Brazil Rio de Janeiro

Overview

To wake up on a sparkling, sunny morning in Rio and take in your first views across iconic Copacabana beach is one of Brazil’s standout experiences. Indeed, Rio’s setting, among the most beautiful of any world city, is reason enough to visit. However, there’s much more to this quintessentially Brazilian oceanside metropolis. And whilst Rio seems to be changing all the time, the magnetic warmth of the Cariocas is a constant. Rio deserves a few days to explore as well as time to sit back and share the outdoor life of its welcoming inhabitants.

Sugarloaf Mountain and the statue of Christ on Corcovado overlook the sprawling city, where the legendary golden beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema bustle with prom-side bars. Venture into the busy colonial centre to see literary cafés spilling out onto car-free lanes, the National Theatre all a-glitter, and boutique hotels that nestle in arty Santa Teresa.

The lagoon behind Ipanema beach is circled by a pretty path and cycle route and the Botanical Gardens are luscious and serene. Vibrant street art, beach football, spontaneous musical events and lively bars all add to a joyous experience for visitors. Rio confounds, surprises and excites and should not be missed. Whatever impressions you may have before you go, it’s quite likely you’ll crave a return visit.