Insider's Guide to Rio de Janeiro

• Forte de Copacabana
  Explore the historical Forte de Copacabana and take a break at Café 18 do Forte. Personally, I find it better than the more famous Confeitaria Colombo. Enjoy a delicious meal with a breathtaking view of Copacabana Beach.

• Museu do Amanhã and MAR (Museu de Arte do Rio)
  Visit the futuristic Museu do Amanhã and the nearby MAR (Museu de Arte do Rio) to immerse yourself in art and science. These two museums offer a perfect blend of innovation and culture.

• Vista Chinesa
  Head to Vista Chinesa for stunning panoramic views of the city. It’s an ideal spot for biking or walking while enjoying the serene environment and breathtaking landscapes.

• Santa Teresa
  Discover the charm of Santa Teresa, with its beautiful views, quaint shops and delightful restaurants. Consider staying at one of the unique hotels like Chez George, Vila Santa Teresa or MGallery. Don’t miss dining at the renowned Aprazível restaurant for a memorable experience.

• Mirante Santa Marta and Cristo Redentor
  Combine a visit to Mirante Santa Marta with a trip to the iconic Cristo Redentor. Take a taxi and hop on the funicular train to reach the top, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Rio.

• Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas
  Spend a day at Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas. You can bike or walk around the lagoon and then enjoy a meal at Bar Lagoa. Although it’s not the most charming spot, the food is simply delicious.

• Pão de Açúcar and Mureta da Urca
  Take the cable car to Pão de Açúcar for unparalleled views of the city. Afterward, head to Mureta da Urca and savor a shrimp pastel at Bar Urca while enjoying the waterfront.

• Beaches of Ipanema and Leblon
  Relax at the famous beaches of Ipanema and Leblon. Don’t miss out on the local treats like buttered corn on a plate, queijo coalho (grilled cheese), mate with lemon and fresh coconut water.

• Mirante do Avrão
  Mirante do Avrão, located in Vidigal favela, offers stunning panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro, including landmarks like Sugarloaf Mountain and Ipanema Beach. Staying here provides a unique, immersive experience in the favela, with simple yet comfortable accommodations featuring breathtaking terraces. The local community is welcoming, offering a chance to connect with residents and appreciate their vibrant culture. This stay lets you see a different, authentic side of Rio, often missed by traditional tourism.

• Sunset at Arpoador
  Watching the sunset at Arpoador is a magical experience. Located between Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, this iconic spot offers a breathtaking view as the sun dips below the horizon, casting vibrant hues of orange, pink and purple across the sky. The rocks of Arpoador provide the perfect vantage point, where locals and tourists alike gather to witness this daily spectacle. As the sun sets, the atmosphere is filled with a sense of tranquility and awe, making it a must-do activity in Rio de Janeiro.

• Jardim Botânico and Parque Lage
  A day exploring Jardim Botânico and Parque Lage offers a perfect blend of nature and culture in Rio de Janeiro. Start your visit at the Jardim Botânico, where you can wander through lush gardens, marvel at the exotic plant species and enjoy the tranquility of this green oasis. After soaking in the beauty of the botanical gardens, head to nearby Parque Lage. Here, you can stroll through enchanting forest trails, admire the historic mansion and relax in the artistic ambiance of this charming park. Together, these two spots provide a refreshing and picturesque escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

• Praia da Joatinga
  Praia da Joatinga is a hidden gem in Rio de Janeiro, offering a more secluded and intimate beach experience. Nestled between the neighborhoods of São Conrado and Barra da Tijuca, this small, picturesque beach is surrounded by cliffs and lush greenery. Accessed via a short hike down from a residential area, Joatinga boasts clear blue waters, soft sand and a relaxed atmosphere. It's a favorite spot for surfers and those looking to escape the crowded main beaches, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility.

• Experience Carnival
  For a complete Rio experience, visit during Carnival. Enjoy the street blocos, but be cautious with your belongings. For an unforgettable time, watch the parade at Sapucaí from the Arara, N1 VIP area, or get close to the action with a frisa ticket.

Shopping

• Pinga
  Pinga is a trendy boutique known for its eclectic mix of local and international fashion brands. It offers a carefully curated selection of clothing and accessories that cater to a chic and modern clientele.

• Shopping Leblon
  Shopping Leblon is a high-end mall featuring a wide range of luxury brands, dining options and entertainment facilities. It’s a go-to destination for upscale shopping and a premium shopping experience in Rio.

• Rio Design
  Rio Design is an upscale shopping center that combines luxury fashion, gourmet dining and exclusive home decor stores. It’s a sophisticated space for those looking for quality and style in every purchase.

• Farm
  Farm is a vibrant Brazilian fashion brand celebrated for its colorful, tropical-inspired designs. The store embodies the lively spirit of Rio with its playful prints and bohemian styles.

• Haight Clothing
  Haight Clothing is a modern swimwear and apparel brand that blends minimalist aesthetics with high-quality materials. The store offers sleek, stylish pieces perfect for the beach and beyond.

• Osklen
  Osklen is a renowned Brazilian fashion brand known for its sustainable and stylish designs. Combining urban sophistication with natural elements, Osklen offers a range of high-quality clothing, footwear and accessories that reflect a laid-back yet refined lifestyle.

• Havaianas
  Havaianas is an iconic Brazilian brand famous for its comfortable and colorful flip-flops. Known worldwide, Havaianas offers a variety of styles and designs, making it a go-to choice for both casual wear and beach outings.

Breakfast

• Arp Bar (Hotel Arpoador): Start your day with a delightful breakfast at this stylish hotel.

• Café 18 do Forte

• Emporio Jardim

• Solo

• Slow Bakery

Michelin-Starred restaurants

• Oteque

• Lasai

• Oro

Classic, unpretentious spots

• Bar Lagoa: Classic spot with delicious food

• Braseiro da Gávea: Perfect for a hearty meal

• Galeto do Leblon: Try their signature galeto with broccoli rice and potatoes for a typical post-beach lunch

Meat

• Malta

• Clan BBQ

Quick sandwiches

• Polis Sucos

• BB Lanches

Asian cuisine

• Sushi Vaz

• Haru

• Si-Chou

• Spicy Fish

• Katz-su

Italian restaurants

• Babbo Osteria

• Grado

• Anna

• Pope

Contemporary dining

• Koral

• Lilia

Best views

• Aprazível

• Casa do Saulo (at Museu do Amanhã)