The Most Epic Rio de Janeiro Itinerary
You have arrived in Rio de Janeiro, a city with so much energy, beauty and culture you’ll find yourself swept into its rhythm before you’ve even landed.
From golden beaches and the verdant slopes of Tijuca Forest to the infectious rhythm of samba music, Rio has nature, history and nightlife in equal measure, making it something of an epic travel destination.
This guide will take you to the highlights of Rio — famous addresses and hidden treasures.
No matter whether you’ve got three days or a whole week, let’s get into what is sure to be a memorable journey.
Day 1: Iconic Rio
Morning: Christ the Redeemer & Corcovado Mountain
Open your Rio trip with a visit to Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado Mountain.
Towering over 2,300 feet, this statue is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Get there early to beat the crowds and have unimpeded views of the city sprawling below.
Take a scenic train ride up through Tijuca National Park, a thick rainforest with stunning views and a chance to see local wildlife.
The statures at the summit, the breathtaking statue, is nowhere until you reach the top, not to mention the experience of riding that train as you climb up and through thick, green landscape.
Afternoon: Sugarloaf Mountain
After lunch, drive to Sugarloaf Mountain.
Take a two-part cable car ride up to the peak at Praia Vermelha, with a half-stop at Morro da Urca, where you can walk around for sweeping views of the coastline.
Once at Sugarloaf, you can enjoy 360-degree views of Rio’s iconic coastline, Guanabara Bay and the neighboring islands.
The ideal spot for photos and a caipirinha at one of the mountaintop kiosks.
Dinner in Santa Teresa — Evening
End your day with a dinner in Santa Teresa, Rio’s bohemian neighborhood.
Famous for its colorful houses, cobblestone streets and local art scene, Santa Teresa has plenty of restaurants serving Brazilian food.
For traditional dishes with a breathtaking, sea view across the city head to Aprazível. Santa Teresa is perfect for absorbing Rio’s bohemian flavor and for setting the stage for the days to come.
Day 2: Beaches & Samba
Morning: Copacabana Beach & Ipanema Beach
No trip to Rio is complete without a visit to Copacabana Beach.
Wake early for a solitary walk along the shore before it becomes crowded or order a coconut from a beach vendor and sit and watch the surfers. This is the place for people-watching, volleyball and soaking in Rio’s vibrant beach culture.
In the afternoon, stop by nearby Ipanema Beach.
Famous for its relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking vistas of Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers Mountain), Ipanema is the ideal spot to lay in the sun or join locals for a game of footvolley.
Have lunch at one of the beachside kiosks, or the local specialty, pão de queijo (cheese bread), for a light snack.
Afternoon: Explore Leblon
Once you’ve had your beach day, walk over to the chic neighborhood of Leblon, home to high-end shops, restaurants and bars.
Stroll along Rua Dias Ferreira to discover trendy boutiques, art galleries, and cafés. For dessert, head to Confeitaria Colombo for some of Rio’s best pastries.
Evening: Samba in Lapa
At night, head to lively Lapa, known as the epicenter of Rio’s nightlife and samba scene.
This neighborhood is known for its animated bars, street parties and historic Arcos da Lapa (Lapa Arches). Immerse yourself in samba at the Rio Scenarium, a multi-floor venue specializing in live music, dancing, and Brazilian charm.
And the night’s not going to end early around here; redeemed with samba beats, Rio’s going to keep you on the dance floor until late!
Day 3: Nature & Local Flavors
Morning: Botanical Garden
Visit Rio’s Botanical Garden to start your day.
Hosting thousands of species of plants, orchids and towering palm trees, the garden can be a peaceful respite from the fill of the city.
Be on the lookout for the capuchin monkeys, which frequently show up in the trees, and be sure to visit the Japanese Garden for a serene walk.
Afternoon: Favela Tour of Vidigal or Rocinha
For something different and real, do a guided tour of one of Rio’s favelas, like Rocinha or Vidigal.
These tours can help you learn about the vibrant communities that play an integral part in Rio’s culture. These overlook Vidigal — a hillside favela with a more laid-back feel and stunning views.
If you’re feeling daring, climb to the top of Morro Dois Irmãos for one of Rio’s finest views.
Most favela tours are run by locals who provide insight into life in these communities, lending you a valuable perspective on the city.
Evening: Watch the Sunset From Arpoador Rock
End the day at the rock at Arpoador, a natural viewpoint between Copacabana and Ipanema, to see the sunset.
Locals gather at this spot to watch as the sun sinks below the horizon, drenching the sky in shades of pink and orange.
Wear a light jacket, because the wind feels chilly, and enjoy the stunning scenery of Rio’s natural landscape.
Day 4: Ilha Grande Day Trip
If you have a day to spare, take a day trip to Ilha Grande.
A few hours by bus and ferry from Rio, this island is known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests and peaceful atmosphere.
Spend the day hiking across trails takes you to secluded beaches, snorkeling among marine life in the turquoise blue sea, or just soaking in the sun on Lopes Mendes Beach, regularly voted one of the top beaches in Brazil.
Day 5: Tijuca Forest & Local Markets
Morning: Adventure in Tijuca Forest
Spend a day hiking, waterfall exploring and wildlife spotting in Tijuca Forest, one of the biggest urban rainforest around.
Trails vary from easy to challenging; you can even climb to the summit of Pedra Bonita, where the views of Rio and the Atlantic are expansive. If you’re feeling adventurous, hang gliding from Pedra Bonita gives you a bird’s-eye view of the city!
Afternoon: Feira Hippie de Ipanema (Hippie Fair)
End your trip with shopping at Ipanema’s Hippie Fair.
Every Sunday, this open-air market is a fabulous venue to shop for local handicrafts, artworks, jewels, and souvenirs. It’s a nice way to bring home a piece of Rio’s culture and creativity.
