Discover the vibrant soul of Rio de Janeiro, from the iconic Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado Mountain to the sun-kissed shores of Copacabana and Ipanema. This guide covers majestic natural wonders, world-class cultural sites, and the pulsating energy of Brazil's 'Marvelous City'.
Christ the Redeemer
A world-famous statue of Jesus with arms outstretched, gazing down upon Rio from the top of Corcovado Mountain.
Tijuca National Forest
The forest that houses Christ the Redeemer.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Rio's iconic peak with a cable car that carries you to the lookout, offering views over the city, bay, and beaches.
Copacabana
Rio de Janeiro's most talked about beach, usually packed with sun worshippers.
Ipanema
A place to shop for souvenirs at the Sunday Hippie Fair, or join the dancers during street parties.
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian
Modeled after a Mayan temple, a staircase to the sun.
Corcovado Mountain
The mountain where the statue of Christ the Redeemer takes center stage on Rio's skyline.
Prainha
A protected eco-park that lacks high-rise hotels and is a nice contrast to Rio's other beaches.
Barra da Tijuca
A great place for people-watching or a game of volleyball with the locals.
Ipanema Beach
A great place for people-watching or a game of volleyball with the locals.
Cinelandia
A historic square that is home to the eclectic Municipal Theater and the National Museum of Fine Arts.
Municipal Theater
An eclectic theater located in Cinelândia.
National Museum of Fine Arts
A museum in Cinelândia where you can admire works by some of Brazil's greatest artists.
National History Museum
A museum located close to the port, where you can discover Brazil's pre-colonial times.
Parque Lage
One of Rio's elegant public parks.
Imperial Palace
The home of Brazilian royalty before the country declared itself a republic.
Maracana Football Stadium
A stadium where you can get a taste of Brazil's national obsession, football.
Selaron Steps
An eccentric artist Jorge Selarón devoted much of his life, paving the way for a more colourful passage from the bohemian Santa Teresa area, to the nightlife district of Lapa.
Guanabara Bay
Seeing the sun set over this bay is like watching the finale of a spectacular show.