Things to do in Rio de Janeiro

All about Rio de Janeiro

When to visit

There is no bad time to visit Rio de Janeiro, but the city is at its best during the summer months, from January through March. During this season, the weather heats up and Carnival brings parties and parades to the streets. Keep in mind that hotel rates are at their peak during Carnival, so if you’re on a budget, visit during fall (March–May) or spring (September–November) when the weather is still warm enough to enjoy the beaches.

Getting around

MetrôRio, the city’s three-line subway system, is a great way to get around Rio’s main visitor attractions. Rio also has an extensive bus and streetcar network, but navigating it can be tricky for non-Portuguese-speaking visitors. Official yellow taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available and typically considered safe and inexpensive; don’t risk your safety by getting into an unmarked taxi.

Traveler tips

The beaches are the catwalks of Rio de Janeiro, and looking good while soaking up the sun is practically an occupation for many Cariocas (Rio-born locals). Blend in, and keep up with local fashion, by purchasing your swimwear while in the city. Brazilian-style beachwear is notoriously revealing, but women should note that going topless is illegal and that this law is strictly enforced.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rio de Janeiro best known for?

Rio de Janeiro is known for the beautiful beaches of Copacabana, Ipanema, and Barra da Tijuca; its samba culture; Sugarloaf Mountain; its huge statue of Christ the Redeemer; and its colorful annual Carnival. The city is also known for its love of soccer and the Maracanã stadium.

What types of activities are popular in Rio de Janeiro?

Taking a cog-train trip up Corcovado to the imposing Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf are both must-do activities in Rio de Janeiro. You should also take a stroll through the bohemian Santa Teresa district, catch a match at Maracanã, savor a Brazilian-style barbecue at a churrascaria, stay up late to catch a samba show, and people-watch on Copacabana, Ipanema, or Leblon.

Do they speak English in Rio de Janeiro?

No. English is not widely spoken in Rio de Janeiro but you should be able to get by with just English in the main tourist areas. The second language of Cariocas is more likely to be Spanish—fortunately, if you speak some Spanish, you will likely be able to understand a little Portuguese.

How can I spend 3 days in Rio de Janeiro?

With three days in Rio de Janeiro you should have enough time to take trips up both Corcovado and Sugarloaf; explore a few neighborhoods, such as Santa Teresa or Lapa; watch a soccer game at Maracanã; cruise around Guanabara Bay; and spend some quality time on the beach.

What is there to do in Rio de Janeiro at night?

Rio de Janeiro truly comes to life after dark. Lapa is one of the most popular nightlife districts and is a great place to catch a samba show, drink caipirinhas and meet locals at the bars, and dance the night away at a club.

Is Rio de Janeiro a safe place to visit?

Yes, Rio de Janeiro is safe to visit, but visitors should still be cautious as Rio’s reputation as dangerous is not entirely unfounded. The city’s favelas have high rates of crime, so it’s best to avoid them while popular neighborhoods such as Santa Teresa and Praia de Botafogo should only be visited during the day.

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