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.
Rio de Janeiro
Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro
Copacabana
Copacabana is highly notable for its stunning beaches, and you might want to visit top sights like Copacabana Beach and Bairro Peixoto. See more of Rio de Janeiro by jumping on the metro at Siqueira Campos Station or Cardeal Arcoverde Station.
Barra da Tijuca
Visitors often come to Barra da Tijuca for its beaches, but many stay to explore sights like Barra Shopping Mall and Village Mall. Getting around the area on the metro is easy if you catch a ride at Jardim Oceânico Station.
Ipanema
Ipanema Beach and Rua Farme de Amoedo are top sights in Ipanema, and you should be sure to explore the stunning beaches. Hop aboard the metro at Nossa Senhora da Paz Station or Ipanema-General Osorio Station to see more sights in the area.
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.
Leblon
Travelers choose Leblon for its beaches. Hop aboard the metro at Antero de Quental Station or Jardim de Alah - Leblon Station and check out top sights like Ipanema Beach.
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.
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Popular places to visit
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.
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.
Ipanema Beach
See the place that inspired a famous song about a bikini at this upscale beach.
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.
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.
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.
Reviews of Rio de Janeiro
5/5 - Excellent
Wonderful hotel close to the beach with excellent staff, felt at home there.
5/5 - Excellent
In love with Río de Janeiro
4/5 - Good
Very safe! Very nice people!
4/5 - Good
It is a must to visit place with so much to do! or simply layback by the beach.
5/5 - Excellent
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
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.
