Rio de Janeiro
Between sea and mountains, the city of Sugarloaf Mountain, Corcovado and the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. The natural gateway to a trip to Brazil.
Region
Rio de Janeiro State, Southeast
Recommended stay
3 to 4 nights
Best time to go
April to November
Getting there
Rio International Airport (Galeão)
A city set between ocean and forest
Rio stretches between Guanabara Bay, the Atlantic beaches and mountains covered in tropical forest. Few big cities have such spectacular geography, visible from Sugarloaf Mountain as well as from Corcovado.
Beyond its iconic sights, Rio also reveals itself through its neighborhoods: bohemian Santa Teresa, the lanes of Lapa, a stroll along the beaches or an afternoon in the Tijuca Forest, one of the largest urban forests in the world.
When to go
Rio can be visited year-round. The southern-hemisphere winter, from April to November, brings mild temperatures and drier weather, ideal for sightseeing. Summer, from December to March, is beach season, but also the season of heat and late-afternoon thunderstorms.
- April to November: mild climate, ideal for sightseeing
- December to March: hot, humid summer, beach season
Months
Legend
Things to do
Sugarloaf Mountain and Corcovado
The two must-see viewpoints: the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain, then Christ the Redeemer at the top of Corcovado.
Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon
Rio’s legendary beaches, best enjoyed on foot or by bike along the seafront, all the way to sunset at Arpoador.
Santa Teresa and Lapa
A hilltop neighborhood of old houses and artists’ studios, then the Selarón Steps and the Lapa Arches.
Botanical Garden and Tijuca Forest
Imperial palms, orchids and trails deep in the tropical forest, a few minutes from the beaches.
The historic center
The Municipal Theater, the Confeitaria Colombo and the Museum of Tomorrow, where heritage meets contemporary architecture.
The Maracanã
The legendary stadium of Brazilian soccer, which hosted the World Cup finals of 1950 and 2014. You can discover it on a guided behind-the-scenes tour (locker rooms, the players’ tunnel to the field, the stands) or, even better, by going to a Flamengo or Fluminense game, in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Helicopter flight over Rio
Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon and the beaches from the air. Several routes of different lengths are available: a spectacular experience, ideal for a honeymoon or a special occasion.
Morro Dois Irmãos via Vidigal
A short but steady hike: you reach the top of the Vidigal favela by motorcycle taxi or minibus, then about an hour on a forest trail leads to the summit. The view takes in Leblon, Ipanema, the lagoon and Pedra da Gávea, one of the finest panoramas in Rio, superb in the late afternoon. We offer it with a guide from the community.
Pedra Bonita
In Tijuca National Park, an easy trail of about 30 to 40 minutes leads to a huge rock overlooking São Conrado beach, facing Pedra da Gávea. This is also where hang gliding and tandem paragliding flights take off. For experienced hikers, the climb up Pedra da Gávea, longer and with a rock-climbing section, is one of the best in the city.
Where to stay
Copacabana
For a first visit. The best-known seafront, convenient for getting around, with a wide choice of hotels.
Ipanema and Leblon
For the atmosphere and the restaurants. Quieter, more elegant neighborhoods, with good places to eat and a beautiful beach.
Santa Teresa
For charm. Characterful pousadas up in the hills, with views over the bay, away from the bustle.
Combine with
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Combine
Our tours
Tours
FAQ
How many days do I need in Rio?
Three nights let you see the main sights and enjoy a free day. With four nights, you can add an excursion or another neighborhood without rushing.
Is Rio a safe city?
As in any big city, a few precautions are in order: keep your valuables out of sight, avoid certain areas at night and opt for organized transfers. Our guides will give you the right habits on the ground.
When is Carnival?
Carnival takes place in February or early March, depending on the year. It’s a very popular time: prices go up and you need to book well in advance.
Tempted by this trip?
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