rio de janeiro things to see
I spent two weeks in Rio, taking the time to truly explore the city while working daily.
No rush, no pressure—more than anywhere else, Brazil is a country that surprises you 24/7. It’s best to leave room for the unexpected and enjoy whatever comes your way.
Rio isn’t my favorite city in a country I’ve visited four times, but it’s undeniably unique. Here, skyscrapers and nature blend together in a magical coexistence.
Before we go any further, let’s be clear: you won’t find any hiking trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints in this guide. That’s just not my style of travel (sorry, trek lovers!).
Enough talk—here are 21 Rio de Janeiro things to see to make the most of your trip!
This article contains affiliate links 🙂 They earn me a small commission on bookings, but no worries—there’s no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my blog, and enjoy the read!
21 Rio de Janeiro Things to See
Practical Information for Visiting Rio de Janeiro
- How many days in Rio de Janeiro?
- When to visit Rio?
- How to get to Rio?
- How to get around Rio?
- Where to stay in Rio?
- Is it safe to visit Rio?
- Being a digital nomad in Rio
- Traveling responsibly in Rio
Rio de Janeiro in a nutshell
Rio de Janeiro, the “Cidade Maravilhosa,” is a breathtaking city, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and dramatic mountain landscapes.
Stretching across 1,200 km², Rio seamlessly blends iconic beaches like Copacabana and Ipanema with the lush expanse of Tijuca Forest, one of the world’s largest urban rainforests.
Founded in 1565 by the Portuguese, Rio served as Brazil’s capital until 1960, when the title was passed to Brasília.
Today, with a population of over 6.7 million, the city pulses to the rhythm of samba, football, and endless sunshine.
Overlooking it all, the Christ the Redeemer statue watches over a city where nature and urban life collide in a magical, electric atmosphere.
Planning a trip to Brazil? My articles on things to do in Brazil, the best tours in Salvador, 10 reasons to visit Olinda, and 8 things to do in São Paulo will definitely inspire you!
21 Rio de Janeiro Things to See
1. Visit Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches
When I say Rio, you probably think of Carnival or Copacabana.
This beach is the heart of the city’s reputation, with its long stretch of white sand and turquoise water, all set to the rhythm of bossa nova in the background.
Although it’s a beautiful beach, I much prefer Ipanema. Less touristy, it feels more relaxed and authentic.
But no matter which beach you choose, it’s the perfect spot to kick back, watch the locals, and sip on a caipirinha or a cold coconut water, paired with the famous Biscoitos Globo—the iconic biscuits found on Rio’s beaches.
Whether you’re watching a football match or playing beach volleyball, chatting with your neighbors on the sand, or just soaking up the sun…
Pick your favorite activity and end the day by watching the sunset over Pedra do Arpoador!
💡 Fun Fact: The iconic Copacabana sidewalk, with its wave patterns, was inspired by Lisbon’s Praça do Rossio.
2. Greet Christ the Redeemer
Tourist monument number one for visitors and one of the Seven New Wonders of the World, Christ the Redeemer stands tall on the Corcovado Mountain, over 700 meters above Rio.
This 30-meter high statue was inaugurated in 1931 after 9 years of construction, attracting over 750,000 visitors each year.
I recommend going early in the morning to avoid the crowds, or late in the day to catch the stunning sunset.
To reach this towering landmark, you can take the Corcovado train, which winds its way through Tijuca Forest.
As the symbol of the city, it’s no surprise that tickets for Christ the Redeemer sell out quickly.
3. Climb Sugarloaf Mountain
If you could visit just one place in Rio, it should be Sugarloaf Mountain.
The ticket is a bit pricey, but it’s a magical experience: the place is absolutely stunning!
After a two-stage cable car ride, this 396-meter rock peak offers breathtaking views of the bay, the city, and the beaches…
It’s so beautiful that I spent several hours there, unable to leave. I was completely mesmerized by the view.
I recommend going in the late afternoon to watch the sky change colors minute by minute, offering an incredible spectacle.
However, be prepared for crowds.
To avoid waiting in line, book your ticket in advance!
💡 Fun fact: The name “Sugarloaf” comes from the shape of the molds used during colonial times to refine sugar.
Explore the top attractions of Rio de Janeiro on a guided tour with lunch included. For 9 hours, you’ll discover the city’s best sights, including Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain. Book your tour here!
4. Take a Walk at Parque Lage
This tropical park is a hidden gem. While everyone crowds at the Plage Café for a sweet or savory break or to snap an Instagram photo, I suggest you venture a bit further.
This park has so much more to offer: an aquarium, caves, ruins, and tranquil lakes… It’s a true escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
5. Admire the Botanical Garden
This is undoubtedly my favorite visit after Sugarloaf Mountain and my favorite botanical garden in the world.
Everything here is absolutely stunning and peaceful. Some of the trees are truly spectacular, and you can’t help but feel so small next to them!
The only thing I regret is not arriving earlier.
This is the perfect spot to admire the trees and plants, relax with a book, and enjoy a lovely picnic.
Founded in 1808 by the King of Portugal, this peaceful haven is home to 6,500 plant species, including huge imperial palms planted in the 19th century.
The wildlife is equally impressive, with toucans and monkeys often spotted around the park.
6. Climb the Escadaria Selarón
These steps are undoubtedly the most famous in Brazil!
Chilean artist Jorge Selarón began this project on his own and spent over 20 years enriching it.
He started with ceramic tiles in yellow, blue, green, and red before travelers from around the world began bringing him tiles from their home countries.
In 2013, Selarón was found mysteriously dead on his own stairs, which are adorned with more than 2,000 ceramic tiles.
If you want to take a photo on the steps, be prepared to wait in line! I recommend going early in the morning for a more peaceful experience.
I stayed just a few meters up the stairs, so I passed by this spot often, and after 9 AM, it’s packed!
7. Attend a Football Match
Brazilians are the most passionate football fans I know, so to truly understand the Brazilian spirit, there’s nothing better than attending a match at the Maracanã.
This stadium hosted two World Cup finals in 1950 and 2014 and was once the largest stadium in the world.
With fiery chants, flags, and fireworks… get ready for a real show!
Want to attend a match? You’ll experience the incredible atmosphere while discovering the stadium from the inside. Book your ticket now!
8. Dance at Pedra do Sol
Brazil is inseparable from the samba that echoes throughout the country. Pedra do Sol is a popular spot to enjoy this music and the vibrant atmosphere that comes with it.
For a night filled with percussion beats, I recommend heading to this place on Monday evenings and immersing yourself in its electrifying vibe.
I’m sure you’ll enjoy sipping on delicious caipirinhas while you’re there.
Just don’t let the alcohol cloud your judgment. With so many people and all the noise, pickpocketing is not uncommon!
9. Admire The Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading
Visiting this hidden gem in the heart of downtown is free, so there’s no excuse not to take advantage of this beautiful space and its thousands of ancient books.
💡 Fun fact: Founded in 1837, it houses the largest collection of Portuguese literature outside of Portugal.
10. Go through Lapa Arches
This surprising monument is an 18th-century aqueduct that once transported water to the city center.
Today, it serves as a bridge for the famous Santa Teresa tramway. In the evening, it becomes the heart of Rio’s nightlife.
From here, you can head toward the Lapa neighborhood to keep the party going.
Avoid taking out your phone for photos, as this is not the safest area in the city.
11. Visit the Museum of Tomorrow
You can’t miss this museum with its futuristic design, located facing Guanabara Bay.
Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, it addresses major future issues: climate change, urbanization, technology, and the survival of humanity.
The experience is highly immersive, featuring interactive projections and exhibits that stimulate reflection.
💡 Extra info: The building’s architecture is inspired by bromeliads, plants native to Brazil. It is powered by mobile solar panels and uses water from the bay for its air conditioning system.
12. Try Brazilian street food
I’ll confess something: during my first trip, I didn’t like Brazilian street food.
Why? Because I wasn’t going to the right places to enjoy it. But since then, I’ve grown to love it!
The key is to ask the locals for the best spots in your area, and over time, you’ll be able to spot the best places to try local specialties.
I especially recommend trying coxinha, pastel, and caldo de cana (freshly pressed sugarcane juice). Make sure to ask for some lime juice (or pineapple or passion fruit if available) to add to it, because without that, it’s just not as great!
13. Join a free walking tour in the city center
The downtown area of Rio is often overlooked by tourists, which is a shame because it hides some beautiful monuments from its colonial history.
A free tour in the Centro allows you to discover hidden gems like the Paço Imperial, the former palace of Portuguese governors, the São Francisco de Paula Church, and Praça XV.
Since it’s a neighborhood that can be a bit unsafe, it’s always better to be in a group and with a local guide who can navigate you through the safest streets.
14. Take a samba class
Brazil is also about dance, and of course, samba. Whether you want to learn a few basic steps or get into the carnival choreography, it’s a great experience.
💡 Extra tip: In Lapa or Santa Teresa, there are often parties where you can practice your samba moves!
Prêt à vous lancer sur la piste de danse ? Inscrivez-vous à cours pour débutants !
15. Stroll through Parque do Flamengo
Another hidden gem often overlooked by tourists: Flamengo Park! A local introduced me to this vast green space, perfect for a walk or bike ride along the bay.
Designed by the famous Brazilian landscape architect Burle Marx, the park offers stunning views of Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer.
💡 Extra info: This park was built on reclaimed land in the 1960s and is also home to Rio’s Museum of Modern Art.
16. Eat açai
I could have mentioned açaí in my street food section, but it definitely deserves a paragraph of its own.
This deep purple Amazonian berry is blended into a smooth, creamy purée and served cold with toppings like banana, granola, condensed milk, or peanut butter. You can also enjoy it plain for a more intense flavor.
There’s also a version that’s closer to ice cream, but personally, I prefer it as juice—either on its own or mixed with orange juice. Absolutely delicious!
17. Go to Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon
This large lagoon, surrounded by lush green hills, is one of the most pleasant spots in Rio. You can walk, cycle, or rollerblade along its 7.5 km trail.
Cariocas come here to exercise, have picnics, or simply watch the sunset.
If, like me, you decide to go for a stroll at night, go with a local and stay alert. According to locals, thefts are not uncommon in the area.
18. Climb to the Forte Duque de Caxias
This viewpoint, little known to travelers, is completely free! The fort, dating back to 1779, was built to protect Rio from maritime invasions.
Located within a military base, access is regulated but open to the public.
Perched on a hill at the end of Leme Beach, it offers one of the most breathtaking views of Rio—without the crowds of Sugarloaf Mountain.
You’ll need to hike a forest trail for about 30 minutes, but once at the top, the panoramic view of Copacabana and Guanabara Bay is absolutely worth it.
If you want to avoid sweating too much, try to visit early in the morning when it’s still cool.
19. Visit the cathedral of the city
This cathedral is anything but conventional. With its futuristic pyramid-shaped architecture inspired by Mayan pyramids, it looks like no other.
Inside, four massive stained-glass windows stretch all the way to the top, casting an impressive light throughout the space.
Inaugurated in 1976, it stands 75 meters tall and can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers.
20. Explore Santa Teresa
On the last Rio de Janeiro things to see, is Santa Teresa, a Bohemian neighborhood perched on the hills of Rio.
With its cobbled streets, colorful colonial houses, and the famous bondinho (the old yellow tram crossing the district), it has long been a haven for artists, musicians, and intellectuals.
You’ll find art studios and designer boutiques, and I highly recommend making a stop at Parque das Ruínas for a well-deserved break.
This former mansion has been transformed into a cultural center. Its historic ruins are just as fascinating as the contemporary art exhibitions inside.
21. Buy your fruits at the largest open-air market in the city.
Street markets, or ferias livres, are a great place to stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables in Brazil.
Every Sunday morning, the Feira Livre da Glória transforms the streets of this neighborhood into a vibrant festival of colors, smells, and flavors.
It’s the perfect opportunity to try fruits you may have never heard of before!
You can also take a break to enjoy some pasteis with a refreshing glass of caldo de cana (fresh sugarcane juice).
More than just a market, it’s a full immersion in Brazilian popular culture. It’s best to go early to avoid the crowds!
How many days to visit Rio de Janeiro?
In 3 days in Rio, you’ll have the chance to discover the main tourist attractions and spend some time on the beach.
If you opt for a week, you can explore further, discovering off-the-beaten-path places and, most importantly, experiencing the city more deeply.
This will also allow you to attend a football match and/or go on a hike.
If you’re like me, a fan of slow travel, you can spend 15 days there, enjoying getaways to Niterói, Paraty, or Arraial do Cabo.
Finally, digital nomads can settle down for the full duration of their tourist visa and fully enjoy the parties, markets, and exhibitions.
Live like the locals and experience the city to the fullest. If you fall in love with Brazil—and trust me, I know how that feels—you can apply for a visa to stay for a year.
When to visit Rio de Janeiro?
Between May and October, the temperatures are cooler, and there’s less rain.
From December to March, it’s summer in Brazil, so it’s much hotter, and the storms can be intense.
Of course, the Carnival period (February, sometimes March) is very popular with tourists.
Experiencing this festival in Rio offers a unique experience, but be warned, there’s a downside.
The city gets incredibly crowded, and prices skyrocket, especially for accommodations!
How to get to Rio?
Galeão International Airport (Tom Jobim) is the main arrival point for both international and domestic travelers. There are many direct flights from major cities.
However, most foreigners arrive on a flight to São Paulo. Buses and flights regularly make the trip to Rio.
The same goes for other Brazilian cities: long-distance buses or internal flights are practical options.
Once at the airport, you have options like taxis or Uber to reach your accommodation, which is about 20-30 minutes from the center without traffic.
How to move around in Rio?
The Rio metro is a great way to get around, especially in the city center and between the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema.
It’s very easy to navigate and very clean. You’ll need to buy a MetroRio card at the ticket counter or at the machines. It’s a rechargeable card that you’ll validate for each ride.
There are many buses, but they can be slow and crowded, so it’s best to avoid taking them during rush hours.
Uber and 99 apps are very popular in Rio and offer a safe and convenient option, especially at night, when they are a really safe way to get around.
Where to stay in Rio?
During my stay, I stayed in 3 different neighborhoods. I’ll start by describing them before suggesting other places to consider.
Botafogo
I really liked this calm, residential neighborhood, a little away from the tourist areas. Here, you’ll be far from the hustle and bustle while still having access to plenty of lively bars and restaurants.
Botafogo beach offers a stunning view of Sugarloaf Mountain and makes for beautiful seaside strolls. However, the water is quite polluted, so it’s better to avoid swimming there.
Copacabana
Another neighborhood I tried, Copacabana is perfect if you want to be close to the beach and restaurants. The neighborhood has everything tourists need, and the price range for accommodation and dining is quite broad.
Plus, you can boast about having spent time in such a legendary place. Be cautious, though, as thefts happen frequently there.
Santa Teresa
I spent some time in a hostel I highly recommend: clean, friendly staff, and an amazing view of the city—everything was perfect!
Santa Teresa is the perfect neighborhood for a bohemian immersion with its cobblestone streets, artist workshops, and panoramic views.
However, since it’s perched on a hill, getting around can be a bit inconvenient.
Lapa
If you want to experience the Brazilian nightlife, this is the place to go!
You’ll enjoy the numerous bars and clubs where funk and samba music blast loudly. If you’re staying here to party, it’s perfect. However, for sleeping at night, it might be a bit tricky…
Ipanema
For my next stay in Rio, this is where I’ll choose to stay. Less touristy than Copacabana and therefore more peaceful, Ipanema also offers a beautiful beach.
The neighborhood is pleasant to live in, with many bars, restaurants, and shops, making the stay practical and easy.
Leblon
Just after Ipanema, Leblon is an elegant and secure neighborhood. It’s ideal for a high-end stay, with its refined shops and renowned restaurants.
Its beach is beautiful and much quieter than the ones in Ipanema and Copacabana. The only downside: being a bit more out of the way, you’ll need more time to get to the tourist sites.
After Ipanema, the neighborhood of Leblon is elegant and more secure. It’s also the perfect place for a high-end stay with its refined shops and renowned restaurants.
Is it safe to visit Rio de Janeiro?
I love Brazil, but I would never say it’s a safe country. For proof, during my first trip, I got my nose broken and my phone stolen.
That said, with the right precautions, it’s entirely possible to enjoy the country without issues.
As for Rio, I have to say it’s the only city where I really felt a constant lack of security on the streets. But this had the advantage of keeping me alert.
In any case, it’s important to understand that some areas are riskier than others:
- Neighborhoods near favelas: Some areas, like Copacabana, are located near favelas, which increases the risk of theft.
- Centro: Avoid the smaller streets and stick to the main avenues.
- Favelas: Never enter without a local guide. Also, avoid driving in these areas, as a GPS could mistakenly lead you there. In 2024, several tourists lost their lives by unintentionally venturing into a favela.
In any case, never walk around at night. Opt for taxis or Ubers. Don’t carry valuables and keep your phone hidden. In case of an assault, don’t resist. Give up what they ask for and avoid any behavior that could escalate the situation.
Whatever area you’re staying in or planning to visit, always ask locals for advice on safety precautions.
Finally, the lack of security shouldn’t discourage you from visiting Rio, which is truly a beautiful city. By staying cautious, you shouldn’t have any issues.
After my first trip to Brazil, I returned three more times, and by staying vigilant, everything went smoothly.
Being a digital nomad in Rio
Rio is a popular destination for digital nomads, especially since 2022, when the Brazilian government launched a special visa for this type of traveler.
Modern hotels and hostels in neighborhoods like Copacabana and Ipanema generally offer good Wi-Fi.
Additionally, there are plenty of cafes and coworking spaces to work from.
Rio is an ideal destination to work in an inspiring place with beautiful beaches while enjoying an incredibly rich culture.
Moreover, Brazilians are extremely welcoming, making it easy to meet people and create a small community between locals and tourists.
Traveling responsibly in Rio
As everywhere else, it’s important to travel responsibly in Rio de Janeiro. This involves respecting the planet and supporting local communities.
Here are a few ideas for responsible travel:
- Refuse plastic bags in supermarkets or at markets.
- Use eco-friendly sunscreen.
- Pick up all the trash on the beach.
- Do not feed animals in parks or gardens.
- Use public transportation as much as possible.
- Buy handmade products at local markets.
- Avoid international hotel chains or restaurants.
Visiting Rio de Janeiro, like the rest of Brazil, is a fantastic experience. Don’t let security issues stop you from discovering it, but stay vigilant at all times.
Still, don’t forget to enjoy every moment: the city is beautiful, the beaches are great, the nature is breathtaking, the locals are friendly, and the food is delicious… So, make the most of it using this list of 21 Rio de Janeiro Things to See!
If this article 21 Rio de Janeiro Things to See has helped you in preparing your trip, share it on Pinterest!
