Situated on the southeast coast of Brazil, Rio de Janeiro is the second largest city in the country and offers a unique blend of urban style and natural wonders. The former capital’s streets, beaches and rainforest-covered mountains attract tourists from across the globe.
Most travellers to Rio take a trip to Corcovado, situated in Tijuca National Park. The mountain is home to Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) which is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Early risers are usually able to get some fantastic pictures in before the crowds begin to arrive. For a different perspective of the statue, head to nearby Sugarloaf Mountain and take a trip on the cable car, taking in the panoramic views of the rainforest, city and beaches below.
Those seeking culture won’t be disappointed, with Rio’s Portuguese, English and French influenced architecture featuring beautiful 16th century churches and graceful 19th century palaces. Rio also boasts the Biblioteca Nacional – the seventh largest library in the world.
Rio de Janeiro is also the ultimate party destination. Many carnival-goers believe that there is no better place to join in the annual Brazilian festivities than in Rio. The city comes alive with samba beats, extravagant costumes and vibrant parades. The carnival usually takes place in February and is a five day celebration that ends the day before Lent begins. If you can’t make it to Brazil for the carnival, why not spray champagne with the 2.5 million revellers that see in the New Year on Copacabana Beach?
Spend a day relaxing on the adjacent upmarket Ipanema Beach. Visitors can sit back with a chilled caipirinha or a fresh coconut and watch Brazil’s most beautiful parading up and down the white sands. More active travellers may decide to get involved with a game of footvolley – a Brazilian blend of football and volleyball that is played on the beaches of Rio every day.
Rio is warm all year round, with the hottest months between December and March. This is usually the time with the most rainfall too. The city has good transport links, with buses, taxis and the metro transporting travellers around the city.
Visit Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro
Copacabana
Copacabana Beach and Praca Serzedelo Correia are top sights in Copacabana, and you should be sure to explore the stunning beaches. Hop aboard the metro at Siqueira Campos Station or Cardeal Arcoverde Station to see more sights in the area.
Barra da Tijuca
If you're spending time in Barra da Tijuca, you might enjoy attractions like Barra Shopping Mall and Village Mall. You might also enjoy the neighbourhood's pristine beaches before hopping on the metro at Jardim Oceânico Station to see more of the city.
Ipanema
Ipanema is highly notable for its stunning beaches, and you might want to visit top sights like Ipanema Beach and Rua Farme de Amoedo. See more of Rio de Janeiro by jumping on the metro at Nossa Senhora da Paz Station or Ipanema-General Osorio Station.
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
Consider exploring the beaches in Leblon. If sightseeing is on the list, Ipanema Beach is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Antero de Quental Station or Jardim de Alah - Leblon Station to see more of the area.
Botafogo
Botafogo is a destination travellers 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.
Reviewed on 27 Dec 2024
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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.
Ipanema Beach
Join Brazil’s rich and famous for a day at Rio’s most stylish beach.
Christ the Redeemer
Gaze out over panoramic views of Rio from the site of Brazil’s iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.
Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach during your travels in Rio de Janeiro? While you're in the area, wander around the parks.
Flamengo Beach
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Flamengo Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Rio de Janeiro. Take in the art scene and sunsets in the area.
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.
Things to do
Rio de Janeiro: Sightseeing Helicopter Flight
Rio De Janeiro: Half-Day Rocinha Favela Walking Tour
Rio: Caves and Waterfalls Adventure in Tijuca Forest
Rio: Pub Crawl in Lapa with Cachaça Tasting and Live Samba
From Rio de Janeiro: Arraial do Cabo Tour with Lunch
Reviews of Rio de Janeiro
5/5 - Excellent
A pleasure to visit Rio at any time of the year. This visit coincided with carnival, making it extra special as it is the Greatest Show on Earth, yet known to so few.
5/5 - Excellent
my visit weather was poor raining everyday none stop so it was impossible to make the most out of the trip
5/5 - Excellent
Was worried about the safety issue at first, but we felt safe throughout. Didn't wear any jewellery just as a precaution. There are lots of police everywhere.
5/5 - Excellent
We love Rio & it’s people, would love to comeback again.
1/5 - Terrible
I felt unsafe the whole time we were there. Someone attempted to pick pocket me and someone else staying in our hotel got stabbed. My wife was followed to and from a cash machine by a group of girls who were warned away by an onlooker from the UK.
4/5 - Good
We went before and during carnival which was good as some trips stop during carnival. The trip to Buzios town and boat trip was great although a long drive away it was good to see more of the coast
