Situated on the southeast coast of Brazil, Rio de Janeiro is the second largest city in the country and offers a unique blend of urban style and natural wonders. The former capital’s streets, beaches and rainforest-covered mountains attract tourists from across the globe.Most travellers to Rio take a trip to Corcovado, situated in Tijuca National Park. The mountain is home to Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) which is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Early risers are usually able to get some fantastic pictures in before the crowds begin to arrive. For a different perspective of the statue, head to nearby Sugarloaf Mountain and take a trip on the cable car, taking in the panoramic views of the rainforest, city and beaches below. Those seeking culture won’t be disappointed, with Rio’s Portuguese, English and French influenced architecture featuring beautiful 16th century churches and graceful 19th century palaces. Rio also boasts the Biblioteca Nacional – the seventh largest library in the world.Rio de Janeiro is also the ultimate party destination. Many carnival-goers believe that there is no better place to join in the annual Brazilian festivities than in Rio. The city comes alive with samba beats, extravagant costumes and vibrant parades. The carnival usually takes place in February and is a five day celebration that ends the day before Lent begins. If you can’t make it to Brazil for the carnival, why not spray champagne with the 2.5 million revellers that see in the New Year on Copacabana Beach?Spend a day relaxing on the adjacent upmarket Ipanema Beach. Visitors can sit back with a chilled caipirinha or a fresh coconut and watch Brazil’s most beautiful parading up and down the white sands. More active travellers may decide to get involved with a game of footvolley – a Brazilian blend of football and volleyball that is played on the beaches of Rio every day.Rio is warm all year round, with the hottest months between December and March. This is usually the time with the most rainfall too. The city has good transport links, with buses, taxis and the metro transporting travellers around the city.
Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro
Copacabana
Copacabana is highly notable for its stunning beaches, and you might want to visit top sights like Copacabana Beach and Bairro Peixoto. See more of Rio de Janeiro by jumping on the metro at Siqueira Campos Station or Cardeal Arcoverde Station.
Barra da Tijuca
Visitors often come to Barra da Tijuca for its beaches, but many stay to explore sights like Barra Shopping Mall and Village Mall. Getting around the area on the metro is easy if you catch a ride at Jardim Oceânico Station.
Ipanema
Ipanema Beach and Rua Farme de Amoedo are top sights in Ipanema, and you should be sure to explore the stunning beaches. Hop aboard the metro at Nossa Senhora da Paz Station or Ipanema-General Osorio Station to see more sights in the area.
Rio de Janeiro Centro
You might enjoy the museums while in Rio de Janeiro Centro. Tiradentes Square is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Tiradentes Tram Stop or Colombo Tram Stop to see more of the city.
Leblon
Travelers choose Leblon for its beaches. Hop aboard the metro at Antero de Quental Station or Jardim de Alah - Leblon Station and check out top sights like Ipanema Beach.
Botafogo
Botafogo is a destination travelers like for its beaches, and you might hop aboard the metro at Botafogo Station or Futura estação Morro de São João Station to explore sights like Botafogo Praia Shopping.
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Popular places to visit
Copacabana Beach
More than just a stretch of sand, Rio de Janeiro’s most famous beach is where locals and visitors from all over the world come to relax, strut, pose and play.
Christ the Redeemer
Gaze out over panoramic views of Rio from the site of Brazil’s iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.
Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach
Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach during your travels in Rio de Janeiro? While you're in the area, wander around the parks.
Maracanã Stadium
To truly appreciate Brazil’s obsession with “the beautiful game,” watch a match or take a guided tour of one of the world’s largest and most historic soccer stadiums.
Sugar Loaf Mountain
For a breathtaking blend of cityscapes, rainforest vistas and beautiful beach views, take a trip to Rio’s sweetest attraction.
