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About this guide
Rio de Janeiro is where every heartbeat is a samba rhythm and every view is a masterpiece. Nestled between lush mountains and breathtaking beaches, Rio beckons adventurous travelers with an infectious energy. The nightlife is unlike any other in South America with plenty of Afro-Brazilian clubs to vibe throughout the night. From the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue on Corcovado Mountain to the beats of Carnival, the city is a kaleidoscope of culture, color, and celebration.
- Best time to travel: December to March (peak season), June to August (off-season), September to November and April to June (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Brasília Time Zone (BRT)
- Currency: Brazilian Real, BRL (R$)
- Noteworthy: Rio de Janeiro Carnival (February), Festa Junina (June), Rio International Film Festival (October), Réveillon New Year's Eve (December)
- Best for: Couples and Friend Trips, Food & Drink Tours, Beach Getaways, Festival Lovers, Entertainment and Nightlife, History & Architecture Buffs
Get Away: Getting To and Around Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
By Air
Travel to Rio de Janeiro by booking a direct flight from the nearest major international airport to Galeão International Airport or Santos Dumont Airport. Always check travel advisories before booking a trip to visit Rio de Janeiro's stunning coastline.
By Car
While car rentals are available in Rio de Janeiro, navigating the city's traffic can be challenging for visitors, due to congestion and unfamiliar roads. Using taxis or rideshares to explore all Rio offers is often more convenient.
By Public Transit
Travelers can explore Rio de Janeiro using the city's extensive public transportation system, including buses and the metro. Purchase a prepaid card to reach different areas of the city that are not directly accessible by the subway.
Explore Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Foot
Walking is an excellent way to soak in Rio de Janeiro’s vibrant and scenic beauty along the iconic Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. Visitors can map their way through pedestrian-friendly streets to reach local attractions and restaurants.
Quick facts
Brasília Time Zone (BRT)
Brazilian Real, BRL (R$)
Portugeuse
Good For
Beach Getaways
Entertainment and Festival Lovers
Food and Drink Tours
History and Architecture Buffs
Keep in mind
- Rio de Janeiro Carnival (February)
- Festa Junina (June)
- Rio International Film Festival (October)
- Réveillon New Year's Eve (December)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places to Eat In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, the menu at Dida Bar & Restaurant bridges between African and Brazilian cuisine. They also serve delicious snacks and ice-cold beer to complement the live music for a fun night out on the town.
Casa Omolokum celebrates African-based religion through food, art, and culture at the Odara bar. The ever-changing Afro-Brazilian menu with Xinxim chicken, abará, House famous acarajé, and more.
Afro Gourmet celebrates and honors African cuisine's influence on Brazilian food using tropical ingredients and cultural cooking techniques. The menu includes creamy Canjiquinha with roasted pork ribs, hausa rice, and tapioca dadinho.
Since 2013, Casa do Nando in Rio de Janeiro has served guests some of the city's best feijoadas and chicken. This downtown restaurant embodies the spirit of Quilombo settlements founded by enslaved Black people in Brazil.
Nestled in Rio's artsy Lapa neighborhood, Lilia Restaurante offers a beautiful fine dining experience crafted by Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand awarded Chef Lucio Vieira. The daily menu serves farm-to-table dishes like black Angus chorizo, baked garlic Calabrian potatoes, and chocolate honey caramel mousse.
Aprazível features local menu favorites like sea croquettes, Brazilian cheese bread, and carnival octopus with ratatouille. The tropical vibes bring a lighter atmosphere to this indulgent Brazilian foodie spot.
Stay
Stay: Places to Stay In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The Fasano Hotel Rio de Janeiro highlights Brazilian architecture and the Bossa Nova era on Ipanema's captivating waterfront. The hotel includes high-end amenities like an on-site infinity pool, a luxury spa, and the award-winning Baretto-Londra restaurant.
This charming beachside loft is two blocks from the beach and the subway in the heart of Copacabana. With restaurants, pharmacies, and a supermarket, guests have everything needed for a comfortable week-long stay.
This sleek oceanfront apartment in Rio de Janeiro is a modern and spacious Airbnb with ocean and forest views. As a cozy couple getaway or a friend group trip, the friendly hosts are ready to assist with local recommendations and transportation services.
The Casablanca Mediterranean-style beachfront house has a well-equipped kitchen, stunning balcony sea views, and a jacuzzi. In the exclusive Leblon neighborhood, guests have complimentary bicycles to explore Rio's beaches with local dining options.
The Hotel Aproador is a sophisticated natural meets urban stay close to the beach and central neighborhoods. There’s an on-site wellness spa, private gym, yoga sessions, triangular pool, and an on-site restaurant overlooking the Ipanema Sea.
The cozy eco-lodge-style Casa Pedra Bonita Hotel has tranquil rainforest views of the Grumari and Barra de Guaratiba beaches. At this boutique hotel, guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast, a stunning terrace with a rock pool, and 24/7 security.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Experience authentic dishes and tasty cocktails during the boozy Brazilian cooking class. There’s also an optional supermarket tour and all-you-can-eat food and drinks in a safe air-conditioned studio.
The Ginga Tropical Brazilian Samba and Folklore Show blends samba and folklore to bring the essence of Carnival to life. Ideal for newcomers, this famous high-energy live entertainment experience is a glimpse into the colorful chaos of Rio.
The helicopter tour of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro showcases one of Brazil's most iconic landmarks. For an enchanting experience exploring the city, this is an unforgettable panoramic flight.
A professional bilingual guide shares the history and provides lunch on this Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande tour. With over 365 islands and 40 pristine beaches, guests can enjoy the crystalline waters, vibrant corals, and diverse marine life.
Established in 1808 by Portuguese prince regent D. João, the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Gardens is a living testament to Brazil’s biodiversity. Today, the vital research institute under the Ministry of the Environment contributes to global botany and biodiversity conservation.
For sports enthusiasts, the legendary Maracanã Stadium hosts iconic international and Brazilian soccer moments. With new bars, snack areas, and comfortable retractable chairs, the stadium is a fun excursion to book in advance.
Book a visit to CCBB Rio de Janeiro to journey through cultural art and Brazilian history. Located in the former financial district, this educational center boasts exhibition rooms, theaters, a library, a cinema, and a video room.
Experience the vibrant rhythm of Rio at the non-profit dance studio, Baile Charme Madureira. The legendary Brazilian R&B party held at Viaduto de Madureira has the best DJs on the Black music scene with free classes on Rio's historic dance scene.