It seems like Rio is the city that never sleeps.
I studied in Rio for five months, and when I didn’t have a lot of classes I went out about 4 times a week. I was 27 back then, and while living in Israel, I barely went out once a week.
But Rio de Janeiro is different. The energy is contagious, especially in the months leading up to Carnival (starting January). Whatever your music taste or vibe, Rio’s got a party for you—any day of the week.
The best way to find out about “non touristic” parties is by following Facebook pages of some of the spots I mention below and check out the events in the area (Facebook will let you know of events nearby).
First things first, is it safe to go out in Brazil?
Here’s the part where I sound like your mom and give you some safety warnings:
These tips apply to just about every spot on this list, especially public areas like Lapa.
- Don’t wear any jewelry or flashy accessories
- Always stash a bit of extra cash on you, in case you get robbed..
- Don’t wave your phone out unless you’re calling an Uber.
- If someone bumps into you, touches you, pushes you, taps your shoulder or gets too close to you in any other manner, immediately check your belongings.
- Do not engage with intoxicated people in the area
- If you’re wandering around and need to pee, don’t walk off to an isolated ally on your own.
- The safest way to get around after sunset is by getting a taxi (or Uber or Cabify). It’s cheap and safer than taking the metro and walking at night.
Just a heads-up: I did get robbed in Rio, as so did some of my friends. Usually, it happened when we weren’t paying attention or being careful.
Don’t let this scare you, though—Rio’s nightlife is epic, diverse, and not to be missed! Just be smart, stay aware, and you’ll have a blast.
For some more safety warnings for female solo travelers click here.
Pedra do Sal: Samba Heaven
This is hands down the best place to experience Rio’s nightlife and samba music.
Every Monday and Friday, the square at Pedra do Sal comes alive with spontaneous gatherings known as Roda de Samba sessions.
Picture this: musicians gather at the base of the steps, their instruments in hand, and soon the crowd swells in around them.
These “Roda de Samba” events aren’t planned or paid for, and there’s no fancy sound system to amplify the music but the layout of the place creates a kind of natural amphitheater, allowing the music to travel effortlessly as the crowds join in singing.
Pedra do Sal has deep historical roots. Originally a quilombo village (settlements formed by escaped slaves) and today it was recognized as a Cultural Heritage site. It’s located close to the business district of Rio and the streets that lead to the square are usually filled with people buying caipirinhas with unconventional fruits like kiwi.
Important: The best way to get here is by Uber. Buy heads up, if you’re coming from Rio’s southern zone (where you’re likely staying), the GPS might suggest a route through the Providencia favela (the city’s first favela). DO NOT PASS through this favela and make sure the driver knows where you’re going (most of them do).
When to go: Mondays and Fridays at 7:30 pm
Address: Praça Mauá (near Largo de São Francisco da Prainha)
Price: Free
Lapa: Party in the Streets of Rio
Another classic place to experience Rio’s nightlife is in the streets of Lapa.
You might have already been there if you visited the colorful Selarón Steps during the day. You’ll recognize the white arches with the yellow Bonde (tram) passing overhead during the day, but at night, the area below the arches really comes to life
Once you go through the arches into the main street, you’ll find a range of different clubs and bars on both sides.
In Lapa, I would actually recommend sticking to the tourist-friendly places. The non-touristy places often play hardcore funk music, an even a huge fan like myself struggled dancing to this music for more than an hour.
It’s important to know that Lapa isn’t the safest area, even during the day, and at night, things can get riskier, especially for women. Be prepared for some unwanted attention, and stick with your group to stay safe.
Lapa is also notorious for pickpocketing. Naturally, you will be drinking, taking pictures and paying the different street vendors so there are plenty of opportunities for pickpocketing.
Following the safety tips I mentioned earlier is crucial if you want to avoid ending your night on a sour note. Stay cautious, but don’t let it ruin your fun.
When to go: Weekends are best, with Fridays usually offering the liveliest atmosphere.
Address: Arcos de Lapa
Price: Free (unless you’re heading into a club or bar)
Botafogo: Grab a Beer with Students
Botafogo is one of the neighborhoods in Rio’s southern zone (the tourist area) and over the past decade, this area has become a hotspot for students and young people making it the ideal place to mix with this lively crowd.
Along the main road of Botafogo, Rua Voluntários da Pátria, you will find a variety of bars and casual dining spots.
Here’s a list of some of the best bars in Botafogo.
When to go: Weekends
Address: Rua Voluntários da Pátria, Botafogo
Price: Free
Copacabana: Chill by the Beach
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After a day of exploring the city, you’ll probably be exhausted. If you still want to go out but don’t feel like venturing too far, just head to one of the bars along Copacabana beach.
After sundown, these bars switch gears from coconuts to cocktails.
If you’re lucky you will get to one that has a live band playing Brazilian classics that will make you want to drop your beer glass and start dancing.
When to go: Every night, except Sundays
Address: Along Copacabana beach
Price: Free
Pedra do Leme: Sunset and Drinks
Copacabana’s beach strip ends with the Leme Rock that marks the beginning of Leme neighborhood. In Front of this rock, you will find a couple of bars.
These bars are usually very busy and the prices might be just a little bit steep but this is an excellent spot for you to sit with some fries and watch the sun setting over the Copacabana beach.
When to go: Every evening
Address: Pedra do Leme
Price: Free
Fosfobox: Underground Vibes and LGBTQ Nights
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Fosfobox is a small, underground club known for its variety of lineups—from Britney Spears and ’90s hits to Brazilian classics.
They host parties almost every night, which is perfect if you’re not in Rio over the weekend but still want to have a good time. You can check their event calendar here. I went on a night when they played all my favorite Brazilian classics, and I absolutely loved it.
While it’s known as an LGBTQ-oriented club, the crowd is actually pretty mixed. So, if you’re looking for a strictly gay club, this might not be the spot for you.
When to go: Check their Facebook for events
Address: Rua Siqueira Campos, 143, Copacabana
Price: From R$30, depending on the night
Palaphita: Party in a Tropical Cabana
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Palaphita is a more familiar club experience, playing a mix of mainstream hits and Latin American music.
The venue is quite spacious, with two bars, a lounge area, and a dance floor. It might take a while to fill up, but keep in mind that the later you arrive, the more you’ll likely pay for entry. So, consider getting there early and enjoying a drink while you wait for the crowd.
Palaphita has three locations, and the most convenient one for tourists (and the one I visited) is in Lagoa. During Carnival, they host amazing shows with well-known Brazilian artists. I was lucky enough to attend one of these parties, and it was incredible.
When to go: Check their Facebook page for event updates.
Address: Palaphita Lagoa – Av. Epitácio Pessoa
Price: 30R$ – 60R$ (varies by gender and lineup)
Alto Vidigal: Favela Views, Tourist Vibes
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At the top of favela of Vidigal, there’s a hostel with a dance bar offering an amazing view of Rio from its balcony.
To be honest, we weren’t overly thrilled about this place since it’s touristic and while it’s in the favela— the local residents can’t typically join due to the high cover charge, which makes it feel a bit controversial.
We ended up going because they were hosting a Sertanejo party, which I love.
To get there, you’ll need to take an Uber to the entrance of Vidigal, and from there either hop on a moto-taxi or wait for the white van to shuttle you to the top. If you make the trek, stay until sunrise for an unforgettable view.
Note: this is not a Baile Funk, the kind of favela funk parties marketed to tourists. It’s more of a regular club with a favela location.
When to go: Check their Facebook page for events.
Address: Top of Vidigal
Price: Around 50R$
