First Time Rio

Description:

A veritable Rio landmark, Copacabana Palace continues to enjoy a reputation as one of the most glamorous hotels in Brazil. The immaculate white façade, beachfront location, immaculately-attired staff and fabulous pool combine to make this an enduring favourite with celebrities visiting the city. The hotel's two restaurants, Cipriani and the less-formal Pergula, offer some of the best food in the city, and non-guests are welcome (provided the budget will stretch!). Try to book a room with sea views, as the magic is somewhat shattered in the rooms at the rear, which look out onto the crowded Copacabana backstreets. Advance booking is essential, and be warned that prices sky rocket over Carnival and New Year.

Description:

This hostel is located in a quiet/safe street in the heart of Copacabana (2 min walk to the beach). It is recommended by Lonely Planet as one of the nicest hostels in Rio. Arpoador beach is within walking-distance to Arpoador beach, one of most consistent breaks in the city and perfect for travelers wishing to catch great surf.

Description:

Possibly the most famous stretch of sand in the world, Copacabana beach is synonymous with the hedonistic side of Rio - with sun, sea, beautiful bodies and New Year celebrations on the beach. Stretching for around five kilometers (the beach is called Leme at its northern end), Copacabana boasts soft white sand that is crammed with locals in tiny bikinis and shorts. Stalls selling ice-cold beers and caipirinhas line the beachfront, and joggers run along the pavements - famous for their distinctive wave-patterned black and white tiling. Copacabana beach is overlooked by the attractive, jungle covered hill of Morro do Leme, and Sugar Loaf mountain is resplendent in the background. Avenida Atlantica is the busy road running along the beachfront, and across from the sands the road is lined with towering high rise hotels and apartment blocks, as well as any number of places to eat and drink. Be warned, however, that while a visit here is a must, Copacabana is not the best place to sunbathe. The water is too dirty for swimming, the beach is rife with pickpockets, and vendors selling tourist tat are annoyingly relentless in their drive to relieve you of your tourist dollar.

Description:

Take a morning tour to Corcovado Mountain topped with the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer. You'll travel through the Tijuca Rain Forest by cog train to Corcovado Mountain for breathtaking views of one of the world's most beautiful cities. This morning tour takes you to Rio's most famous attraction, leaving you with time in the day free to explore Rio on your own.

Your morning tour to Corcovado takes you to the Cosme Velho station to catch the cog train. The steep train journey takes you through the dense Atlantic rain forest of Tijuca to the Art Deco statue of Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado mountain. You'll spend up to an hour here with your tour guide, who will show you the sights of Rio from this incredible mountain-top vantage point.

The tour continues to Sao Conrado Beach and Pepino Beach, where you can watch hand-gliders land and surfers show off their skills as they catch the waves.

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Our Local Expert Says:

Set off in the early morning for the best views from the Christ statue, as clouds (and crowds) tend to gather in the afternoon. Alternatively, make the trip at sunset for spectacular views as the city below lights up.

Description:

The sweeping vista takes in white sand beaches, urban mountain and jungle, bays dotted with boats, towering skyscrapers and, of course, the magnificent Sugar Loaf mountain. As you stand at the feet of the Christ, you will be able to pick out other city landmarks such as Copacabana beach and the world-famous Maracana football stadium. Standing with outstretched arms, embracing the stunning cityscape below, the statue of Christ the Redeemer (Christo Redentor) is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. The statue stands atop the 700-metre Corcovado (meaning hunchback) mountain, and to come to Rio without visiting 'the big guy' would be simply unthinkable. Indeed, in 2007 the Christo Redentor was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World by the New Open World Corporation. At 39.6 metres tall and weighing 700 tons, the Christ statue is an impressive sight in itself, but it is the views from his mountain-top home, high amid the trees of the Tjuca Forest, that really make the trip a must do.

Description:

For fans of 'futebol' (football/soccer), a trip to the legendary Maracanã stadium is every bit as vital as visiting the Christ statue or taking the cable car up the Sugar Loaf. Football is often described as 'the beautiful game', and nowhere is this description more apt than in Brazil. The national side has won the football world cup five times, and is pretty much every non-Brazilian's favorite foreign team. While the big names may have left for high profile, high wages teams in Europe, locally played Brazilian football is still a joy to behold, largely due to the fantastic festival atmosphere. Samba drumming, singing, dancing, firecrackers and enormous flags liven up even the most humdrum of games, and if you are lucky enough to catch a local derby or important cup match then the atmosphere will be even more electric.

Description:

It occupies a lofty location on the top floor of the Sofitel Rio hotel, but Le Pre Catalan is far more than just a hotel restaurant. French chef Roland Villard has won countless awards for his finely-crafted dishes, and Le Pre Catalan is widely considered to be among the best restaurants in Rio. Villard keeps things interesting by changing the menu fortnightly, and those who really want to indulge might want to try the taster menu, which costs around R$200, or choose one of the fixed-price set menus which range in price from R$170 for three courses to R$220 for a staggering 10 courses.

Description:

Bip Bip, a tiny bar tucked away in a Copacabana backstreet, has long been a favorite among local musicians. You might even spot a few famous faces joining in the impromptu jam sessions. No matter how impressive the music is, do not show appreciation by clapping, as the owner frowns on this. Sunday night is samba night, when dancers will spill out on the street. On Mondays and Tuesdays they have live choro - Brazilian folk music. This is a relaxed, informal place popular with locals of all ages. Dress down and aim to arrive around 8p.

Our Local Expert Says:

A popular place with surfers taking advantage of the great waves at Arproador. The beach is lit and relatively safe at night, allowing 'surfistas' to carry on well past sunset.

Description:

With a great location right on the beach at popular surf spot Arpoador, this small hotel offers fantastic value for money. Arpoador lies between the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, so beach bunnies will be spoilt for choice. The road in front of the hotel is completely closed to traffic, and guests eating at the hotel restaurant can enjoy their meals and drinks right on the sands.

Our Local Expert Says:

This is one of the best options in Ipanema for the price - ask for a room with sea view.

Description:

Located on Ipanema beachfront close to Leblon, Praia Ipanema is well-located for the area's upscale restaurants and bars as well as for the beach. All rooms have balconies and all enjoy great views - those at the front look out over the ocean, while those at the back take in a view of the legendary Christ statue. All rooms are well-appointed for the price, and the hotel is well-equipped, with a pool, gym and very good breakfasts.

Description:

Run by independent travelers who have visited more than 20 countries all over the world, your hosts will certainly know what backpackers need. This hostel is located literally between the gorgeous beaches and the big lake in the middle of Ipanema. Guest enjoy being in one of the safest and coolest areas of Rio while staying at a secure, affordable location.

Description:

A favorite with Brazilian celebrities such as Gisele Bundchen, Marina All Suites is a wonderfully chic option in front of Ipanema beach. As the name suggests, all the rooms are suites with kitchenettes, and some also have living rooms with stereos, DVD players etc. All those on the upper floors have been signed by different designers, and are beautifully appointed. There are some wonderfully kooky touches, such as the private cinema - book it in advance, and ask staff at reception to call in any film you might want to watch (provided its available at nearby rental stores!). There is also a shared lounge where those in the designer suites can receive guests and even prepare drinks at the bar.

Description:

Shopaholics simply can't afford to miss this - the famous market held every Sunday in Ipanema. This is a large square just a couple of streets back from the beach, opposite the Zona Sul supermarket. Otherwise known as Feira de Arte de Ipanema, the fair is not just for hippies - the sprawling market sells everything from gorgeous handmade jewelry and pretty dresses, to paintings, figurines, and numerous arty knick knacks. You can also pick up the more obvious tourist stuff here - replica football shirts, baseball caps etc, and watch out for 'Pelé' - the guy in a Brazil football kit who manages to keep the ball up, on his head, feet, chest etc, for hours at a time, all the while blowing a referee's whistle! You'll need to set aside a good couple of hours to see everything, there are so many stalls to browse around and so many tempting wares on offer.

Description:

The beaches of Rio's Zona Sul (south zone) stretch for miles, and walking the length of these famous stretches of sand is a great way to catch some sun while taking some exercise and enjoying fantastic views. Walking and cycling tracks make seaside strolls a safe activity any day of the week, but the best time for a walk by the beach is Sunday, when the roads are closed to traffic from Leblon right down to the far end of Copacabana. Joggers, cyclers, roller-bladers and power walkers all head here on Sundays to take in some hard core exercise, but a less strenuous option is just to walk along at your own pace, stopping now and then for a cooling agua de coco (chilled coconut water) at one of the many beachside kiosks.

Description:

One of the best surfing beaches in the area, even at night, with clean, almost transparent water. Locals come from all over to sunbathe on this small stretch of sand between Copacabana and Ipanema. It is also popular with elderly people who gather to play checkers every morning and families who are content to simply watch the surfers have a go at the waves. This beach gets crowded on weekends. The Arpoador rock offers a great view of both Copacabana and Ipanema and the sunset is absolutely astonishing.

Description:

With an emphasis on fresh, natural ingredients, Celeiro has established itself as a firm favorite among models, soap opera stars and other body-conscious cariocas. The sheer range of salads - more than 40 each day - is astonishing, and the hot dishes are often veggie-friendly. Celeiro also serves low-cal versions of favorite desserts, so you can satisfy your sweet tooth without too much guilt! The food is served buffet-style and charged by weight while soups are charged separately. Perfect for a light lunch, but don't head here when you're dying of hunger or you could end up paying more than you expect!

Description:

Barril 1800 sits directly opposite Ipanema beach, serves some of the best draught beer in Rio, and its Saturday feijoada (bean and meat feast) is the stuff of legend. The barbequed meats are also excellent, as is the seafood. The service here is formal but the atmosphere very relaxed - you won't look or feel out of place here in your shorts and flip flops. And don't feel you have to eat - this is also a lovely spot to just kick back and relax with a cold beer or caipirinha cocktail.

Our Local Expert Says:

Try the aged cachacas from Minas Gerais - sweet with a slightly honeyed taste. For an authentic Minas experience, share a bottle with friends and drink neat in shots. And don't plan anything energetic for the next day…

Description:

At the Academia da Cachaca you'll learn how to eat, drink and be merry ... like the Brazilians. With over 500 concoctions to choose from, you'll never tire of visiting this up-scale yet casual place. Most drinks are made from the traditional Brazilian spirit of Cachaca. The food, which comprises of North East Brazilian cuisine, is also quite an attraction. Enjoy a Manioc Croquette with Cream Cheese while you sip on a Passion-Fruit Caipirinha (made with real fruit).

Our Local Expert Says:

If you don't want to pay the 10 per cent service charge that is imposed in almost all Rio bars, queue up at the smaller serving area rather than the main bar. The downside is that your drink will be served in a plastic glass.

Description:

Open nightly until around 4am, Emporio gets particularly busy on Mondays, when people spill onto the streets. Attracts hordes of local people but is also a good spot to meet other travellers. DJs spin a mix of American and UK alternative and rock music, with a bit of vintage Brazilian MPB.

Description:

Clinging precariously to the mountainsides that surround the city's affluent south zone, Rio's favelas, or shanty towns, are a source of both fear and fascination for visitors. Middle-class locals will tell you that to enter into such a place is to risk violent attack, but in reality, there is much more to life in the favelas than drug crime and violence. While it is not advisable to venture into the favelas alone (not least because the lack of street names makes it easy to get lost), visiting with a recognized and respected tour group such as the long-established Favela Tour will give you a unique and valuable insight into the way these communities are run. English speaking guides will take you to Rocinha, the largest favela in South America, and normally one other favela as well. It is usual to visit a school that is part-funded by the favela tours, so you can get an idea of where some of your tourist money is going.

Description:

One of the most exclusive neighbourhoods in Rio, Leblon sits at the far end of Ipanema beach, with the sands separated by a small canal. This largely residential area has only a few hotels (among them the super-chic Marina All Suites), but it is home to many of the city's top end restaurants, and plenty of pricey nightspots catering to Rio's gente bonita (beautiful people). The waves at this end of the beach are generally less extreme than those of Ipanema itself, making this stretch of sand very popular with families.

Our Local Expert Says:

You have a choice of eating in or take away ('para viagem'), and there's a great health food store tagged onto the side of this restaurant.

Description:

New Natural is a fantastic health food buffet. It's largely veggie-friendly, with a lot of soy dishes, although chicken and fish do make an appearance. The nourishing and delicious soups, pastries and hot dishes are popular with Ipanema's health-conscious beachgoers, as well as with travelers staying at 'Hostel Alley', the strip of backpacker accommodation next door to the restaurant.

Description:

This award-strewn restaurant at the impossibly glamorous Fasano Rio hotel offers Italian cuisine of the highest standard. The decor, dominated by marble, wood and white linen, oozes luxury, and this is the perfect spot for a romantic occasion. Make no mistake, reservations are absolutely necessary, but the extensive menu, which has an emphasis on seafood, and excellent wine list are well worth the effort and the steep prices. Valet parking is provided.

Description:

In a prime Ipanema location, Choperia Torre do Barão is a bar and restaurant that serves up great value meals and snacks, with some delicious fresh fruit juices. Pizzas here are particularly good.

Description:

Most tourists only stop in Urca long enough to take the cable car up Sugar Loaf mountain, but this quiet, gentile neighborhood is well worth a few hours of your time. Bar e Restaurante Urca is the perfect spot to stop and soak up charm of the neighborhood, with outdoor tables and chairs allowing relaxed drinking and dining right next to the bay. Bobbing boats and soaring gulls compete for attention with delicious fish and seafood dishes. Bar snacks, such as the cod and potato balls, are very good here too.

Description:

Housed in huge, gorgeous old building filled with antiques, Rio Scenarium has been named as one of the best bars in the world by the UK's Guardian newspaper. Live samba bands play onstage while locals strut their impressive stuff on the dancefloor. Good food is also served.

Description:

It may be more than a little touristy, but there´s many a good reason why visitors flock to take the cable car ride up to the top of Sugar Loaf mountain. Rising sheer out of the ocean and towering almost 400 meters above Guanabara Bay, the mountain offers spectacular views from its peak. A dizzying two-stage cable car ride takes in sweeping vistas of the city, and once you reach the top you´ll be in no doubt as to why Rio de Janeiro is known as the Cidade Maravilhosa (marvelous city). As condors soar overhead, can look out over the mountains, dense jungle and those world famous city beaches. Take time to wander around and catch your breath; at the top of Sugar Loaf you will find snack bars, toilets and plenty of prime photo opportunities. At the bottom you will find the small but perfectly formed Praia Vermelha beach, a military barracks (making this perhaps the safest neighborhood in Rio) and a delightful short trail that will take you along a path overhung by trees that are home to plentiful marmosets and exotic birds. Dawn is the perfect time to visit Pão de Açucar to catch the best of the wildlife, before the crowds arrive and drive some of the shyer creatures... read more

Our Local Expert Says:

A popular place with surfers taking advantage of the great waves at Arproador. The beach is lit and relatively safe at night, allowing 'surfistas' to carry on well past sunset.

Description:

With a great location right on the beach at popular surf spot Arpoador, this small hotel offers fantastic value for money. Arpoador lies between the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, so beach bunnies will be spoilt for choice. The road in front of the hotel is completely closed to traffic, and guests eating at the hotel restaurant can enjoy their meals and drinks right on the sands.

Description:

Run by independent travelers who have visited more than 20 countries all over the world, your hosts will certainly know what backpackers need. This hostel is located literally between the gorgeous beaches and the big lake in the middle of Ipanema. Guest enjoy being in one of the safest and coolest areas of Rio while staying at a secure, affordable location.

Our Local Expert Says:

This is one of the best options in Ipanema for the price - ask for a room with sea view.

Description:

Located on Ipanema beachfront close to Leblon, Praia Ipanema is well-located for the area's upscale restaurants and bars as well as for the beach. All rooms have balconies and all enjoy great views - those at the front look out over the ocean, while those at the back take in a view of the legendary Christ statue. All rooms are well-appointed for the price, and the hotel is well-equipped, with a pool, gym and very good breakfasts.

Description:

A favorite with Brazilian celebrities such as Gisele Bundchen, Marina All Suites is a wonderfully chic option in front of Ipanema beach. As the name suggests, all the rooms are suites with kitchenettes, and some also have living rooms with stereos, DVD players etc. All those on the upper floors have been signed by different designers, and are beautifully appointed. There are some wonderfully kooky touches, such as the private cinema - book it in advance, and ask staff at reception to call in any film you might want to watch (provided its available at nearby rental stores!). There is also a shared lounge where those in the designer suites can receive guests and even prepare drinks at the bar.

Description:

The relentless energy, heat noise and bustle of life in Rio is exhilarating, but it can also be exhausting. Sometimes you need a break from the heat and the crowds and Jardim Botanico - the stunning botanical gardens located in the leafy, middle class suburb of the same name - provides the perfect shady getaway from the big city environment. Considered one of the 10 most important gardens of its kind in the world, the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden was founded in 1808 by John, prince regent of the United Kingdom of Brazil and Portugal (later King John VI), for introducing and acclimatizing economically beneficial plants brought from other tropical regions of the world.The 137 hectares of cool, shady gardens house around 70,000 rare plants, along with 140 species of birds, and countless butterflies. The gardens are easily reached by bus from Ipanema, Leblon, Copacabana and Centro - just take any bus saying 'Jardim Botanico'. Alternatively, a taxi ride will be quick, easy and relatively inexpensive. The area around the gardens is one of Rio's safest.

Our Local Expert Says:

Be sure to visit the Lagoa if you are in Rio over the Christmas season. An enormous Christmas tree is placed in the centre of the lake, and the lights sparkling on the water make this an ideal place to come for a romantic Christmas meal or drink.

Description:

Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas (or Lagoa, as it is popularly known) is the perfect place to come to unwind. A vast lagoon surrounded by dramatic mountains, Lagoa attracts fitness fanatics making use of the running track and exercise stations; families taking to the water on peddle boats; couples and groups of friends wining and dining at the many waterside bars and restaurants; and pensive types mulling things over as they stroll around the lake and take in the stunning views. The 7.5 kilometre running/cycling/walking track is a great way to exercise in beautiful surrounds, and the nearby Parque Catacumba, entrance to which is free, boasts walking trails that will lead you through bamboo groves to a lofty viewpoint with stunning vistas across the lake and over to Ipanema beach.

Description:

The head chef at 66 Bistro, Thomas Troisgros, recently picked up the title of best newcomer on the city's dining scene. Given his culinary heritage, the 25-year-old's success is hardly surprising. Thomas is the son of Claude Troisgros, Rio's most celebrated chef and the man behind the helm of uber-chic French restaurant Olympe. But while a visit to Olympe is beyond the price range of many visitors, 66 Bistro offers classic, sophisticated French dishes at prices that won't have you weeping into your bank statement. The head chef at 66 Bistro, Thomas Troisgros, recently picked up the title of best newcomer on the city's dining scene. Given his culinary heritage, the 25-year-old's success is hardly surprising. Thomas is the son of Claude Troisgros, Rio's most celebrated chef and the man behind the helm of uber-chic French restaurant Olympe. But while a visit to Olympe is beyond the price range of many visitors, 66 Bistro offers classic, sophisticated French dishes at prices that won't have you weeping into your bank statement. The classic Duck A L'Orange is prepared to perfection here, and roast chicken with Dijon mustard is another popular choice. The bistro-style restaurant sits in the... read more

Our Local Expert Says:

A popular place with surfers taking advantage of the great waves at Arproador. The beach is lit and relatively safe at night, allowing 'surfistas' to carry on well past sunset.

Description:

With a great location right on the beach at popular surf spot Arpoador, this small hotel offers fantastic value for money. Arpoador lies between the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, so beach bunnies will be spoilt for choice. The road in front of the hotel is completely closed to traffic, and guests eating at the hotel restaurant can enjoy their meals and drinks right on the sands.

Description:

Run by independent travelers who have visited more than 20 countries all over the world, your hosts will certainly know what backpackers need. This hostel is located literally between the gorgeous beaches and the big lake in the middle of Ipanema. Guest enjoy being in one of the safest and coolest areas of Rio while staying at a secure, affordable location.

Our Local Expert Says:

This is one of the best options in Ipanema for the price - ask for a room with sea view.

Description:

Located on Ipanema beachfront close to Leblon, Praia Ipanema is well-located for the area's upscale restaurants and bars as well as for the beach. All rooms have balconies and all enjoy great views - those at the front look out over the ocean, while those at the back take in a view of the legendary Christ statue. All rooms are well-appointed for the price, and the hotel is well-equipped, with a pool, gym and very good breakfasts.

Description:

A favorite with Brazilian celebrities such as Gisele Bundchen, Marina All Suites is a wonderfully chic option in front of Ipanema beach. As the name suggests, all the rooms are suites with kitchenettes, and some also have living rooms with stereos, DVD players etc. All those on the upper floors have been signed by different designers, and are beautifully appointed. There are some wonderfully kooky touches, such as the private cinema - book it in advance, and ask staff at reception to call in any film you might want to watch (provided its available at nearby rental stores!). There is also a shared lounge where those in the designer suites can receive guests and even prepare drinks at the bar.

Description:

Cruise beautiful Sepetiba Bay on a day trip from Rio de Janeiro. You'll travel from Rio de Janeiro to Itacuruca, where you'll board a schooner to cruise the wildlife-filled waters of Sepetiba Bay. After lunch on a tropical Brazilian island, you'll have time to explore and relax before your return to Rio via the city's residential neighborhoods and exciting night life hubs.

Aboard your schooner (locally known as a saveiro), you'll be served a selection of luscious tropical fruit. A bar is available on the boat, but beverages are not included in the tour price. Your cruise on Sepetiba Bay takes you through an area that's rich in natural beauty, and it is common to spot dolphins, giant kingfishers, parrots, turtles and stingrays.

After stopping for a swim, you will continue to a tropical island where a delicious buffet lunch will be served. After lunch, you will have time to explore the island before returning to Itacuruca.

The coach returns to Rio de Janeiro via the charming residential area of Barra and America's Avenue with its modern shopping centers and buildings, Ayrton Senna Avenue and Sernambetiba Avenue, Rio's exciting nightlife center.

Special Offer - Save almost 20% off the...

Description:

Parque Nacional de Tijuca is the largest area of urban rainforest in the world, and is testament to the huge success of a reforestation scheme from the Brazilian government. When the Portuguese arrived, the area which is now the city of Rio was covered by dense green tropical forest. As the city grew the trees were felled and the timber used in construction or for charcoal. However, if you look up from the streets of Zona Sul today, the mountains running southwest from the Corcovado are still covered with exuberant forest, the periphery of the Parque Nacional da Tijuca which covers an area of approximately 120 square kilometres, and is maintained by Brazil's State Institute of Forestry (IBDF). In the seventeenth century the forests of Tijuca were cut down for their valuable hardwood and the trees replaced by sugar cane and, later, coffee plantations and small-scale agriculture. In the early nineteenth century the city authorities became alarmed by a shortage of pure water and by landslides from the Tijuca slopes. Eventually it was decided that a concerted effort was needed to restore Rio's watershed and, in 1857, a reforestation project was initiated: by 1870 over 100,000 trees had... read more

Our Local Expert Says:

All the furnishings at Miam Miam are sourced from local antiques store Hully Gully, and all are for sale - the décor is changed every couple of months to keep things fresh.

Description:

Housed in a tiny white colonial building in Botafogo, Miam Miam is easy to miss. Once inside, however, the kitsch décor can't fail to catch your attention. But while the authentic 1940s, 50s and 60s furnishings impress, it's the food that really impresses. The restaurant, which opened in 2007, has won a string of awards for its contemporary take on 'comfort food,' and the drinks are award-winning. Try the Caipivodka with pepper vodka, lime, pineapple and mint to see why. Botafogo might not be a tourist hotspot, but it boasts good backpacker hostels and some of Rio's most interesting drinking and dining options - Miam Miam being a great example of this.

Description:

Devassa is a chain of bars in Rio, brewing its own beers which are served to thirsty customers in a laid-back, bistro style setting. Tasty food completes the experience.

Description:

Football to the British, soccer to the Americans and Futebol to the Brazilians, there's no questioning the popularity of the 'Beautiful Game' in Rio. With the World Cup 2010 kicking off in June, the Lord Jim pub is the ideal spot for international visitors to cheer on their team without incurring fierce looks from patriotic Brazilians rooting for their national side. The Lord Jim pub quite convincingly recreates the look and the atmosphere of a traditional English drinking den, and it's a popular spot for locals to get together and communicate in their native tongue - even the bar staff here speak fluent English. A range of British beers and ales, together with traditional dishes like fish and chips, make this a hit with homesick ex-pats, and there's no livelier spot to catch and England game during the World Cup 2010 championship.

Our Local Expert Says:

A popular place with surfers taking advantage of the great waves at Arproador. The beach is lit and relatively safe at night, allowing 'surfistas' to carry on well past sunset.

Description:

With a great location right on the beach at popular surf spot Arpoador, this small hotel offers fantastic value for money. Arpoador lies between the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, so beach bunnies will be spoilt for choice. The road in front of the hotel is completely closed to traffic, and guests eating at the hotel restaurant can enjoy their meals and drinks right on the sands.

Description:

Run by independent travelers who have visited more than 20 countries all over the world, your hosts will certainly know what backpackers need. This hostel is located literally between the gorgeous beaches and the big lake in the middle of Ipanema. Guest enjoy being in one of the safest and coolest areas of Rio while staying at a secure, affordable location.

Our Local Expert Says:

This is one of the best options in Ipanema for the price - ask for a room with sea view.

Description:

Located on Ipanema beachfront close to Leblon, Praia Ipanema is well-located for the area's upscale restaurants and bars as well as for the beach. All rooms have balconies and all enjoy great views - those at the front look out over the ocean, while those at the back take in a view of the legendary Christ statue. All rooms are well-appointed for the price, and the hotel is well-equipped, with a pool, gym and very good breakfasts.

Description:

A favorite with Brazilian celebrities such as Gisele Bundchen, Marina All Suites is a wonderfully chic option in front of Ipanema beach. As the name suggests, all the rooms are suites with kitchenettes, and some also have living rooms with stereos, DVD players etc. All those on the upper floors have been signed by different designers, and are beautifully appointed. There are some wonderfully kooky touches, such as the private cinema - book it in advance, and ask staff at reception to call in any film you might want to watch (provided its available at nearby rental stores!). There is also a shared lounge where those in the designer suites can receive guests and even prepare drinks at the bar.

Description:

The oldest hotel in Rio, Hotel Gloria may not quite measure up to Copacabana Palace in the glamour stakes, but it remains jam-packed with historic charm. With a glistening white façade and antique furnishings, the hotel is a great bet for anyone who wants to be close to Centro as well as the beaches (a handy Metro stop puts Copacabana beach within a few minutes' reach). The hotel also boasts gorgeous tropical gardens and two enormous outdoor swimming pools, and there are beautiful views out across Parque do Flamengo and Guanabara Bay.

Description:

Rio Hostel is within a five minute walk from the busy center of Rio de Janeiro and the most electrical nightlife of Lapa. Santa Teresa and the biggest urban rainforest in the world are also located nearby. This youth hostel is the perfect choice in a city of millions of people and a great deal of charm and swing, with unforgettable dashes of samba and soccer, lust and rest, summer and carnival. This hostel has a pool, bar, and internet access.

Description:

The Niterói Contemporary Art Museum presents a frequently changing selection of the best of Brazilian contemporary art, focusing on sculpture, textiles and painting. Designed by Oscar Niemeyer with the assistance of structural engineer Bruno Contarini, who had worked with Niemeyer on earlier projects, the MAC-Niterói is 16 meters high; its cupola has a diameter of 50 meters with three floors. The museum projects itself over Boa Viagem ("Bon Voyage," "Good Journey"), the 817-square meter reflecting pool that surrounds the cylindrical base "like a flower," in the words of Niemeyer. A wide access slope leads to a Hall of Expositions, which has a capacity for sixty people. Two doors lead to the viewing gallery, through which can be seen the Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro, and Sugarloaf Mountain. The saucer-shaped modernist structure, which has been likened to a UFO, is set on a cliffside, at the bottom of which is a beach. Given the alien quality of Rio's landscape, it seems appropriate that the form of the museum should most obviously suggest a flying saucer, seemingly poised for take-off on the edge of the water. Cantilevered out from a stout central stalk, the saucer-like volume of the... read more

Our Local Expert Says:

Amarelinho is one of the best spots in the city to see cariocas enjoying 'Happy Hour' - the term given to post-work drinks

Description:

Amarelinho sits right by the impressive Theatro Municipal on the flagstones of Cinelandia, a bustling square at the heart of downtown Rio. Always packed at lunchtimes and after work, the bar serves well-kept draught beer and simple but very good Brazilian dishes. Set meals of meat, fish or chicken with rice, black beans and farofa (toasted manioc flour) are very popular, as are the pizzas. Amarelinho's prime location also enjoys a direct view of the Biblioteca Nacional, making this a great place to recharge your batteries during a tour of Centro.

Description:

One of the most beautiful buildings in downtown Rio de Janeiro, the Teatro Municipal was founded in July 1909. The building was inspired by the Paris Opera House designed by Charles Garnier. The theatre has almost 1,700 seats distributed on four levels, and the outside walls are inscribed with names of significant people in the Brazilian and international culture. The theatre is located near the National Library and the National Fine Arts Museum, and overlooks the spacious Cinelândia Square.

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Don't be put off by the name, which means "big pig" in Portuguese, this legendary churrascaria caters to a well-heeled crowd. The decor is sophisticated, the ambience is relaxed, and the food is of the very highest quality. Waiters brandishing spits bring cuts of meat to your table until you can eat no more, while a buffet invites you to try excellent salads, sushi, pasta dishes, cheeses, breads, olives and countless other treats.

Description:

Carioca Da Gema's inauguration in 2000 marked an important transition for the Lapa district from down-at-heel and dangerous to the place to be on a Friday night. As a template for other bars to follow, the menu was varied, the prices reasonable, but the main draw was always the music. Today the city's hottest new samba bands still rub shoulders with old favorites, and by booking a table you guarantee yourself ringside seats at some of the best live music and samba dancing that Rio has to offer.

Our Local Expert Says:

By day, Santa Teresa is a great place to pick up some arty knick-knacks and enjoy a bite to eat in one of the many traditional restaurants. By night, the neighborhood becomes a hip hangout for bohemian types of all ages, as the bars, cafes and restaurants become packed with students, musicians and artists.

Description:

Once home to Rio's wealthiest inhabitants, the charming hillside neighborhood of Santa Teresa began to fall into disrepair during the 1960s and 70s, when the emergence of favelas nearby drove the rich towards the city's beaches. Artists and musicians moved into the abandoned mansions, and today Santa Teresa is known as Rio's most bohemian neighborhood. Vintage clothes stores, artists workshops and wonderfully laid-back bars and restaurants make the neighborhood well worth a visit, and the iconic yellow tram that clatters its way along the twisting streets is a joy to ride. Despite its close proximity to the city centre, Santa Teresa has preserved a charming small-town atmosphere, and there is a real community atmosphere to the place. Santa Teresa is well-policed and its reputation as a dangerous area to visit is largely undeserved , however, do take the usual precautions, and take taxis between here and Santa Teresa at night.

Our Local Expert Says:

Don't be startled by locals jumping on and off the tram as it clatters along - an unwritten rule holds that the ride is free for anyone who travels standing on the platforms on the side of the tram.

Description:

The Santa Teresa bonde (streetcar) is the last reminder of what was once Rio's principle form of public transport. But far from being just a historical artifact, the rattling yellow tram is great fun to ride, as it clatters over the iconic Arcos da Lapa and up the winding cobbled streets of Santa Teresa. Locals jump on and off the bonde as it rattles by - there is no charge for those who choose to stand on the running board instead of taking a seat. There are two lines - one to Paulo Mattos, and one to Dois Irmaoes. Both pass tram stops at Largo do Curvelo, where there is regular live samba on Sundays, and Largo do Guimaraes, which is the central point for the neighborhood's many excellent bars, restaurants and shops. Jump off at either point and you will be well-placed for exploring this bucolic neighborhood.

Our Local Expert Says:

To see the cathedral at its best, visit on a sunny day , when the light will stream through the many windows and really bring the place to life. The exterior of the cathedral is not to everybody's taste, but seeing the interior when the sun is high in the sky will help you to appreciate the thinking behind the unusual design.

Description:

Very few buildings in Rio divide opinion as much as the Catedral Metropolitana, also known as the Catedral de Sao Sebastiao. An enormous concrete cone covered in tiny rectangular windows, the building intrigues some visitors and repels others. Designed by Edgar de Oliveira da Fonseca, the city's modernist cathedral cannot be fully appreciated from the outside, however. Once inside the cavernous building, those tiny windows begin to make aesthetic sense when, on a sunny day, light streams through them into the building. Beautifully ornate stained-glass windows can't fail to catch the eye, and nor can the huge wooden cross suspended from the ceiling. The Cathedral can be combined with a visit to the pretty hillside neighbourhood of Santa Teresa, as it sits right by the bonde (tram) station that ferries passengers to and from the neighbourhood. It's easily reached by taking a Metro to Carioca station.

Our Local Expert Says:

If you want to take photos here consider visiting as part of an organized tour. Lapa is not the safest part of Rio and lone tourists with cameras can be a target for thieves. Ask around about tours that take in the 'Lapa Steps'.

Description:

The steps between Lapa and Santa Teresa have been turned into an ongoing work of art by eccentric Chilean artist Selarón. The artist has used painted and decorated tiles from across the world to create something truly unique - musicians such as Snoop Dogg and Pharell have shot promotional videos here.

Description:

On a leafy side street in bohemian Santa Teresa, Museu Chácara do Céu is a former mansion house that is now home to an impressive collection of art works - including pieces by Picasso, Monet and Degas. There are also plenty of pieces from Brazilian artists, and the museum itself is located in beautiful shady gardens that provide a welcome retreat from the beating sun. Entrance to the park is R$5.

Description:

Relax with a frothy coffee or tangy fruit cocktail and soak up the opulence at this antique coffee house and restaurant.


The sprawling building is full of historic charm, and was the favored meeting point of carioca high society during Brazil's Belle Epoque.


There's formal dining in the upstairs restaurant, light meals and snacks below and, front of house, a stand-up snack bar selling tasty sweet and savory pastries and expressos to office workers on the go.

Our Local Expert Says:

Arrive early or book in advance to grab a table on the outside terrace and enjoy terrific views over Santa Teresa

Description:

The antique street car that rattles through Rio's Santa Teresa district passes right in front of this bar/restaurant serving terrific pan-Brazilian dishes. Much use is made of ingredients native to the country - most notably Amazonia. If piranha soup sounds a little too adventurous, try the mixed entree which combines tasty nibbles such as fresh palm heart and acai (Amazonian berry) chutney. Alongside excellent fish, seafood and meat dishes are some good vegetarian options - try the mixed root vegetables topped with abobora (similar to pumpkin) and melted cheese. Chef Natacha Fink has picked up a string of awards for her work here, and it's not hard to see why. The wine list is also decent, and the caipirinhas made with passionfruit are delicious.

Description:

In a huge building spread over three floors, Club Six opens very late at the weekends to offer hip hop, beats and Brazilian pop music to hordes of sweaty revellers.

Description:

Great prices, good food and late opening hours have combined to make Simplesmente a firm favorite among Santa Teresa's many night owls. This laid-back bar is open until 4:30am every night except Sunday, and serves bottled beers and tasty bar snacks to hordes of locals and tourists alike. The lighting is low, the ambiance is friendly, and snacks such as sun-dried beef with fried aipim keep energy levels from flagging. During the summer months (December-March), samba bands play inside the bar, and the tables and chairs are cleared to create a dance floor that gets absolutely packed after 2am.

Description:

Up in the hills of leafy, bohemian Santa Teresa, Aprazivel sits in beautiful tropical gardens filled with exotic plants, trees and wildlife. Tables, chairs and straw-roofed gazebos are set out beneath the trees, and at night the scene is lit with hanging lanterns and fairy lights. The Brazilian owner and chef, Ana Castilha, trained at the French Culinary Institute in New York, and applies a French twist to some Brazilian favorites. The salads at Aprazivel are anything but bland, often making good use of spicy peppers, and the chicken and seafood dishes are very good. But it's the setting that's the real draw, and diners can enjoy spectacular views across the city and Guanabara Bay. Aprazivel may be high on a hillside, but it's within a few minutes' walk from the lively bars and shops of this arty neighborhood.

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The oldest hotel in Rio, Hotel Gloria may not quite measure up to Copacabana Palace in the glamour stakes, but it remains jam-packed with historic charm. With a glistening white façade and antique furnishings, the hotel is a great bet for anyone who wants to be close to Centro as well as the beaches (a handy Metro stop puts Copacabana beach within a few minutes' reach). The hotel also boasts gorgeous tropical gardens and two enormous outdoor swimming pools, and there are beautiful views out across Parque do Flamengo and Guanabara Bay.

Description:

Rio Hostel is within a five minute walk from the busy center of Rio de Janeiro and the most electrical nightlife of Lapa. Santa Teresa and the biggest urban rainforest in the world are also located nearby. This youth hostel is the perfect choice in a city of millions of people and a great deal of charm and swing, with unforgettable dashes of samba and soccer, lust and rest, summer and carnival. This hostel has a pool, bar, and internet access.

Our Local Expert Says:

Opt for French-inspired dishes here, this place is widely considered to offer the best French bistro food in Rio.

Description:

Flavia Queresma, the exuberant head chef at Careme Bistro, is something of a television celebrity in Brazil. But while her on-screen persona has won her legions of fans, it's the quality of food that makes her restaurant such a hit. Housed in a small colonial building on a quiet Botafogo street, Careme enjoys a relaxed, dimly-lit bistro ambience and the mood is refreshingly unpretentious. The restaurant is located in a small, old house on one of the quietest streets in Botafogo. For a real gourmet experience, opt for the taster menu - starters, mains and desserts served in miniature portions.

Description:

There's no shortage of pizza restaurants in Rio, but many of them would have the Italians weeping into their mozzarella. Heavy bases, oily cheese and - horror - ketchup squeezed on top of the pizza instead of tomato sauce beneath the cheese are all too commonplace. Luckily, Capricciosa offers a delicious alternative to these substandard offerings. With flour and cheese imported directly from Italy, crisp bases and a wealth of fresh, tasty toppings, these pizzas are made just as the Italians intended. There are several branches of Capricciosa in the city, but the excellent location just a couple of blocks back from the beach makes the Ipanema branch a big hit with Rio's 'gente bonita' (beautiful people). Need further proof that the pizza here is a cut above? The restaurant refuses to serve ketchup.

Our Local Expert Says:

Head here on a Sunday afternoon and you’ll find the place full of cheerful locals making the most of the weekend. The drinking and socialising goes on until the wee small hours, with revellers spilling out onto the street outside. Don’t plan to visit Bar do Mineiro on a Monday, however – it’s closed!

Description:

Bar do Mineiro may look unassuming, but it has been drawing hordes of hungry and thirsty Santa Teresa locals for decades. The Minas Gerais cuisine is good, and the petiscos (light snacks) go very well with the bottled beers that are enthusiastically consumed at this lively spot. The white walls are hung with images of the great and good of Brazil's Tropicalia music scene.

Description:

One of the oldest and best-loved bars in Rio, Bar Luiz has occupied the same downtown art deco building since it first opened its doors back in 1927. The food here is mainly German, and the bar was in fact known as Bar Adolf until the onset of World War Two, when it was changed for fairly obvious reasons! On the menu are hearty German dishes such as smoked sausages served with potato salad - a speciality of the house. The draught beer (known as choppe) is well-kept and served perfectly chilled, and the bar attracts a loyal crowd of city workers as well as a few hungry and thirsty tourists.