The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do in Rio

As the capital of Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro state, Rio is a vibrant and exciting city with a rich history and culture. Located on the south-eastern coast of the country, Rio is situated between the Atlantic Ocean and a lush mountainous landscape. It’s a destination full of energy, adventure and fun. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an action-packed city break, Rio has it all. Here’s our ultimate guide to the best things to do in Rio.

Explore the Sites and Wonders of the City

The first stop on your Rio tour should be the famous Christ The Redeemer statue, standing tall atop Corcovado Mountain. This iconic landmark is a symbol of peace and faith, and is visible from almost everywhere in the city. Take the train to the top or climb the stairs for a stunning bird’s eye view of Rio.

Next, take a tour of the city’s colonial past at the Sao Bento Monastery, located in the heart of Rio. This baroque architecture is a stunning example of 16th century Brazilian beauty, with intricate decorations and breathtaking sculptures. The monastery is also home to one of the largest libraries in Brazil, where you can browse a selection of rare books and manuscripts dating back centuries.

One of Rio’s most impressive sights is the grandiose Maracanã Stadium. Home to many of the city’s biggest football matches, Maracanã Stadium is a place of passionate fans and amazing sporting events. You can take a guided tour of the stadium and even join in on a football match.

Relax at Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches

No trip to Rio would be complete without a visit to its two most famous beaches, Copacabana and Ipanema. Copacabana is an endless stretch of white sand and blue waves, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. As for Ipanema, it’s a popular beach among locals and tourists alike, where you can people watch, sip on cocktails at a beachside bar, or attend one of their famous beach parties.

If you’re looking for more adventurous activities, head to Arpoador Beach, where you can try out windsurfing or kitesurfing. Or take a ride on one of the cable cars up Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking views of Rio’s skyline.

Experience Rio’s Nightlife

When the sun goes down, Rio really comes alive! There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore after dark. Take a stroll along Avenida Atlantica to find some of Rio’s best nightclubs and bars. Or head to Lapa for some authentic Brazilian music and street parties.

For something a little more unique, try out one of Rio’s samba clubs. These lively venues are filled with passionate dancers and live music performances. It’s an unforgettable experience!

Book an Interactive Graffiti Tour Of Rio

Rio is home to some amazing street art, and an interactive graffiti tour is one of the best ways to explore it. On this tour you’ll be taken around some of the city’s most colourful neighbourhoods, where you can learn all about Rio’s street art culture and even create your own artwork. You’ll get to meet local street artists and gain insight into their creative processes. It’s an unforgettable experience!
Book an Interactive Graffiti Tour of Rio with Viator here.

Visit The National Museum Of Brazil

The National Museum of Brazil is one of the country’s most important cultural institutions. Located in Rio’s Botafogo neighbourhood, this museum houses a vast collection of ancient artifacts, archaeological finds and historical documents from all over Brazil and beyond. From pre-Columbian pottery to modern works of art, it’s an incredible place for learning about Brazil’s history and culture.

Take A Nature Tour Of Tijuca National Park

Surrounding Rio is Tijuca National Park, an immense urban forest filled with lush vegetation and incredible wildlife. Take a nature tour of the park to explore its stunning trails and waterfalls. You can even take a cable car ride up Corcovado Mountain for beautiful views over the entire city. It’s an incredible experience!
Book a Nature Tour of Tijuca National Park with GetYourGuide here.

Take A Boat Trip Around The Guanabara Bay

For something truly unique, take a boat trip around the stunning Guanabara Bay. You can explore nearby islands, take in amazing views of Rio’s skyline from the sea, and even spot some dolphins! It’s an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss!
Book a Boat Trip Around Guanabara Bay with GetYourGuide here.

Conclusion

Rio de Janeiro is an incredible city full of culture and adventure. From exploring its colonial past to taking in its stunning scenery, it has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed city break or a relaxing beach holiday, Rio has it all! So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!