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 Flamengo Beach and Guanabara Bay, 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.
Hilton Copacabana Rio de Janeiro
Everything was wonderful
Reviewed on May 8, 2026
Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
Me encantó el hotel
Reviewed on May 3, 2026
Hotel Astoria Ipanema (antigo Mar Ipanema)
The location was great. I liked the small town vibe. A very good gelato place was across the street. Highly recommended!
Reviewed on May 5, 2026
Unhotel
Everything was good!
Reviewed on Apr 24, 2026
Rio Habitat Almirante
The host is weird- as soon as I arrived she starts asking me to be at the apartment because there will be people who will take the mattress? Why during my arrival when I’m outside e joying the beach and I have many people up meet.After two days she starts again calling me saying they need to do repairs ...
Reviewed on Mar 12, 2026
Ocean View Copacabana Best Spot
I really loved the place, however I would suggest the host to supply cleaning products to stays that are longer than 4 days. Detergent, flooring product and perhaps an extra set of sheets and towels.
Reviewed on Apr 15, 2026
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.
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.
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.
