Quick Links
There is not a dull moment in Rio de Janeiro, and people can easily spend a whole month there. Dubbed the Marvellous City, the Brazilian city is home to some of the most famous beaches in the world and also hosts a unique Carnival celebration that should be on everyone's bucket list.
Rio is an excellent destination year-round, and people often regret not spending enough time there. Travelers should spend at least one week enjoying its coast, nature, and Bohemian boroughs.
Where To Stay In Rio De Janeiro
The first question many people have when deciding to visit Rio de Janeiro is if the city is safe. The truth is that violence rates differ in each region, and the safest boroughs in Rio are at Zona Sul, home to the most famous beaches, including Copacabana and Ipanema. Tourists can also find excellent boutique hotels in Santa Teresa and affordable accommodations Downtown. Navigating the city is easier if travelers choose accommodations near a metro station, but Uber and 99 Taxis are apps that work perfectly.
The best thing in Rio is choosing a hotel with a good location and panoramic views. A great example is the Ipanema Hotel, perched in one of the fanciest areas of the city.
- Hotel: Praia Ipanema
- Address: Vieira Souto Avenue, 706
Day 1: Visit One Of The Wonders Of The World
Christ the Redeemer is Rio's most important landmark, and it's the best way to start this trip. The Cristo Redentor opens at 8 a.m., and it's the best time to visit it, as it is still not crowded with tourists yet. Another essential thing to consider before visiting it is the weather: One of the best parts of visiting the Cristo is its privileged view of the city, so avoid going on cloudy days. For people who want to avoid the lines, it's recommended to purchase the tickets online.
After that, the ideal is to enjoy Copacabana or Ipanema beach. The boulevard is perfect for biking or running. Watching the sunset at Arpoador is an ideal way to wrap up the day.
- Cristo Redentor ticket: children - R$ 60 children (approximately $11), adults - R$109 (approximately $20).
Day 2: Discover The Most Beautiful Botanical Garden In South America
Rio is home to one of the most important botanical gardens on earth, which was created in the 19th century. It's impossible not to be impressed with the rare imperial palm tree alley that dates back to the botanical garden foundation. The best way to explore the area is by walking or renting an electric bike while admiring plants and trees from different countries and thematic areas, including the Japanese garden and greenhouses. Visitors can also have breakfast at La Bicyclette, a famous bakery near the botanic garden entrance.
Travelers can also visit the Parque Laje, a public park near the botanical garden (0.7 miles) and at the foot of Corcovado. The place is a mansion turned into an art school, and there are also many trails at the Tijuca Forest. The entrance is free.
In the same neighborhood, travelers can go to the Chinese View. It's also possible to visit the many bars and restaurants in the area.
- Prices: Botanical garden - R$ 60,00 (approximately $11)
Day 3: Go To The Sugarloaf
The Pão de Açúcar park (Sugarloaf in English) connects both mounts (Pão de Açúcar and Urca) through a cable car, and travelers should avoid it on cloudy days. The place features bars, restaurants, and some shops, but they are pricey.
Afterward, travelers can visit the famous Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, a lake in the city's heart where people can bike and exercise. It's also possible to enjoy the night in one of Rio's many bars, such as Bar Pavão Azul and Belmonte.
- Prices: Bondinho do Pão de Açúcar - starts at R$150 (approximately $28)
Day 4: Meet Rio's Most Charming Area
It's time to visit the charming boroughs, and Santa Teresa is one of them. This area has incredible boutique hotels, and travelers can combine it with the Tijuca National Forest Park. This neighborhood is famous for its historic tramway and has a bohemian vibe. The best restaurant in the area is the Aprazivel, which offers excellent dishes and a view that is second to none.
Travelers can also head to Lapa to admire its famous arcs. This tourist area is where travelers can find the Selaron Staircase and many bars.
Day 5: The Maracanã Is A Sacred Place For Soccer Fans
The Maracanã was once the largest football stadium on earth, and sports fans should attend a match if they have the chance. It's also possible to schedule a guided tour, which lasts less than one hour.
Travelers can then head to the city center and discover the Museu do Amanhã, the Yup Star (a Ferris wheel), and the aquarium. History enthusiasts can also visit the Confeitaria Colombo, a colonial confectionery, the National Library, the Belas Artes Museum, and the Municipal Theater.
Those who want to blend in with locals can attend the traditional Roda de Samba da Pedra do Sal. They can also check if there's a Samba School rehearsal going on.
- Prices: Maracanã tour R$60 (approximately $11) | Museu do Amanhã - R$30 (approximately $5). | Yup Star - R$39 for children (approximately $7) and R$59 for adults (approximately $11) | AquaRio - R$ 110 on their website (approximately $20) | National Library - Free | Belas Artes Museum - R$8 (approximately $1.50) | Municipal Theater - R$ 20 (approximately $3)
Day 6: Explore The Islands
Rio de Janeiro is surrounded by nature, and another great way to explore the region is by going on a boat trip. Agencies offer different itineraries, and you can't go wrong choosing these.
- Ilhas Cagarras: This small archipelago features five islands, and it's perfect for travelers who want to explore marine life and watch birds.
- Ilha da Gigóia: The tiny island perched at Lagoa da Tijuca is becoming increasingly popular among tourists. Cars are not allowed, so the best way to visit is by boat. It's very safe and has a peaceful vibe.
- Ilha de Paquetá: Another popular choice among travelers. Paquetá is nestled at Guanabara Bay and can only be reached on boat tours, and it's a great experience to explore its streets, beaches, and viewpoints.
- Ilha Grande: This place has over a hundred beaches surrounded by a forest. Although staying a few days here is highly recommended, travelers can also enjoy a day trip that lasts approximately 14 hours.
Day 7: See Rio From A Different Angle
Rio's has countless hikes suitable for experienced or beginner hikers. Those tours are an excellent opportunity to be immersed in nature and admire Rio from a different angle. It's a popular activity for locals and tourists; some are overcrowded on the weekend. The Pedra do Telégrafo, for example, became famous after pictures of people hanging from a cliff went viral on social media, and there is a long line to its viewpoint. Yet, the "cliff" is an angle trick and is not dangerous.
Other incredible hikes are Pedra Bonita, Dois Irmãos, and Pedra da Gávea. Avoid going on hikes if it's raining, and try to go with a group.