Zona Sul
Travel Guide
Visit Zona Sul
Where to stay in Zona Sul
Copacabana
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.
Ipanema
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.
Leblon
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.
Botafogo
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.
Flamengo
Well-liked for its beaches and breweries, Flamengo is worth a visit. Check out the variety of things to see and do like Catete Palace and Flamengo Beach, and jump on the metro at Flamengo Station to get around the city.
Lagoa
Travelers like the art galleries in Lagoa, and CASV Visa Applicant Service Center is a top attraction you might want to visit.
Hotel Atlântico Travel
Great for the price!
Reviewed on Nov 7, 2025
Windsor Florida Hotel
Very clean room and friendly staff. Food was good.
Reviewed on Nov 5, 2025
Windsor Plaza Copacabana
The room was satisfactory and the staff accommodated our requests, not withstanding the language barrier.
Reviewed on Nov 5, 2025
Ocean View Copacabana Best Spot
Nice spot in Copacabana
Reviewed on Mar 10, 2025
360 Casa Praia Botafog By SUHCasa
ME CAMBIARION DE DEPARTAMENTO A OTRA AREA DE LA CIUDAD SIN MOTIVO ALGUNO Y SIN IMPORTARLES NADA Uno como turista hace planes y acomoda sus horarios conforme la ubicacion de su hospedaje, yo escogi esta propiedad por que se acomodaba a mis planes, por que me gusto, por la ubicacion y por lo que yo ...
Reviewed on Nov 2, 2025
Copacabana Best Spot
The biggest problem with the hotel is there is no maid service. One towel for 6 days, no cleaning. I saw the maids in the hallway with a stack of fresh towels and took one, hysteria ensued. Turns out that's R$5. Give it to the front desk, not sure if it reached the right place. Hotels.com messaged ...
Reviewed on Feb 21, 2025
Popular places to visit
Avenida Atlantica
Golden sandy beaches, excellent restaurants, walking paths and some of Rio de Janeiro’s most popular neighborhoods surround this bustling seaside avenue.
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.
Copacabana Fort
Visit this historic fort at the south end of Copacabana Beach to learn about Brazil’s military history through many fascinating displays and artifacts.
Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden
Spend time exploring this historic botanical garden to see water features and sculptures, exotic plant species and endangered animals, including the black capuchin.
Rua Barata Ribeiro
After visiting Rua Barata Ribeiro, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Rio de Janeiro. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon during your travels in Rio de Janeiro. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the area's sunsets.
Things to do
Experience Hang Gliding or Paragliding in Rio
Museum of Tomorrow, AquaRio & Olympic Boulevard
Plaza Premium Lounge at Rio Galeão – Tom Jobim International Airport (GIG)
From Rio de Janeiro: Angra dos Reis & Ilha Grande Day Tour
