Getting to know Rio De Janeiro
The second largest city in the South Atlantic coast, Rio de Janeiro also has an enormous appeal to tourists from all over the world, attracting more than 2 million tourists every year. Its famous landmarks, the well-known carnival and all the other fantastic tourist attractions the city has to offer, make it a wonderful destination for anyone’s vacation.
What you can do for free in Rio de Janeiro
- Visit the CCBB museum
This is one of the most visited museums in the world. Enjoy the art exhibitions and the fascinating neoclassical architecture, but keep in mind that crowds are to be expected. - Enjoy the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon
Visit the lagoon and take advantage of its 7.5km long trail to enjoy an active day. You can walk, bike, even go for a jog, all while also being close to a few of the best tourist attractions in the city. Cafés and restaurants can also be found in the area. - Visit the Horto Waterfall
A magnificent waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery awaits its visitors just 15 minutes from the city. A good idea is to visit this during the week, because weekends get crowded, since locals also really enjoy this place.
Top spots to visit
- The statue of “Cristo Redentor” (Christ the Redeemer)
The most famous attraction in Rio and probably the first thing that comes to anyones mind when they think of this city, this grand statue is perched at the high top of the Corcovado Peak, and it can be reached by visitors with the help of the elevators and escalators available there. - Copacabana and Ipanema
Visit the famous beaches of Rio and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that surrounds them. You can find anything along these beaches, from shops to cafés and restaurants, art galleries, theaters and clubs. - Jardim Botanico
More than 8000 species of plants (600 of them are orchid species only), await the visitors of the botanical garden in the Lagoa neighbourhood.
Hidden spots to visit
- Parque Lage
This former mansion is now a public park and a school art. It is not popular among tourists, although it has been popular among artists, with a few music videos from some famous singers and bands shot there. - Rio de Janeiro Cathedral
This cathedral is far from your usual religious spot. Its interior can be described as futuristic, with its 60m high walls, decorated with stained glass from top to bottom. - Prainha Beach
If you’re looking for a more relaxed and laid back beach experience in Rio, you can choose the less famous Prainha beach, and enjoy the area with only a handful of people that also choose this place at the same time. The surrounding area is a protected nature.
Restaurants
Enjoy the European and Brazilian cuisine in some of the best restaurants in Rio de Janeiro! Try out the fantastic meals in Giuseppe Mar, Oro Restaurante, Org Bistro, Camarada Camarao – Rio Design Barra and many more.
Recommended time for visiting
Weather-wise, the best time to visit Rio de Janeiro is between December and March, when temperatures are warm and pleasant, perfect to also be able to enjoy beach days. If you want to experience the famous Rio Carnival, plan your trip in February. Keep in mind that you should book your flight and hotel rooms way in advance if you want to visit during the carnival.
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
| Avg. temp. (°C) | -1 | 1 | 6 | 11 | 16 | 19 | 21 | 21 | 17 | 12 | 5 | 1 |
I’ve got a crush on the world // Veni, vidi, amavi
