Rio is a city that truly never sleeps. Whether you’re here for a few days or a month, there’s always something to keep you entertained. To get the most out of your visit, aim for at least four nights.
While you’re in Rio, don’t miss out on a trip to Ilha Grande or Búzios. These nearby spots are perfect for a refreshing getaway.
For the Ultimate Travel Guide to Brazil, click here.
Is it safe to travel to Rio and Brazil? Short answer: Yes, with a few precautions. For the detailed post, click here.
Here are the top things do do in Rio de Janeiro:
Visit the Sugar Loaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar)
Sugar Loaf Mountain is an iconic landmark in Rio de Janeiro, known for its distinctive shape and spectacular views.
The attraction consists of two peaks connected by a cable car, with the first cable car taking you to the smaller peak, Morro da Urca, and a second car taking you to the top of Sugar Loaf itself.
From the summit, you get a 360-degree view of Rio, including famous sights like Copacabana Beach, the Christ the Redeemer statue, and the lush Tijuca Forest. The ride provides an exhilarating experience as you ascend 396 meters to the top, offering some of the best photo ops in the city.
You can take a cable car to the top or opt for a short hike if you’re feeling adventurous. The cable car ride is quick, just about 5 minutes, and the whole experience will take 1-2 hours. It’s super easy and suitable for everyone.
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 7:50 PM (check the official site for updates)
- Price: R$ 85 for adults; R$ 42 for kids (6-21), students, seniors (60+), and people with disabilities. Kids under 5 get in free.
- How to Get to Pão de Açúcar: Uber from Copacabana or Botafogo is pretty cheap. You can also take a bus to Urca.
Enjoy Lapa’s Nightlife
Lapa is the nightlife hotspot of Rio.
By day, you’ll see the famous yellow tram (bondinho) crossing the arches, and by night, the area buzzes with live music and street vendors selling drinks and snacks. Expect everything from Brazilian funk to samba.
Heads up: Lapa can be a bit sketchy, so stay alert. For more on Rio’s nightlife, click here.
- When to Go: Weekends, especially Fridays.
- Address: Arcos de Lapa
- Price: Free
Hike to Pedra Bonita
Pedra Bonita, or “the beautiful stone,” offers stunning views over Barra, Leblon, Ipanema, and Tijuca Forest. It’s an easy hike, even for kids, and the top is worth it.
For more hikes that will allow you to see Rio from above, click here.
- Time: 30-minute hike + time to enjoy the view
- Level of Difficulty: Easy
- How to Get to Pedra Bonita: Head to São Conrado and drive or take a bus to the trailhead.
Pedra Bonita is also a popular launch spot for hand gliding.
Hand Glide Off Pedra Bonita
For a bird’s-eye view of Rio, try hand gliding or paragliding from Pedra Bonita. Flights last about 10 minutes and are recorded with a GoPro.
- Price: R$ 400-600 (negotiate if you’re in a group)
- Who to Book With:
Admire the Largest Mural in the World
The Mural das Etnias is the biggest graffiti in the world, created by Brazilian artist Cobra for the 2016 Olympics. It’s located in Rio’s port area, next to the RioStar Ferris Wheel.
- Where: Centro district, downtown
- Price: Free
The Colorful Selarón Steps (Escadaria Selarón)
These steps, created by Chilean artist Selarón, are a must-see. Famous from Fanta commercials and U2 videos, they’re vibrant and ever-changing. Visit during the day, but keep an eye on your stuff as Lapa can be risky.
- Where: Lapa neighborhood
- Price: Free
Hang Out at Pedra do Telégrafo
Pedra do Telégrafo is known for its dramatic cliff-edge illusion. It overlooks Praias Selvagens and Barra da Tijuca.
Tip: Be prepared for crowds; you might wait in line for your photo after a one-hour hike.
If you’re there, check out nearby beaches like Praia do Perigoso. You can either go all the way down or split the trail for beach access.
- Time: 1-hour hike + photo wait time
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
- How to Get There: Uber to Praia Grande in Barra de Guaratiba; taking the bus is trickier.
Ride the Rio Star Ferris Wheel
Rio Star is Latin America’s largest Ferris wheel. From the top, you’ll see Guanabara Bay, Christ the Redeemer, and more.
- Price: R$ 59
- Where: Centro district, downtown
Visit the Flea Market in Ipanema
Sundays in Ipanema mean the flea market is up and running. It’s a great spot for art, souvenirs, and food.
- When to Go: Sunday, 10 AM – 4-5 PM
- Price: Free
- How to Get There: Metro to General Osório station, then walk to Praça General Osório.
Visit a Favela: Hiking Morro Dois Irmãos
Favela tours are popular but can be controversial. If you’re interested in seeing a favela, consider hiking to the top of Morro Dois Irmãos. You’ll get a fantastic view of the favelas, Ipanema Beach, and Corcovado.
The hike starts at the top of Vidigal. Take an Uber to the favela entrance, then a moto-taxi or van to the trailhead.
- Time: 1-hour hike (1.5 km)
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
- How to Get There: Uber to Vidigal, then moto-taxi or van to the trailhead.
Visit the Christ the Redeemer Statue
No trip to Rio is complete without seeing the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue on Mount Corcovado. It’s one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and while it’s very popular, arriving early helps beat the crowds.
- For More Info: Check the official website for details on getting there and pricing.
Beach Please
Rio de Janeiro is synonymous with beautiful beaches, and you’ll definitely want to spend some time soaking up the sun on its famous shores. The main beaches you’ll likely visit are Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon.
Celebrate Carnival in Rio
Carnival is Brazil’s biggest event, taking place from February to March. Rio’s Carnival includes the grand samba school parades and vibrant street parties.
Want to see the parade for just R$ 5 or learn about other Carnival celebrations in Brazil? Click here for more info.
Have an Açaí Bowl
Pronounced ah-sah-ee, this açaí bowl is a Brazilian staple. Made from açaí berries blended with fruits and juices, it’s both delicious and packed with antioxidants.
The further north you go in Brazil, the better the açaí gets.
For Vegan Guide to Rio: Click here.
Enjoy your Rio adventure!
