Rio de Janeiro Insider’s Guide: Where to Go & What to See

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore Rio de Janeiro’s iconic sights and hidden gems, ensuring reliable communication while discovering the city’s stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landmarks.

5.5 million. That’s how many tourists flocked to Rio de Janeiro in 2019 alone to marvel at its postcard-perfect beaches, lush mountains, and pulsating nightlife. But behind the glitzy surface lies a city steeped in fascinating history and one-of-a-kind culture.

To truly experience Rio, you’ll need to go beyond just ticking off the big tourist places in Rio de Janeiro. This insider’s guide takes you to the heart and soul of Brazil’s “Cidade Maravilhosa” (Marvelous City), uncovering things to see in Rio de Janeiro that most visitors miss. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in South America’s most captivating metropolis.

1. Copacabana Beach: The Ultimate Rio Icon

No trip to Rio is complete without spending an afternoon at the legendary Copacabana Beach. This 4-kilometre stretch of golden sand and azure waters has been a Rio de Janeiro tourist attraction for over a century, immortalized in songs and movies. A few key things to know:

• Copacabana faces south, so the sun can be intense—lather on that SPF!

• The beach is lit up at night and safe to visit, but keep an eye on your belongings.

• Vendors sell everything from sunscreen to caipirinhas right on the sand.

• Watersports like stand-up paddleboarding and surfing are popular activities.

Some of Brazil’s most luxurious hotels line Avenida Atlântica, the beachfront boulevard. But you don’t need to splurge to enjoy Copacabana. Grab a fresh coconut or an açaí bowl, spread your towel on the sand, and soak up the sultry Carioca spirit.

2. Christ the Redeemer: An Art Deco Marvel

Perched atop the 710-meter Corcovado Mountain is perhaps the most iconic of all tourist places in Rio de Janeiro: the colossal Christ the Redeemer statue. Some quick facts:

Designed by French sculptor Paul Landowski, this Art Deco masterpiece has watched over Rio since 1931. To reach it, take the cog train from Cosme Velho station or brave the 220-step climb. Go early to beat the crowds and catch breathtaking views of Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana, Ipanema Beach, and Guanabara Bay. Watching the sunrise from Christ’s feet is an unbeatable Rio de Janeiro tourist attraction.

3. Sugarloaf Mountain: Rio from Above

For a different perspective of the Cidade Maravilhosa, hop on the cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, a 396-meter granite peak guarding the entrance of Guanabara Bay. The journey is half the thrill: the glass-walled bondinho makes two stops, first at 220-meter Morro da Urca, then continuing to Pão de Açúcar’s summit.

Once on top, you can:

• Gaze at a 360-degree panorama of Rio’s beaches, mountains, and city centre

• Hike the 600-meter Pista Claudio Coutinho trail around the base

• Try rock climbing on the mountain’s vertical faces (with a guide)

• Spot monkeys, toucans, and other tropical creatures in the wild

Aim to reach the peak just before sunset to marvel at the city lights blinking on below. It’s one of the most romantic things to do in Rio de Janeiro as dusk paints the sky in dreamy pink and orange hues.

4. Ipanema Beach: Sunbathing & People-Watching

While Copacabana Beach may be Rio’s most storied stretch of sand, Ipanema holds its own as one of the best beaches in Rio de Janeiro. This chic, upscale area was thrust into the global spotlight by the 1960s jazz song “The Girl from Ipanema.” Today, it remains an ideal spot to while away a sun-soaked afternoon.

A few Ipanema tips:

• Each lifeguard tower marks a “posto” or section favoured by different groups. Posto 9, for instance, is popular with the young, hip crowd.

• The iconic Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers) mountains make a stunning backdrop for photos.

• On Sundays, the beachside streets are close to traffic, making room for cyclists, skateboarders, and dog walkers.

When hunger strikes, pop into one of the many “kioskos” dotting the beachfront, which dish up tasty snacks and frosty beers. Keep your eyes peeled for Brazilian celebrities and telenovela stars sunbathing or playing volleyball here—Ipanema is prime people-watching territory.

5. Tijuca National Park: An Urban Rainforest

Did you know Rio is home to the world’s largest urban forest? Tijuca National Park covers 32 square kilometres, with a lush Atlantic rainforest that’s home to ocelots, howler monkeys, and hundreds of colourful bird species. Some of the top activities:

• Hiking: Choose from 100+ trails of varying difficulty levels. The hike to Pico da Tijuca, Rio’s highest peak at 1,021 meters, rewards with spectacular city views.

• Wildlife-spotting: Wake up early for a guided birdwatching tour to glimpse toucans, parrots, and the rare azure-shouldered tanager.

• Waterfall-hopping: Don’t miss Cascatinha Taunay, an 18-meter-high waterfall that’s perfect for a refreshing dip on a steamy day.

Getting to Tijuca is easy—catch an Uber from Ipanema or Copacabana (around Rs. 1000), or take the metro to Saens Peña station and a quick bus ride. Spending a day in Rio’s “green lung” really drives home the city’s astonishing natural diversity.

6. Santa Teresa: Bohemian Vibes & Quirky Art

For a change of pace from the sun and sand, head to the hilly, bohemian enclave of Santa Teresa. Once a playground for Rio’s 19th-century coffee barons, this charming neighbourhood is now a magnet for artists, musicians, and writers. A few things to do in Rio de Janeiro‘s most creative quarter:

• Ride the historic tram: The canary-yellow bondinho de Santa Teresa has trundled through the area since 1877. Snap a photo as it rattles by colourful colonial mansions draped in bougainvillaea.

• Visit Parque das Ruínas: This cultural centre inside a ruined mansion hosts art exhibits, concerts, and killer sunset views from its rooftop terrace.

• Explore Museu da Chácara do Céu: An idyllic museum showcasing an impressive collection of modern art by the likes of Miró and Matisse.

• Browse artisan shops: Wander down Rua Paschoal Carlos Magno to discover indie art galleries, quirky boutiques, and open-air handicrafts fairs on weekends.

Fuel up with a strong cafezinho and a generously filled mortadella sandwich at Café Sobrenatural, a neighbourhood institution. Then, head out to explore Santa Teresa’s maze of cobblestoned streets, eye-catching street art, and fairytale atmosphere.

Rio Travel Tips: What to Know Before You Go

• Best time to visit: Rio’s summer (Dec-Mar) is hot and festive, with NYE fireworks and Carnival. Winter (Jun-Sep) sees milder temps and lower prices.

• Language: Locals speak Portuguese, but most in tourism speak basic English too. Learn a few phrases like “obrigado” (thank you), and you’ll be embraced.

• Getting around: The metro is safe, clean, and efficient. Uber is widely used and affordable. Buses get crowded but go everywhere.

• Safety: Take standard precautions and leave valuables in the hotel safe. Some areas, like Rocinha Favela, are best visited with a guide.

• Money: ATMs can be targets for theft, so withdraw from a bank branch when possible. Tell your bank your travel plans ahead of time.

• Culture: Cariocas are generally warm, easygoing, and affectionate. Expect to be greeted with kisses on the cheek and called “querido/a” (dear).

Stay Connected in Rio with Airtel

While it’s easy to find Wi-Fi in Rio’s hotels and cafes, having mobile data can be a lifesaver when navigating the city. Airtel’s Postpaid international roaming plans are a convenient way for foreign visitors to stay connected on the go, with generous data allowances and affordable rates. You can use Google Maps to get around, check restaurant reviews, and share all those incredible Rio moments on the spot.

So there you have it—a local expert’s take on the best things to see in Rio de Janeiro, plus some practical tips to help you make the most of every moment. From the sparkling beaches in Rio de Janeiro to its soaring peaks and superb cuisine, Rio will dazzle you with its natural beauty and irresistible verve. Start planning your Rio getaway today, and get ready to be swept off your feet by Brazil’s one-of-a-kind Marvelous City. Saúde!