15 best things to in Rio de Janeiro in 2026

Visit Christ the Redeemer

No trip to Rio de Janeiro is complete without seeing Christ the Redeemer, the world-famous statue that stands tall atop Corcovado Mountain. As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it’s not just a symbol of Rio but of the entire country of Brazil.

Getting to the statue is an adventure in itself. Most visitors take the Corcovado Rack Railway from Cosme Velho, a scenic 20-minute ride that winds through Tijuca National Park. If you prefer a van, official vehicles depart regularly from Copacabana, Largo do Machado, or the Paineiras Visitor Center, delivering you directly to the base of the statue. While private cars can’t drive all the way up, you can combine a taxi or Uber with the van for a flexible route. Train and van tickets usually sell out quite quickly, so it’s best to plan ahead.

The best time to visit is early in the morning, around 8 AM, when the crowds are smaller and the soft light makes for stunning photos. Late afternoon, around 4-5 PM, is also a good window, which offers golden hour hues and cooler temperatures. Midday is brighter but busier, and the harsh sun can make your visit a little more tricky. If possible, try to visit on a weekday, which tends to be less crowded than weekends or holidays.

Practical info for 2026: Plan for 1-3 hours in total, including travel and time to explore the statue. Christ the Redeemer is generally open daily from 8 AM to 7 PM, but it’s wise to check closer to your visit in case of schedule changes.

Explore Sugarloaf Mountain

Rising from the edge of Guanabara Bay, Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar in Portuguese) is one of Rio de Janeiro’s most beloved landmarks and a must‑visit for any tourist in 2026. Your adventure will begin at the base in Praia Vermelha (Red Beach), where the famous cable car — locally known as bondinho — departs. The ride is one of the highlights too. A series of two glass‑walled cars will gently lift you first to Morro da Urca, a smaller hill with cafés and snack bars, and then onward to the summit of Sugarloaf. From either stop you’ll feel like you’re floating above Rio’s coastline, watching waves crash and mountains frame the city.

For those who prefer a more active approach, there’s a shaded forest trail that winds up to Morro da Urca. It’s an easy‑to‑moderate hike threading through Atlantic Forest and offering wildlife sightings and glimpses of Guanabara Bay along the way. Once you reach Morro da Urca, you can catch the cable car to the peak.

While mornings are lovely and offer cooler conditions, the most beautiful time to visit is in the late afternoon as sunset approaches. Plus, arriving about an hour before the sun dips below the horizon lets you claim a good spot for viewing and photography. As dusk turns to evening, the city lights begin to twinkle below, creating an unforgettable scene that’s especially perfect for couples or anyone seeking a bit of romance high above Rio.

Best time to visit: Monday through Sunday, the mountain is open for cable car rides generally from morning until early evening, with seasonal variations — arriving early or in the late afternoon gives you the best lighting and helps avoid peak crowds.

Soak in the sun on Copacabana Beach

There’s a reason Copacabana Beach is one of the most famous stretches of sand on the planet — this shoreline pulses with life from sunrise to sunset. On any given day you’ll find locals and visitors alike soaking up the sun, splashing in the waves, and making the most of Rio’s laid‑back beach culture.

Once you claim a sunny patch of sand, the beach quickly becomes more than a place to lie still. Games of beach volleyball and footvolley — Brazil’s high-energy, hands-free version of volleyball — play out on courts up and down the shore, and it’s easy to join a game or simply watch from the sidelines. Food and drinks are always within reach, with kiosks and roaming vendors selling everything from grilled seafood and açaí bowls to pão de queijo, cold beers, and freshly mixed caipirinhas.

Of course, Copacabana’s popularity also means staying smart about safety — especially when it comes to your belongings. Pickpockets and petty theft are known to occur here, particularly during busy periods when the beach and promenade are packed. Keep valuables like phones, wallets, and cameras tucked away or leave them securely back at your hotel, bringing only what you need for the day. Never leave belongings unattended on the sand while swimming. And if you’re alone, ask a trusted fellow beachgoer or vendor to keep an eye on things.

Crowds are liveliest during daylight hours, and walking on the sands after dark isn’t recommended due to lower visibility and fewer people around — it’s generally safer to stroll the adjacent promenade instead. For the most carefree experience, visit during the morning or late afternoon when the light is beautiful and the energy feels just right.

📍 Quick tips for Copacabana Beach

Enjoy the vibe of Ipanema Beach

Ipanema Beach is often seen as Rio de Janeiro at its most refined — stylish, social, and unmistakably scenic. Compared to Copacabana, Ipanema feels slightly calmer and more local, with clearly defined beach sections, good surf conditions, and some of the best sunset views in the city.

Ipanema is one of Rio’s top beaches for surfing, thanks to its open exposure to Atlantic swells. The area around Posto 9 is particularly popular with surfers and younger locals, giving this section a lively, social atmosphere. On days with good swell, you’ll see experienced surfers sharing the lineup with confident beginners, while others relax on the sand watching the action unfold.

Despite its reputation, Ipanema is also very family-friendly, especially near Posto 10. This part of the beach tends to be quieter, attracts more local families, and offers a consistent lifeguard presence. The promenade behind the beach makes it easy to take stroller-friendly walks, grab snacks from vendors, or escape the sun without leaving the area.

What truly defines Ipanema is how seamlessly it blends into everyday life. Locals come here to exercise in the morning, socialize in the afternoon, and unwind at sunset. The nearby streets are filled with juice bars, cafés, and restaurants that stay lively well into the evening, making it easy to transition from beach time to dinner without ever leaving the neighborhood.

Discover the colorful neighborhood of Santa Teresa

Tucked into the hills above downtown Rio, Santa Teresa feels like the city’s creative soul laid bare. This historic neighborhood is known for its narrow, winding streets, faded colonial mansions, leafy views, and a bohemian atmosphere that has long drawn artists, writers, and musicians.

Much of Santa Teresa’s charm lies in its cultural pockets. Small museums and cultural houses are woven naturally into the neighborhood, rewarding visitors who explore at an unhurried pace. The Museu da Chácara do Céu is one of the highlights, combining Brazilian and European art with panoramic views over Guanabara Bay and downtown Rio. Nearby, historic homes, artist studios, and independent galleries appear almost unexpectedly, reinforcing the sense that creativity here is part of everyday life rather than a curated attraction.

Cafés and restaurants are central to the Santa Teresa experience. Instead of polished dining rooms, you’ll find relaxed bistros, open-air terraces, and cozy cafés serving Brazilian comfort food, excellent coffee, and inventive takes on local cuisine. Many spots offer views over the city or lush gardens, making a simple lunch or afternoon drink feel like a hidden retreat. The atmosphere is unpretentious and social — a place where conversations linger and time seems to stretch.

Santa Teresa is also one of the best neighborhoods in Rio for unique, non-touristy experiences. While it’s known to visitors, Santa Teresa still remains very much a residential area, with locals going about their daily routines. One of the most iconic ways to reach it is by walking up from Escadaria Selarón, the mosaic staircase connecting Lapa to Santa Teresa. From there, wandering without a strict plan is part of the appeal — quiet streets, street art, and unexpected viewpoints are often the most memorable discoveries.

See the famous Escadaria Selarón

Bright, chaotic, and full of personality, Escadaria Selarón (Selarón Steps) are one of Rio de Janeiro’s most recognizable sights — and one of its most personal works of public art. Connecting the neighborhoods of Lapa and Santa Teresa, the staircase has become a cultural landmark that feels less like a monument and more like an open-air artwork exhibit woven into everyday city life.

The steps are the life’s work of Jorge Selarón, a Chilean-born artist who settled in Rio and began renovating the neglected staircase outside his home in the early 1990s. What started as a small, self-funded project gradually grew into a monumental mosaic made from more than 2,000 tiles collected from over 60 countries, many sent to him by travelers who wanted to leave their mark in Rio. Selarón constantly replaced and reworked tiles, famously insisting the staircase would never be finished — a philosophy that turned it into a living, evolving artwork rather than a fixed attraction.

Early morning is the calmest and most rewarding time to explore, when the staircase is relatively quiet and the light brings out the richness of the tiles without harsh shadows. As the day goes on, tour groups fill the steps, and by late morning it can feel crowded and difficult to move through. Although the staircase is technically open at all hours, daylight visits are strongly recommended — both for safety and for appreciating the artwork in natural light. Many visitors combine the Selarón Steps with a walk into Santa Teresa or a stop in Lapa, making them a natural link between two of Rio’s most character-filled areas.

Explore Rio’s botanical garden — Jardim Botânico

If you’re looking for a calm escape from the city’s energy, Rio’s Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico) is the perfect destination. Founded in 1808, this historic garden stretches over 140 hectares, combining curated plant collections with natural forest trails.

Strolling through the grounds, you’ll find the Orchid and Bromeliad House, a vibrant display of hundreds of species ranging from delicate, fragrant blooms to larger, sculptural plants. The themed gardens, including the serene Japanese Garden, tranquil lakes, and shaded pathways, make it an ideal spot to slow down, take photos, or simply enjoy a peaceful morning surrounded by nature. Keep an eye out for wildlife — colorful birds and curious marmosets are frequent visitors along the trails.

Practical info for 2026: Most visitors spend 2–4 hours exploring the garden. It’s open Tuesday to Sunday, typically from 8 AM to 5 PM, with some variations on Wednesdays. Early mornings are the best time to visit for soft light, fewer crowds, and optimal wildlife spotting.

Hike in Tijuca National Park

For outdoor lovers, Tijuca National Park is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have in Rio — a sprawling urban forest tucked into the heart of the city, full of greenery, wildlife, and wonderful viewpoints. While the park has a whole network of paths, two hikes stand out for visitors visiting in 2026 — the climb up to Pico da Tijuca and the more accessible trek to Pedra Bonita.

The Pico da Tijuca trail is Tijuca’s classic hike for seekers of truly panoramic views. Starting from the Alto da Boa Vista section, the path winds through dense Atlantic Forest and climbs steadily toward the summit, where you’re rewarded with one of Rio’s most impressive 360° sights. On a clear day, you can see landmarks like Christ the Redeemer, Guanabara Bay, and even Niterói in the distance. At one point near the top, a historic staircase of 117 steps, carved into the rock almost a century ago, marks the final push to the peak. It’s a moderately challenging route that typically takes around 4-5 hours round trip and demands a good level of fitness, but the payoff is unforgettable.

If you want impressive views without committing to a long, strenuous trek, Pedra Bonita is one of the best options in the park. This trail is much shorter — most hikers reach the summit in about 40–90 minutes, depending on pace — and the route is well‑marked and enjoyable for hikers of various skill levels. At the top, you’ll find a broad rocky platform that has become famous not just for its views over São Conrado, Barra, and the Atlantic coastline, but also as a launch point for hang gliders and paragliders. It’s a perfect choice for sunrise or a quick nature escape that still delivers postcard‑worthy panoramas.

Both hikes are best tackled early in the morning (before 10 AM) not only to avoid crowds but also to enjoy cooler temperatures and softer light for photos. No matter which trail you choose, bring sturdy shoes, plenty of water, sunscreen, and some snacks — and don’t underestimate how quickly the forest can shift from a gentle walk to a steep climb.

Practical info for 2026: Tijuca National Park trails are generally open daily from around 8 AM to 5 PM, and there’s no entrance fee for the park itself — you simply show up at the trailheads and go. However, guided options are available if you prefer extra insights into the park’s flora, fauna, and history.

Tour Maracanã Stadium and dive into Brazil’s football culture

You can’t really say you’ve experienced Rio without touching its football soul — and there’s no better place for that than a tour of Maracanã, the legendary stadium where generations of fans have lived through some of the most unforgettable moments in the history of football. Built for the 1950 FIFA World Cup and renovated for the 2014 edition, Maracanã is more than a sports venue. It’s a living museum of Brazilian passion, pride, and history — a temple where legends were made and crowds once exceeded 150,000 spectators for historic matches.

The standard stadium tour gives you access to areas normally off‑limits to the public — you’ll wander through the player tunnel where stars have emerged to deafening cheers, explore the locker rooms where teams prep for battle, and stand on the sacred pitch where icons like Pelé, Zico, and Neymar have showcased their skill. Along the way, evocative memorabilia and historic displays tell the story of triumphs and heartbreaks, from World Cup finals to local derbies that stir the soul.

However, guided options can deepen the experience. With a knowledgeable bilingual guide, you’ll hear the stories behind the stadium’s greatest games and learn why Maracanã isn’t just architecture and turf — it’s a cultural touchstone that echoes with chants, celebrations, and collective memory. For an even richer immersion, some visitors book match‑day experiences that include pre‑game local bar stops, fan chants, and seats inside the stadium during a Flamengo or Fluminense game, giving you a taste of the unparalleled atmosphere that electrifies this place on game nights.

Experience Rio’s nightlife

When the sun sets over Rio, a different kind of life begins — one fueled by rhythm, laughter, and crowds drawn to the city’s electrifying nightlife. At the heart of this after‑dark culture is Lapa, the historic neighborhood, where the iconic arches become a beacon for party‑goers and music lovers every evening. Here, samba isn’t just music — it’s the pulse of the night, weaving through crowded bars, open‑air street parties and hidden rodas de samba where locals and visitors dance until dawn.

You can start your night with a stroll down Avenida Mem de Sá, Lapa’s main nightlife strip, lined with bars and clubs that spill live music on to the streets. Many spots blend traditional samba performances with more contemporary sounds — from bossa nova and MPB to funk carioca and DJ sets. One of the most famous venues is Rio Scenarium, a three‑story samba club with vintage décor and live bands that start early and carry on late into the night. Its lively atmosphere makes it an essential stop for first‑timers and seasoned travelers alike.

Just around the corner, Bar Carioca da Gema pulses with authentic samba seven nights a week — local musicians and passionate crowds create an intimate, rhythmic experience that feels quintessentially Carioca. If you’re after something a little more hidden and beloved by locals, Beco do Rato offers rollicking live music down a narrow alleyway, while Botequim Vaca Atolada serves up free‑spirited samba in a friendly, casual bar atmosphere. 

Lapa isn’t the only nightlife hub. If you want to mix things up, bars and live music pop up around Praca XV and Pedra do Sal, where free outdoor samba sessions animate the streets on Monday and Friday evenings — a throwback to the neighbourhood’s roots as one of samba’s birthplaces.

Practical info for 2026: Most nightlife hotspots open around 8-9 PM, but the real action often begins after 10 PM and can go on until 3-4 AM or later on weekends. Always keep your belongings secure, take official taxis or rideshares between venues, and ask locals for current event line‑ups — some of the best shows and jam sessions aren’t listed online.

Taste Brazilian cuisine

One of the best ways to experience Rio de Janeiro is through its food — and there’s no shortage of flavors that showcase Brazil’s rich culinary heritage. From hearty comfort dishes to refreshing snacks and sweet treats, trying classic Brazilian cuisine is a must when you’re in the city.

At the center of this culinary adventure is feijoada, widely regarded as Brazil’s national dish. This hearty stew of black beans with various cuts of pork and beef is slow‑cooked to deep, rich perfection and traditionally served with rice, sautéed collard greens, farofa (toasted cassava flour) and orange slices — a combination that balances flavors and textures beautifully. Feijoada is traditionally enjoyed as a leisurely weekend lunch, especially on Fridays and Saturdays in Rio, when locals head out to share it with friends and family.

For something lighter but equally iconic, açaí na tigela is your go‑to for breakfast or an afternoon refreshment. This cold, vibrant purple bowl of blended açaí palm fruit — often topped with granola, banana and a drizzle of syrup — is as refreshing as it is energising, perfect for warm Rio days by the beach or after a morning hike.

No culinary tour of Brazil would be complete without churrasco, the nation’s answer to barbecue. In its classic form, churrasco focuses on quality cuts of meat seasoned simply with coarse salt and grilled over open flames. Whether you sit down at a steakhouse or find a local rodízio where servers bring endless skewers of juicy meats straight to your table, churrasco is a carnivore’s delight and a quintessential social meal.

In Rio, you can eat like a local without spending too much money. Street stalls and smaller neighbourhood restaurants (botecos and snack bars) often serve filling prato feito dishes — a set plate with rice, beans, meat and salad — at very reasonable prices, making it easy to sample a range of traditional flavors as you explore the city.

Shop at Rio’s local markets

For a taste of Rio beyond the beaches and famous sights, exploring the city’s local markets is a must. Two of the city’s most iconic markets stand out for 2026 visitors — Feira de São Cristóvão and the Ipanema Hippie Market.

Located in the northern part of the city, Feira de São Cristóvão is a market dedicated to the culture of Brazil’s northeastern region. Here, you can wander through stalls brimming with handmade crafts, regional foods, and traditional clothing, while the air is alive with the rhythms of forró and other local music styles. Try regional snacks like tapioca wraps, cuscuz, or freshly prepared acarajé, and browse for artisanal ceramics, leather goods, and handmade jewelry.

For a more bohemian and artsy vibe, the Ipanema Hippie Market is the place to be. Held every Sunday in Praça General Osório, this open-air market is famous for handcrafted jewelry, textiles, paintings, and souvenirs. Local artisans sell everything from colorful hammocks to leather bags, and it’s an ideal spot to pick up unique gifts or a wearable piece of Rio. While wandering the stalls, enjoy impromptu live music performances and street food like freshly squeezed juices or Brazilian pastries. The market is also a great place to interact with locals and see the creative energy that defines Rio’s beachside neighborhoods.

Practical info for 2026: Both markets are best visited in the morning to avoid crowds and to experience the liveliest atmosphere. Feira de São Cristóvão is open daily, with peak activity on weekends, while the Ipanema Hippie Market runs Sundays from 9 AM to 7 PM. Comfortable shoes are recommended, and bring cash — some smaller vendors do not accept cards.

Experience the magic of Rio Carnival

If there’s one event that truly defines Rio de Janeiro, it’s the Carnival. This world-famous festival transforms the city into a kaleidoscope of colors, music, and celebration, and 2026 promises another unforgettable experience from February 13 to 21. The centerpiece is the Sambadrome parade, where Brazil’s top samba schools compete in a dazzling showcase of elaborate costumes, intricate floats, and infectious rhythms. Even if you’re not a die-hard samba fan, the energy here is contagious — it’s a spectacle that’s as much about the collective joy as it is about competition.

Beyond the Sambadrome, Carnival truly comes alive in the streets through blocos — informal street parties that take over neighborhoods across the city. Free and open to everyone, the gatherings bring together locals and visitors as live bands or sound trucks lead dancing crowds through areas like Lapa, Copacabana, and Santa Teresa. Some blocos remain small and community-focused, while others grow into tens of thousands of people in elaborate costumes, singing and celebrating together. Each bloco has its own music style, schedule, and personality, making it easy to move between parties and experience many sides of Rio’s Carnival energy in a single day.

While Carnival is exhilarating, it requires some planning. Expect large crowds, especially at the Sambadrome and popular blocos. Keep your valuables secure and plan transport early — taxis and rideshares are in high demand, and public transport can get crowded. Hotels fill up months in advance, and prices rise dramatically closer to the festivities, so early booking is essential to secure accommodation at a reasonable rate.

For Carnival travelers who want reliable mobile data, a Saily eSIM makes getting around much easier. A single eSIM lets you navigate busy streets, check up-to-date bloco schedules, stay in touch with friends, and share Carnival moments in real time — all without roaming fees or the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards.

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Relax at Parque Lage

If you’re looking for a serene escape without spending a dime, Parque Lage is one of the best free things to do in Rio de Janeiro. Nestled at the foot of Corcovado Mountain, this historic park combines lush gardens, winding trails, and striking architecture, offering visitors a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. The park is famous for its 19th-century mansion, now home to the Escola de Artes Visuais (School of Visual Arts).

If you’re strolling through Parque Lage, you’ll find tree-lined paths, small ponds, and charming bridges — it’s ideal for a morning walk, an afternoon picnic, or even a quiet moment with a book. Hikers often use the park as the starting point for trails up to Corcovado and the Christ the Redeemer statue, but even if you skip the climb, the park itself is worth exploring for its combination of natural beauty and cultural charm. Don’t miss the café located inside the mansion, where you can enjoy coffee or a light snack while soaking up the serene atmosphere.

Open daily and free to enter, Parque Lage is not only a green oasis but also a top pick for budget-conscious travelers seeking to experience the calmer side of Rio. Its accessibility, beauty, and cultural significance make it a must-visit stop, particularly for those who want to enjoy free things to do in Rio de Janeiro without sacrificing scenery or atmosphere.

Take a Guanabara Bay boat tour

One of the most picturesque ways to experience Rio de Janeiro is from the water, and a Guanabara Bay boat tour offers an unforgettable way to do it. Cruising along the bay, you’ll see iconic landmarks such as Sugarloaf Mountain, Niterói’s Contemporary Art Museum, and the bustling port, all framed by Rio’s sparkling waters. Many tours also offer the chance to glide past the islands, which will give you a fresh perspective of the city beyond the beaches.

Sunset cruises are especially popular, as the sky transforms into a palette of oranges, pinks, and purples, reflecting off the water and creating the perfect photo opportunity. Onboard, you can enjoy a relaxed pace, sip a cocktail, and take in the panoramic views of Rio from a unique vantage point. Whether you choose a small private boat for a more intimate experience or a larger guided cruise with music and refreshments, the combination of sea breeze, cityscape, and Rio’s natural beauty makes it a highlight of any trip.

Make a day trip to Ilha Grande or Niterói

For travelers looking to escape the city for a day, Ilha Grande and Niterói offer two very different but equally rewarding options. Both are perfect choices for those seeking things to do today in Rio de Janeiro, whether you’re feeling spontaneous or just want to add variety to your itinerary.

Ilha Grande, located about 2-3 hours from Rio by car and ferry, is an island paradise with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tropical hiking trails. Highlights include Lagoa Azul, a serene lagoon ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and Praia do Aventureiro, known for its dramatic rock formations and remote charm. Hiking enthusiasts can tackle the Dois Rios trail or the trek up to Lagoa Verde, both offering breathtaking views and encounters with native wildlife. The island’s car-free policy adds to its relaxed, natural atmosphere, making it a true escape from the city’s bustle.

For those who prefer a shorter, easier trip, Niterói lies just across Guanabara Bay, accessible via a 20-30 minute drive or ferry ride. This coastal city offers a mix of beaches, cultural attractions, and hiking. Art lovers can’t miss the Niterói Contemporary Art Museum (MAC), designed by Oscar Niemeyer, with its futuristic architecture and sweeping views of the bay. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike in the Parque da Cidade, where trails lead to panoramic viewpoints overlooking Rio, the bay, and Sugarloaf Mountain in the distance. Beaches such as Itacoatiara are popular for surfing, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze.

Spontaneous travelers will appreciate the flexibility of both destinations. Ilha Grande requires a bit more planning for ferry schedules and boat transfers, while Niterói can easily be visited on short notice for a half-day or full-day trip. Either way, both provide a refreshing change of pace and an opportunity to experience more of Rio’s diverse surroundings.

Important things you need to know before going to Rio de Janeiro

Visiting Rio de Janeiro is an unforgettable experience, but a little preparation goes a long way. From choosing where to stay to understanding how to move around safely, these essential tips will help you make the most of your trip.

Where should I stay in Rio de Janeiro?

Rio offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own atmosphere and advantages for different types of travelers. Ipanema and Leblon are ideal for beach lovers and those seeking upscale restaurants and nightlife. Copacabana offers the quintessential Rio beach experience, with lively streets and a mix of mid-range hotels and hostels. Botafogo is a quieter, more local area with stunning views of Sugarloaf Mountain and easy access to public transport. For a bohemian, artsy experience, Santa Teresa is perfect, with cobblestone streets, galleries, and charming cafés.

When it comes to accommodation, Rio offers everything from luxury hotels to Airbnb apartments — generally, expect around US$100-250 per night for mid-range hotels in Ipanema or Leblon, while Airbnb options can sometimes be more flexible and affordable, especially for longer stays.

How safe is Rio de Janeiro?

Rio is generally safe for tourists if you follow basic precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in quiet streets and always keep valuables out of sight. On the beach, never leave bags unattended, even briefly. When using taxis or rideshares like Uber, choose official services and confirm the driver and car details before entering. The metro is considered safe, particularly in main tourist zones like Copacabana, Ipanema, and Botafogo. Tourist police (Polícia Turística) are stationed in popular areas, offering an extra layer of security for visitors.

How long should I stay in Rio de Janeiro?

The ideal trip length is 3-5 days, which allows you to enjoy the city’s top attractions without feeling rushed. For short trips, focus on highlights such as Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the main beaches. Longer stays give you time for hiking trails in Tijuca National Park, exploring charming neighborhoods like Santa Teresa, taking day trips to Ilha Grande or Niterói, and experiencing Rio’s nightlife and local markets.

How can I get around Rio?

Rio has a variety of transport options to suit different budgets and preferences. Uber and taxis are convenient and generally safe, especially for traveling between neighborhoods at night. The metro is reliable and covers major tourist areas including Copacabana, Ipanema, and Botafogo, making it a fast alternative to road traffic. Trams and bike lanes offer scenic, eco-friendly ways to explore certain neighborhoods, such as Santa Teresa.

How to get mobile data in Rio de Janeiro?

Staying connected while exploring Rio de Janeiro is simple with a Saily eSIM for Brazil. Unlike a traditional SIM card, a virtual SIM lets you install mobile data directly on your phone, so you can access maps, rideshares, messaging, and more without worrying about roaming fees. 

Getting started is quick. Just download the Saily app on your phone, purchase a Brazil eSIM plan, and follow the in-app instructions for instant activation. The Saily eSIM for Brazil provides reliable coverage across the city, from beaches and mountains to neighborhoods and day-trip destinations.

With easy installation and no roaming charges, a Saily eSIM keeps you online and connected throughout your Rio adventure, making navigation, communication, and sharing your experiences seamless and stress-free.