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Rio de Janeiro Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Rio de Janeiro. We've got 291 adventures going to Rio de Janeiro, starting from just one day in length, and the longest tour is 147 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the largest number of tour departures.

250+ Rio De Janeiro tour packages with 867 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Best of Brazil

Luma was amazing. The trip was basic, but she made the trip

• Hiking & Trekking

Petrópolis x Teresópolis Crossing - The Most Beautiful Trekking in Brazil

I felt like I have now friends for life. They took such good care of me on the other hand giving me the much needed space.

• In-depth Cultural

Costa Verde Explorer 5D/4N

Sooo nice to not have to worry about booking transfers and hostels myself and just check the app for pickup times!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Valley of the Gods - The Three Peaks Park Trekking - 03 days - Rio de Janeiro - Brazil

Tailor-Made Private Brazil Tour to Rio, Ilha Grande & Paraty, Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Rio +Angra and Ilha Grande day tour (5 Days)

4 days Experience @ Ilha Grande - Unlocking Brazil's 'Garden of Eden' - Brasil - **NEW**

Colonial Coast Adventure 4D/3N

• Sightseeing

Rio de Janeiro Starter Package – 3 Nights

Brazil and Argentina with Iguazu Falls 4 Star

Wanderful Holidays tour company did an excellent job for us. They went above and beyond in assisting us during a stressful time.

Best of Argentina & Brazil

A great experience. Intrepid leader Javier Buchnann is excellent

Iguassu & Beyond

Tour takes you to places that other tours don't, which are well worth seeing.

Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro: Falls & Footy

The tour was great fun for all our group, we all had a wonderful experience and enjoyed spending time together.

Premium Argentina & Brazil

Action-packed sightseeing of amazing waterfalls, great food and beautiful beaches. Hotels were wonderful and nice.

4 days Discovery the Best of Rio de Janeiro

Rio is an impressive destination that you must know without fail.

What people love about Rio De Janeiro Tours

Guillame and Talus were both both excellent guides, professional, friendly, knowledgeable and open to exchanging stories. Both have good English with Talus's being excellent. The refugios leave something to be desired. The buildings are kept basically clean but are damp. The mattresses were saggy and I suspect the bites we had were bed bugs. We realise, that this is not something that Nattrip is directly responsible for but perhaps sleeping maps would be better and the mattresses removed. The walk was wonderful none the less due to the spectacular environment and guides and is recommended to those happy to have a little discomfort to experience this wonderful landscape.

Sooo nice to not have to worry about booking transfers and hostels myself and just check the app for pickup times! (Just be patient with that, as they're rarely on time, in normal true Brazilian style.) Breakfast wasn't booked on my second hostel, but I let Bamba know through the Trip Plans app and they fixed it. Also, my boat tour was cancelled on Ilha Grande due to the weather but replaced with another one, which I enjoyed anyway, so all good. In Paraty, you must pick up your boat tour ticket at the tour office in town, do that the day you arrive! I didn't think the shuttle transport times were too bad (like the other review says), it's nice to just sit back and relax sometimes. Enjoy!

Top operators

"Do not book hostel, hostel is terrible

Bamba Travel is an expert in:

• Self-Guided

"The accommodation could have been better- the 3 day ranch was very basic with dirty - brown water and the host was rude

Intrepid Travel is an expert in:

We Travel Discovery is an expert in:

• Festival & Events

Tours starting from Rio de Janeiro

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• Brazil Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

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THE 10 BEST Rio de Janeiro Tours & Excursions

Rio de janeiro tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Rio's Full Day: Selarón Steps, Christ & Sugarloaf – Tickets & Lunch Included

2. Full Day: Christ Redeemer, Sugarloaf, City Tour & Barbecue Lunch

3. The Best Half Day in Rio with Christ Redeemer and Sugar Loaf Hill

4. Private Custom Full-Day Highlights in Rio: Only the best sights!

5. Sunset Sailing Tour in Rio de Janeiro

6. 25 - Full Day Tour to Angra dos Reis and Ilha Grande

7. Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf, Lunch and Small Group City Tour

8. The Best Helicopter Flight Sugar Loaf and Christ the Redeemer

9. Rio Hidden Gems: Waterfalls & Caves Trail in Tijuca Park

10. Full-Day Private Tour of Rio with Pick Up

11. Self-Guided Tour of Rio's Journey from Colonialism to Democracy

12. Rio's Cookin' Good: 9-Dish Fiesta w/ Market tour & Caipis Galore

13. A day in Arraial do Cabo the Brazilian Caribbean

14. A day in Rio - Full City Tour

15. Ginga Tropical - Brazilian Samba and Folklore Show

16. Two of Rio's Best: Christ the Redeemer & Sugarloaf Mountain Half-Day Tour

17. 3 Hours Snorkel and Swim with Turtles Tour at Tijuca Islands

18. 3 Hour Sailing Experience in Rio

19. Visit the Best Spots in Tijuca Forest - Hike to Caves & Falls

20. 3 Hour Rocinha Favela Walking Tour with a Local Guide

21. Rio de Janeiro Helicopter Tour - Christ the Redeemer

22. Rio de Janeiro Sightseeing Cruise with Morning and Sunset Option

23. Exclusive Helicopter Flight (2 passengers)- Sugar Loaf and Christ the Redeemer

24. Private guided walking tour of the Santa Teresa neighborhood

25. Guided Jeep adventure through Tijuca Rain Forest

26. Skip the Line Christ the Redeemer Admission Ticket

27. Experience Hang Gliding or Paragliding in Rio

28. Rio Little Africa Tour

29. Hang gliding Hang gliding Experience Rotorfly

30. Rio de Janeiro Hang Gliding Experience

What travelers are saying.

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Rio de Janeiro

Golden beaches and lush mountains, samba-fueled nightlife and spectacular football matches: welcome to the Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City).

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Parque Nacional da Tijuca

The Tijuca is all that's left of the Atlantic rainforest that once surrounded Rio de Janeiro. This 39-sq-km tropical-jungle preserve is an exuberant green…

Pão de Açúcar

Seen from the peak of Pão de Açúcar, Rio is undoubtedly a Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City). There are many good times to make the ascent, but sunset on…

Copacabana Beach

A magnificent confluence of land and sea, the long, scalloped beach of Copacabana extends for some 4km, with a flurry of activity along its length: over…

Ipanema Beach

Ipanema & Leblon

One long stretch of sun-drenched sand, Ipanema Beach is demarcated by postos (posts), which mark off subcultures as diverse as the city itself. Posto 9,…

Cristo Redentor

Flamengo & Around

Standing atop Corcovado (which means ‘hunchback’), Cristo Redentor gazes out over Rio, a placid expression on his well-crafted face. The mountain rises…

Maracanã Football Stadium

Rio’s Maracanã stadium is hallowed ground among football lovers. The massive arena has been the site of legendary victories and crushing defeats. Maracanã…

Jardim Botânico

Gávea, Jardim Botânico & Lagoa

This exotic 137-hectare garden, with more than 8000 plant species, was designed by order of the Prince Regent Dom João (later to become Dom João VI) in…

Instituto Moreira Salles

This beautiful cultural center hosts impressive exhibitions, often showcasing the works of some of Brazil's best photographers and artists. The gardens,…

Top picks from our travel experts

The 8 best things to do in rio de janeiro.

Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas

One of the city’s most picturesque spots, Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas is encircled by a 7.2km walking and cycling path. Bikes are available for hire from…

Largo das Neves

Santa Teresa & Lapa

A slice of village life in the city, this small plaza is one of Santa Teresa's most picturesque little squares. While Largo das Neves is empty by day, on…

Largo do Guimarães

The plaza named after Joaquim Fonseca Guimarães (a local resident whose house became Hotel Santa Teresa, just up the road) now forms the center of…

8 of the best free things to do in Rio de Janeiro

Museu do Índio

Though closed for renovations at the time of research, the small Museu do Índio features multimedia exhibitions on Brazil’s northern tribes and provides…

Parque Lage

This beautiful park lies at the base of the Floresta da Tijuca, about 1km from Jardim Botânico. It has English-style gardens, little lakes, and a mansion…

Instituto de Pesquisa e Memória Presto Novos

When Mercedes Guimarães was doing construction work on her house in 1996, workers uncovered huge quantities of human fragments. After discussions with a…

Boulevard Olímpico

Rio's formerly derelict port district has been reborn as a wide promenade lined with massive street art. A handful of renowned artists have painted…

Parque das Ruínas

This park contains the ruins – exterior brick walls and a newly built staircase – of the mansion belonging to Brazilian heiress Laurinda Santos Lobo. Her…

Escadaria Selarón

One of Rio's best-loved attractions, the steps leading up from Joaquim Silva became a work of art when Chilean-born artist Jorge Selarón decided to cover…

Centro de Arte Hélio Oiticica

This avant-garde museum is set in a 19th-century neoclassical building that originally housed the Conservatory of Music and Dramatic Arts. Today the…

Real Gabinete Português de Leitura

Built in the Portuguese Manueline style in 1837, the gorgeous Portuguese Reading Room houses more than 350,000 works, many dating from the 16th, 17th and…

The epicenter of Rio’s Carnaval, the Sambódromo was designed by Oscar Niemeyer and completed in 1984. During big parades, come here for fantastic views…

Parque do Flamengo

Officially called Parque Brigadeiro Eduardo Gomes, Parque do Flamengo was the result of a landfill project that leveled the São Antônio hill in 1965. It…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Things to Know

Leave your worries at home and embrace the Carioca way of living with these top tips from a local.

Best Neighborhoods

Rio de Janeiro is a thriving, multicultural city and this is especially evident in its distinct and unique neighborhoods. Here's our picks of the best.

See the wilderness-backed beaches, ancient sites and smaller-scale cities of Rio de Janeiro state on these top day trips from Rio de Janeiro.

Money and Costs

Rio may not be the most budget friendly destination in South America, but these tips will help you make your reais go farther in the Marvelous City.

Transportation

As the second largest city in Brazil, Rio's size can be intimidating to visitors. Here's everything you need to know about getting around Rio de Janeiro.

Free Things to Do

From world-famous beaches and generous green spaces to cultural centers and museums, there's plenty to do in Rio without spending a single centavo.

Traveling with Kids

Brazil is home to a family-centric culture, and Rio de Janeiro is no exception – here's our guide to help you plan a great trip to Rio with kids.

Plan with a local

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Latest stories from Rio de Janeiro

Festivals & Events

Jan 16, 2024 • 7 min read

The world’s largest street party changed my life. As I visit for a third time, here is everything you need to know to make sense of Carnaval 2024.

Dec 2, 2023 • 8 min read

Nov 13, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 12, 2023 • 5 min read

Nov 10, 2023 • 5 min read

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Sep 30, 2023 • 5 min read

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Search 42 Rio De Janeiro tour operators and travel companies, with 71 reviews.

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Rio De Janeiro Reviews & Ratings

Felt the tour was a bit short..

Felt the tour was a bit short. Probably more pricey compared to ano...

good trip, enjoyable good and helpful tour leader

good trip, enjoyable good and helpful tour leader (Pedro) everything was very organised except when our flight from Iquazu to Rio was cancelled and there was no in...

enjoyable good tour leader met new friends unique experience

Overall a good experience but it was

Overall a good experience but it was a short tour so can't pesticide extensive feedback.

I gave this score because I thoroughly

I gave this score because I thoroughly enjoyed the trip.

See all Rio De Janeiro reviews

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Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide

In Rio de Janeiro, every day is a party. Rio, as it's usually called, is a place like absolutely no other in the world. The jet set and glitterati descend here year-round for the white-sand beaches, bass-forward nightlife, and five heady days of Carnival bacchanal celebrations in February or March. But you don't have to be a thong-clad party seeker to appreciate the literal highs of mountainous Rio. The breathtakingly beautiful city is home to landmark sites like the Christ the Redeemer statue and world-class art museums. Sprinkle in beach volleyball matches, samba dancing, and stunning tropical mountains meet azure sea scenery you won't find anywhere else. But there are a few things to keep in mind: Brazil no longer requires a visa for American visitors (you'll pay an airport departure tax instead); the language is Portuguese, not Spanish; and the drug-trafficked favelas are a harsh reality. This Rio de Janeiro travel guide has everything you need to get started planning an unforgettable trip. Ready, set, Rio!

Brasilia Standard Time

Best Time to Go

Rio de Janeiro is a bustling and modern beachfront city, with something for tourists to see and do on and off the sand 12 months out of the year. Weather wise, December through March (Brazil's summer months) and September through November (spring in Brazil) means temperatures in the 70s to 90s and little rain. With Carnival comes crowds in February or March, but that's half the fun. It's no surprise New Year's Eve is another epically popular time to party in Rio.

Things to Know

Currency: Brazilian Real (R$)

Language: Brazilian Portuguese

I don't speak Portuguese: Nao falo portugues.

I'm lost: Estou perdido.

I would like…: eu gostaria

Learn more helpful phrases here.

Calling Code: +55 (Brazil) + 21 (Rio)

Capital City of Brazil: Brasilia

How to Get Around

Trains: The three-line subway system, called MetroRIo, is clean, convenient, and safe. This is the best way to get around the city and avoid traffic.

Buses: Cheaper than taxis and trains, but the buses in Rio are crowded and slow.

Taxis: Yellow taxis are widely available—insist the driver turn on the meter instead of haggling over the fare.

Car service: Uber is available in Rio. You'll need internet access on your phone to use the app. From Galeao Airport, Uber departs on the second level.

Best Hotels

Hotel fasano rio de janeiro.

Address: Avenida Vieira Souto, 80 - Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22420-002, Brazil Phone: 55 21 3202 4000 Website

When famous hotelier Phillipe Starck brought a luxury boutique hotel to the Ipanema waterfront, he smartly designed much of the hotel (including the infinity pool) to overlook the beach. Apart from the vistas, the property pays homage to the glamorous era of Bossa Nova in the 1950s and 60s. The rooftop bar draws beautiful people for beautiful views of Sugarloaf Mountain.

Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel

Address: Av. Atlântica, 1702 - Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22021-001, Brazil Phone: 55 21 2548 7070 Website

Looking for a taste of the French Riviera on Copacabana Beach? The Copacabana Palace was built in 1923 and still retains much of its original architecture and retro art deco glamour. The 239 rooms mostly overlook the beach. The three restaurants and piano bar are highlights, but the real star of the show is the private beach—complete with attendants to watch your belongings while you frolic.

Santa Teresa Hotel RJ - MGallery by Sofitel

Address: Rua Almirante Alexandrino, 660 Santa Teresa, , Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 20241-260, Brazil Phone: 55 21 3380 0200 Website

Swap the beach for the mountains at Santa Teresa Hotel RJ. Once an 18th-century coffee plantation, the building is now a chic boutique hotel with unbeatable views of the city and Bay of Rio below. It's literally above the scene, but still very much a part of it—the onsite restaurant, Tereze, is considered one of the best in Rio.

Janeiro Hotel

Address: Avenida Delfim Moreira, 696 - Leblon, Rio de Janeiro - RJ, 22441-000, Brazil Phone: 55 21 2172 1100 Website

Style and eco-consciousness go hand in hand at the Janeiro Hotel. It's located in the glamorous Leblon neighborhood and across the street from Ipanema-Leblon Beach. Each of the 51 apartment-style suites has sea and Cagarras Islands views...some of the showers do too.

Best Restaurants

Address: Av. Afranio de Melo Franco, 290-406 A Phone: 55 21 3875 1830 Website

When it's too hot for a full meal, head to Mil Frutas (a thousand fruits) for a frozen treat. This sorbet shop makes close to 100 handmade flavors using fresh ingredients, including native fruits like araca, acai, and umbu.

Zaza Bistro Tropical

Address: Joana Angelica 40 Phone: 55 21 2247 9101 Website

Tropical flavors with Asian accents and organic ingredients are only part of what draws customers to Zaza. The restaurant is filled with art and upstairs you can kick your shoes off for a laidback dinner on throw pillows. Outdoor dining available.

Address: Av. Gen. San Martin, 889 Phone: 55 21 2540 8767 Website

Oro has been a darling on the Rio restaurant scene since it opened in 2010, winning two Michelin stars in 2018. Celebrity Chef Felipe Bronze combines a grill and creativity to create rustic dishes cooked on live fire. Reservations recommended.

Address: R. Barao da Torre, 538 Phone: 55 21 3202 2884 Website

Bazzar serves wild fish, sustainable seafood, and organic vegetables in modern presentations by chef Lira Muller. Global trends and vegetarian dishes are well represented. Psst, Bazzar is open for lunch and the front area is laid-back enough to visit looking salty after the beach.

Things to Do

Christ the redeemer.

Address: Parque Nacional da Tijuca - Alto da Boa Vista

The Christ the Redeemer statue is the undisputed symbol of Rio. The art deco-statue was built by a French sculptor in 1931, and the statue's arms stretch out a massive 92 feet wide. You can see the statue from multiple vantage points in Rio, but it's worth the cable ride up the mountain to see it up close.

Ipanema Beach

Address: Posto 8 through Posto 12 on the beach

A close second only to Copacabana Beach in popularity, Ipanema Beach has been a locals' and tourist favorite since at least the '60s. The two-mile stretch of sand features mountain views and cobalt water. The people watching isn't bad either.

Bar hop through Lapa

Address: Avenida Mem de Sa

A visit to the Lapa neighborhood is lovely in the day, but visit after dark for an unforgettable nightlife scene. The neighborhood overflows with samba music and revelers. Rio Scenarium is three stories of music and dancing. Also check out Lapa 40 Graus and Clube Dos Democraticos, where locals have been cutting a rug since 1867.

Ilha Fiscal

Address: Avenida Alfredo Agache

Check out the unexpected: a green neo-gothic 19th-century palace, which sits on its own miniature island in the city. Ilha Fiscal is a stylish reminder of when Rio was the capital of the Brazilian Empire.

Best Shopping

Tropicalia discos.

Address: Praca Olavo Bilac, 28 Phone: 55 21 2224 9215 Website

Located on the second floor of a nondescript building, Tropicalia Discos is a vinyl goldmine. This is the go-to for Brazilian music, with records from Bossa nova to samba to jazz.

Address: Av. Ataulfo de Paiva, 270 Phone: 55 21 2274 7808 Website

Rio's laidback and colorful street style is inspired by the beach and tropical climate. Dress the part with floral bikinis and flowing dresses from Osklen.

Granado Pharmacies

Address: Av. Barao de Tefe, 3 Phone: 55 21 3231 6700 Website

Shopping at local pharmacies is the beauty secret to sourcing local soaps, perfume, and toiletries. There are multiple Granado Pharmacies in Rio. Stop in and nose out your favorite scents. Pro tip: the pretty packaging makes for perfect gifts.

Address: Paschoal Carlos Magno 100 Phone: 55 21 99640 1710 Website

Support the Amazonian community by shopping for handmade goods at Tucum. This small shop exclusively carries woven baskets, jewelry, pottery, and wall hangings made with Amazonian seeds and fibers.

Neighborhoods to Know

Rio is a sprawling city, but each neighborhood has a distinct vibe. Think of Rio more like a collection of small beach and mountain towns, and it's less overwhelming. Copacabana and Ipanema are obvious beach neighborhoods, but a tram ride up to Santa Teresa is worth it for the boho vibe, ocean views, and samba clubs. Leblon is the neighborhood for pure glitz and glamour and the small footprint means you can check out most of the high end boutiques and chi-chi wine bars in one visit.

Rio is known for its beaches, and thankfully the weather usually cooperates enough to enjoy them year round. January through March sees temperatures in the low 90s—it's too hot to do much of anything besides swim. July, August, and September are the coolest months with lows in the mid 60s, but also the driest. Hurricanes are a rarity in Rio de Janeiro.

Apps to Download

WhatsApp : Free messaging, video calls, making dinner reservations Android | iOs

ChefsClub : Find restaurants, bars, and make reservations Android (not on Android) | iOs

Bravolol Limited : Look up words and sentences in Portuguese, translate Android | iOs

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Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide

Rio is unlike any other place in the world, with more natural beauty per square inch—and more flip-flops per capita—than any major city. Its “urban setting,” tucked dramatically between and amid mountains and sea, is itself a UNESCO World Heritage site. With a beachy, informal vibe infusing its street life, Rio’s natives, Cariocas, are at once so raucous and relaxed that other Brazilians parody them relentlessly, as much with jealousy as with disdain. — Seth Kugel

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The Unknown Enthusiast

22 Rio de Janeiro Travel Tips: Things to Know Before Going to Rio in 2024

Heading to Rio soon? You’re in luck! I’ve got the best travel tips for Rio de Janeiro to prepare you for a great vacation in Brazil.

Our six days in Rio de Janeiro were really like a dream – so many interesting things to see, do, and eat. I was really blown away by just how much I loved the city! For me, I think it was a combination of loving a bustling city, but also loving nature and beautiful viewpoints – and Rio delivers both in such a unique way!

However, being a country in South America, there are a lot of differences between traveling in Rio compared to traveling in the United States.

In this Rio de Janeiro travel guide, I want to talk about the best travel tips and important things to know before going to Rio de Janeiro, based on our experience there, and the advice given to me by my brother, who lived there for several years.

This post may contain affiliate links or refer a friend links. When you buy through these links, I may earn a bonus at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Rio de Janeiro Travel Tips

You’ll be on your way in no time! Let’s get into my 22 most important travel tips for a Rio de Janeiro vacation:

1. Purchase an E-Sim Card Before You Go

I’ve recently found a new way to get inexpensive, high speed data while traveling (something I love to have but has been annoying, expensive, or ineffective to procure).

Instead of purchasing a local SIM card (or renting a mobile hotspot) when arriving in a country, I’m now using an e-sim card from Airalo. I’ve used a lot of different methods in the past to get data when traveling internationally, and let me tell you, buying an e-sim card is EASILY the most affordable, fast, and convenient option.

E-sims are a relatively new thing, so before you purchase, you’ll need to contact your cell phone provider and have them unlock your phone for e-sim use.

Before you leave on your trip, purchase the amount of data that you need from the Airalo website . Then download the app, and when you arrive, toggle on the e-sim card, and that’s it! You can check how much data you’ve used in the app, and top up with more if necessary.

One of the most important things to know before going to Rio de Janeiro are some safety tips for the city. Safety was a big concern for us as we prepared to visit Rio. I’d often heard Rio described as an unsafe city, and I had talked extensively to my brother, who lived in Rio for a couple of years, about safety concerns.

Honestly, I had a decent bit of anxiety the 2 weeks before we left about our vacation. I was extremely worried about our phones getting snatched out of our hands, getting pickpocketed, getting my purse slashed, getting mugged, and just generally running into a lot of unsafe or unsavory situations. 

I will say that we exercised much more caution than we normally do when traveling in Rio, and were a lot more aware than usual about our surroundings (of course, we’re always taking precautions and being aware, but it was definitely heightened in Rio), but we almost always felt perfectly fine and safe as we toured the city .

Still, learning about what precautions to take is an important thing to know before going to Rio de Janeiro and we’ll cover several safety topics in this Rio de Janeiro travel guide.

These are the safety travel tips for Rio I would recommend:

2. Avoid the Favelas…Unless You’re in a Tour

Favelas are crowded, very poor neighborhoods, usually built up into the hillsides of Rio. Favelas are all controlled by gangs or the mafia, where they sell drugs and machine guns are carried openly. 

While doing a guided tour of a favela is totally safe (and was a really interesting and positive experience in Rio, I highly recommend it – read our full review of it here ), and the favelas in general can be relatively safe during the daylight hours, I would definitely still avoid them if you aren’t with a tour.

Gang invasions, shootouts, or police raids could take place during any time, day or night, and you’d have no idea it’s coming. The tourist favelas avoid this during the day because of the tourism, but any other favela is free game any time any day. So, outside of a tour, just play it safe and avoid the favelas!

My recommendation: Tour of the Dona Marta Favela (I would highly, highly recommend doing a guided favela tour during your time in Rio – it was safe and so interesting)

3 . Be Off the Streets After Dark

In general, don’t be walking on the streets after dark (which is about 6pm year round). As an international tourist, a good rule of thumb is if you need to go somewhere at dark, take an uber or taxi, or the metro if you’re walking less than a block to/from the stations to your destination. 

Now, if you are in an area that is well lit and well-trafficked with people, then that is probably okay to be out and walking around. For example, one night after dinner we wanted to walk several blocks to a grocery store around 9pm.

At first, I was hesitant to be out walking, but then saw that our route was along a road with lots of cars, lots of light, and many other pedestrians out and about. That was a fine situation. 

Conversely, another night we thought we’d do the same thing because it was only about a 10 minute walk to the restaurant we were going to. This time though, there was very little traffic and very few pedestrians, although it was well-lit and not that late (only around 7pm).

I felt like this situation was less safe and in retrospect would’ve gotten an uber (although we did walk right past the police precinct, so that did give some peace of mind). 

4. Be Aware of Pickpockets and Phone Snatchers

Be very aware of pickpockets (or thieves snatching your phone out of your hand), particularly in areas like Copacabana, markets, or other touristy spots. If you are in a taxi or uber and your window is down, be aware that passing pedestrians, bikers, or men doing sales in the street when cars are stopped will sometimes grab phones right out of your hands in the car.

In general, just be careful with your phones. Ideally, don’t pull them out on the street. However, because we were always wanting to take pictures, we had our phones out a lot, and here’s what we did to try to be safe:

If we were walking around, I often kept two hands on my phone and kept it in front of my body. I also put a hand wrist strap lanyard on my phone case that went around my wrist, so it was somewhat attached to my body. 

 We tried to pay attention to our surroundings and not have the phones out conspicuously when there were people right by us. 

As we were touring around Centro in particular, we saw a lot of police cars/officers out around the area, just parked and monitoring the area. This is for safety reasons, as a deterrent to crime, and we felt more secure walking around with that security present. 

5 . Be Careful of Hiking Trails and Paths

Gangs will sometimes take over nature trails, and for a while the path from Parque Lage to the Christ the Redeemer statue had a whole bunch of muggings, so it was definitely a place to avoid. 

When we visited Parque Lage, we noticed that there was a police officer at the trailhead, so that trail may be safer now, but I would still exercise a lot of caution if you plan to do any trails, never be out after dark, and ideally be in a group.

6. General Awareness

When traveling to Rio de Janeiro, it’s a good idea to generally be aware of your surroundings, keep a close eye (and hand) on your belongings, and just pay attention to what and who is around you. 

Now, with all that said, I don’t think you need to be scared of Rio (the way I kind of was, haha). For example, I had read a couple of accounts where people said they didn’t go more than 10 minutes without running into a group of people or a scenario where they felt uncomfortable. 

That was not our experience. In fact, we generally felt very safe as we walked around and toured Rio, particularly because we were following our safety guidelines. And the few times I did feel a little uncomfortable, we were able to quickly get somewhere I did feel safer.

I think that one of the good things to know before going to Rio is that, despite its reputation, with a few precautions you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Be situationally aware, have a plan of how you will get around and where you will be, and follow the above suggestions to maximize your chances of a great, safe trip.

7. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Securing some travel insurance is an important part of prepping for any international trip – you never know when something might happen, and your regular insurance generally won’t cover you overseas. Costs for a medical emergency on vacation can add up extremely fast, so it’s just better to be safe than sorry. 

I felt a lot of peace of mind booking some travel insurance for Rio – I knew that even if something happened, we would still be covered.

I like booking insurance at  Insure My Trip , as they offer a variety of plans with different coverages to choose from, so you can find the right option for you. Plus, they have great customer support if you need help before, during, or after your trip.

>> Check rates and get a no-hassle quote at Insure My Trip here!

8. Toilet Paper

One of the very important things to know before going to Rio de Janeiro is that the sewage system in Brazil (like many countries in south and central America) is not set up to handle toilet paper.

Instead of flushing it, you just stick it in the bathroom trash can. 

9. Electricity

Brazil uses two types of electrical plugs:   types C and N. Plug type has two round pins, and is also commonly used in a lot of Europe. Plug type N has two round pins plus a grounding pin. If you’re traveling to Rio de Janeiro from the US, you will need an adaptor to charge your electronics.

👉 My recommendation : I always travel with and recommend this type C plug adaptor set – it’s an inexpensive price for a 3-pack.

Brazil operates on a 127/220V supply voltage and 60Hz. We did not need to use any electrical converters for our electronics in Brazil (just the adaptors), as all our electronics are dual voltage rated. Most electronics these days are dual-rated, but if yours are not and you’re traveling from the US, you’ll also need a converter.

10. The Architectural Style of the City

Architecturally, Rio de Janeiro has a lot of variety. Centro is the historic center of the city, and you’ll see a lot of 19th century buildings with pretty design features.

Rio was the capital of Brazil for a few centuries and was the hub for the Portuguese crown before Brazil gained its independence from Portugal, So a lot of the architectural style comes from the European influence from Portugal during that time. 

The Theatro Municipal was based off of the theater in Paris, for example. But there are also modern, futuristic designs as well, in the Museum of Tomorrow and the Metropolitan Cathedral.

Throughout Rio you’ll find colorful painted buildings. 

You’ll also find plenty of stark buildings or non-descript high rises.

There are areas with a lot of graffiti, and some buildings have barbed wire around the exterior walls. 

The Santa Teresa neighborhood is unique in Rio, with a very Bohemian vibe, tons of street art and the trolley that winds its way to the top of the hill overlooking the city. 

The favelas have their own style as well, with small, squat, painted houses stacked closely together as they climb up a hill. 

And be sure to look down, too. There are frequent cobblestone streets and tiled sidewalks to enjoy. 

You really get a range of so many styles in Rio! One of my favorite travel tips is to pay attention to all the different types of architecture you’ll see in Rio!

11. The Size and Geography of the City

One of the things to know before you go to Rio de Janeiro is that it is a very big city (over 450 square miles), and it feels particularly big due to its geography. Rio is right on the coast, but the coastline isn’t straight; you have curves and jutoffs and sudden turns.

Additionally, there are a TON of hills and mountains in the city, and the city just builds around (and sometimes up!) them.

So, you do have some navigating around hills to get places, or driving up the mountain to visit certain spots. The twists and turns (and density of the city) can make for slower transit at times.

12. Go to a Futbol Game… with a local!

Brazilians LOVE their futbol (soccer) and Rio de Janeiro has one of the biggest and most famous stadiums and futbol rivalries in the world. Going to a game at the Maracana stadium was high on our Rio bucket list, and I’m so glad we were able to do it.

My biggest travel tip for going to a futbol game in Rio is to go with a local! However, I will say, we got kind of lucky for getting to go. Despite our many attempts, we could not find a game schedule online, or information about where and how to get tickets.

We ended up just stumbling on a situation in Rio where a new, local friend we had met offered to let us come to the game with him, and he would help arrange the logistics.

This ended up being one of the craziest and most exciting travel experiences we’ve ever had. We joined up with all the friends of this Brazilian and the whole group went into the hardcore fan section that sits behind the goals.

People were packed in tight, standing up singing and cheering literally non-stop, drums beating, flags waving. It was a whoooole vibe, and we loved it.

Basically, I would highly recommend you go with a local, who will take you to the pre-party outside the stadium, and help you have the best experience during the game. Good news is this is an “excursion” you can actually arrange ahead of time! ⚽ Check prices and availability for this futbol match experience here!

13. Brazilian Coinage

Brazil’s currency is the Real, which is pronounced “hay-ahl”. The plural of real (reais) is pronounced “hay-ize.” The emphasis is on the last syllable (the “ahl” or “ize” part). 

At the time of writing, one US dollar is worth about 5 reais. Most places around the city take card, but I would still plan to have cash on hand for things like bus fares, street food, or taxis.

14. Withdrawing Money

Be careful at ATMs on the street and exercise caution if there are other people around. 

I would recommend withdrawing some money at the airport, but find the ATMs, not the exchange centers. We did try the exchange centers by baggage claim, but one only took cash (we only had our debit cards), and the exchange rate from the other one was basically highway robbery. 

Quick Travel Tip : At the airport exit doors where you can get a taxi into Rio, there are some escalators that will take you up a level, and at the top there are some ATMs. These machines will give you a much better exchange rate, and you can use your debit card instead of cash. You can ask any employee or taxi driver where the ATMs are. 

General Travel Tip: Whenever traveling in a foreign country, always have cashiers run your credit card in the local currency, not dollars (or whatever your home currency may be).

Sometimes you are given the option to choose between the two currencies on the screen if you are inserting the card yourself. You will get a better exchange rate by having your bank convert it, not the store.

Wondering what it costs to visit Rio? Check out our detailed Rio de Janeiro trip costs post here !

15. Best Areas to Stay in Rio de Janeiro

Figuring out the best area to stay is an important part of planning a trip to Rio de Janeiro, since, as we mentioned earlier, the city is very spread out, and some areas of the city are decidely more safe than others.

There are a few good areas that I would recommend to stay in Rio, based on where we stayed, what we experienced there, and other extensive research.

➡️ Santa Teresa

This was the area we ultimately ended up staying, and I was extremely happy with this choice. Santa Teresa is a quiet, artsy neighborhood that extends up a hill overlooking the city. There was a ton of street art and brightly painted houses in Santa Teresa, and the area felt very residential, and safe during the daytime hours.

The traffic was never bad in this neighborhood, and it was a quick and easy (and cheap) ride down into Centro, where a lot of sites are. 

Recommended Hotel: Villa Franca I can highly recommend Villa Franca in Santa Teresa. It had a secure entrance, a beautiful courtyard, and a very relaxing lobby entrance that really felt more like the living area of a villa than a hotel reception area. The rooms were large and decorated nicely, and, very importantly, the wifi and air conditioning were strong, and the rooms had a good size mini-fridge. Check current rates for Villa Franca here!

➡️ Centro

Centro is a great area to stay in. It is more the “business” district of Rio, but it also has a lot of buildings that are beautiful, historic, and/or colorful. 

There are a TON of things to see and do in Centro, and so staying in this area will be very convenient, as you’ll be able to walk to a lot of spots.  It is a safe area, especially during the day. I would be careful and exercise caution at night, as there are some areas with more homeless people. 

Lapa is the neighborhood right next to Centro, although we found the Lapa area to be just a little bit more dilapidated, and is known for having more crime. So while you can and should visit the sites in Lapa, just exercise a little more caution here. 

Recommended Hotels:  Windor Asturias Hotel This is a very comfortable hotel in the Centro district, not far from the Lapa attractions. It is within walking distance of many sites in the area! In addition, the hotel has a rooftop bar and pool, with beautiful views out over the bay. You’ll enjoy an extensive breakfast buffet every day, and of course, comfortable rooms and a helpful staff. Check current rates for the Windsor Asturias Hotel here!

➡️ Copacabana and Ipanema

Copacabana and Ipanema are the best areas to stay in Rio de Janeiro if you want to spend more time at the beach. Copacabana is a little more centrally located, while Ipanema is generally considered a nicer beach.

However, we found the beach at Copacabana to be really nice! I had heard that it was a pretty crappy beach, but I think it got cleaned up quite a bit before the Olympics in 2016. The water was nice and the sand, while there was some trash here and there, did not feel particularly dirty or gross. I would hang out at Copacabana again, no problem. 

Ipanema is considered to be a more expensive area in the city, and also generally considered to be a little nicer than Copacabana. 

Note that we did find the traffic to be heavier in this area (but as noted above, it is on a metro line, which is a plus).

Recommended Hotel in Copacabana: Velinn Reserva Copacabana The Velinn Reserva Copacabana is in an awesome location if you are wanting plenty of beach time, as it is just a couple blocks from both the Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. The hotel is clean and the staff is friendly, and the rooftop breakfast is a big highlight. Check current rates for the Velinn Reserva here!

➡️ Botafogo

Botafogo is a lively area situated between Copacabana and Centro. It’s a good, central location and generally considered a safe area to stay and visit in Rio. This neighborhood sits right on Guanabara Bay and at the foot of the super cool Sugar Loaf mountain. 

We came to this area a few times for dinner and really liked it!

Recommended Hotel in Botafogo: O Veleiro Bed and Breakfast I love the cozy interiors in this B&B and the absolutely gorgeous garden courtyard area (with pool!). It’s a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The bedroom design feels like you’re visiting an old friend in Rio instead of staying in a hotel, and the views over the hills are excellent. Make sure you book a standard room (not economy) for the AC. Check current rates for O Veleiro here!

➡️Leblon

Leblon is the best area to stay in Rio de Janeiro if you want to be close to the beach, but in a nicer and quieter area than either Copacabana and Ipanema. The downside – it is a pricier area and farther away from many attractions. It can be a beautiful spot, though!

Recommended Hotel in Leblon: Sheraton Grand Rio Resort and Hotel If you’re staying in Leblon, it’s probably because you want that upscale beach experience, and the Sheraton Grand Rio definitely delivers. With an absolutely gorgeous pool and lush grounds directly overlooking Leblon Beach, you’ll enjoy luxury beach and pool days, with several on-site restaurants and spacious rooms with balconies overlooking the beach. Check current rates for the Sheraton Grand Rio here!

16. The Language

Portuguese is the official language of Brazil, and unlike many other tourist destinations in Europe, not many Brazilians speak English, even in tourist-facing locations. While there were some people who spoke English, most people did not. 

We did learn a few Portuguese words and got along fine, but I do wish we had learned a few more common words and phrases before traveling in Rio de Janeiro (please, thank you, hello, goodbye, where are the bathrooms, I don’t speak Portuguese, the numbers 1-10, etc are some good ones).

Knowing some basic phrases before you go is a really useful step for visiting Rio de Janeiro. 

I would also try to look up and practice pronunciation of any words you’ll learn, because pronunciation in Portuguese is not always how you think it’d be (we were really surprised with some of the pronunciation rules!)

A big travel tip for Rio : Plan to use Google Translate a lot!

Despite a big language barrier, we found that people were still very nice and willing to work with our pointing/miming/google translating. Most of the Brazilians we interacted with were extremely friendly! 

17. Weather in Rio de Janeiro

Weather in Rio is either hot or VERY HOT. As Rio de Janeiro is in the southern hemisphere, seasons are opposite the US, with December being summer and June being winter. 

Thus, hottest months in Rio are December, January, and February, with temperatures almost always above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (plus humidity!) Coldest months are June, July, and August, with average highs in the upper 70’s. 

The rainy season is from December to March and the dry season from May to October, with April and November being transitional months. During the rainy season, you can either get rain showers in the afternoon (the kind of rain very common in tropical areas) or you can get all day downpours.

When we visited in the middle of March, the forecast showed high chances of rain and thunderstorms every day we would be there, but we ended up barely even having any clouds in the sky and no rain at all. 

The average relative humidity stays very constant throughout the year, at about 78 to 80%. This is EXTREMELY humid!

18 . What to Wear in Rio de Janeiro

One of the big travel tips for visiting Rio de Janeiro is to plan on wearing wickable, breathable fabrics as you explore the city. 

In hot weather, I prefer wearing breezy dresses (less things to stick to my body!). These are the ones I wore in Brazil:

This is the same dress in two different prints . I love it so much! It’s light and airy and perfect for Rio.

This red dress is amazing – it’s flowy and I’ve worn it all over the world. It’s available in a ton of colors.

This blue dress was a new purchase and I was so happy to inaugurate it in Rio.

A few other travel essentials for Rio include:

Super comfortable sandals : These are THE perfect travel sandal – cushy and with arch support, and feel great right out of the box. I have the “gold cork” option. My feet are always so happy in these shoes. Definitely worth the money!

Faux leather white sneakers : While you should break them in before your trip (ask me how I know that…), once broken in, they are a great walking shoe for long travel days. I’ve been extremely happy with these shoes.

Don’t forget to put on sunscreen everyday! The sun is intense in Rio, even if you’re not at the beach. With my acne-prone skin, I always wear t his sunscreen for sensitive skin , but Matthew likes using this sunscreen stick .

Portable Power Bank : This is an essential piece of gear for any travel day. You’ll certainly take plenty of pictures and videos as you explore Rio, and you don’t want your phone to die! This power bank charges 4 times and tells you the exact percentage of power left in the bank.

19. Tipping

Tipping is not expected or customary when traveling in Rio de Janeiro. A tip is already included in the bill. 

20. Bottled Water vs Tap Water

One very important thing to know before going to Rio is that while the cleanliness of tap water in Rio has come a long way, it is still not guaranteed safe to drink. (We did use the tap to brush our teeth, and had no problems).

Bottled water is easy to find around the city, as there are stands, or even just people with a cooler, set up all over the city. 

A more environmentally (and cheaper) option is to bring and use a water bottle with a built in filter, as you can refill from any faucet (or even a lake or stream) and have safe drinking water.

>> My recommendation : The Sawyer Filtered Water Bottle This bottle holds a good amount of water (34 oz) and is one of the absolute best and highest-rated water bottles. It filters out 99.99999% of bacteria and protozoa, and 100% of microplastics!

21. Sample Local Cuisine

Rio de Janeiro (and Brazil in general) has some unique and delicious cuisine that you should definitely try when visiting the city. Yes, the mainstay of Brazilian food is rice and beans, but dang those rice and beans are gooooood!

Brazil also has an abundance of unique, tropical juices, the most juicy pineapples I have ever tasted, and the most succulent, juicy barbecue I’ve ever had the pleasure of eating. And definitely don’t forget the pão de queijo!

>> Need some tips on what to eat in Rio? Get all the details on foods to eat and restaurants to try in Rio de Janeiro here!

22. How to Get Around

Having a plan for how to get around is another one of those important things to know before going to Rio. Thankfully, there are a lot of possibilities for transportation, and they are all very affordable. 

Attractions are pretty spread out around the city, so we had to get transportation several times a day. 

➡️ Metro

Rio’s metro system is very nice. One ride costs R$5 ($1), which is good for transfers within the metro system. I will say that the metro system does not go everywhere in the city, which is a big limitation.

But if you are close to a metro line, the metros are air-conditioned and clean, and it is a cheap, convenient, fast, and safe way to get around the city.

We only ended up taking the metro twice, as our hotel in the Santa Teresa neighborhood was not really close to any metro station.

However, if you are staying in Copacabana, I would definitely take the metro more frequently, as traffic seems to be worse in that area, and there is a line that takes you directly between Copacabana and Centro, where a lot of attractions are. 

You can buy a ticket from the kiosks at the station. You can either buy a single ticket, or a longer term pass.

➡️ Bus

We only took the bus once, but it is another cheap and easy way to get around. The bus has many more routes than the metro does, but do beware – grab and run situations can happen on buses more, so just watch your stuff and phones closely. 

We did find that taking the bus down from the Dona Marta viewpoint was necessary, as Ubers do not like to come all the way up to the summit for pickup. For this viewpoint, we took an Uber up, and then walked about 20 minutes back down the mountain to the bus stop, and took the bus back into the city. 

You can pay with cash for a bus ride. One ride costs R$4.05 (<$1).

Quick Travel Tip: In Rio, when waiting for the bus, you’ll need to wave it down to stop for you. 

➡️ Uber  

We took a LOT of Ubers during our week in Rio – 30 to be precise. With an average cost of $4.30 per ride (and a total cost of $130 for the whole week), it was a very cheap and convenient way to get around.

In general, when traveling to Rio, I would recommend taking Ubers the most, with the exception of if you are right on a metro line, and then I would opt for metro over Ubers more often. 

➡️Taxi

While the taxi fare quoted to us at the airport was a lot higher than what we paid for the Uber at the airport (more than twice the cost), we found that the two times we took taxis in the city, it ended up being about the same cost that was quoted to us by Uber (we did a quick check in the cab).

Still, I preferred the convenience of Uber a little bit more than taxis, as we put the address into the app, didn’t need cash, and didn’t have to try to hail a cab (not difficult, but still felt more convenient).

Just make sure that the cab resets the meter when you go and have cash on hand. The meter resets at R$5.90.

➡️ Light Rail

Rio has a brand new light rail system that debuted just ahead of the 2016 Olympic games. To date, there are 3 lines on the light rail. One ticket costs R$3.60 (about .72 USD)

One crazy thing is that the light rail runs right down a street that has some street market stalls on it. (I don’t think its exactly a part of the Uruguiana market, but it was adjacent to it).

We were in front of a table looking at some candy and, I kid you not, the light rail came less than a foot from where we were standing. I was literally like ‘Matthew do not move backwards at all or you will die.’

You can find a map of the public transport in Rio here .

➡️ Walking

You can definitely walk around parts of Rio during the day, but note that a lot of things are very spread out. There are, however, a lot of attractions in the Centro/Lapa areas that you can walk between, and you can certainly walk around Copacabana and Ipanema.

➡️ Biking

There are bike rental stands throughout the city, but I would hesitate to recommend biking solo in most parts of Rio, as the traffic is kind of crazy. On Copacabana and Ipanema, there is a dedicated bike lane separate from the pedestrian sidewalk and the road, and biking along there is really fun!

Download the Bike Itau app to locate and rent bikes throughout the city – you put your credit card information in, and then it’s an easy scan and go situation at the bike stations.

Final Thoughts on the Rio de Janeiro Travel Tips

I absolutely loved Rio de Janeiro – the bustling, vibrant city, the mountains and hills all around, the street food everywhere, the beaches and friendly people. My biggest Rio travel tips are to really enjoy the city and all the surrounding nature – Rio is such a fun and unique city!

Liked This Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide? Check Out These Other Articles:

• A Rio de Janeiro Travel Budget: What Does a Trip to Rio Cost?

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Stephanie is the author of The Unknown Enthusiast. She's visited 21 countries and 37 of the 50 US states (but her first love will always be France). When she's not traveling, she enjoys reading, taking naps, playing games, eating popcorn, and spending time with her husband (Matthew) and 4 daughters. Stephanie lives in Alabama, USA.

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Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

From the world-famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema to the magnificent summit of Corcovado, topped with the legendary Wonder of the World Christ the Redeemer, Rio combines big natural attractions with a sprawling metropolis. Home to over 12 million people, it should come as no surprise that it’s one of the most popular destinations in the world.

Founded by the Portuguese in the 16th century, Rio de Janeiro caters to every type of tourist and budget, popular with backpackers, Carnival revelers, and luxury vacationers alike. It’s an exciting city that has a lot to offer — so don’t rush your visit. There’s too much to see, especially when you factor in all those lazy days at the beach!

While petty theft and crime are a big concern here (you’ll want to avoid walking around alone at night), with a little vigilance you’ll be able to enjoy your time in this vibrant city without too much worry.

This travel guide to Rio de Janeiro can help you save money, stay safe, and ensure you have a wonderful visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Rio de Janeiro

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Rio de Janeiro

1. Celebrate Carnival

The Rio Carnival is one of the most famous festivals in the world, with people coming together from all corners of the globe to see the parade, listen to samba music, dance in the streets, and party for days. The city comes alive as thousands of people celebrate in bright, exotic regalia. You can reserve your 2024 Carnival tickets in advance here (highly recommended – they sell out quickly)!

2. Climb Sugarloaf Mountain

The famous Sugarloaf Mountain is one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations. Its name dates to the 16th century (the height of Brazil’s sugarcane trade), named for its resemblance to a conical block of sugar. The mountain is 396 meters (1,300 feet) tall, and at its peak, the entire city unfolds below you with spectacular views of Ipanema and Guanabara Bay, especially at sunset or sunrise. The cable car to get there costs 150 BRL ( reserve online in advance to skip the often super long lines).

3. See Christ the Redeemer

The 30-meter (100-foot) high statue of Christ the Redeemer sits atop the Corcovado Mountain and can be seen from any point in Rio. From its vantage point, you can take in the mountains, the bay, and the entire cityscape from the favelas to the skyscrapers. It’s an incredible Wonder of the World! You can get there a few different ways: via cog train (that goes through the rainforest), shared vans that leave from designated points around the city, or by hiking the (quite steep) trail to the top (though for safety reasons, it’s not recommended to do the trail alone). You can reserve advance tickets for the train and statue here (155 BRL).

4. Hit the beaches

Ipanema and Copacabana are the two largest beaches, and they’re always jam-packed with people. Ipanema has more upscale restaurants and nightlife, while Copacabana has more things to do (like fishing, surfing, and beachside markets selling handicrafts and swimwear). For quieter spots, check out Barra de Tijuca Beach, Prainha Beach, or Leme Beach (at the further end of Copacabana Beach).

5. Watch a fútbol game

Other things to see and do in rio de janeiro, 1. visit the botanical gardens.

For a moment of calm, head to the city’s botanical gardens. Walk along the meandering paths and trails or take a free guided tour of the gardens. This place is home to over 8,000 plant species, designed in 1808 by order of the Prince Regent Dom João. Highlights include a lake filled with enormous Vitória Régia water lilies, an enclosed area with over 600 species of orchids, and a carnivorous greenhouse filled with Venus flytraps and pitcher plants. The gardens get super busy with families on the weekends, so come during the week. Admission is 67 BRL.

2. Wander the Rio de Janeiro Zoo

If your travels don’t include a trip to the Amazon, you can still experience Brazil’s indigenous animals at the Rio City Zoo. Over 1,300 animals from 350 species live here, including many rare and endangered native species such as harpy eagles, maned wolves, golden-headed lion tamarins, anteaters, and more. There’s also a particularly impressive reptile house and open aviary with macaws, toucans, and tropical birds flying freely around. Admission costs 47 BRL.

3. Learn the samba

You’ll hear samba music playing endlessly around Rio, especially during Carnival. Rio de Janeiro is one of the best places in Brazil to learn how to dance. Rio Samba Dancer is my favorite for its all-levels group classes, especially for the classes combined with social outings to samba clubs. Classes start from about 105 BRL.

4. Go to Paquetá Island

Paquetá Island in Guanabara Bay is a favorite with locals for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city center on weekends. The island is an hour-long ferry ride from Rio, and it’s made up of mainly beaches and quaint colonial towns. Transportation around the island is only by foot, bicycle, or horse-drawn carts. There’s not a lot to do here, but that’s kind of the point. The ferry costs 6.50 BRL one-way.

5. Ride the Santa Teresa tram

This tram has been running through the Santa Teresa neighborhood since 1877, making it the oldest electric railway in Latin America. It has always followed the same route from the city center, across the Lapa Arches, and passing by Ruinas Park overlooking Rio. The tram is open-sided, meaning you can lean out over the arches (a narrow former aqueduct) as you cross them – it’s a dizzying view! A return ticket on the 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) route is 20 BRL.

6. Visit the Selaron Stairway

Located in the Santa Teresa neighborhood, this stairway has hundreds of steps all painted with more than 2,000 pieces of colorful tiles, mosaics, and mirrors. Starting in the early 1990s, artist Jorge Selarón began gathering contributions from artists in 60 different countries. He also visited antique shops and trash heaps to find pieces to add over time, working on the staircase’s construction for over 20 years until his death in 2013. It’s one of the most photogenic and popular sights in the city (you’ve probably seen it on Instagram) so don’t miss it!

7. Explore the Arcos da Lapa district

For those of you who love the nightlife, this is an awesome district to head out to on a Friday night. Bars, clubs, and food stalls dominate the area, and street parties run from the famous arches up Avenida Mem de Sá. For live music, go to Circo Voador, an open-air concert venue primarily featuring Brazilian bands and artists. If you want to experience the club scene, check out the three-story Rio Scenarium. If you’re not into partying at all, admire the photogenic Arcos de Lapa (Lapa Arches). These arches date back to the mid-18th century and were once used as aqueducts.

8. Visit Sitio Roberto Burle Marx

This home and World Heritage Site belongs to one of Brazil’s most celebrated landscape designers, Roberto Burle Marx. Begun in 1949 and developed over the course of over 40 years, this 100-acre property features over 3,500 tropical and subtropical plant species. Inside the Burle Marx House Museum is a huge collection of his personal artwork as well as a 17th-century Benedictine chapel. Tours cost 10 BRL and are available by appointment only.

9. Visit the São Bento Monastery

Built between 1617-1641, this colonial Baroque church is located on Morro de São Bentois (St. Benedict Hill) in downtown Rio de Janeiro. Although the exterior is simple, the inside is covered in gold decoration, wood carvings from Frei Domingos da Conceição and Alexandre Machado, and paintings from José de Oliveira Rosa. The monastery is still in operation today, and if you attend Sunday mass, you’ll get to hear some traditional Gregorian chanting. Just be sure to dress respectfully as it is a place of worship.

10. Hike in Tijuca National Park

Tijuca National Park is the largest urban rainforest in the world, stretching across 8,300 acres. Over 350 different species of mammals, birds, and reptiles make their home here, including howler monkeys, which only came back to the park recently after a 100-year hiatus. The Corcovado (Christo) hike through Parque Lage and to the top of Corcovado is a steep climb, but it’s shaded and only takes about three hours. Another scenic hike is to Tijuca Peak, starting in Rio’s North Zone and past waterfalls and dense rainforest. You’ll get views over Niteroi and Guanabara Bay, and it only takes about two hours to complete. Entrance to the park is free. This is a place where it’s really worth it to go with a tour though. You’ll not only have a more in-depth experience, learning history of the rainforest as well as how to recognize native flora and fauna, but get round-trip transportation to/from your accommodation as well. There are tons of tours available, from the popular jeep tours to full-day adventure hikes that go to lesser visited sections of the rainforest.

11. Go to the Ilha Fiscal

A little outside Rio’s city center is Ilha Fiscal, a Neo-Gothic castle on a secluded island in Guanabara Bay. It used to be a location for the Brazilian Custom Service but is now a work of architectural art, with mosaic floors, stained glass, and a traditional Ceremonial Room used by the Navy. You can only access the island by schooner and bus from the Naval Museum. Admission to the Naval Museum is free, while a return ticket to Ilha Fiscal is 42 BRL.

12. Visit the Museum of Tomorrow

The Museum of Tomorrow (Museu do Amanhã) is a science museum that focuses on ecology, sustainability, and the future of our planet. Ultra-sleek and modern, the Museum of Tomorrow has high-tech visuals and simulators that let you consider the world’s past, present, and future. Although it might sound depressing, it’s incredibly well-curated, and the whole experience is captivating. Admission is 30 BRL.

13.Take a walking tour

Walking tours are my favorite way to get my bearings in a new place. Free Walker Tours and Rio by Foot both offer free walking tours through a variety of different Rio neighborhoods, as well as paid tours such as food tours, pub crawls, and rainforest tours. If you’re taking a free tour, just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

14. Explore Rio by Bike

Because of Rio’s geography, stretching along the coast between the ocean and the mountainous rainforest, the city can take some time to get around. You can cover a lot of ground by biking along the beach and through different neighborhoods on the many kilometers of dedicated bike lanes in the city. You can either explore on your own or with a local guide on a tour with Rio by Bike .

  For more information on other cities in Brazil, check out these guides:

• Fernando de Noronha Travel Guide
• Florianopolis Travel Guide
• Sao Paulo Travel Guide

Rio de Janeiro Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Large dorm rooms with 8-10 beds start around 65-75 BRL per night. Dorm rooms with 4-6 beds are around 90-110 BRL per night. Standard twin or double private rooms cost 225-300 BRL per night for two people.

Free Wi-Fi is standard, and most hostels have a bar and outdoor patio with a BBQ. Free breakfast is usually included at hostels in Rio de Janeiro, and kitchen facilities are common too. Some hostels have a pool, coworking spaces, and bikes for rent.

If you book your bed well ahead of time for Carnival (at least six months), you’ll have more options. However, prices skyrocket — some of those dorms mentioned above increase to 200-300 BRL per night — during Carnival!

Budget hotel prices – A double room in a basic two-star hotel is around 150 BRL per night in the city center, including a private bathroom and balcony as well as free Wi-Fi. That price can nearly double in other places like Copacabana (the most popular place for tourists to stay).

A budget hotel with more amenities (free breakfast, a swimming pool, bar/restaurant) starts around 190 BRL per night for a double room.

Airbnb is another affordable option here. For a private room, expect to pay about 100-125 BRL per night, while you can find a comfortable home or apartment for about 275-350 BRL per night.

During Carnival time, private and hotel rooms can double in price and sell out fast.

Average cost of food – Brazilian cuisine – like the country itself – is a mix of many cultures, with European, Amerindian, African, and (more recently) Japanese influences. As such a large country, food varies per region, with seafood plentiful on the coastlines and Brazilian barbecue dominating plates in the south. Rice and beans are a staple throughout the country.

Common vegetables include tubers like cassava and yams, tomatoes, red peppers, okra, and more. Being a subtropical country, there’s a huge variety of fruits, with the most famous being the superfood açaí. Cupuaçu, mango, papaya, guava, orange, passion fruit, pineapple, are all commonly found in smoothies and fresh juices across the country.

Look for feijoada on the menu. It’s Brazil’s national dish, a meaty bean stew, traditionally eaten for Wednesday or Saturday lunch. Other popular dishes include moqueca (fish stew), polenta, vatapá (a stew of bread, shrimp, coconut milk, and peanuts), and farofa (toasted cassava flour, served as a side to feijoada ), among countless others.

Some popular street food snacks include pão de queijo (cheese bread rolls), acarajé (black-eyed pea and shrimp fritters), coxinha (chicken croquettes), and pastéis (savory fried pies with assorted fillings). In Rio, bolinhos de bacalhau (fried cod fritters) are especially popular due to the city’s coastal location.

Rio de Janeiro has lots of affordable food options, with street food like pastels, coxinha, and tapiocas costing 8-10 BRL each. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant serving typical Brazilian dishes costs about 20-40 BRL. An açaí (served pureed and frozen, with toppings you can choose from) from a street stand or takeaway spot is 15-20 BRL.

For fast food, a combo meal at McDonald’s or a takeaway meal from a Chinese restaurant both cost about 35 BRL.

A meal with two courses at a casual restaurant starts from 60 BRL, though prices at restaurants along the beach can go much higher, starting around 70-80 BRL for a dish. A three-course meal with a drink at a nicer restaurant is around 200 BRL.

A beer to go with your meal is around 7-10 BRL, while a cocktail starts at 20 BRL (though they can get upwards of 40 BRL in fancier places). In terms of non-alcoholic drinks, a cappuccino or fresh juice is 8-12 BRL.

One of the best ways to eat in Rio is to find a restaurant por kilo , which lets you pay for your meal by weight (so skip the super-thick steak). It generally costs around 70-90 BRL per kilo, with prices varying depending on the time of day and day of the week (nights and weekends are more expensive). Restaurante Temperarte near Copacabana is a great option for trying this.

Grocery shopping is very cheap, costing about 100-145 BRL per week for bread, meat, veggies, and other basics. You’ll just need to make sure you book accommodation with a kitchen.

Backpacking Rio de Janeiro Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking Rio de Janeiro, expect to spend about 215 BRL per day. This covers staying in a hostel dorm, eating street food, cooking some of your meals, limiting your drinking, using public transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like enjoying the beach.

On a mid-range budget of about 470 BRL per day, you can stay in a private hostel or Airbnb room, eat out for all your meals at cheap local restaurants, take the occasional taxi to get around, enjoy a few drinks, and do more paid activities like visiting the zoo and attending a soccer game.

On a “luxury” budget of about 825 BRL per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, enjoy more drinks, take taxis everywhere, and enjoy all the tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

If you’re coming during Carnival time, expect prices for accommodations and activities to increase significantly (sometimes quadruple) — especially if you’re booking last minute.

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in BRL.

Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Rio has lots of free activities and attractions to enjoy, like beaches and hiking trails. While food and accommodation aren’t cheap, there are ways to keep your costs down. Here are some ways to save money in Rio de Janeiro:

• Eat por kilo – As with elsewhere in Brazil, restaurants that have you pay by the kilo for your food is a good deal. Look out for these cheap options.
• Visit the market – If you’re staying at a hostel with kitchen facilities, it’s a good idea to stock up on food at the market and eat like the locals.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you a free place to stay and share their insider tips and advice. It’s the best way to meet locals and save money.
• Go to free museum days – Almost all the museums in Rio have a free day to visit each week. Check their website for details!
• Take a free walking tour – There are many excellent free walking tours in Rio, including Free Walker Tours and Rio By Foot. They’re the best way to see the main sights on a budget. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Avoid Carnival time – As exciting as Carnival is, visiting Rio any other time of the year is just as magical and saves you lots of money.
• Pack a water bottle – The tap water here isn’t safe to drink so bring a water bottle with a filter to save money and reduce your single-use plastic usage. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is a sprawling city. When you’re researching your hostel, make sure you find a neighborhood that fits your needs, whether you want to stay in the city center or somewhere near the beach. Otherwise, you’ll be spending a lot of money on taxis and sitting in the city’s terrible traffic. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• Selina Lapa Rio de Janeiro
• Mango Tree Hostel Ipanema
• CabanaCopa Hostel

For more suggestions, check out this post on the best hostels in Rio .

How to Get Around Rio de Janeiro

Public Transportation – Rio’s BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) has quick and reliable routes in Copacabana, Barra, Ipanema, and Leblon. Fares cost from 3.80 BRL per trip. You’ll have to flag down a bus by waving at the driver. Otherwise, the Metrô Na Superfície shuttle passengers between metro stations, but they’re often very crowded. The bus is also not always the safest method of travel, so exercise caution here, and don’t use them at night.

Rio de Janeiro has three very efficient subway lines. Line 1 runs between Ipanema to the North Zone, while Line 2 runs between Botafogo and Pavuna (with Maracanã football stadium on the way). Line 3 runs between Ipanema and the Barra de Tijuca. You can get a prepaid card (called RioCard+Mais) at any kiosk for 4 BRL. A single metro ride costs 5 BRL.

For solo female travelers, note that there are women-only metro cars (marked in pink) during peak rush hours (6am-9am, 5-8pm, on weekdays).

The only remaining tram line in Rio is the famous Santa Teresa line, which runs from the tram station in Centro and travels across the Lapa Arches, Ruinas Park, and then turns around at Largo do Guimarães. A return ticket is 20 BRL.

Bicycle – Rio has tons of bike paths along its main beach areas. Unfortunately, only Brazilian citizens and residents with a CPF number can use the bike sharing system, though you can also rent bikes from a local shop for about 150 BRL per day to navigate the paths between Copacabana and Ipanema.

Ferry – You can take a ferry to visit several of Rio’s highlights, like Ilha Fiscal, Ilha de Paquetá, and Niterói. Ticket prices are generally 12-15 BRL round-trip.

Taxis – Taxis start at 6 BRL and cost an additional 2.65 BRL per kilometer. This rate increases to 3 BRL per kilometer at night and on Sundays. A ride around town generally costs 10-50 BRL. Use the 99 app (formerly 99Taxis) to get a safe, metered taxi.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Rio de Janeiro and usually costs around the same a taxi.

When to Go to Rio de Janeiro

December to March is when Rio is at its warmest and sunniest. There isn’t much rain during these months, and temperatures tend to be around 32°C (90°F) and higher each day.

Autumn (April-May) and spring (October-November) offer slightly cooler temperatures, usually in the mid-20s°C (low 80s°F). Although Rio is busy year-round, you’ll avoid a lot of peak tourism madness by visiting during these months.

During February’s Carnival, prices skyrocket, and accommodation sells out very quickly. You should consider booking your travel at least six months (and up to a year) before Carnival time to snag the best deals and places to stay.

How to Stay Safe in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro has a lot of crime and is not the safest city in the world. Violent attacks can occur, however, your biggest concern here is petty crime — especially after nightfall around popular tourist destinations.

Don’t walk alone at night. Instead, take taxis. Have your accommodation call one for you so you can be sure you get a reputable driver.

When withdrawing money, make sure you go inside a bank so that you can put your cash away without the risk of getting robbed.

Don’t flash your valuables and always make sure your possessions are secure and out of reach (especially your phone and wallet).

Never accept drinks from strangers and don’t leave anything unattended at the beach.

Unless you’re on a guided tour, avoid the favelas. The favelas are where the highest rate of crime occurs in the city, and you shouldn’t be exploring there on your own.

Carjacking and break-ins are common so avoid renting a car here.

Solo female travelers will want to exercise caution here. Travel with groups where you can and avoid getting too far off the beaten path if you’re alone.

If you’re worried about getting scammed, you can read about common travel scams to avoid right here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 190 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Brazil and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hostels in Rio de Janeiro

Is Brazil Safe to Visit?

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Rio de Janeiro   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Anna Gibiskys | Getty Images

Why Go To Rio de Janeiro

Known as the  Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City), this glimmering Brazilian metropolis has certainly earned its title. Resting at the mouth of a bay harbor, the city is lined with white-sand beaches and surrounded by staggered green mountains covered in a lush tropical forest, Rio de Janeiro boasts dramatic views from nearly every angle. From the slopes of Corcovado Mountain, you'll admire the striking 124-foot-tall Christ the Redeemer , who overlooks Rio's pristine beaches. And from the shores of Copacabana and Ipanema , you'll marvel over the picture-perfect backdrop that has charmed Cariocas  (native Brazilians born in Rio de Janeiro) and visitors alike for more than 500 years.

But there's much more to Rio than scenic vistas, tropical forests and cerulean seas. Here, diversity, exuberance and a laid-back attitude dominate the city's character. Stroll along Avenida Atlântica in Copa, and you'll find a city brimming with bikini-clad beachgoers. The city is also known for its love of sport. From Maracanã Stadium (home of the 2014 World Cup finals and the 2016 Olympic Games) to beach volley at Flamengo Park (known as Aterro do Flamengo ), the city is alive with activity. At night, you'll hear the energizing beats of samba pulsating through the city streets in Lapa . And if you visit in February — just in time for Carnival — you'll witness Brazil's vibrant parades and heaving blocos (street parties) that draw revelers from across the globe. 

Note: Rio de Janeiro isn't without its share of problems, although most violent crime occurs on the outskirts of the tourist areas. In general, low-income urban areas, known as favelas , should be avoided due to gang-related violence. However, Vidigal, a favela near to Rio's affluent neighborhood Leblon, is a popular tourist spot and is widely considered safe (you will have to go through Vidigal to reach the entrance to the very popular Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers) hike, which dozens of tourists do daily, often without a guide). Visitors should consult the U.S. Department of State's website for the most up-to-date travel advisories.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

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• # 8 in Best Places to Visit in Central and South America in 2023
• # 9 in Best Summer Vacation Spots in the World for 2024
• # 13 in Best Places to Visit in December 2024

See All 6 Rankings

Best of Rio de Janeiro

Best hotels in rio de janeiro.

• in Sofitel Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
• in Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort
• in Belmond Copacabana Palace

Best Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro

• # 1 in Christ the Redeemer
• # 2 in Tijuca National Park
• # 3 in Jardim Botânico

Popular Tours

Full Day: Christ Redeemer, Sugarloaf, City Tour & Barbecue Lunch

(2355 reviews)

from $ 83.00

Rio's Full Day: Selarón Steps, Christ & Sugarloaf – Tickets & Lunch Included

(1470 reviews)

from $ 146.00

The Best Half Day in Rio with Christ Redeemer and Sugar Loaf Hill

(767 reviews)

from $ 84.50

Rio de Janeiro Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Rio is between December and March, when the weather is warm and sunny enough to hit the beaches, although there may be quick but heavy downpours in the evenings. The city's seductive samba beat and incredible panoramic views last year-round, but arrive in February to experience Carnival. This five-day festival leading up to Fat Tuesday brings tens of thousands of visitors and locals to the streets for parades and parties. Finding an affordable place to stay during Carnival can be difficult; you should consider booking your  hotel  and flight up to a year in advance. Between January and March, daytime temperatures can sometimes surpass 90 or 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If you prefer more moderate conditions, visit during autumn (April and May) or spring (October and November), when temps fall back to the 70s and low 80s during the day and the 60s at night.

Weather in Rio de Janeiro

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Using ATMs Most ATMs accept international credit and debit cards. Most ATMs in banks, supermarkets and shopping malls are open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., and on holidays and Sundays, ATMs close at 8 p.m. Airports and some gas stations and hotels have 24/7 ATMs. If you use cash, make sure you have small bills (ideally less than 50 reais) to make getting change easier.

Cards are accepted Contactless payments are available throughout Rio. When paying by card you need to specify if it's debit or credit; sometimes, a debit card will only work when processed in the card machine as a credit card. American Express may not always be accepted.

Uber is popular Although public transport will get you to all corners of Rio, Uber is a quick and relatively inexpensive way of getting around. It usually works out much cheaper than a taxi and you can get Uber from Rio's airport via the app.

How to Save Money in Rio de Janeiro

Grub by the pound Rio de Janeiro is full of buffet-style restaurants that charge by the kilo. Look for signs that say "por kilo" and then pile your plate – it's a great way to try a selection of typically Brazilian foods, too.

Visit Samba do Trabalhador Although Lapa is known as the vibrant neighborhood  for nights out, enjoy an inexpensive evening out at Samba do Trabalhador, a popular event venue among locals for live music every Monday.

Bed down at a pousada Hotel prices are notoriously expensive in the city, especially in beachside neighborhoods. To stay within budget, search for pousadas — the bed-and-breakfasts of Brazil that often include a morning meal in their rates.

Get outside Rio is famous for its dazzling hikes and the tropical Atlantic Forest that carpets the city's mountainous skyline. Best of all, entry into the forest is free. Hikes in Tijuca Forest  are well sign-posted and tend to be well-trekked, making most of them safe to go without a guide for a cheap day out.

Culture & Customs

Cariocas  (native Brazilians born in Rio de Janeiro) are known for their easy-going demeanor. Friendly, hospitable and always up for a celebration,  Cariocas  relish eating late, dancing late and dressing up in glittery costumes for Carnival — Rio's most riotous and colorful party.

Portuguese is Brazil's official language. While there are some English speakers near tourist attractions, it's helpful to bring a Portuguese phrasebook. We also recommend writing down the addresses of attractions you want to visit for taxi drivers.

You'll fit in by wearing shorts, T-shirts or a vest top and cover-ups or dresses while walking along the beaches. The classic string bikini is the typical attire on the beaches, but there's no need to feel shy – Rio celebrates all body types and there's zero judgment. Being topless is strictly prohibited on the beach, except for one designated nudist beach called Praia de Abricó. Dress code is usually casual in restaurants and along the main streets in the Zona Sul district. However, it's not unusual to spot lavishly dressed locals rummaging through clothing racks in São Conrado Fashion Mall's high-end stores or in top-end restaurants and bars in neighborhoods Leblon and Jardim Botânico .

 As far as tipping goes, it is considered polite to add gratuity; however, most restaurants already include a 10% service charge on the bill. Most restaurants accept credit cards.

The real (BRL) is Brazil's official currency. The favorable exchange rate makes this South American city affordable for U.S. travelers. Check what the current exchange rate is before you go.

What to Eat

Rio de Janeiro is a culinary paradise. Its food scene reflects the city's diverse culture and demographics, blending Indigenous, Portuguese, African and immigrant influences with a mix of traditional and new to create a unique gastronomic experience.

To start your day and finish off your meals like a local, drink an espresso sweetened with heaps of sugar. A must-have dish is feijoada , the iconic black bean stew infused with pork, sausage, and herbs. Modern versions cater to vegetarians, replacing the meat with hearty root vegetables. Seafood lovers will love moqueca , a fragrant fish stew cooked in coconut milk and dendê oil, a staple of Bahian cuisine with a distinct African flair. 

A popular dining experience is the all-you-can-eat meat option, called rodízio , where you can indulge in an endless stream of skewered meats. Must-tries include picanha , a prime cut of beef, and chicken hearts, which feature at every Brazilian barbecue.

Truly Brazilian street food includes pastels (deep-fried pastries that can be savory or sweet) served with ice-cold sugarcane juice;  coxinhas , deep-fried dough filled with shredded chicken; and pão de queijo , cheese bread made with cassava. On the beach, sip iced tea ( mate ) and lemonade paired with the airy crunch of Globo cassava-based biscuits. 

Brigadeiro , chocolate truffles rolled in sprinkles, or a bowl of açaí mixed with your choice of toppings will satisfy a sweet tooth. Don't forget to wash your food down with a classic Brazilian beer served extra cold or a caipirinha, a potent yet refreshing cocktail made with sugarcane liquor ( cachaça ), lime and sugar and poured over heaps of ice.

The tourist area – known as Zona Sul (the South Zone) – is generally safe, although exercise caution when walking around at night, especially downtown (Centro), Santa Teresa and Lapa . In all areas of Rio, remain vigilant with valuables due to pickpocketing, and keep in mind that some tourists have been involved in armed robberies (in these cases, always hand over your belongings). Carnival street parties can be a hotspot for petty theft, so keep your possessions zipped away in a secure belt bag and leave at least one backup bank card at your accommodation. Although rare, robberies have been reported on the city's hiking trails, so consider going with a reputable guide (such as Hike in Rio) or in a group, especially during the week when the hikes are quieter.

Favelas are misunderstood places, and some are perfectly safe to visit (such as Vidigal), or with a guide, such as Rocinha. That being said, most favelas are not tourist-friendly and are best avoided. If you do visit one, be respectful at all times, especially when taking photos (after all, these are people's homes), and avoid straying off the main road. Visit the U.S. Department of State's website for more details.

Getting Around Rio de Janeiro

The best way to get around Rio is by foot, subway or taxi or Uber. Major attractions – such as  Lapa , Santa Teresa  and other popular sites – can easily be reached by Uber or a taxi, which are not difficult to hail on the city's main streets. The beaches are easy to reach on foot and a cycle path follows the coastline from the neighborhood Glória to Leblon. For a hassle-free means of transportation from Rio de Janeiro International Airport (GIG), you'll want to get an Uber or taxi. The subway is another affordable and safe way to get around the most popular neighborhoods in the South Zone. City buses are also convenient, but unfamiliar riders can be thrown off by the non-English-speaking bus drivers. Renting a car isn't the best mode of transportation around the city, as traffic is heavy and the roads are packed with disorienting street signs and pedestrians.  

Entry & Exit Requirements

United States citizens must bring a valid passport and will be granted a visa upon entry, although these rules will change on Jan. 10, 2024, when U.S. citizens will be required to obtain a visa from the Brazilian Embassy or closest Consulate before entering Brazil. A standard visa enables visitors to stay in Brazil for 90 days, which can be extended to 180 days. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State's website .

Most of the beaches in the city offer spectacular views of the famous mountains. 

Explore More of Rio de Janeiro

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The Ultimate Guide To An Epic Rio De Janeiro Trip

My first trip to Rio De Janeiro was in 2016, for 4 days during the Olympics. I fell in love immediately with the vibe, the way of life and how friendly the people wear.

But I always wondered if my experience of Rio De Janeiro was reality, or a front to put on file the city was on the world stage.

Returning to Rio De Janeiro in 2019, I was both excited to be back in a place I fell in love with, And nervous that it wouldn’t live up to the expectations in the way I remembered it.

I couldn’t be more pleasantly surprised. If anything I loved Rio De Janeiro this time even more so.

What ever pre-conceptions you have about in this Brazilian city, put them to one side and come see it for yourself. Because Rio is a vibe, a way of life, and experience. It’s the city that can do it all in, beaches, history, mountains.

In this blog I’ll let you know When to visit Rio, How to get about Rio and What to do in Rio when you’re there.

All prices are in Brazilian Real (approximately R$5 Real = £1 or $1.20)

When To Visit

Brazil is the perfect destination to visit all year round, due to its proximity to the equator.

According to a study done in 2006, Rio De Janeiro has the bluest skies in the world. (Although, I’m glad I learned this fact after I left or I would’ve been disappointed as we mostly saw clouds for the duration of our trip!)

I visited Rio De Janeiro in September, which is Brazilian springtime. Usually It’s hot enough to lie on the beach, but we were unfortunate with a cold front which meant that most days were overcast and around 20°C. Although this was disappointing for our plans to soak up the sun on the world famous beaches, It definitely meant that we got out and some more of the city beyond just the beaches.

While Rio De Janeiro lifestyle is definitely built around being outside, there is still plenty to do on the cold and rainy days too (Full blog on how to spend a rainy day in Rio coming soon).

We spent four days in Rio, which is a perfect amount of time to really get to know the city and all that it has to offer.

Getting Around

Metro / public transport.

Rio De Janeiro is a massive city, and even sticking to the tourist parts, you will definitely need to use some public transport to get around. Whilst some areas are walkable, it’s not always safe to do so and you may spend more of your time getting between spots then really seeing it.

The Metro system is incredibly reliable, cheap and safe. Although it doesn’t cover every part of the city, where you can use it I would definitely recommend doing so.

Where the Metro doesn’t reach, there is an extensive bus system And overground trams to use.

Tip: Buy a Rio card, and to top it up with 20 to 30 Brazilian Riel. These can be used on all forms of transport (if you only plan to use the Metro, you can buy single use Metro cards for around R$4 real)

Uber’s

If you want to get somewhere faster than with public transport, or if it’s later at night and you want to be safe, Uber works better here than I’ve ever seen before.

In shopping malls, the airport or any major tourist attractions there are Uber lounges to wait in whilst you call your ride. It’s incredibly cheap (a 15 minute drive from the airport to our airbnb cost R$11).

Scooters (Lime / Yellow)

I have used Lime scooters in many European cities now, and whilst they’re not the cheapest (or most environmentally friendly) mode of transport they’re great fun.

Rio de Janeiro has two major electric scooter companies, lame and yellow. They are the perfect hop on, hop off option to get between spots, especially if you’re on the beach or in cycle lanes.

Even more fun, Lime is integrated into Google maps and will let you know how much faster than walking it is to rent one.

What To Do In Rio De Janeiro

Now you know the best time to visit rio (any time, all the time) and how to get around, i should let you know what to do in rio., museum of tomorrow.

• Time spend there: 2-3 hours
• Best for: Rainy days

The Museum of tomorrow was an unexpected gem of our trip. Truth be told, if it had been sunny we probably wouldn’t have gotten, but I’m really glad we did.

It’s an interactive, and visually pleasing representation of the world and how the humans in it have an impact. There is a big focus on environmental sustainability, and what we need to do now to protect the world of tomorrow. Whether you’re a passionate environmentalist or not this is an absolute must for anyone visiting Rio De Janeiro.

The Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil

• Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Best for: Rainy days and art lovers

The Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil is a bank, that hosts art exhibits, a theatre and cinema. During our visit we saw an exhibit by Wei Wei, a Chinese artist and activist. Whilst art is not my forte, I was blown away by the exhibit and the life of the artist. Whether art is your thing or not, this is a great hidden gem, even if just to see inside the gorgeous bank building itself. (While you’re there, be sure to check out the book shop & Colombo Coffee too)

• Time spent: 1 hour – All Day
• Best for: Adventure seekers

Rio De Janeiro is a world famous surf spot, and as soon as you arrive is easy to see why. There are many breaks along the coast, including at Arpoador rock on the far end of Ipanema. For beginners, you don’t have to look far for board rental and lessons from beach vendors and local surf shops along Ipanema and Copacabana.

Paddleboarding

• Time spent: 1 hour
• Best For: Being active at the beach.

Paddle boarding is an excellent way to get out on the sea regardless of your experience or skill. How choppy tide is will determine the challenge, and expect to feel the workout in your legs the next day for sure! Grab a paddle and a board and head out to sea to enjoy the Rio coast line from a different perspective.

Sunset At Arpoador Rock

• Best for: Romantic Evenings

Speaking of Arpoador rock. Whether surfing is your thing or not, it’s always a fun spectator sport. Check out what time sunset is happening while you are visiting Rio, and head to the rock about 45 minutes before. Have an obligatory Caipirinha from a local vendor, watch the surfers in the water and the sunset over the gorgeous bay of Rio De Janeiro.

Christ The Redeemer

• Cost: Varies based on transport
• Time spent: 1 hour max at top, hike required 2+ hours each way.
• Best for: First time visitors to Rio

No list of what to do in Rio De Janeiro would be complete without mentioning the iconic Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor). This towering statue of Christ sits on top of Corcovado Mountain protecting the entire city.

There are a number of ways to visit Christ the Redeemer:

• Hike to the top via one of the trails beginning in Tijuca National Park.
• Ride the Cog Train departing from Cosme Velho.
• Catch a mini van shuttle to the top from Largo Do Machado or Copacabana.

On my last trip to Rio, I opted to hike up, and catch the train back down to experience both and make the most of my time in Rio. (This trip we didn’t climb up, because we saw perfect views from the helicopter already).

This iconic site of the city is an absolute must, and offers panoramic views of the entire Rio de Janeiro coast line.

Sugar Loaf Mountain

• Time spent: 2-3 hours round trip
• Best for: Clear days & first time visitors

Another iconic site of Rio de Janeiro and an absolute must to do for any visit to Rio. Unfortunately, the weather was not in our favour and so we opted not to go up the Sugar Loaf Mountain cable car this time. However, we saw the views from our helicopter ride and so we weren’t too bothered.

If you haven’t seen Rio De Janeiro’s skyline, then a trip up Sugar loaf Mountain on the cable car should be top of your list of what to do in Rio.

Due to its popularity, queues can get incredibly long (especially in high season), so it’s worth the early alarm to enjoy quieter views and less waiting time.

Check weather forecasts and online cameras for visibility ahead of time.

Jardim Botanico

• Time spent: 2-3 Hours
• Best for: Seeking peace and quiet

Right in the centre of Rio lies a gigantic botanical gardens. We had hours of fun strolling along the paths among palm trees, exploring the Japanese gardens and the various greenhouses dotted around the park. Not to mention observing the local residents (monkeys) playing over our heads.

The Botanical Gardens in Rio are a magical escape from the noise of the city and beaches. Although there were a lot of other people there, it’s big enough that you still have plenty of space.

• Time spent: 20 minutes or a full day!
• Best for: Fitness Fiends

Aside from Corcovado Mountain to see Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro offers countless other hikes to explore. See the city from a different perspective by trying out a few during your stay in Rio. A full list of hikes in Rio can be found here.

Helicopter Ride

• Cost: R$700
• Time spent: 30 minute flight
• Best for: Special Occasions or treating yourself.

I usually travel on a tight budget and would not have considered a helicopter as part of a “what to do in Rio” list under normal circumstances. But after taking a helicopter ride with Vertical Rio, I cannot recommend it strongly enough.

We originally booked the helicopter ride because Vertical Rio offer doors-off flights (as it sounds on the tin, it’s a helicopter without the doors). However only a few days before our trip, we learned that new regulations meant that we needed to ride with the doors on.

I am so glad we didn’t cancel and take the refund. Doors or not, it was the most spectacular thing I’ve ever seen.

We flew over Barra De Tijuca, Copacabana, and Ipanema, before getting the most stunning perspective of Christ the Redeemer and sugar loaf Mountain that I could’ve hoped for.

Vertical Rio were incredible from start to finish, and one of the most affordable helicopter rides in Rio we found. If there is anywhere in the world that you plan to take a helicopter ride, make it Rio, where you get beaches, mountains and city skylines all within 30 minutes.

Copacabana & Ipanema Beach

• Time spent: As long as you want.
• Best for: Sunny days

No list on what to do in Rio De Janeiro would be complete without mentioning it’s iconic beaches. The beach isn’t just a tourist hub in Rio, it the way of life.

Copacabana and Ipanema beaches are different in location, but similar in many ways. All the beaches along the Rio city are marked by “Posto” numbers. This is the life guard huts and a useful point for orientating yourself in the city.

Notably for LGBT Travellers , Posto 13 on Ipanema beach is the gay beach. However, we felt safe being publicly out in Rio anywhere in the city.

Overall, Copacabana had a more relaxed and family vibe, while Ipanema was definitely where the party is at!

Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas

• Best for: Escaping the beach crowds and living like a local.

Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas sits between the beach and the mountains within Rio. And it’s the hub of the city for runners, cyclers, walkers and everyone else too.

In 2016 it’s where I watched the Olympic rowing events from, but regardless of whether there is an event on the water or not it’s well worth a walk around. In the summertime there are various tricycles and pedalos to rent to see the city from many perspectives.

Escadaria Selarón

• Time spent: 30 minutes
• Best for: Getting the ‘gram

Escadaria Selarón were an iconic photospot in Rio before Instagram was a thing. And now even more so. If you’ve seen photos of Rio, you’ve seen photos of the Escadaria Selarón steps.

An absolute must do in Rio, but get there early to avoid the tour buses and crowds of other people getting their pictures too. We travelled in low season and got to the stairs for around 9 AM. From then we had half an hour or so before the large tour groups arrived.

Santa Maria Tram

• Cost: 35 real
• Time spent: 1 hour round trip
• Best for: Seeing Rio like a loca l

A hidden gem in the Santa Maria district, this old school replica of a tram is used by tourists and locals alike. Board at the bottom station, and ride up through the hills of Santa Maria, taking in the local neighbourhood, street art and catching some great views across the city.

The original tram has run through Santa Maria for decades, but was recently replaced with a safer, newer replica after an unfortunate accident a few years ago.

Retail Therapy

• Cost: Depends what you buy!
• Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Best for: Rainy days or longer visits

Normally, I wouldn’t include shopping on my list of what to do in Rio (or any city guide for that matter). However Rio is an incredibly affordable place to update your wardrobe. I highly recommend checking out the gigantic mall at Rio Sul, for clothing, make up and anything you might have forgotten to pack.

Not to mention, you can’t leave Brazil without picking up a pair of Haviannas (or two!).

Olimpic Boulevard

• Best for: An afternoon stroll (avoid at night).

I was nervous to return here in 2019 after visiting during the Rio Olympics in 2016. The Boulevard is right by the harbour and was designed as a hub during the Olympics. (It homed the torch for the duration of the games)

Wind forward to 2019 and I was pleasantly surprised. The giant wall art created in honour of the games may have faded a tad, but the impact isn’t lost.

Take some time to stroll up the Olimpic Boulevard, with and without your camera. And bask in the talent of the art and the memory of the Games.

What To Eat In Rio

• Brunch at Gringos

We had a couple of amazing breakfasts in Rio de Janeiro. But Gringos was definitely the winner. Start your day with some warm pancakes or waffles. The Gringos Cafe is quite small, but they have plenty of indoor and under-canopy seating for rainy days or on street tables for summertime.

• Caipirinha s

How much alcohol is in a cup. I’ll never know. But its a lot. It’s a bit of a gamble to drink a plastic cup of unlabelled-something that you bought on the beach. But boy do they taste good! Caipirinha’s are enjoyed by locals and tourists and contain Brazil’s equivalent to rum.

• Empanadas

Empanadas are usually filled with a ground beef mixture and are baked or fried. However we also discovered various vegan and vegetarian options during our time in Rio.

• Coffee at Colombo

This is a well renowned cafe in Rio that we had set our sights on visiting. So naturally, we were gutted to learn that it closes on certain days. However, if you find that the main café Colombo is closed on your day in Rio, don’t fear! The Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil has a second cafe Colombo inside.

• Açai on the beach

Did you even go to Brazil if you didn’t eat Acai for breakfast, lunch or dinner? (Or all three?) This delightful frozen berry mix is often served alone, or topped with granola, syrup, fruit or chocolate. Try them all – you wont regret it!

And that’s it! My guide for what to do in Rio, how to get around and what to eat too. Let me know if there’s anything I’ve missed by dropping me a DM!

More blogs for your trip to brazil:.

• Hiking in Ilha Grande
• How To Spend A Rainy Day In Rio
• How to Find Cheap Accommodation
• 50 Ways I Can Afford To Travel The World
• Learning To Scuba Dive in Paraty Brazil

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Rio de Janeiro – The Marvelous City!

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These RI chefs have tasted the world. How you can join them on a culinary tour.

Food and travel are an intoxicating combination. Imagine how tempting trips planned with local food stars could be on destinations ranging from South Korea to Portugal.

Club Adventures, AAA’s small-group adventure tour operator, has teamed up with Providence and Rhode Island chefs, restaurateurs, and beverage experts to offer curated food tours starting in August and running into next year. The concept is to see the world through a local lens with a guide who knows all the best places to eat and drink.

Of the 13 food and drink trips, some are close to home including New York City and Austin, Texas. Others are to islands including the Azores and Sicily. Mexico, Spain and Germany during Oktoberfest are other destinations. One trip offers a gluten-free and vegan adventure in Italy.

The trips will have an average size of 14 travelers. They range in time from 4 days to 10 days with prices from $1,999 to $7,979.

Bethany Hodge's 15 years in the travel industry have included designing and operating culturally immersive small group trips. Now, as head of product for Club Adventures, she is launching the new tours.

But it was a conversation with Bethany Caliaro, owner/manager of both Oberlin and Gift Horse in Providence , that planted the seed for the program. Hodge was headed to Mexico with her husband Brian and Caliaro had just returned from a trip there. She shared her list of restaurants, bars and specific dishes for the couple to try.

"I’ve been watching the food and hospitality industry in Rhode Island become a national leader in innovation, community, diversity and sustainability – all values that I use when designing Club Adventures tours," she said.

"Every one of her suggestions elevated our travel experience, and I realized that the insight and guidance of a food professional could really turn a fun trip into a memorable adventure," said Hodge.

With consumer interest in culinary travel on the rise, Hodge knew tours that showcased these mutual values could be a hit. She first pitched the idea to Caliaro and Jen Davis, who manages the beverage program at The Eddy and Durk's  Bar-B-Q , both in Providence. They connected Hodge to more of the local culinary community.

"Every single establishment that I spoke with was in," said Hodge.

Each chef/bartender/business owner has been involved in curating the itinerary, leading to an exclusive experience that can’t be found anywhere else in the market.

"While chef-led tours are certainly being done in the travel space, I believe this is a first to ever showcase a city’s leaders in the culinary space all at once as a unified portfolio," Hodge said.

"It really speaks to the community and creativity of Providence," she said.

She hopes to create even more trips for 2025 with more leaders in the Rhode Island hospitality scene, she said.

The trips and guides

The cultural exploration and food adventures will be led by an impressive group including James Beard nominated chef Ben Sukle of Oberlin and Gift Horse. He will lead a September tour to Northern Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia.

“I am incredibly excited to join everyone and experience Trieste and its surrounding cities and environs," said Sukle. "All of the nuances of the lifestyles and culture there are behind how I cook and why I love to cook."  

Caliaro will lead a fish-to-fork dining adventure in Sicily. Led by Oberlin chef Chris Pfail, the art of making kimchi is on the menu for a South Korea adventure.

Jen Davis leads two trips, one to Austin, Texas, to explore the barbecue and distillery scene and one to New York City to enjoy the city's cocktail scene.

Spain will be part of a Basque Adventure led by The Eddy's Luke Mersfelder and Britt Simons.

Mexico City and Oaxaca will be explored in a trip led by Joaquin Meza of Dolores . Germany’s Oktoberfest will be celebrated with Brendan Kennedy of Proclamation Ale in Warwick.

Robin Dionne & BJ Mansuetti who operate the RI VegFest and GFree Fests will lead the Gluten-Free and Vegan tour of Italy.

Pizza Marvin's Robert Andreozzi is another James Beard nominated chef and he will be on the Portugal & Galicia Food Adventure.

Only one guide is from outside the Rhode Island culinary restaurant world but she is no stranger to locals. Maria Lawton is the host and guide of "Maria's Portuguese Table" which is presented by WSBE Rhode Island PBS. She will lead an Azores Food Adventure and Portugal Wine & Food Adventure.

Visit clubadventures.com/food-tours/  for more information.