Bold and beautiful, squeezed between mountains and ocean, there is no argument against Rio de Janeiro's nickname: the Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City). The seductive Brazilian city is home to some of the world's most recognizable landmarks, including the great statue of Christ the Redeemer and the gorgeous sweep of sand that is Copacabana. Rio’s cultural touchstones, like samba and soccer, are equally recognizable. Whether you want to spend your days soaking up the sun on Ipanema, hiking through the rainforest, or exploring neighborhoods, you'll find plenty of things to do in Rio de Janeiro.
There is no bad time to visit Rio de Janeiro, but the city is at its best during the summer months, from January through March. During this season, the weather heats up and Carnival brings parties and parades to the streets. Keep in mind that hotel rates are at their peak during Carnival, so if you’re on a budget, visit during fall (March–May) or spring (September–November) when the weather is still warm enough to enjoy the beaches.
MetrôRio, the city’s three-line subway system, is a great way to get around Rio’s main visitor attractions. Rio also has an extensive bus and streetcar network, but navigating it can be tricky for non-Portuguese-speaking visitors. Official yellow taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available and typically considered safe and inexpensive; don’t risk your safety by getting into an unmarked taxi.
The beaches are the catwalks of Rio de Janeiro, and looking good while soaking up the sun is practically an occupation for many Cariocas (Rio-born locals). Blend in, and keep up with local fashion, by purchasing your swimwear while in the city. Brazilian-style beachwear is notoriously revealing, but women should note that going topless is illegal and that this law is strictly enforced.
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Rio de Janeiro is known for the beautiful beaches of Copacabana, Ipanema, and Barra da Tijuca; its samba culture; Sugarloaf Mountain; its huge statue of Christ the Redeemer; and its colorful annual Carnival. The city is also known for its love of soccer and the Maracanã stadium.
...MoreTaking a cog-train trip up Corcovado to the imposing Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf are both must-do activities in Rio de Janeiro. You should also take a stroll through the bohemian Santa Teresa district, catch a match at Maracanã, savor a Brazilian-style barbecue at a churrascaria, stay up late to catch a samba show, and people-watch on Copacabana, Ipanema, or Leblon.
...MoreNo. English is not widely spoken in Rio de Janeiro but you should be able to get by with just English in the main tourist areas. The second language of Cariocas is more likely to be Spanish—fortunately, if you speak some Spanish, you will likely be able to understand a little Portuguese.
...MoreWith three days in Rio de Janeiro you should have enough time to take trips up both Corcovado and Sugarloaf; explore a few neighborhoods, such as Santa Teresa or Lapa; watch a soccer game at Maracanã; cruise around Guanabara Bay; and spend some quality time on the beach.
...MoreRio de Janeiro truly comes to life after dark. Lapa is one of the most popular nightlife districts and is a great place to catch a samba show, drink caipirinhas and meet locals at the bars, and dance the night away at a club.
...MoreYes, Rio de Janeiro is safe to visit, but visitors should still be cautious as Rio’s reputation as dangerous is not entirely unfounded. The city's favelas have high rates of crime, so it’s best to avoid them while popular neighborhoods such as Santa Teresa and Praia de Botafogo should only be visited during the day.
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