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 traveller’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 travelling 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.
Visit Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro
Copacabana
Copacabana Beach and Bairro Peixoto 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.
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Reviewed on 26 Mar 2025
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
See the place that inspired a famous song about a bikini at this upscale beach.
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.
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
The Best of Rio in a Full Day Tour - Corcovado, Sugar Loaf, Selaron and more
Rio De Janeiro: Half-Day Rocinha Favela Walking Tour
Experience Hang Gliding or Paragliding in Rio
Rio de Janeiro: Sunset Sailing Tour
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
