Rio de Janeiro

Travel Guide

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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

Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide Video

Celebrate Brazilian culture in the city where the samba was born and enjoy the stunning natural wonders right at its doorstep.  

Located on the southeast coast of Brazil, Rio de Janeiro is a city blessed with a spectacular geography that merges white-sand beaches with rain forest-covered mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts will revel in the opportunities to connect with nature, but there are also plenty of attractions for culture buffs. As a former capital of Brazil, Rio is rich with history and modern culture, ensuring an enjoyable trip regardless of whether you prefer state parks or samba.

Catch the sunrise on either the upscale Ipanema Beach on the southeastern coast or the nearby playful Copacabana Beach. Before sunset, make your way to Sugarloaf Mountain (Pao de Acucar). Take a cable-car ride to the top for a remarkable view including beaches, forests and other landmarks.  

Make time for a trip to Corcovado, home of the statue Christ the Redeemer, known locally as Cristo Redentor. Beat the crowds by arriving early as this free “New Seven Wonders of the World” attraction is on every traveler’s itinerary. You’ll understand why when you see the impressive views surrounding this statue, which was erected in 1931.

Corcovado is in the Tijuca National Park, the perfect place to connect with nature. Conservationists replanted much of the park in the late 1800s after substantial deforestation. This destination is now a lush home to more than 100 native animal species, making it the largest urban forest in the world. Amenities along the trails include restaurants and restrooms.

Soccer fans won’t want to miss a match at the famous Maracanã Stadium. If you can’t catch a game, stop at the sports museum inside the stadium to see memorabilia, photographs and uniforms of Brazil’s greatest football players.

Enjoy Rio’s vibrant nightlife as you listen to local music and watch samba dancers. While bar hopping, be cautious when traveling on foot. Leave valuables in your hotel room and either avoid crowds or travel within a small group including locals. The city is easy to navigate by bus during the day, but it’s best to avoid using this form of transport at night.

Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro

Copacabana

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.

Copacabana
Ipanema which includes markets as well as a large group of people

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.

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

Barra da Tijuca

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
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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.

Leblon
Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro Centro

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

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

Reviews of Rio de Janeiro

4.4
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
513
5 - Excellent 55%
4 - Good
316
4 - Good 34%
3 - Okay
81
3 - Okay 9%
2 - Disappointing
15
2 - Disappointing 2%
1 - Terrible
8
1 - Terrible 1%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Wonderful hotel close to the beach with excellent staff, felt at home there.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

In love with Río de Janeiro

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Very safe! Very nice people!

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

It is a must to visit place with so much to do! or simply layback by the beach.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Great city. I was pleasantly surprised by the food and cultural attractions. The beach was incredible but that was to be expected.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Great city with best beaches in the world. Earthly paradise.Very friendly people, ready to help you. Very safe. We have been walking on Copacabana until midnight, a lot of people too at this time, all restaurants are open.

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