Best things to do in Rio de Janeiro
Find out more about those top places in Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit and Top Things to Do
Looking for a place that’s a little bit “wow” and a little bit “whoa,” with a dash of samba, beach vibes, and towering statues? Well, buckle up, because Rio de Janeiro is calling, and it’s got everything you need to make your Instagram pop and your heart race.
Rio isn’t just another city; it’s a marvelous city (literally, that’s its nickname). With over 6 million locals and a never-ending flow of visitors, this Brazilian hotspot combines breathtaking views, vibrant culture, and a sun-soaked beach atmosphere that will have you singing along to bossa nova in no time.
Top Attractions in Rio de Janeiro
Christ the Redeemer
First things first: Christ the Redeemer. You know that giant statue overlooking the city? Yep, the one that makes you feel both tiny and awestruck at the same time. Perched on Corcovado Mountain, this iconic figure isn’t just a symbol of Brazil—it’s the perfect selfie backdrop. So, get your camera ready, take in the panoramic views, and embrace the “I’m in Rio” moment.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Not sweet like the candy, but equally as sweet in views: Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) offers an epic 360-degree look at the city. Take the cable car, and try not to scream if you’re afraid of heights. You can see Rio’s entire coastline, and the view of the bay will make you wonder why anyone would ever leave this place.
Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches
Sure, Copacabana is famous, but Ipanema might just be its cooler cousin. Both beaches offer gorgeous sands and a vibrant vibe, but if you’re looking for a little more class and the chance to flaunt your beach bod, Ipanema’s where you want to be. The sunsets here are legendary—don’t forget to snap that #sunsetlovers shot.
Maracanã Stadium
Maracanã Stadium is to football what the Mona Lisa is to art. Seriously. If you’re a fan of the beautiful game, this is a pilgrimage site. Whether you catch a live match (where you can probably shout “GOL!” along with 50,000 other people) or just take a tour, it’s a must-do for any sports fanatic.
AquaRio
Who says you can’t enjoy a little aquatic life in a city known for its beaches? AquaRio, South America’s largest marine aquarium, is the perfect family outing where you can pretend to be a mermaid, meet sea turtles, or just admire the fish that aren’t likely to photobomb your beach selfies.
Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro
Explore Santa Teresa
If Rio had a “hipster neighborhood,” it would definitely be Santa Teresa. Think winding streets, old-school charm, colorful murals, and some of the best food trucks you’ve ever seen. And let’s not forget the Selarón Steps—the rainbow staircase that’s basically Rio’s version of the “I was here” tattoo.
Discover Tijuca National Park
If you’re the type who likes to go from sipping caipirinhas to sweating it out on a trail, Tijuca National Park is your dream come true. As the world’s largest urban rainforest, it’s home to waterfalls, wildlife, and the chance to feel like you’re in the middle of an adventure movie (minus the zombies, we hope).
Visit the Lapa Arches and Enjoy the Nightlife
During the day, the Arcos da Lapa (Lapa Arches) are a cool piece of history. But by night? They turn into the heart of Rio’s nightlife. You’ll find live samba, dancing, and an energy that won’t quit. So grab a drink, find your groove, and let the night take you where it may. Just be prepared to dance, even if you think you can’t.
Day Trip to Paquetá Island
Looking for a little escape from the hustle and bustle? Hop on a ferry and head to Paquetá Island, where there are no cars, only relaxed vibes and some of the cutest colonial houses you’ll ever see. It’s the perfect antidote to Rio’s party scene if you need a break, but still want that postcard-perfect view.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it: Rio de Janeiro, where every street feels like a carnival, every view is a potential wallpaper, and the people are just as warm as the weather. Whether you're scaling mountains, lounging on beaches, dancing in the streets, or just eating your weight in pastéis, Rio’s got something for everyone.
Just remember to pack sunscreen, your dance moves, and a big smile—because in Rio, every day is an adventure waiting to happen. Welcome to the Marvelous City—get ready to fall in love.
-
Christ the Redeemer
Easily the city’s most popular tourist attraction, the mere image of the Statue sends thoughts of Brazil to the minds of people. Located at the top of Corcovado mountain in the Tijuca Forest National Park, it was constructed between 1922 and 1931 - the statue is a depiction of Christ with is hands spread wide safeguarding the city. Made of reinforce concrete and soapstone, it stands at 700 meters high.
-
Maracanã
Adored by lovers of the round leather game, the Maracanã Football Stadium is considered a symbol of football. Officially known as the Mario Filho stadium, the Maracanã was opened to the public in 1950 and it remains the biggest stadium in Brazil even though its capacity has been reduced to 78,838. Since its establishment it has played host to a number of key football games – it was the venue for the 1950 FIFA World Cup, 2016 Summer Olympics and 2014 World Cup. Best to visit the stadium during one of the local match days to experience how loud the Maracanã can be.
-
Rio Carnival
Brazil is well-known for its carnivals and festivals, if you are a party lover then Rio is definitely for you. Of its numerous celebrations, the most recognized is the Rio Festival - considered to be the biggest festival in the world with over 2 million people attended regularly. Starting as far back as the 1723, the carnival occurs yearly before the fasting season of lent. The Rio Carnival is quite extravagance filled with adornments, floats and revelers – it often involves a plethora of activities including music, dance and parades.
-
Rio Beaches (Copacabana)
If there is one thing you will find in surplus in Rio de Janeiro are beaches, no matter where you are planning to stay over your visit there is sure to be a beach around you. Although with several beaches to choose from, picking one can be a bit difficult – one of the most visited beaches in the city is the Copacabana. Located at the Atlantic shore in Rio, the beach extends for over 4 km and is lined with restaurants and kiosks.
-
Tijuca Forest National Park
The city of Rio was once surrounded by a massive rainforest, but today the Tijuca is all that remains. Covering a massive 32 square kilometers, it is the first replanted forest in the world – it was started in the 1850s when most of the land was cleared and developed to grow sugar and coffee. Claimed to be the world’s largest urban forest, it has a number of natural and man made attractions including several waterfalls, flora and fauna, caves, and restaurants. It is also home to the famous Christ the Redeemer statue.
-
AquaRio
Known to be the largest aquarium in South America, the AquaRio is located in Gamboa in the port zone of the city. It has a total of 5 floors and 28 tanks featuring over 8,000 animals of 350 species. One special thing about the AquaRio that you won’t find in most aquariums is its “Sleeping in AquaRio” where visitors can spend a night in one of its tunnel tanks simulating sleeping in the middle of the ocean.
-
Sugarloaf Mountain
The Sugarloaf Mountain is one of the favorite parts of the city for tourism, named Sugarloaf Mountain because of its striking resemblance to the shape of tradition refined sugar loaf. The site has a cable car that goes all the way to its 396 m peak offering a panoramic view of the city. It is a good location for rock climbing as well.
-
Rio Art Museum
Located in the heart of the city’s port district right next to the Praca Mauá, the Rio Art Museum is formed of two building - the Palacete Dom João VI which is joint on the fifth floor by a walkway to the Escola de Olhar (School of Vision). It features eight exhibition halls formed from several donations and private collection, it is a perfect place to witness the best of local and international artworks available in Rio.
