in Italy

San Francisco, USA

San Francisco, with its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and historic cable cars, is one of the most recognisable cities in the United States. Its eclectic neighbourhoods, like Chinatown and Haight-Ashbury, and its reputation for innovation and diversity often make it more famous than the broader region of California or even other major US cities.

Dubai is known for its futuristic skyline, luxury shopping, and extravagant attractions. The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial archipelago, are just a few examples of Dubai’s architectural marvels. The city’s rapid development and opulent lifestyle make it a global icon, often overshadowing the rest of the United Arab Emirates.

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Certain cities around the world have become so renowned that they overshadow their entire country in terms of global recognition and tourism appeal. These cities often serve as cultural, economic, and...