Things To Do
Google Maps
We made a list on Google Maps with recommendations.
Christ the Redeemer Statue
To get to Christ the Redeemer in Rio, you'll need to head to the Corcovado mountain in the Tijuca Forest. There are a few different ways to get there, but the most popular method is to take the cog train from the mountain's base. We recommend Uber to the base and then take a train ride for about 20 minutes which offers stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape. Once you reach the top, you'll have to climb a few stairs to reach the statue itself. It's worth the effort though, as the views from the top are breathtaking! Don't forget to buy the tickets online to save time.
Jardim Botânico and Parque Lage (Botanical Gardens & Park Lage)
We suggest starting your day at Parque Lage, a beautiful park located at the foot of Corcovado Mountain. You can stroll through the park's stunning gardens and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The park is free, and there's a historic mansion in the park that has been turned into a café where you can grab a coffee or a bite to eat. After visiting Parque Lage, head to the Botanical Garden, which is a 20-minute walk or a short Uber ride away. The Botanical Garden costs around $15 USD, you can buy your ticket there, but I recommend buying it online. The garden is home to over 8,000 species of plants, including many that are native to Brazil. You can take a guided tour of the garden or explore it on your own. Don't miss the orchid house, which houses over 2,000 species of orchids.
The Beaches: Ipanema, Leblon, & Copacabana
Brazil has its own beach culture. For example, it's typical to rent chairs and umbrellas instead of bringing your own (expect to pay between BRL 50 / $USD 10 for two chairs and an umbrella. Here's a great article for what you need to know about visiting Rio's beaches: https://www.tripsavvy.com/rio-beach-culture-4052030
Sugar Loaf Mountain
The easiest way to access Sugarloaf - and indeed the most popular - is via a series of two separate cable car journeys: the first to Morro da Urca, the second up to Pão de Açúcar. You will have to walk a short distance between two stations to change cable cars but it's very straightforward. Each cable car takes three minutes, and there are departures every 20 minutes. Unless you're in a rush, we'd recommend taking some time to wander aroundMorro da Urca and enjoy the views from the observation platform. They're not quite as good as those from Sugarloaf, but they're still pretty impressive! A return journey costs BRL 120 / $USD 23 (sometimes discounted to BRL 112 / $USD 21) and this can either be bought in advance online or upon arriving at the ticket office. If you're interested in hiking part of the way up, here's a good guide: https://www.alongdustyroads.com/posts/sugarloaf-mountain-rio-de-janeiro-guide
Hiking Pedra Bonita
Even if you’re not into hiking, Pedra Bonita (meaning “Beautiful Rock”) trail is relatively easy. It’s a great hike, also for travelers with tight itineraries: the trail takes about 30 to 40 minutes up, and less down. Not very steep, and not too difficult. You can find the hike on AllTrails or use this overview (with pictures) to show you what you need to know: https://www.halfwayanywhere.com/hikes/brazil-hikes/hiking-pedra-bonita/
Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is a hilltop district with a charming, village-like vibe. Steep, winding streets are lined with elegant old mansions, many housing chic boutique hotels, quirky cocktail bars or romantic restaurants with bay views. Here's a great link that goes over how to get there and what to do: https://caffeinatedexcursions.com/the-visitors-guide-to-santa-teresa-rio-de-janeiros-little-lisbon/