The 14 best places to visit in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. From its stunning beaches to its incredible nightlife, there is something to appeal to every traveller. With so much to see and do, it can be difficult to decide where to go first.

Luckily, we’ve rounded up the 14 best places to visit in Rio de Janeiro so you can make the most of your time in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or a place to relax and unwind, there’s something here for everyone. Read on to find out more!

Corcovado

Located in the Tijuca Forest National Park, Corcovado stands as one of Rio de Janeiro's iconic landmarks. Home to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, this is a must-visit spot for any traveler.

You can take a cable car up to the top of the mountain, where they will find sweeping views of the entire city. Whether you want to experience the beauty of nature or take in the stunning vista from above, Corcovado is the perfect place for an unforgettable experience.

Sugarloaf Mountain

Rising 396 meters above Guanabara Bay, the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain is an unforgettable sight in Rio de Janeiro. From the summit, you can admire stunning views of Copacabana Beach and the city skyline.

Take a cable car to the top and stroll around the trails, or relax in one of the many bars and restaurants offering panoramic views of Rio. For a unique experience, try a climb up the mountain at night for a spectacular view of the stars.

Whether you're visiting during the day or night, don't forget to bring your camera for unbeatable memories of this must-see destination.

Ipanema Beach

Ipanema Beach is one of the most popular spots in Rio de Janeiro and it's easy to see why. The golden sand and bright blue ocean offer a beautiful setting, perfect for a day of relaxing or sunbathing.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy on the beach too, such as volleyball, football, and surfing. If you're feeling brave, you can even try out hang gliding off the cliffs. With its vibrant culture, stunning views, and never-ending fun, Ipanema Beach is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.

Copacabana Beach

One of the most iconic beaches in the world, Copacabana beach is a must-visit destination when visiting Rio de Janeiro. Located in the southern part of the city, it offers stunning views of the coastline and a lively atmosphere.

From swimming and sunbathing, to people watching and nightlife, Copacabana beach has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for fun activities or just want to relax, this beach is the perfect spot.

There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops nearby for visitors to explore. Make sure to check out Copacabana beach during your trip to Rio de Janeiro!

Maracana Stadium

Located in Rio de Janeiro, Maracana Stadium is one of the largest football stadiums in the world. It is a historical monument and was built in 1950 to host the FIFA World Cup. The stadium has a capacity of over 78,000 spectators and has seen many memorable games over the years.

Explore the stadium, take in its grandeur, and even try your luck at one of its gift shops. The atmosphere on match days is electric, as the passionate crowd sings and chants along to the action on the pitch. Whether it’s a club match or an international game, a visit to Maracana Stadium is sure to be a memorable experience.

Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa is one of the most charming and historic neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro. Located on a hill in the center of the city, it is filled with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. The neighborhood also has some of the best views of the city, as well as numerous art galleries and boutique stores.

There is also a tram that goes up to the top of the hill, where you can take in stunning views of the city and Sugarloaf Mountain. At night, Santa Teresa is alive with music and street parties. From bars and clubs to local street food vendors, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Lapa

One of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro, Lapa is full of culture, art, and music. It’s home to a wide variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants, as well as street performers and vendors.

On any given night, you can experience live samba and bossa nova music emanating from the streets. During the day, take a stroll along Rua do Lavradio, filled with outdoor restaurants, cafes, and antiques shops.

Spend an evening at one of the area’s most popular venues, Arco do Teles, where you can watch traditional dancers perform the carioca way. Whether you’re in Lapa for the nightlife or just looking to explore the culture, you won’t be disappointed.

Jardim Botanico

The Jardim Botanico, or Botanical Garden, is one of the most beautiful places in Rio de Janeiro. It is located in the center of the city and features an amazing variety of flora and fauna, along with winding pathways, lakes and streams.

Take a relaxing walk through the lush gardens or visit the many monuments, sculptures and greenhouses that adorn the park. The garden also hosts various events and activities, making it a perfect spot to explore on a sunny day.

With its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere, the Jardim Botanico is definitely worth visiting during your stay in Rio de Janeiro.

Museu do Amanha

The Museum of Tomorrow is a must-see attraction in Rio. Located on the waterfront, this modern museum has interactive exhibits that explore the science and technology of the future. You can learn about sustainable energy, space exploration, and more.

Plus, its architecture is beautiful, with a curved roof that echoes the shape of Sugarloaf Mountain! Make sure you spend some time at the Museu do Amanha when you're in Rio.

Parque Lage

Located at the foot of Corcovado hill, Parque Lage is one of Rio de Janeiro's most stunning parks. The 19th-century mansion located in the center of the park is surrounded by lush vegetation, waterfalls, and sculptures. Stroll through the gardens to see native plants and trees such as tropical palms and orchids. While visiting Parque Lage, you can explore its trails, have a picnic, or visit its café and art gallery. The park is also home to an open-air amphitheater where events like classical music concerts take place. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or an educational experience, Parque Lage is a must-see destination.

Parque da Cidade

Located in the South Zone of Rio, Parque da Cidade is a wonderful park to explore. Spread over 22 hectares, it is the largest urban park in the city. The park features a network of trails that go through its green areas, and there are plenty of leisure activities to do here.

Take part in guided tours, go hiking and cycling, or visit the botanical garden. There are also facilities such as a children's playground, restaurants and snack bars, and even an outdoor movie theater. Parque da Cidade is a great place to spend time with your family and admire nature.

Favelas

A visit to Rio de Janeiro would not be complete without a trip to one of the many favelas that are scattered across the city. Favelas, where Rio’s poorest residents often reside, offer a unique cultural experience ranging from local crafts to traditional Brazilian dishes.

Find colorful buildings, vibrant music, and a sense of community that is rarely found in other parts of Rio. Visiting favelas can be dangerous and it's best to go with a knowledgeable guide. However, with the right preparation and safety measures, you gain insights into life in these organic, messy but always welcoming places.

Feira Hippie de Ipanema

Feira Hippie de Ipanema is a lively open-air market located in Rio de Janeiro's Ipanema district. This popular attraction offers a variety of handmade goods from local artisans and vendors. Whether you're looking for jewelry, clothes, or souvenirs, you're sure to find something to take home with you.

The market also has plenty of street food stalls and eateries that serve up delicious dishes. This vibrant destination is one of Rio's best cultural experiences and it's definitely worth a visit. With its vibrant atmosphere, unique goods, and amazing food, it's no wonder why the Feira Hippie de Ipanema is a must-see in Rio de Janeiro.

Pedra da Gávea

Located near the center of Rio de Janeiro, the Pedra da Gávea is a stunning 842 meter high mountain and one of the city’s most iconic attractions. The hiking trail leading up to the top of the mountain is filled with lush green vegetation and diverse wildlife.

From the top, you take in the stunning views of Rio’s coastline, spanning from Leblon to Barra da Tijuca. Be sure to bring your camera for plenty of amazing photos! The journey up to the summit can take around 3 hours, so make sure to plan ahead and bring enough water and snacks. Once you make it to the top, you won't regret it!