Curator’s statement
You may know Rio for its Christ the Redeemer, the Sugar Loaf and its beautiful landscapes. But what you might not know yet is that Rio houses some of the most luxurious, exclusive hotels and Michelin starred restaurants that should truly be declared the new wonders of the modern world.
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Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro
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Things to do in Rio de Janeiro
Where to Stay:
Belmond Copacabana Palace
Likely the most iconic hotel in Brazil, the Copacabana Palace is where luxury meets history. The attention to detail at this incredible century-old, glamourous Belmond propriety is something out of this world - and it smells so heavenly, rest assured, you will want to take a sample of their home spray with you. While you're lounging by the pool, sipping on a coconut water or caipirinha, the daily breakfast buffet is to die for, the "Picadinho" dish is not only a famous Brazilian staple, but it was "born" in the kitchen of Copa. Another foodie tradition is having one of the most traditional Brazilian meals, the Feijoada, served pool side only on Saturdays for lunch. If haven't convinced the foodies yet, there are two Michelin-star restaurants in the property, Mee and Cipriani. And beach service on the iconic Copacabana Beach - literally so good you might go to Rio and not want to leave the hotel.
Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana
The Fairmont Hotel in Rio is, in my opinion, the perfect translation of the quintessential Brazilian Bossa. Think of the tunes and lyrics of Girl of Ipanema by Tom Jobim, in the form of a hotel. A modern, midcentury inspired décor, with amazing balcony views of Copacabana, this wonderful hotel lies on the corner of the iconic beach, where the waves are calm enough forming a pool. With beach service, beach sports (think stand up paddle and beach volley) and a wonderful restaurant in the sands, you will feel the peace and exclusivity in the hustle and bustle of Rio's most famous beach. With two pools within property and an enormous and modern gym, you will be equally tempted to spend as much time as possible at the Fairmont, which has the cutest coffee/gelato shop in the ground floor.
Fasano Rio de Janeiro
Nestled in a prime location of the famous beach of Ipanema, you will find one of the most luxurious and traditional hotels in all of Brazil. The Fasano brand holds a weight to its name, for its tradition, exclusivity and elegance in Brazilian hospitality specially when it comes to its boutique hotels and restaurants. The rooftop with an infinity pool backdropped by the ocean, Arpoador and Corcovado is a signature postcard on its own. No visit to Rio should be complete without a exquisite dining in one of the restaurants within property.
Day Trips:
The concierge at Fairmont can help you plan amazing and exclusive tours. How about a sunrise breakfast at Christ the Redeemer?
Places to eat & drink in Rio de Janeiro
Hotel dining at its best
Breakfast
The breakfast at Pergola at Copacabana Palace, is to die for, and many travel from far to trie out its brunch buffet. Best news for Fora Travelers - this outstanding breakfast is only one of the amazing perks you get!
Lunch
Picadinho served daily or the traditional Feijadoada on Saturdays pool side at the Copacaba Palace are a must for any foodies visiting Brazil.
Drinks
Baretto Londra at Fasano, or early dinner at Marine Resto at the Fairmont for the most beautiful sunset views.
Dinner
Try Michelin starred Mee for an asian flare or the classic italian Cipriani, both poolside of Copacabana Palace. At Fasano, Al Mare and Fairmont, Di Marino.
Desert
Gelato at Momo in Copacabana Palace or at COA&CO Cafe in the Fairmont Copacabana are an always refreshing treat.
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Carolina King
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Brazil.