What to do in Rio de Janeiro? This depends on a few factors, such as the amount of time you have in the city. But above all, the most important question is: what do you dream of doing all year round?
Do you want to relax and enjoy the beach? Explore the most famous tourist attractions? Or immerse yourself in the local culture and experience Rio like a true Carioca?
Whatever your travel style, here are some suggestions to make your experience unforgettable!
First time
If you’ve never been to Rio and don’t plan on returning soon, and you’re the type of person who doesn’t miss out on the main tourist attractions, then you really should do “Rio by day“.
If you’re staying for two days:
Do “Rio Express“, where you’ll see the two most famous tourist attractions in Rio. At night, watch a show of Brazilian rhythms and folklore. The next day, take a jeep tour in the morning and a helicopter flight in the afternoon.
If you’re staying for three days:
Visit Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer on separate days, and add a stroll around Guanabara Bay. Leave an afternoon free to stroll along the beaches of Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon. Try watching the sunset from Arpoador Rock, located between Ipanema and Copacabana.
If you’re staying for four days:
Consider adding a tour to a city outside of Rio. Or Petrópolis, where the emperor used to spend his summers, or you could enjoy the beaches of Búzios or Angra dos Reis.
Love nature and the outdoors.
If you’re an active person, enjoy hiking, and incredible views, then Rio has a lot to offer!
There are also alternative ways to see Rio’s most famous landmarks.
If you’re staying for two days:
Climb Corcovado Mountain on a hike through the charming Parque Lage to the iconic Christ the Redeemer. Afterwards, enjoy a bike ride along the beautiful Copacabana and Flamengo waterfronts, where you will have spectacular views of Sugarloaf Mountain across Guanabara Bay. An unmissable experience for those who want to explore Rio in an active and unforgettable way!
If you are staying for three days:
Add a Hawaiian canoe ride. You will be able to paddle out into the bay and see Sugarloaf Mountain from a very unique perspective, as well as get some exercise along the way. Rio seen from the sea brings a sense of peace to any spectator.
If you are staying for four days:
You can either add a hike to Pico da Tijuca, from where you can have a very unique view of the region, or add a hike to Pedra da Gávea, from where you can get a higher perspective and wonderful views of much of the city.