How to Reach Rio
Rio has two airports: Galeão International (GIG) for international flights and Santos Dumont (SDU) downtown for domestic. Brazil's e-visa system is efficient for most nationalities.
Use the metro for moving between neighborhoods safely. Avoid displaying expensive phones in crowded areas and always ask your hotel about current safety conditions.
Top Things to See & Do
1. Christ the Redeemer
The 38-metre Art Deco statue atop Corcovado Mountain is one of the most iconic images in the world. On clear days the panoramic view — Sugarloaf, Guanabara Bay, Copacabana — is simply overwhelming.
2. Sugarloaf Mountain
The iconic granite peak accessed by cable car in two stages. The summit views at sunset with the bay glittering below are among the most beautiful in the world.
3. Copacabana & Ipanema Beaches
The most famous urban beaches on Earth — volleyball, capoeira, caipirinhas, and endless parade of humanity create a world unto itself.
4. Santa Teresa
Rio's bohemian hilltop neighborhood of colorful colonial houses and art studios. The Escadaria Selarón staircase decorated with 2,000 tiles from 60 countries is just below.
5. Carnival
The greatest party on Earth — five days of samba schools competing in the Sambadrome and street parties involving millions of people. Book accommodation a year ahead.
What to Eat in Rio
- Feijoada — Brazil's national dish, a rich black bean and pork stew, traditionally eaten on Saturdays
- Churrasco — Brazilian barbecue of multiple cuts carved tableside at a rodízio restaurant
- Açaí bowl — frozen açaí berry blended thick and topped with granola and fruit
- Caipirinha — cachaça, lime, and sugar over ice — the national cocktail
Best Time to Visit
April to June and August to October offer pleasant weather. Carnival (February/March) is spectacular but extremely busy. December to March is hot with afternoon rain showers.
