Rio de Janeiro is a captivating city where white sandy beaches lie beneath majestic mountains and tropical nature stands in contrast with the city’s vibrant energy. From Christ the Redeemer to the Sugarloaf mountain, from Carnival parades to New Year’s Eve parties, the city’s rhythm is echoed on the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. Explore the rich culture and history of the city centre and surrender to the contagious joy of the locals.
Summer is the most popular season in Rio, when the hot weather and abundant sunshine invite you to enjoy the city´s beaches and outdoor events such as Carnival. However, the city is blessed with nice weather all year round. Autumn and spring are cooler and ideal for walking around the city and the tourist attractions. The city is quieter in winter and this is the ideal time for visiting museums, savouring local cuisine, and exploring street markets.
The main gateway to Rio de Janeiro is Tom Jobim International Airport (also known as Galeão International Airport), which welcomes direct flights from various cities around the globe. Another option is Santos Dumont Airport, a great choice for domestic flights and one that is closer to the city centre and tourist areas. Rio has a vast public transport network and getting around is easy, be it by bus, subway, or taxi.
Rio de Janeiro’s cuisine is a reflection of its cultural diversity. Savour the famous feijoada (bean stew), try “biscoito Globo” and have an iced mate tea on the beach. Enjoy amazing fresh fish, grilled shrimps and traditional caldinho de feijão (black bean broth) at the beachside kiosks. Don’t miss out on a proper churrasco (barbecued meat) and finish off with a classic brigadeiro dessert. As for drinks, there’s nothing better than a caipirinha made with freshly-squeezed lemon and local cachaça (sugar cane rum).
The city of Rio de Janeiro teems with nature. Wander through Tijuca National Park, one of the biggest city parks in the world, and take in the stunning views of the city and Guanabara Bay. Go up to the top of Christ the Redeemer, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and admire the immense landscape before you. Embrace adventure and go up Sugarloaf Mountain, where you´ll be rewarded with an unforgettable sunset, or take a stroll through the Botanical Garden and marvel at the rare tropical flora.
Rio de Janeiro city centre is a blend of past and present. Walk around Cinelândia and tour historic buildings such as the Municipal Theatre and the National Museum of Fine Arts. Marvel at the iconic Escadaria Selarón, the world-famous set of steps, and the imposing São Bento Monastery. Climb the historic slopes of the Santa Teresa neighbourhood and take in the bohemian setting overlooking the city. Rio is also home to important museums, such as the Museum of Tomorrow and the MAR, where cultural heritage merges with modernity.
