Sunshine, samba, and sports: these three words are pretty perfect when it comes to describing one of the most popular cities in South America, Rio de Janeiro! It’s incredibly vibrant and totally fun, but a visit to Rio de Janeiro does require lots of planning. This is especially true when you start tallying up all the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro that are dotted all across the city.
Rio de Janeiro is also a huge place to visit for its beautiful beaches, carnival and stunning views across the whole bay area itself.
A quick note on safety in Rio de Janeiro
Trust me, Rio de Janeiro is a city that has something for everyone, and we’ve always loved our visits here. Though, unlike lots of other cities, you do need to plan and have your wits about you a little more. So let’s do a little groundwork, before you visit, on safety in Rio de Janeiro.
First things first, always take precautions whilst walking around or spending time at the beaches. For instance, we always recommend it is best not to wear any jewellery (gold, diamonds, the usual obvious sparkly things) that can catch attention. The same goes for watches. Obviously, you will have your phone with you. Keep this somewhere safe and don’t just flip your phone out on random streets. Muggings can be quite common in Rio de Janeiro, and it’s best to never draw attention to yourself.
Also, when it comes to travelling around Rio de Janeiro, always use transfers organised via a hotel or through apps like Uber. Regular taxis are fine, but it’s hard to tell the official ones (or ones where people have just painted their cars). For extra security, always book through reputable sources.
When it comes to exploring Rio de Janeiro, be cautious of the areas you visit. Personally, we never recommend visiting a favela, even on a guided tour. Not just because it promotes ‘poverty tourism’ (which does give me the ick), but because they can be volatile spaces where you stand out like a sore thumb!
Finally, the neighbourhood’s character can change quite quickly in Rio de Janeiro. Listen to local advice from hotels and never wander down dimly lit, deserted streets.
I’m not saying all this to scare you into not going to Rio de Janeiro. I love Rio de Janeiro! But it’s always best to be armed with all the information before your visit so you can make responsible, informed choices that are right for you.
Take a look below at the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro. Have the best trip exploring Brazil.
1.) Christ the Redeemer
Probably the most iconic statue in the world, Christ the Redeemer stands at 98 feet (30 m) tall. Looming over Rio de Janeiro at a staggering total height of 2,300 feet, it’s easily one of the best things to see in Rio de Janeiro, and it’s totally beautiful.
Now, one thing to make sure of is that you book these official tickets. You’ll find lots of tours inflating the costs when you’re on the ground, and no one likes to get swindled. Grab these official tickets and head here an hour before sunset. You want to be at the top. Plus, talk about a view!
You see, Christ the Redeemer is perched on the summit of Mount Corcovado, and without going into a long history, the statue is the result of the combined efforts of three individuals. French sculptor Paul Landowski, Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, and French engineer Albert Caquot. Today, we all get to enjoy the views across Rio de Janeiro, and it’s stunning.
Once you get to the entry point for Christ the Redeemer, you will scan your tickets and head on the Corcovado Train that takes you to the top. After you’ve scanned in, the area is very safe, and you can pull your phones out and take as many pictures as you want.
The views from up here are incredible, and it’s totally stunning. You will be joined by huge crowds around sunset – everyone wants to be there, so don’t expect a quiet experience, but it is so worth it.
After the sun sets, head back down on the Corcovado Train (included in your ticket price) and book your Uber or arrange a transfer before leaving the exit gates. You always need to be a little more careful at night time in in the city. This way, once your Uber or transfer has arrived, you can hop out of the gates and straight over to your next stop.
Alternatively, if you want a unique view over Rio de Janeiro at sunset and Christ the Redeemer, then book this incredible helicopter tour at sunset. It’s a breathtaking way to see all across the city, and the views are just immense.
Tours take around 15 minutes and you’ll get some of the best views of Rio de Janeiro – without having to fight the crowds at the top of Christ the Redeemer. Just make sure to book this helicopter tour in advance of your trip to Rio de Janeiro.
These tickets sell out fast for sunset times, and you don’t want to be disappointed!
Read more: Best cities in South America to visit
2.) Sugarloaf Mountain
The 1,300-foot (396 m) tall, scaling Sugarloaf Mountain is one of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro if you’ve already been up to see the views at Christ the Redeemer.
It’s super popular, but with good reason. A two-part cable car trip to the top offers 360-degree views of the city, as well as the surrounding ocean and lush green forests.
Again, like with Christ the Redeemer, make sure to book these official tickets that also include the cable car ride to the top. Oh, and make sure to book them as soon as you know your plans, lots of places in Rio de Janeiro have timed entries and you want to make sure you get the slot you want!
At the top, you’ll see views of Christ the Redeemer, Red Beach and Prainha. It’s a great place to go and totally worth it in the afternoon.
Now, for me, I would always choose visiting Christ the Redeemer at sunset (I think you get better views from here), but this is another great option to do in the day, and it’s so easy to tack on a trip to Rio de Janeiro.
3.) Copacabana Beach
I know I’m not the only one, but Copacabana Beach is easily one of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro if you’re hankering for a beach day. It’s also one of the city’s most popular beaches, so it’s never quiet – but that’s what makes it great!
The whole beach is amazing, and you can easily spend a long afternoon there with vendors selling coconuts, cocktails, food, and everything else. Plus, the waters are incredible, though they can be a bit choppy (which is perfect for surfers and good swimmers).
Located in the Zona Sul area of Rio, the beach has stunning views of both Sugarloaf Mountain and Copacabana Fort (Google Maps pin), and we spent a whole day here. There’s also a heap of parties that take place on and around Copacabana Beach, with one of the biggest being New Year’s Eve! It’s a vibe. There are hundreds of thousands of people who head onto the shore – it’s incredible!
Just off the beach, you have a long promenade that makes up Copacabana. Along the route, you will find market stalls, heaps of hotels and some epic foodie joints to grab a bite to eat. It’s so much fun and a hive of activity in Rio de Janeiro.
Also, if you want to see Copacabana from the air, book this guided hang-gliding tour over Rio de Janeiro’s wider area.
5.) Santa Teresa
We loved the Neighbourhood of Santa Teresa and it’s one of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro, that’s well worth visiting as you explore the city.
Once here, make sure to visit the Lapa Steps (Escadaria da Lapa), that was created by South American artist Jorge Selarón. The steps are probably one of Rio de Janeiro’s most iconic spots to visit, and the area here is a hive of activity.
Now, you can easily visit the Lapa Steps without a tour (just book a transfer/Uber to get here) and explore at your own pace. It’s situated at the start of Joaquim Silva Street and carries on to Pinto Martins Street. This makes it really easy to visit.
You don’t need to spend longer than an hour at Lapa Steps, but if you want to spend more time in Santa Teresa, make sure to book this incredible organised tour. The tour itself takes you through Rio de Janeiro’s South zone, the neighbourhood of Santa Teresa and get to explore Ruins Park before heading onboard the local tram. It makes visiting Santa Teresa so easy, and it takes all the stress out of visiting.
If that’s not your thing, book this essential tour that includes Cachaça Tasting and Live Samba, which is so much fun. It’s such a safe and exciting way to explore Rio de Janeiro, and well worth booking if you’re short on time and want to make sure you visit Rio de Janeiro safely.
6.) Tijuca National Park
Tijuca Forest is to Rio what Central Park is to New York. Except, Tijuca is a tropical rainforest! It’s incredibly beautiful and a great place to visit if you want to explore beyond Rio de Janeiro’s bustling streets.
This 8,300-acre (translates to huge!) national park is home to waterfalls, varying terrain, 1,600 plant species, and over 350 different animal species.
If that sounds like fun, book this day tour that starts after a 40-minute drive from the centre of Rio de Janeiro and takes in some of the region’s most iconic spots. For instance, Cascatinha Taunay, Cascata Diamantina, Cascata da Baronesa, and so much more are included in this tour.
Visits can be as short or as long as you like, but this guided tour (the easiest in my opinion) takes around 6 hours. Just make sure to book this tour before arriving in Rio de Janeiro, as these tickets sell out fast at peak times.
7.) Ipanema
Visiting Ipanema Beach is another one of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro, especially if you fancy a day in the city that’s a little more chilled.
Of course, you’re going to stop off at Pedra do Arpoador. It’s a rocky outcrop that’s perfect for views of Ipanema, and you can even just chill on the rocks and enjoy the surf.
Also, don’t forget to check out Feira Hippie de Ipanema (Hippie Market of Ipanema). It’s a great place to stroll around if you’re already at Ipanema Beach and well worth visiting for some local souvenirs. Just remember, for bigger purchases, you can barter. What started as a fairly small market (formed by hippies) in 1968 has grown into a 700-stall mini-city. Folk and contemporary art, jewellery, clothing, and crafts can all be bought here, as well as some delicious food. *licks lips*.
While you’re in the neighbourhood, be sure to stop by the famous Ipanema Beach. You can easily spend a whole day here, well, before hunger strikes!
Afterwards, stop off at Zazá Bistrô Tropical, which is just off the promenade area of Ipanema Beach.
8.) Maracanã
If you love football (or soccer), then you need to book these tickets to Maracanã. Thanks to the World Cup (and the Olympics), the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro has become well-known to people all over the world and is worth visiting if you love football.
The tour takes around 5 hours and you’ll get to watch (and experience) a live Football match in Maracanã. Flamengo o Fluminense before leaving Rio de Janeiro. It’s so much fun, and the whole tour is a great way to experience the sporting culture of Brazil, even if you’re not interested in football.
Read more: Best cities in South America to visit
9.) Botanical Garden of Rio de Janeiro
Not too far from the Jockey Club in Rio de Janeiro, the Botanical Garden of Rio de Janeiro is an absolute gem of a place to visit whilst in Rio de Janeiro. You don’t need a tour to visit the Botanical Garden of Rio de Janeiro, and you can easily grab these tickets at the entry point.
Designed in 1808, the garden includes a row of palm trees that were planted in that same year (if you’re looking for ‘that‘ Instagram photo – this is where you need to be). With over 8,000 species of plants and about 600 species of orchids, it’s the kind of space you can spend a few hours trolling within the gardens themselves.
The Botanical Garden of Rio de Janeiro is open every day from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, except on Mondays, which open at 12:00 pm. It really is one of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro on a relaxing afternoon in the city.
10.) Red Beach
Much smaller than the likes of Ipanema or Copacabana Beach, Red Beach is an absolute gem to visit whilst visiting Rio De Janeiro.
It might be smaller, but it’s right next to Sugarloaf Mountain and is a sandy little paradise in the centre of Rio de Janeiro. In my opinion, Red Beach has a great police presence, and it feels quite safe and relaxed. Always visit with no valuables or with anything that makes you stand out.
Afterwards, follow the Pista Cláudio Coutinho hiking routes around Sugarloaf Mountain, which is stunning for views over the Atlantic Ocean.
10.) Museum of Tomorrow (Museu do Amanhã)
The Museum of Tomorrow is another relatively new area of Rio de Janeiro to visit. Not just that, visiting is one of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro if you want to explore the culture that’s so evidently present in Rio de Janeiro.
Inside, you’ll spend about 2 hours exploring the halls, see the exhibits and witness the incredible installations that call the Museum of Tomorrow home. We loved it here, and the whole building is such a vibe, too! Like, the architecture is beautiful.
Also, it’s really easy to visit the Museum of Tomorrow if you’re visiting Rio de Janeiro on a cruise ship. You see, lots of them dock just shy of the entrance of the Museum of Tomorrow – which makes it an essential spot to see on a trip to the city.
If museums are your thing, check out the Museu Nacional de Belas Artes, or maybe the Museum of Modern Art. It’s another one of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro if you want a day exploring one of South America’s best modern museums. We loved it and spent a good few hours here.
Plus, you’ve got the National Museum of Brazil, which is equally worthy of visiting. Great places, with thousands of years of history inside. Just make sure to see the updates before visiting, as I know they are closing at certain times for restoration works.
11.) Cathedral of San Sebastian
Built in the 1970’s visiting the Cathedral of San Sebastian is easily one of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro when you visit. It’s an amazingly unique place to visit in the city and one of Rio’s best spots if you want to explore some of the newer history of this amazing place in Brazil.
Visits are totally free, and you don’t need a guide. Visits take around 25 minutes, and it’s well worth visiting Lavradio Street whilst you’re nearby. Here, you will find stalls and shops that have a mix of everything you could want. Now, again, always keep an eye out for petty crime – this place can be a little more risky. Oh, and avoid at night – though, this is my advice for lots of walking routes in Rio de Janeiro. Take Uber/hotel-organised transfers and stay safe.
12.) Municipal Theater of Rio de Janeiro
Another great place to visit in Rio de Janeiro is the Municipal Theater. It’s right in the centre of Rio and totally beautiful to visit. Now, there is a whole heap of performances that take place throughout the year in Rio, and it’s so worth heading on their website to book a ticket before arriving in the city.
Here, you’ll find everything from ballet, concerts, musicals, and so much more. It’s one of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro to do if you fancy a cultured night out!
13.) Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading (Real Gabinete Português de Leitura)
Not too far from the Municipal Theater, the Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading (this is the Google Maps pin) is incredible. In fact, I’d go as far as saying it’s a must-see whilst visiting Rio de Janeiro.
Now, visits won’t take longer than 20 minutes, but the Reading Rooms are just so stunning. They’re centuries old and an absolute must-see whilst visiting Rio de Janeiro.
The library is incredible to visit, but always make sure to have an Uber or transfer booked to take you to the next place to visit. This place can be safe(ish), but I’d always recommend being extra secure and arranging a transfer before leaving the library itself.
Also, don’t forget to pop into the National Library of Brazil if you’re something of a bookworm. Even if you’re not, the building here is stunning and it’s easily one of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro if you want to explore the very centre of the city.
14.) Parque Lage (Lage Park)
Not too far from the Botanic Gardens we mentioned earlier, Parque Lage is an incredible place to visit in Rio de Janeiro. Here, you can wander the ground and explore the trails and paths that cross the ground. It’s wonderful and visits take around 45-60 minutes – well worth including on a trip to Rio de Janeiro.
Afterwards, stop by the Plage Café for an espresso or pastries and continue your stroll around Parque Lage.
15.) Niterói Contemporary Art Museum (MAC)
Situated across the Rio-Niterói bridge, the Niterói Contemporary Art Museum is a gem of a place to see. Not just because it looks like a building out of ‘Thunderbirds’, it’s got heaps going on inside the museum itself.
In fact, I’d go as far as saying it’s one of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro if you love art history. This place is so special. Now, I know, Niterói isn’t technically Rio de Janeiro, but it’s honestly worth visiting. Inside, you’ll find seasonal exhibits that are just incredible, and it’s the perfect place to visit if you’re something on an art fiend.
To make things easier, book this tour that takes you from Rio de Janeiro on a day trip to Niterói. It’s so epic. Plus, you’ll get to stop off at São Pedro Fish Market, which is such a highlight.
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