Samba, Culture and Scenery: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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Advisor - Mark Newsome
Curated By

Mark Newsome

  • Luxury Travel

  • Arts & Culture

  • Brazil

  • Rio de Janeiro

  • Beaches

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

  • Entertainment

The image depicts a lively beach setting with a mountainous landscape in the background under a clear blue sky.
Curator’s statement

Rio de Janeiro is world renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, breathtaking scenery and its very friendly locals. Exploring this city is an experience that will last a lifetime with its unique culture and eccentric neighborhoods such as Lapa, Leblon and Santa Teresa. Experience the infectious rhythm of samba in the streets, relax on one of the many picturesque beaches or spend time exploring the diverse nature and culture Rio has to offer. The dramatic landscapes will leave you in awe as you roam around the city and the hospitality from the cariocas will make you feel like you are right at home. Whether you are here for a short time or an extended stay, this city has everything for you to make your time an unforgettable one.

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Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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Things to do in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The image showcases the stunning cityscape of Rio de Janeiro at dusk, with the city lights twinkling against the backdrop of its famous mountainous skyline.
  • Sugarloaf Mountain (landmark with scenic views)

  • Corcovado (lookout point with Christ the Redeemer at the peak)

  • Copacabana Beach (iconic beach)

  • Ipanema Beach (active & lively beach)

  • Carnival Festival (vibrant celebration with samba parades and street parties typically in February or March)

  • Museum of Tomorrow (science museum)

  • Dance Lessons (learn how to dance taking lessons in Samba or Flamenco)

  • Football Match (attend an energetic game of Brazilian football)

  • Hang-gliding/Paragliding (extreme sport flying over the city)

Day Trips:

  • Arrial do Cabo

  • Tijuca National Park

Places to eat & drink in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The image depicts the vibrant and colorful Selaron Steps in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil at night with a couple kissing
  • Açaí Concept Copacabana (best Açaí in Copacabana)

  • Boteco Belmonte (dinner and cocktails on the waterfront of Ipanema Beach)

  • Galleto Sats (lunch/dinner)

  • Hamburgueria Dom Gourmet (lunch/dinner walking distance from Copacabana Beach)

  • Braseiro da Gavea (great restaurant known for local cuisine)

  • Academia da Cachaça (local cuisine and cocktails)

  • Churrascaria Palace (upscale steakhouse with an A.Y.C.E. buffet)

  • Venga! (open-style Spanish restaurant on the waterfront known for tapas)

Advisor - Mark Newsome

Travel Advisor

Mark Newsome

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Brazil. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Where Europe Meets Asia: Istanbul, Turkey.