Things to do in Rio de Janeiro

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Copacabana Beach showing a sunset, mist or fog and a beach
Copacabana Beach featuring a beach
Barra da Tijuca showing a sandy beach as well as a large group of people
Rio de Janeiro featuring a river or creek
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Rio de Janeiro must see attractions

1. Copacabana Beach

Gleaming hotels and forested hills line the perfectly curved 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) stretch of Copacabana Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the world. Abutting one of Brazil’s highest density residential areas, this beach is nearly always filled to capacity, but that’s part of its charm. Swim in the cool waters of the Atlantic amongst thousands of other visitors, join in a game of soccer on the sand or just sit back on a beach chair and order snacks from a beach vendor and watch the passing parade.
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2. Ipanema Beach

Located in one of the wealthiest areas in Rio de Janeiro, Ipanema Beach is between Leblon and Arpoador, adjacent to the famed Copacabana Beach. Although the word Ipanema literally translates to “stinky lake” in the Tupi language, this description doesn’t fit what you’ll find along this stretch of white-sand beach where the rich and chic come to worship the sun. Beyond the western limit of the beach, there is a beautiful view of the two mountains, Dois Irmãos.
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Palms and Two Brothers Mountain on Ipanema beach, Rio de Janeiro

3. Christ the Redeemer

Corcovado, which means “hunchback” in Portuguese, is a mountain in the Tijuca National Park in central Rio. The mountain offers three attractions in the one place. Although the Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor) statue may be the highlight, you can also see the world’s largest urban forest that is Tijuca National Park, and experience a scenic journey on the historic Corcovado Train, the country’s oldest tourist attraction.
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Aerial view of Rio de Janeiro city skyline in Brazil, Shutterstock ID 1033504918, Purchase Order: SP-1506 Go Guides, Order Number: , Client/Licensee: Faa Praharnpap, Other: Hcom budget

4. Sugar Loaf Mountain

Located on the coast of the southeastern corner of Rio de Janeiro, Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) resides within forests, water and hills at the edge of Guanabara Bay. Rock climbers conquer the mountain using appropriate gear, but most visitors take the glass-sided cable car to the top. Originally built in 1912, the cable car transports 65 visitors per trip and offers panoramic views the entire way.
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Sugar Loaf Mountain

5. Avenida Atlantica

No Rio de Janeiro holiday is complete without a visit to Avenida Atlântica. This avenue is famous for its events year-round, including a massive New Year’s Eve celebration covering the entire avenue and Copacabana Beach. Stroll along the avenue’s promenade to experience Rio’s lively beach culture and oceanfront events.
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Sao Conrado Beach featuring a sandy beach

6. Maracanã Stadium

No arena is more central to the history of Brazilian soccer than Maracanã Stadium. The location of the final matches in both of Brazil’s FIFA World Cups, this stadium has hosted all the great names in Brazilian soccer. Watch one of Rio de Janeiro’s “Big Four” teams play a game, or take a guided tour of this iconic stadium and you’ll soon understand just how large soccer looms in the Brazilian psyche.
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Maracana Stadium showing interior views and modern architecture

What to do in Rio de Janeiro

Discover the most popular places to visit in Rio de Janeiro

Copacabana Beach which includes a sandy beach, a sunset and general coastal views

Copacabana Beach

More than just a stretch of sand, Rio de Janeiro’s most famous beach is where locals and visitors from all over the world come to relax, strut, pose and play.

Copacabana Beach
Ipanema Beach which includes a beach and mountains as well as a large group of people

Ipanema Beach

See the place that inspired a famous song about a bikini at this upscale beach.

Ipanema Beach
Corcovado showing religious aspects, a sunset and a statue or sculpture

Christ the Redeemer

This mountain rising out of the city center is most well known as the home of Rio’s iconic skyscraper-sized Jesus statue.

Christ the Redeemer
Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach

Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach during your travels in Rio de Janeiro? While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach
Flamengo Beach

Flamengo Beach

If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Flamengo Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Rio de Janeiro. Take in the art scene and sunsets in the area.

Flamengo Beach
Sugar Loaf Mountain featuring a sunset and mountains

Sugar Loaf Mountain

Scale this mountain on foot or by cable car to see impressive views of Rio’s beaches, rain forests and its most famous statue.

Sugar Loaf Mountain
Avenida Atlantica

Avenida Atlantica

Golden sandy beaches, excellent restaurants, walking paths and some of Rio de Janeiro’s most popular neighborhoods surround this bustling seaside avenue.

Avenida Atlantica
Maracana Stadium showing interior views and modern architecture

Maracanã Stadium

To truly appreciate Brazil’s obsession with “the beautiful game,” watch a match or take a guided tour of one of the world’s largest and most historic soccer stadiums.

Maracanã Stadium
Praia da Barra da Tijuca

Praia da Barra da Tijuca

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Praia da Barra da Tijuca during your trip to Rio de Janeiro? Stroll along the beautiful beaches or seek out the local tours.

Praia da Barra da Tijuca

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro

Copacabana

Copacabana

4/5(940 area reviews)

Famed for its 4 km balneario beach, this lively Rio de Janeiro neighborhood offers surfing at Arpoador Beach, historic Fort Copacabana, and the iconic promenade designed by Roberto Burle Marx. Enjoy numerous hotels, restaurants, and nightlife, with easy access via three subway Metro stations.

Copacabana
Barra da Tijuca showing a sandy beach as well as a large group of people

Barra da Tijuca

4.5/5(115 area reviews)

Boasting stunning beaches, lakes, and rivers, this upper-class neighborhood offers surf competitions, parachuting experiences, and tennis courts. Explore large modern malls, bars, and restaurants, while enjoying easy access to public transportation.

Barra da Tijuca
Ipanema which includes markets as well as a large group of people

Ipanema

4.5/5(151 area reviews)

Surrounded by elegant development, Ipanema's beach boasts vibrant beach culture, with daily gatherings of surfers, sunbathers, and sports enthusiasts. Stroll along the grid-like streets to explore world-class restaurants, shops, and the bustling Ipanema Hippie Market.

Ipanema
Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro Centro

3.5/5(114 area reviews)

You might enjoy the museums while in Rio de Janeiro Centro. Saara Rio is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Tiradentes Tram Stop or Colombo Tram Stop to see more of the city.

Rio de Janeiro Centro
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Botafogo

4/5(41 area reviews)

Botafogo is a destination travelers like for its beaches, and you might hop aboard the metro at Botafogo Station or Futura estação Morro de São João Station to explore sights like Botafogo Praia Shopping.

Botafogo
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Leblon

4.5/5(33 area reviews)

Wealthy and cosmopolitan, this South Zone gem boasts sights like Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, Morro Dois Irmãos, and Jardim de Alah channel. Enjoy lively nightlife with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Leblon

Popular day trips from Rio de Janeiro

Niteroi

Niteroi

Mangaratiba

Mangaratiba

Cathedral of Saint Peter of Alcantara

Petrópolis

Saquarema

Saquarema

Photo by Paulo Sergio

Cachoeiras de Macacu

Frequently asked questions

Is Rio de Janeiro worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Rio de Janeiro is explore Copacabana Beach. Check this top sight off your to-do list, then experience more of the area's coastal beaches and views.
How do I spend a day in Rio de Janeiro?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Copacabana Beach and Christ the Redeemer. Then, check out other areas of Rio de Janeiro for a bite to eat and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Rio de Janeiro?
The top tourist attraction in Rio de Janeiro is Copacabana Beach, so be sure to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Rio de Janeiro?
Three days in Rio de Janeiro is plenty of time to enjoy the city's main attractions. Many travelers spend four days on average. Copacabana Beach, Christ the Redeemer and Ipanema Beach are among the top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Stick around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots like Governador Island.
Is Rio de Janeiro a walkable city?
That comes down to what you'd like to see and do in Rio de Janeiro. Several key attractions, such as Flamengo Beach and Museum of Tomorrow, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Rio de Janeiro's neighborhoods, Rio de Janeiro Centro is 0.32 kilometers away from downtown, while Santa Teresa is 2 kilometers away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Rio de Janeiro with kids?
Deciding what to do in Rio de Janeiro with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're traveling with little ones or teenagers, there are loads of family-friendly attractions to keep them happy here.

What to do in Rio de Janeiro for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Rio de Janeiro, with experiences for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Avenida Atlantica or Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí.
Are there free things to do in Rio de Janeiro?
In Rio de Janeiro, Copacabana Beach is a must-see spot for anyone planning to tour the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the other neighborhoods and green spaces, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's an easy way to learn about the best free things to do in Rio de Janeiro.

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