What to Do in Rio de Janeiro: 39 Places to Visit and Tips for Your First Trip!
What to Do in Rio de Janeiro: 39 Places to Visit and Tips for Your First Trip!
Rio de Janeiro’s attractions are among the places everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. If you’re planning a trip to the Marvelous City, check out the tips below, with information about the climate, beaches, tours, transportation, and much more. You might also want to check if you need Brazilian Portuguese translation services for your trip
What to Do in Rio de Janeiro: Tours
It’s entirely possible to visit Rio de Janeiro’s main attractions on your own using public transportation, walking, biking, or affordable ride-hailing apps.
However, if you want detailed information about each location, you can hire guided tours from agencies. This way, no detail will be missed. 😉
At Copacabana Beach’s boardwalk, frequented by tourists, there are several kiosks and vendors offering services. Try negotiating a discount! You can also find day trips to nearby cities like Arraial do Cabo, considered one of Brazil’s best beaches in the Lagos Region.
1. Rio de Janeiro Beaches
Rio de Janeiro’s best beaches attract visitors from around the world. The vast carioca coastline is the city’s main calling card and a must on every tourist’s itinerary. The hot climate certainly calls for a dip in the sea.
In the South Zone, you’ll find the most popular beaches among tourists: Leblon, Ipanema, and Copacabana. These beaches are great for various activities, from swimming to walking or biking along the shore, enjoying the sound of the waves.
In the West Zone, you’ll find beaches more suitable for surfing. Less crowded than the South Zone beaches, Barra da Tijuca is a great option with good infrastructure and several kiosks. Further along, Barra turns into Reserva Beach, which is much quieter. Recreio Beach, also extensive, is another excellent choice for a sunny day.
Rio de Janeiro Attractions
We’ve listed more suggestions to help you choose what to do in Rio de Janeiro, with must-visit attractions and tours for your trip. Check them out below!
2. Christ the Redeemer
With open arms, Christ the Redeemer, on Corcovado Hill, welcomes thousands of tourists daily from around the world. You’ll need to climb 700 meters above sea level to reach the peak where the iconic statue stands. Located within Tijuca National Park, there are two ways to get there: via authorized vans from Paineiras, departing from various points in Rio, or by the Corcovado train.
3. Sugarloaf Mountain
The Sugarloaf Cable Car is one of Rio de Janeiro’s top attractions, inaugurated in 1912 as Brazil’s first cable car and the third in the world. It connects Morro da Urca to Sugarloaf Mountain, and over 40 million people have ridden it.
From the top, you’ll enjoy a stunning view of the city, including Botafogo Bay, Copacabana’s shoreline, and the entrance to Guanabara Bay. It’s a must for your itinerary.
4. Selarón Steps
The Selarón Steps, located between the Santa Teresa and Lapa neighborhoods, are an architectural work decorated by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, who dedicated it as a tribute to the Brazilian people.
The visit is free and well worth your attention for its beauty. The steps have also appeared in music videos by artists like U2 and Snoop Dogg.
5. Lapa and Rio’s Best Bars
Lapa is a vibrant, bohemian neighborhood known for its traditional bars, live music venues, dance halls, and outdoor samba circles beneath the Lapa Arches, a Roman-style aqueduct you should photograph.
There are options for all budgets. You can grab a large caipirinha from street vendors for R$15 or order one at a fancier bar nearby.
Heads up! During the high summer season, many people seek out bars with cold beer to cool off, and table availability may be limited, requiring reservations.
6. Dona Marta Lookout
Some say it offers the most beautiful view in Rio de Janeiro. Access is via the same route as Corcovado; just follow the signs to the lookout. The area lacks policing, so prioritize daytime visits when it’s busier.
On the opposite side of the lookout, there’s a heliport with another breathtaking view.
7. Lage Park
Lage Park, at the foot of Corcovado Hill, enchants with its 52 hectares of greenery, cultural programs, and art.
Its structure is stunning, surrounded by lush greenery and native Atlantic Forest animals. Entry is free, including for the many monkeys that roam the park.
8. Museum of Tomorrow
Inaugurated in December 2015, the Museum of Tomorrow has welcomed over 3 million visitors and is one of Rio’s most beloved attractions. Focused on science and technology, it explores the opportunities and challenges humanity will face in the coming decades from the perspectives of sustainability and coexistence.
9. Watch the Sunset at Arpoador
Arpoador is both a beach and a rocky formation in Ipanema. It’s home to one of Rio’s best sunsets. The beach area is small, about 500 meters long, so space is limited.
Cazuza sang, “I wander in the deserted moon of Arpoador’s rocks,” referencing this magical place with a stunning view. Take a moment to climb the rocks on the left side and enjoy not only the view but also the sunset. It’s breathtaking!
10. Helicopter Ride in Rio
You can also see Rio de Janeiro from another perspective—by helicopter. Several companies offer tours lasting about 30 minutes, flying over major beaches like Barra da Tijuca, Leblon, Ipanema, Copacabana, as well as Arpoador, Sugarloaf, Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, Jockey Club, Botanical Garden, Christ the Redeemer, and more.
Research the company thoroughly to ensure reliability. Air transport is serious business! Ensure the company follows international safety standards and that aircraft maintenance complies with manufacturer recommendations and Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC).
11. Chat with the Drummond Statue
Who hasn’t joked around with a statue? On Copacabana’s boardwalk, near the fort, is the famous Carlos Drummond de Andrade statue.
It’s common to see lines of people waiting to sit next to the statue, whether to take photos, “chat,” or simply enjoy the view with the poet. Though born in Minas Gerais, Drummond was honored with the statue for spending much of his life in Rio.
12. Visit Maracanã Stadium
The setting for major global football matches, Maracanã has witnessed so many historic moments that it’s become a tourist attraction in Rio de Janeiro. One highlight is Pelé’s 1,000th goal in 1969, scored in this Brazilian football temple.
If you love football, include it in your itinerary. You can book a guided tour or attend a match, which also grants access and the thrill of watching an official game. Prioritize a classic carioca match for the full experience!
13. Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden
Founded on June 13, 1808, the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden was established by Prince Regent D. João to create a gunpowder factory and a garden for acclimating plant species from other parts of the world.
Today, the Botanical Garden Research Institute, renamed in 1995, is a federal agency linked to the Ministry of the Environment and one of the world’s leading research centers in botany and biodiversity conservation.
The garden features various plant species, including rarities from the Amazon and Atlantic Forests. There’s also an orchidarium, cactus garden, Mexican and Japanese gardens, and more. Wear comfortable shoes and explore!
14. Bike Around Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon
Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon has over 7 km of bike paths, so take advantage! As you ride, you’ll discover different, stunning angles of the area. You’ll encounter all kinds of people: couples, walkers, people lying on the grass with headphones, picnicking, or walking their dogs.
15. Take a Photo at Pedra do Telégrafo
Pedra do Telégrafo attracts tourists for its optical illusion, allowing for unique photos that make it seem like you’re on the edge of a cliff, depending on the angle. The hike to get there isn’t too difficult but can be tiring.
At 354 meters high, the hike takes about an hour, but be prepared to wait for your photo opportunity, as everyone has the same goal. Some have waited over two hours to grab the rock and take a cool shot.
Located in Barra de Guaratiba, it’s part of Pedra Branca State Park. The trail starts at the staircase of Nossa Senhora das Dores Church, in front of Praia Grande, known as the Fishermen’s Path.
16. Rio de Janeiro Aquarium
Rio is home to South America’s largest aquarium. Called AquaRio, it spans 26,000 m² with five floors and 28 tanks holding 4.5 million liters of saltwater. About 3,000 animals from 350 species can be seen in various marine ecosystems.
The main attraction is the Oceanic Exhibit, with 3.5 million liters of water and seven meters deep, where visitors can walk through an underwater tunnel or even dive with fish, rays, and sharks.
17. Enjoy a Show at Circo Voador
Circo Voador was once a cornerstone of Rio’s nightlife in Lapa. Its infrastructure hosts about 2,500 people and serves as a stage for various musical expressions.
Artists like Chico Buarque, Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, Paralamas do Sucesso, Maria Rita, Planet Hemp, Tame Impala, and Franz Ferdinand have performed there.
Nearby, Fundição Progresso is another popular music venue, along with various performance spaces, bars, and restaurants.
18. Etnias Mural
The Etnias Mural is a graffiti artwork on a wall in central Rio de Janeiro. Measuring 15 meters high and 170 meters long, it was painted by artist Eduardo Kobra on an old warehouse facade. Find it at the Parada dos Navios/Valongo VLT stop on Orla Conde.
The mural’s theme is the unity of the world’s peoples and the diversity of ethnic groups across five continents, created for the 2016 Olympics. It’s titled “We Are All One.”
19. Hike to Morro dos Dois Irmãos
Start your adventure at Vidigal favela, near Leblon. At the entrance, vans and mototaxis take tourists to the trailhead for R$5. You can walk, but it’s a steep climb. The hike takes about an hour, depending on your fitness and pace, with some steep sections. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
The reward is a stunning 360° view of the city, from Barra da Tijuca’s beaches to the South Zone, Christ the Redeemer, and a panoramic vista.
Don’t forget to bring water, especially in the heat!
20. Hang Gliding at Pedra Bonita
Rio’s stunning landscape makes it perfect for hang gliding, offering incredible aerial views. Pedra Bonita’s ramp is a popular spot for this activity.
The flight costs around R$600 per person for an 8-12 minute ride, depending on wind conditions. Photos and videos with a GoPro are usually included. Confirm details and updated prices with specialized companies.
21. Eat Globo Biscuits on Rio’s Beaches
It’s common to encounter vendors selling the iconic Globo biscuits while walking along Rio’s beaches.
These biscuits are a carioca icon, consumed everywhere from the beach to traffic stops. Their packaging appears on various souvenirs like bags, t-shirts, beach wraps, and keychains sold around the city.
22. Enjoy the View at Bar da Laje in Vidigal
Bar da Laje is famous for its location at the top of Vidigal favela, offering one of Rio’s best views. Its feijoada is renowned but can be pricey.
The bar is at the top of the hill, accessible only by mototaxi or van for about R$5. Regular taxis or Ubers are unlikely to go up. Locals provide the transport, familiar with the community.
23. Ruins Park
Visitors to Ruins Park enjoy one of the most beautiful views in Santa Teresa, central Rio. One side offers a view of Guanabara Bay, while the other overlooks downtown.
This public park is located in the ruins of the home of Laurinda Santos Lobo, known as the “marshal of elegance.” It hosts varied cultural programs.
24. Visit the Royal Portuguese Reading Room
The Royal Portuguese Reading Room is a library renowned for housing the largest collection of Portuguese works outside Portugal. Its stunning structure has earned it a spot on Time’s list of the world’s most beautiful libraries.
Built in 1887, the building holds over 350,000 works, including a first edition of “Os Lusíadas” (1572) by Luís de Camões.
25. Visit the Rio Art Museum (MAR)
Inaugurated in 2013, the Rio Art Museum (MAR) is maintained through a partnership between public institutions and private initiatives. With eight exhibition rooms across 15,000 m², it aims to preserve and promote carioca and Brazilian cultural history through art and education.
26. Boat Tour in Guanabara Bay
Not everyone knows, but a boat tour in Guanabara Bay can be an unforgettable experience. You’ll see Rio’s main attractions and historical sites from a different perspective, with a guide providing information and trivia. The route includes the Navy Cultural Space, Santos Dumont Airport, Naval School, Flamengo Park, Sugarloaf, Museum of Tomorrow, Ilha das Cobras, Navy Arsenal, and more!
27. Explore the CCBB Book Collection
The Banco do Brasil Cultural Center (CCBB) in central Rio is perfect for those who love books, history, and culture. Established in 1931, its 2,200 m² space houses over 125,000 works and a reading room for about 100 people. Employees and registered public members can borrow books.
28. Explore Catacumba Natural Park
Inaugurated in 1979, Catacumba Natural Park is ideal for hiking enthusiasts, from beginners to experts. Located opposite Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, it’s perfect for enjoying nature and tranquility. The park offers several lookouts with stunning views of the lagoon’s surroundings.
29. Visit São Bento Monastery
The São Bento Monastery in central Rio is one of the city’s and country’s main colonial art monuments. Founded in 1590 by two monks from Bahia’s monastery, its interior boasts opulent gold-covered architecture and incredible sculptures.
30. Enjoy Rio from a Ferris Wheel
Rio has Latin America’s second-largest Ferris wheel, Yup Star, at 88 meters, just behind São Paulo’s 91-meter wheel. It offers a unique view of the Marvelous City, though not as stunning as those from Christ the Redeemer or Sugarloaf. Still, it’s worth a visit for the ride and proximity to attractions like AquaRio and the Museum of Tomorrow.
31. Have Breakfast at Confeitaria Colombo
With over 100 years of history, Confeitaria Colombo is a traditional bakery in central Rio, with branches in Copacabana, Barra da Tijuca, and Galeão Airport. A global site named it one of the world’s 10 most beautiful cafés! The space itself is worth the visit—try classic dishes like Pingo de Tocha or pastel de nata.
32. Visit Copacabana Fort
Copacabana Fort, located on Avenida Atlântica at Posto 6, is a key postcard of Rio, receiving about 10,000 visitors monthly. For the best experience, opt for the full visit, including the fort’s interior and historical-military museum. The restricted visit covers only external areas.
33. Shop at São Cristóvão Fair
São Cristóvão Fair is a vibrant carioca spot for shopping, eating, and fun, offering Northeastern crafts, food, drinks, folklore, and music. Located in São Cristóvão, it’s easily accessible with parking for 800 vehicles. Over 300,000 people visit monthly, exploring 700+ stalls with xote, baião, repente, and maracatu music.
34. Ride the Santa Teresa Tram
The Santa Teresa tram ride is a must for your itinerary! Few places capture Rio’s essence like this neighborhood, with its history, gastronomy, bohemia, culture, and nature, all with privileged views. Cariocas take pride in its hills and mansions, reflecting their history.
35. Discover Gigoia Island
Unknown even to many cariocas, Gigoia Island is a peaceful retreat in the city. A two-minute ferry from Barra da Tijuca transports you to a car-free, quiet world—except for live music at bars on weekends. Despite its size, the island offers great dining and even guesthouses. Nature lovers can take boat tours through the “carioca Pantanal,” spotting birds and alligators.
Gigoia Island, a hidden paradise in Barra da Tijuca
36. Walk the Cláudio Coutinho Trail in Urca
The Cláudio Coutinho Trail, also known as Caminho do Bem-te-Vi or Estrada do Costão, is perfect for walking or running. Located at Praia Vermelha in Urca, it offers safety, beauty, tranquility, fresh air, and stunning sea and mountain views.
37. Day Trip to the Lagos Region
The Lagos Region boasts some of the state’s most beautiful beaches, with crystal-clear waters, white sand, and pleasant weather. About 250 km or two hours by car from Rio, it’s ideal for a day trip. Some hire agency tours (vendors are common on Copacabana’s boardwalk), while others rent cars for flexibility. Arraial do Cabo guarantees unforgettable moments.
Photo: Saveiro Don Juan
38. Visit Quinta da Boa Vista
A true gem, Quinta da Boa Vista is one of Rio’s largest urban parks, spanning 155,000 m² in São Cristóvão. Its gardens, designed by French landscaper Auguste Glaziou, are perfect for picnics, a favorite among cariocas and tourists. The park also features sports courts, artificial caves, and pedal boat or kayak rides on its lakes.
39. Carnival in Rio de Janeiro
Allegorical floats, extravagant costumes, and samba schools—our vibrant Carnival, considered the world’s best! The five-day event, usually in February, draws crowds, making everything pricier. Plan for samba school parades, masquerade balls, street blocs, and more.
Initially seen as folklore, samba schools gained prominence for their unique rhythm, leading to competitions to determine the most beautiful and lively school.
Photo: AFP
How to Get to Rio de Janeiro
Rio’s main entry points for tourists are its airports and main bus station. The city has two primary airports: Galeão, farther from the center but with transportation options, and Santos Dumont, centrally located with easy access to major neighborhoods.
The Rio de Janeiro Bus Station, near downtown, offers ample access to neighborhoods. A municipal bus terminal to the right of the station has lines to most parts of the city. Taxi drivers may approach you at the exit—compare prices to see what’s best for your budget!
Transportation in Rio de Janeiro
Technology has made getting around easier. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and 99 (often cheaper) are widely used in Rio.
A trip from Santos Dumont Airport to a Copacabana hotel, for example, takes about 20 minutes by Uber and costs around R$20, though dynamic pricing during peak times or events may increase this.
For budget travelers, Rio offers metro, VLT (light rail), and buses. Itaú bikes are another option, but only practical without luggage.
Climate in Rio de Janeiro
Rio offers plenty to explore year-round. The average annual temperature is 24°C, with cooler, less rainy weather from June to August. In summer (December to March), temperatures can exceed 40°C. Prioritize accommodations with air conditioning.
Map of Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro is the capital of the state of the same name and Brazil’s most famous city abroad, known simply as “Rio” or the “Marvelous City.”
Don’t confuse the city with the state. Destinations like Arraial do Cabo, Cabo Frio, Angra dos Reis, and Paraty belong to the state of Rio de Janeiro, often causing confusion.
Check out the map of Rio de Janeiro and its main attractions below:
Where to Stay and Hotels in Rio de Janeiro
When choosing a hotel in Rio, understand that the city is large, and your accommodation’s location will determine whether you need transportation to reach attractions.
For the historic part, stay in downtown Rio, which is well-located with good transport options. It’s also close to Santos Dumont Airport. Santa Teresa is popular for its often affordable prices.
Lapa is great for nightlife, with bars offering everything from pop to samba. Stay vigilant with your belongings, especially at night when some streets are quieter.
To enjoy the beaches, stay in the South Zone (Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon), a lively area with restaurants, malls, and shops. You’ll be steps from the sea and have easy metro access to other areas.