aerial photography of cityscape near sea

10 must do places to visit in Rio de Janeiro

  minute read

Rio de Janeiro is one of the world’s most vibrant cities known for its beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture.

The city is home to world-famous landmarks such as Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the Copacabana and Ipanema beaches.

Rio is also a major centre for music, dance, and sports, and is home to the annual Carnaval festival, which is one of the biggest and most popular festivals in the world.

Christ the Redeemer

Christ the Redeemer

Visit Christ the Redeemer, a 98-foot-tall statue of Jesus Christ that overlooks the city. There are multiple ways you can visit including getting the Cog train up to the foot of the statue, or get an organised tour that will take you there by van.

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Photo by A Smallwood


Sugarloaf mountain cable car

Sugarloaf Mountain

This 396m-tall peak on a peninsula jutting out into the ocean features a cableway & sweeping views. The only way to visit is by cable car (unless you’re rich enough to come by helicopter). Enjoy the views back to the sprawling city of Rio de Janeiro.

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Photo by A Smallwood


soccer field stadium

Maracanã

If you’re a football fan, no visit to Rio de Janeiro is complete without a visit to the Maracanã stadium. Come for a game, come for a visit, this stadium is huge and a must-do for anyone in love with the beautiful game.

Photo by Martin Aarflot on Unsplash


Aprazível

Aprazível

Hard to find, difficult to reach but absolutely worth it is the Aprazível restaurant in the lofty neighbourhood of Santa Teresa. Come for sunset so you can get views of northern Rio by day and into the night. The menu is sublime and cocktails are amazing too.

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Photo by A Smallwood


a colorful wall with a person standing on it

Escadaria Selarón

One of the most popular photo spots in Rio is the Escadaria Selarón. It’s a landmark public stairway adorned by artist Jorge Selarón with colorful & hand-painted tiles. Come during the day and get your ultimate photo from Rio.

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Photo by AXP Photography on Unsplash


people on beach during daytime

Copacabana Beach

Let’s face it, you’re going to Rio, you’re going to the beach. This beach has been immortalised in music, film and TV. No visit to Rio de Janiero is complete without a stroll along Copacabana Beach.

Photo by Eelco Böhtlingk on Unsplash


a large group of buildings in front of a rocky mountain

Rocinha Favela Tour

Whether you do a tour of a favela is completely up to you, but make sure it’s for the right reasons. This can really let you know about the history of the real people of Rio. Embrace the culture but be respectful and try to give back to their community too.

Photo by Helena Masson on Unsplash


people on beach during daytime

Ipanema Beach

Do not be fooled, Copacabana is not the only beach worth visiting in Rio. Come to Ipanema for a more relaxed vibe and then check out the many bars and restaurants lining the promenade.

Photo by TAIS HELENA DE CARVALHO on Unsplash


Lilia restaurant

Lilia

Time for some michelin star gastronomie, it’s time to visit Lilia Restaurant. You can book a table in advance and you should to make sure you don’t miss this on your next visit. Go for the tasting menu to make sure you get 3 courses and savour the moment.

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Photo by Lilia Restaurant


brown beverage with olives and herb in rocks glass in macro photography

Bar dos Descasados

Located near to one of our other recommendations, Aprazivel, you can go here pre or post dinner for some fancy cocktails. Excellent drinks, good atmosphere and music, great for couples.

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Photo by Jakub Dziubak on Unsplash


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