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sights like the statue of Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain and Maracanã Stadium, there is so much to do and see here that you could easily spend a week entertaining yourself in Rio de Janeiro. What to do in Rio de Janeiro? This article takes you through the highlights of this unforgettable city in Brazil.
1. Go to the top of the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain
No visit to Rio de Janeiro is complete without admiring the spectacular views from Sugarloaf Mountain, or as the locals call it, Pão de Açúcar. This iconic mountain, which rising from Guanabara Bay, offers panoramic views that will leave you breathless.
Begin your adventure with a cable car ride from Praia Vermelha to the top of the first hill, Morro da Urca. This alone offers stunning views of the city and the ocean. But the real highlight is the second ride to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain itself. From here, the city stretches out below you, with iconic landmarks such as the Christ the Redeemer statue and the endless coastline of Copacabana.
Tip: pre-order your entrance ticket and a ticket for the cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. Dhe best times to go to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain are in the morning (least crowds) and during sunset when you can see the city bathed in golden light.
2. Admire 1 of the 7 wonders of the world: Christ the Redeemer
We probably don't have to explain to you why the statue of Christ the Redeemer belongs on your bucket list when you travel to Rio de Janeiro. The colossal statue, which towers high on Corcovado Mountain, is not only one of the seven new wonders of the world, but is also the symbol of the city.
The journey to the summit begins through the Tijuca Forest, the world's largest urban rainforest. You can do this either on foot or by car. You can also join a tour. Once at the top, you are welcomed by the impressive statue of Christ extending his arms over the city, as a gesture of protection and peace. From this height, you can admire Rio in all its glory: from the golden beaches of Ipanema to the hustle and bustle of downtown and the green hills beyond. The view at sunrise or sunset is simply breathtaking, with the light magically illuminating the city.
If you are going to the statue on your own, buy your entrance tickets online. For the various tour options and prices, please visit GetYourGuide.
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3. Feast your eyes on the viewpoint Mirante Dona Marta
The statue of Christ the Redeemer is of course on your list to visit in Rio, but for a great view óf the statue you actually have to go somewhere else. And that is the viewpoint Mirante Dona Marta.
This vantage point can be found at an altitude of 360 meters in the Tijuca Forest and offers an insane view that you can hardly get anywhere else in the city. You might have the best view of the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue here. But Sugarloaf Mountain, the shimmering Guanabara Bay and the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema are also stretched out before you like a painting.
And extra nice: Mirante Dona Marta is less crowded than other tourist attractions in Rio de Janeiro, so it is often quieter here and you can photograph and take in the views at your leisure.
4. Stroll through the lively Lapa neighborhood
Lapa is the beating heart of Rio's vibrant nightlife. As such, it is a very fun neighborhood to visit. Lapa is known for its colorful street art, iconic arched bridges and lively atmosphere, making it the place to experience true carioca culture (a carioca is someone from Rio de Janeiro, which is what the locals are called).
By far the most famous sights in Lapa are the Arcos da Lapa and the Selarón steps. In the evening, Lapa really comes alive. The streets fill with live music, dancers and street vendors offering delicious Brazilian snacks. Step inside one of the many samba clubs and get carried away by the rhythmic sounds. A fun place in Lapa to go out is Circo Voador.
Be careful in Lapa and look around carefully. Especially at night, there is a shadowy atmosphere in some places, especially around the Arcos da Lapa, the monumental aqueduct. Want to sample the vibrant nightlife in Lapa? You certainly can! The neighborhood is a tourist attraction and the joints are very cozy! However, we do recommend taking the Uber to and from Lapa.
5. Climb the colorful steps of Escadaria Selarón
The Selarón Steps, no doubt you have heard of them. This world-famous staircase, located between the neighborhoods of Lapa and Santa Teresa, is a true work of art and a tribute to the city. It consists of mosaics of brightly colored tiles from around the world. Chilean artist Jorge Selarón began this colorful project in 1990 and decorated the 215 steps with more than 2,000 tiles from 60 different countries.
As you climb the stairs, you are surrounded by tiles that each tell their own story. Each tile has been hand-selected and some have been donated by visitors. Did you know that you can also spot some Dutch tiles here, for example?
6. Explore the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa
One of the nicest neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro is Santa Teresa. Located on a hill in Rio de Janeiro, this charming neighborhood is the creative heart of the city and a haven for artists, writers and musicians. This bohemian neighborhood is known for its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial houses and breathtaking views of the city. The neighborhood especially reminded us a lot of Portugal thinking!
Stroll the winding streets and discover a mix of art galleries, artisan stores and cozy cafes where time seems to stand still. Also take a ride on the historic streetcar, the "Bonde," which takes you past the most beautiful places in Santa Teresa, including the Parque das Ruínas, a former mansion that now serves as a cultural center with stunning views of Rio.
A fun hot spot in the Santa Teresa neighborhood is Bar do Mineiro. Here you eat typical Brazilian dishes such as feijoada (a stew of beans and various meats).
7. Visit the Museu do Amanhã (Museum of Tomorrow).
To get right to the point: we are not necessarily the biggest museum fans. But it Museu do Amanhã Surely is a museum we recommend visiting! Located on Rio de Janeiro's waterfront, Museu do Amanhã focuses on science, technology and art. This groundbreaking museum, designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, is both an architectural marvel to see from the outside and also a center for sustainable innovation when you enter the museum.
The museum takes you on a journey through human history and the possible future scenarios of our planet, with exhibits that explore themes such as climate change, biodiversity and technological advances. The interactive displays encourage you to think about the impact of your choices on tomorrow's world. Outside the museum, its beautiful location on Guanabara Bay offers great views of the city and surrounding mountains.
The entrance fee for Museu do Amanhã is R$ 30 (in 2024). This is about €5 per person.
8. Stroll through Jardim Botânico do Rio de Janeiro
An oasis of calm in the middle of the bustling city, that is the Jardim Botânico do Rio de Janeiro. Established in 1808, this sprawling botanical garden is home to more than 8,000 plant species, including rare and endangered specimens.
As you walk through the serene paths, you are surrounded by a varied landscape of tall palm trees, colorful flowers and lush tropical plants. One of the highlights is the impressive double row of king palms that tower above you like a green cathedral. The park also offers several beautiful ponds, shady spots and themed gardens, including a beautiful Japanese garden. You will also find an important scientific research center in the Jardim Botânico. You can also visit several tours of Jardim Botânico do Rio de Janeiro books.
9. Unwind at Parque Lage
Another topper of a botanical garden is Parque Lage. You'll find lakes, caves with aquariums, a European-style garden and a magnificent, 19th-century mansion that now hosts art exhibitions. The historic building is a picture to behold. In the patio you will find the Plage Café restaurant. Take a seat here for a nice cup of coffee while enjoying the beautiful green surroundings.
Stroll through the green labyrinth of trails, past exotic plants, caves and a small aqueduct. A visit to this park is an ideal way to spend a relaxing day in Rio.
10. Stroll on Copacabana Beach and Ipanema Beach.
The world-famous beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana, who doesn't know them? If you can experience the local life of the cariocas anywhere, it is along this vast coastline. As such, these two beaches are essential stops during your visit to Rio de Janeiro.
As in the Lapa area, on Ipanema Beach and Copacabana Beach, it is also true that you have to be careful and watch your belongings. Especially on these tourist beaches there are many pickpockets. In the Netherlands, you may be used to leaving your valuables on the beach when you take a dip in the sea, but this is not recommended here. Make sure someone stays with your belongings. Also, do not take expensive things, such as cameras and drones, to the beach.
Copacabana Beach
Copacabana is perhaps the most famous beach in the world. The promenade was designed by Brazilian architect Roberto Burle Marx. Many celebrities, such as Marlene Dietrich and Lady Diana stayed at the Copacabana Palace Hotel. The beach along the crescent-shaped bay is dozens of meters wide and is insanely situated among rock formations and swaying palm trees. It is always busy here: from sunrise to well after sunset. Spot locals surfing, playing foot volleyball, soaking up the sun and jogging along the boulevard's famous mosaic pavement, while sipping a caipirinha at one of the cozy beach bars.
Ipanema Beach
Ipanema is almost as famous (and as beautiful) as Copacabana - thanks in part to the Bossa Nova classic "The Girl from Ipanema. The beach begins at Arpoador, with a small park and panoramic viewpoint, and ends at the fancy neighborhood of Leblon.
Ipanema is known for its lively atmosphere and trendy beach crowd. The sunsets here are legendary and should be witnessed at least once in Rio. Along the waterfront you will also find beach volleyball players, capoeira dancers, and countless vendors tempting you with fresh coconuts and local delicacies. Ipanema is not only a very nice beach to relax on, but also a meeting place where Rio de Janeiro really comes alive.
11. Drink a cocktail in the hip, exclusive neighborhood of Leblon
Leblon is one of Rio de Janeiro's most affluent neighborhoods. It is especially popular because it is located on Ipanema Beach, but another highlight is the Mirante do Leblon, a vantage point where you have a breathtaking view of the coastline with its swaying palm trees. But why the district is really worth a visit is because of its gastronomy. The affluence in Leblon is particularly reflected in the number of trendy hotspots and for those who love fine dining, the district is the place to be.
The nicest restaurants and bars (some of which we visited) in Leblon were CT Boucherie and Chez Claude (both by famed chef Claude Troisgros), Boteco Belmonte and Liz Cocktail & Co.
12. Watch a soccer match at Maracanã Stadium
Are you a soccer fan? Then of course you have to go to the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. This iconic stadium, once the largest in the world, is a sacred place for soccer fans of Brazilian clubs Fluminense, Flamengo, Botafogo, and Vasco da Gama. Several historic moments in soccer history have taken place here, such as the the 1950 and 2014 World Cup finals. As soon as you step into the stadium, you can feel the passion and energy of the cariocas.
There are daily tours of Maracanã Stadium, but even more fun, of course, is attending a game! See all options and compare prices on GetYourGuide.
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13. Celebrate carnival in Rio de Janeiro
Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, it is an unparalleled experience! As the largest and most famous carnival celebration in the world, it attracts millions of visitors every year who all want to participate in this vibrant celebration. Expect a colorful spectacle of music, dance and pure joy that grips the entire city.
The highlight is undoubtedly the impressive parade at the Sambódromo, where Rio's best samba schools compete for the title. You'll feast your eyes on the magnificent floats and thousands of dancers in brilliant, colorful costumes. Did you know that the floats and costumes take months, up to sometimes a year, to make?
But the carnival is not just limited to the Sambódromo. The entire city turns into a giant party with street parties taking place in every neighborhood. During these so-called "blocos," you immerse yourself in the rhythmic beats of samba, dance with the locals and actually have a great time all over dr city. Who doesn't get happy with all the colorful outfits and happy faces? Carnival in Rio is an experience you will never forget.
What is the best place to stay in Rio de Janeiro?
When visiting Rio de Janeiro, it is important to choose a fine and, above all, safe base. Urca, Botafogo, Ipanema and Leblon are the best neighborhoods to stay in.
Although these neighborhoods are generally safe, it is still important to be cautious, especially at night. Stay on the main streets, use reliable cabs (such as Uber) and always keep a close eye on your valuables.
Urca
Urca, located at the foot of Sugar Loaf Mountain, is a quiet and charming neighborhood. It is an ideal place for if you are looking for a relaxing stay in Rio de Janeiro with a beautiful view of the bay. A fine accommodation is Apto 3q Urca vista Baía e Cristo.
Botafogo
The place we stayed during our visit to Rio de Janeiro was Botafogo. The Botafogo neighborhood, with its trendy cafes and restaurants, offers a central location with easy access to both the sights and the beach. You have both inexpensive, and more expensive options here. For example, you'll find the simple, but clean Ibis Budget Hotel and the cozy boutique hotel Plaza Spania Boutique Hotel, which was very well reviewed.
Leblon and Ipanema
For those who want to experience the vibrant Rio, are Ipanema and Leblon ideal choices. Located right on the famous beaches, these neighborhoods are known for their wonderfully lively atmosphere, excellent restaurants and upscale shopping. Leblon, slightly more exclusive and quieter than Ipanema, often attracts travelers looking for the slightly more luxurious places to stay, such as the beautiful five-star hotel Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort.
Is Rio de Janeiro safe?
Rio de Janeiro is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, but safety is a major concern. Many people avoid Rio de Janeiro because the city is known to be unsafe. So we are happy to share our personal experience.
Tourist areas are generally considered safe, especially during the day. We certainly experienced this as well. Especially at the tourist attractions like Sugar Loaf Mountain, we walked around with a safe and secure feeling. We also unquestioningly grabbed our camera to take pictures here. Still, it is advisable to stay alert, especially in crowded areas where pickpockets are present. For example, consider the beaches Ipanema and Copacabana. Also avoid wearing conspicuous jewelry, bags and expensive gadgets and leave valuables in your hotel.
At night it is better to get around by cabs. We did this at all times and felt necessary. In some places, such as under overpasses, bridges and in alleys, there is a shadowy atmosphere. Therefore, avoid secluded streets and do not take beach walks after sunset. Also, never enter a favela on your own. Want to visit a favela? Then book a tour.
In general, our advice would be: if you are in doubt about going somewhere on foot, don't do it, and arrange an Uber.
What is the best travel period to visit Rio de Janeiro?
The best time to visit Rio de Janeiro depends a bit on your personal preferences, but in general the months between December and March are ideal. This is summer in Brazil, when the city buzzes with vibrancy, the weather is warm and sunny, and the beaches are full of life. The highlight of this period is, of course, the world-famous Carnival.
For those who want to avoid the crowds and still enjoy pleasant weather, April to June are a good option. Temperatures are still mild then, with less rain and tourists. In the Brazilian winter, from July to September, temperatures are slightly cooler, around 20-25°C, and the city is quieter.
Tours of Brazil
After our time in Rio de Janeiro, we can't help but conclude that Rio de Janeiro is an insane city that belongs on everyone's bucket list. Rio's energy is infectious, and its contrasts make it a unique destination where you won't get bored easily.
The metropolis is also the ideal starting point for a tour of Brazil, and then travel on, for example, to the historic town of Paraty and the island paradise Ilha Grande. Another relaxed island is Florianópolis in the south of the country, also called Ilha da Magia. Curious? These are our tips for Florianópolis in Brazil.
We are curious, would you also like to take an unforgettable trip through Brazil? Then get inspired by these 2-3 week itinerary through the state of Rio de Janeiro.
An unforgettable journey in Brazil
Would you like to discover Brazil in a way that suits you completely? As your personal travel consultants we would like to help you on your way. During a video interview we will map out your wishes and advise you on the most beautiful places that suit you in Brazil. Would you rather leave it all up to us? That is also possible! Ask for a travel proposal for your vacation to Brazil.
Naomi van Hagen
Curious, creative and passionate about travel, I’m always on the lookout for unique destinations where culture, gastronomy and adventure come together. As a travel blogger, I share personal stories and insider tips from countries like Brazil, Greece, Indonesia, Thailand and Peru, from hidden gems and rich traditions to unforgettable culinary experiences. My blogs are based on real travel experiences and in-depth local knowledge. Ready to plan your own adventure? As a personal travel consultant, I’ll help you create a tailor-made trip that perfectly suits your travel dreams.
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