Rio de Janeiro Beyond the Iconic Landmarks
When you think of Rio de Janeiro, what comes to mind? Perhaps it’s the relaxed atmosphere, the sun-soaked beaches bustling with surfers and beach soccer players, or the iconic landmarks such as Christ the Redeemer, one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, and the breathtaking sunset view from Sugarloaf Mountain. Then, of course, there’s the world-famous Carnival. However, Rio offers far more than these well-known attractions.
Nature
Blessed with natural beauty, Rio boasts not only stunning beaches but also lush natural landscapes in the heart of its urban center. The Tijuca Forest, possibly the largest urban forest in the world, is a tapestry of dense vegetation and rich biodiversity, providing countless hiking opportunities to waterfalls and summits with panoramic views. At the base of Mount Corcovado lies the Botanical Garden, a serene oasis with rare plant species from Brazil and beyond. Cap off a perfect day with a sunset toast aboard a boat overlooking Rio from the bay.
Arts and Architecture
Art and architecture are integral to Rio’s identity. Explore Santa Teresa, a vibrant artistic neighborhood, or stroll along the Olympic Boulevard—created for the 2016 Olympics—with its famous “Ethnicities” mural by acclaimed graffiti artist Kobra. Marvel at the futuristic design of the Museum of Tomorrow, crafted by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, and delve into the city’s history at the MAR – Rio Art Museum.
Local Communities
A visit to the Babilônia community offers insights into the daily lives of its residents and showcases sustainable, conservation, cultural, and artistic initiatives that have flourished there.
Music
As the birthplace of Bossa Nova, Rio de Janeiro treasures its musical heritage. Experiencing a guided tour with a musician playing Bossa Nova while sharing stories of the genre’s history and key figures is a must. Even if visiting outside of Carnival season, it’s possible to explore the inner workings of renowned samba schools, don a costume, try samba steps, play instruments, and enjoy Brazil’s iconic drink, the caipirinha. For those eager to master the art of making a caipirinha, a cooking class with a Brazilian chef offers an immersive experience full of flavors, culture, and history from appetizers to dessert.
Accommodations
When choosing where to stay, Rio presents a myriad of options, from the classic elegance of the Belmond Copacabana Hotel to the trendy allure of the Janeiro Hotel in Leblon. With innumerable choices, from ocean-view rooms to vibrant nightlife hubs, proximity to beaches or nature, historic buildings, luxury accommodations providing top-notch service, or those offering excellent value, selecting the right accommodations is key to a memorable stay.
Explore Rio like a local with our experienced guides who are ready to tailor any experience to your interests, ensuring a unique and unforgettable visit.
