Why go to Rio de Janeiro
Rio's setting is unbeatable: granite peaks rising from the sea, rainforest in the middle of the city and famous beaches lined with kiosks selling ice-cold coconut water.
Best time to visit Rio de Janeiro
April to June and September to November are warm with fewer crowds. December to March is hot, humid summer, with Carnival (usually February or early March) the city's biggest moment. June to August is mild winter, ideal for hiking.
Top things to see
Christ the Redeemer
Take the rack railway up Corcovado.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Cable car at sunset.
Copacabana and Ipanema
Beach culture at its finest.
Escadaria Selarón
Tiled steps between Lapa and Santa Teresa.
Tijuca National Park
Rainforest trails and waterfalls.
Museum of Tomorrow
Science museum on the revitalised waterfront.
Things to do in Rio de Janeiro
- Hike Dois Irmãos or Pedra da Gávea for huge views
- Watch the sunset clap at Arpoador
- Dance samba in Lapa or at a samba school rehearsal
- Hang-glide from Pedra Bonita
- Watch football at the Maracanã
Local experiences
- Order a caipirinha and grilled cheese from a beach vendor
- Eat at a churrascaria or a por-quilo buffet
- Join a Sunday roda de samba
- Shop the Hippie Fair in Ipanema on Sundays
Where to eat in Rio de Janeiro
Dishes to try: feijoada, pão de queijo, açaí, picanha, pastel, caipirinha.
Confeitaria ColomboCafé
Belle Époque tearoom open since 1894.
Bar UrcaBar
Petiscos on the sea wall at sunset.
OtequeFine dining
Inventive seafood-led tasting menus in Botafogo.
Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro
Copacabana PalaceLuxury
A Belmond legend since 1923.
Hotel Fasano Rio de JaneiroLuxury
Rooftop pool over Ipanema.
Santa Teresa Hotel RJ - MGalleryBoutique
Hillside retreat in an artists' quarter.
Best areas to stay
Ipanema and Leblon
Safest beach base, best restaurants.
Copacabana
Lively, better value.
Santa Teresa
Bohemian and hilly.
4 days in Rio de Janeiro
Day 1: Christ and Santa Teresa
Day 2: Beach day
Day 3: Forest and Sugarloaf
Day 4: Downtown
See the full day-by-day itinerary
Festivals and events
CarnivalFebruary or early March
Samba parades at the Sambódromo and street blocos.
Réveillon31 December
New Year's Eve fireworks over Copacabana.
Getting around
Use the metro and ride-hailing apps. Walking along the beachfront is pleasant by day. Avoid empty streets at night and leave valuables at the hotel.
Practical information
- Plug types
- C, N (guide)
- Voltage
- 127 V (most of Rio)
- Emergency
- 190 (police), 192 (ambulance)
- Tap water
- Drink bottled or filtered water
Tipping: A 10% service charge is usually included. See our tipping guide.
Entry requirements depend on your nationality; check your government's travel advice and the destination's official immigration site before booking.
How much does it cost?
Approximate US dollar figures covering accommodation, food, local transport and sights; flights excluded.
Good to know
- Carry only what you need to the beach
- Use ride-hailing at night
- Book Christ the Redeemer tickets online
- Carnival prices rise sharply; book months ahead
Rio de Janeiro travel FAQ
What is the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro?
The best months are usually Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct. April to June and September to November are warm with fewer crowds. December to March is hot, humid summer, with Carnival (usually February or early March) the city's biggest moment. June to August is mild winter, ideal for hiking.
How many days do you need in Rio de Janeiro?
Plan on 4 days to see the highlights at a comfortable pace.
What currency is used in Rio de Janeiro?
The local currency is the Brazilian real (BRL). Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carry some cash for markets and small vendors.
How much does a trip to Rio de Janeiro cost per day?
Roughly US$60 per person per day on a budget, US$160 mid-range and US$600 or more for luxury, excluding flights. Prices vary by season.
What food should I try in Rio de Janeiro?
Local favourites include feijoada, pão de queijo, açaí, picanha, pastel, caipirinha.
What plug adapter do I need for Rio de Janeiro?
Rio de Janeiro uses plug type C, N at 127 V (most of Rio). Check whether your devices support this voltage.
Restaurants, hotels and prices change. Confirm opening times and book popular places ahead. Last reviewed October 2026.
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