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Sunset - Buy tickets in advance.
Pão de Açúcar
Christ the Redeemer
Our favorite spot: Posto 12
Leblon Beach
The beach closest to our hearts. Our tip is to spread your sarong near Posto 12, rent a chair and umbrella, and just let time slip by enjoying the day the true carioca way.
In our view, this is the most beautiful sunset in the city. Since it's a popular spot, it's definitely worth buying your tickets in advance. A quick tip: if you’re 60 or over, make use of the priority line, it works really well in Brazil.
Beautiful view; the little train ride up is worth it.
It’s the classic postcard view and it’s always busy, but the tram ride up through the Tijuca Forest is lovely and makes any wait worth it. While we personally prefer the view from Sugarloaf, the Christ has a unique energy.
Our must-do list
Things to Do in Rio
The “Marvelous City” has a special spot on every corner. We’ve picked out the places we love most — the ones we recommend with our eyes closed and from the bottom of our hearts.
Ipanema Inn
A true green refuge right in the middle of the bustle. It’s the perfect place for a gentle stroll among imperial palms, orchids, and giant water lilies. Pure peace.
Great for a walk
Botanical Garden
QuiQui or Barthô
Sunset at a kiosk
Nothing beats ending the day at a beachfront kiosk in São Conrado. QuiQui is excellent for food and a great cocktail, while Barthô usually has a livelier vibe with music. The sunset view there is guaranteed.
Museums
CCBB or Museu do Amanhã
It’s worth setting aside a few hours for a museum. CCBB and the Museu do Amanhã (Museum of Tomorrow) are excellent — check online beforehand to see which exhibitions are on.
Ipanema Inn
Rio de Janeiro is home to the largest urban forest in the world, the Tijuca Forest! It’s an irresistible invitation to explore nature. Beyond classic hikes like Pedra da Gávea, Horto Waterfalls, and Garganta do Céu. For specialized guides, we recommend CS Experience.
Trails and adventures
Samba and Music
For a great samba experience, we recommend the street circles in Lapa or the historic Pedra do Sal. If you prefer a show, the Roxy Dinner Show (use code TCD10 for 10% off) captures the essence of Brazil in a polished evening. For an intimate Bossa Nova vibe, Blue Note is a must.
More beaches and views
Beyond our favorites, Rio has plenty more to offer. Copacabana and Ipanema are the classics for a walk along the boardwalk. Arpoador is a must-visit to watch the sunset between the Dois Irmãos peaks (get ready for some applause!). For a day at wilder, quieter beaches, Prainha and Grumari are worth the trip.
Assador
Sabor Doc
Malta Beef Club
Rubayat
San Yzakaya
Haru Sushi Bar
Minimok
Gurumê
Elena Horto
Katz-su
Rio de Janeiro classics
To help you make the most of your stay, we've put together a few of our favorite restaurants, bars, and local attractions that we highly recommend. We hope these suggestions help make your trip even more enjoyable and memorable.
Welcome to Rio de Janeiro
fish/seafood
meats
Japanese/Asians
Ferro e Farinha
Grado
Sult
Nino Cucina
ITALIANS
beach kiosks
bars/pubs
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