Things to do

The List Of 21 Exciting Things To Do In Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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Rio de Janeiro is one of the biggest cities in Brazil located by the sea with famous beaches, Copacabana and Ipanema. Better reputed as a marvelous city it possesses some magnificent places such as the statue of Christ the Redeemer and the Sugarloaf Mountain.

International visitors are also attracted by the Carnival festival which is held in the city. Rio is not only a city but rather a place that breaks out the adventurous part of you with its natural beauty and vibrant culture.

Here are some things to do in Rio de Janeiro for the ultimate experience:

1. Stroll Around The Botanical Garden of Rio de Janeiro

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The botanical garden offers a chance to experience the luxury of the tropical forest in the middle of Rio. There are different environments within the park such as the Japanese part, flower areas full of orchids, and similar.

Remember to get a map at the entrance. They also have a hop-on hop-off train/car that goes to seven stops for an additional cost.

But the gardens are not that large and you can easily walk to all the stops. The grounds are neatly arranged with long pathways for a relaxing stroll. You will see beautiful trees, wildlife, a little lake, and a waterfall.

2. Witness Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí

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Sambodrome is where the world's most famous carnival takes place. Here you can witness a show full of wonderful samba, colors, lights, and dance.

You get almost eight hours of continuous performance from different schools. Each school presents a unique theme and performs original songs, and dance is choreographed.

With so many colors, cultures, and experiences, this is among the best Rio de Janeiro attractions. You can book a private section through Camarote. It includes food, drinks, live music, and excellent viewing of the parade. If you are in doubt about what to do in Rio de Janeiro, then be a part of this celebration.

3. See Aquatic Animals At AquaRio

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If you are planning on things to do in Rio de Janeiro Brazil this aquarium would be a good place to spend a couple of hours. In general, it can be effectively used for knowing the fauna of this country.

The big tank with several types of fish, arrays, and sharks is amazing. You might also see divers feeding the sharks.

A small reminder; most of the information and signs are displayed in the Brazilian primary language. It would be best to carry a phone and translate them. Buy tickets from the AquaRio website.

4. Admire The Catedral Metropolitana de São Sebastião do

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An unconventional appearance that attracts crowds of tourists every year. The appearance of this structure somewhat resembles a tent.

This cathedral is dedicated to St. Sebastian, the patron saint of Rio. The conical shape represents the equidistance and proximity of people to God. There is a sacred art museum underneath the museum that one can pay to visit.

It is tastefully interior-designed with colorfully elegant mosaics on the inside. By the way, on a clear day, one might be able to see the statue of Christ the Redeemer from this side of the cathedral.

5. Enjoy The Diverse Facilities of Ipanema Beach

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Ipanema Beach is undoubtedly one of the finest tourist attractions in Rio de Janeiro Brazil; it is everything you would ever desire. It has golden sand, a vibrant atmosphere, and a beautiful mountain view near the seaside.

People here are rather friendly having lots of fun in the sea, and sun and just having fun; the population is a mix of locals and tourists. Besides, the beach is very clean and the water is clear and azure suitable for swimming and surfing.

Another highlighting feature of this beach is its lively and diverse nature. You can relax, play beach volleyball, drink fresh coconut water from nearby kiosks, and many more.

6. Get Close To Christ the Redeemer

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This is one of the main sites of interest in Rio de Janeiro Brazil. The Jesus statue is very large and you will meet hundreds of tourists trying to take dozens of different photogenic selfies with the statue in the background.

The way up there is a part of the experience. To go up you have to take official transportation in the final segment through a van or train. You can also walk if you have time.

There is a chapel behind the foot of the statue which is comforting for those who want to escape the crowd and pray. Moreover, the views are to die for. For the ultimate experience, you can rent a helicopter or join a helicopter tour.

7. Savor Meals At Carretão Ipanema

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Carretao Ipanema is a lively steakhouse that can be found at the heart of Ipanema. Rodizio is an unlimited eat-as-much-as-you-can is its specialty which offers more than twenty different types of meat, beef, pork, and even seafood.

The atmosphere is quite friendly and therefore many people, both the residents of the city as well as tourists favor the place. What makes Carretao stand out is that it offers choices, not only in meats but also more than 35 hot dishes, salads, and more.

Finally, you can taste delicious desserts accompanied by a variety of wines list depending on the type of food you've embodied in your meal.

8. Visit The Maracanã

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Maracana is one of the world's most recognized and indeed legendary football grounds. It is very comfortable to be sitting on the benches and recall all of the history of this place.

From the Maracanazo of 1950 and the presence of the greatest performers of football such as Pele, Garrincha, and Jairzinho, you will have a fun time here. The atmosphere is electric, fans are eager, chanting, singing, and mostly on their feet during the match.

There is a museum with displays honoring Brazilian soccer greats and history. For an additional fee, you get to experience scoring a goal on the pitch, getting a medal, and giving a press conference.

9. Climb The Escadaria Selarón

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Another best things to do in Rio for free. This public attraction is a medium-length of stairs designed with thousands of ceramics from all over the world. It is an eye-catching piece of artwork.

It can get very crowded so try to come early or at least find yourself a good spot for pictures and videos. To enjoy being a part of the lively atmosphere with cheerful people eating, drinking, and snapping pictures, it is best to visit in the afternoon.

You can walk up and down, take in the vibe and the music, and stop for a quick bite at nearby restaurants. Walk down the hill to find an artist who will let you add your name to his mural for a small price.

10. Delve In The Beauty of Tijuca National Park

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An urban rainforest and one of the largest in the world. It offers a lush escape from the bustling city and immerses you in nature's beauty and tranquility.

As you move deeper into the forest, the scenery becomes increasingly stunning. You can hike, bike or simply walk. Beside catching aglimose of the Christ the Redeemer, you get a chance to observe a variety of trees, bamboo forests, birds, monkeys, and even pythons.

The forest also holds intermittent waterfalls that add to its charm. Entrance is free and it is easy to get there via Uber.

11. Explore The Museu do Amanhã

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Also known as the Museum of Tomorrow, this science museum has lots to see and do. They give you cards in English or Portuguese which you can tap on a screen and it will translate for you.

The exhibits are interesting and thought-provoking. They make you think about the future and our planet in new ways. You will see videos about the basic evolution of life and exhibits about sustainability, the environment, population growth, and more.

The best part is, if you are over 60 years old, it is free. Check the pricing for others at the Museu do Amanha website. Also, note that the world's largest street art mural is about an 8-minute walk afterward.

12. Discover Santa Teresa Through Tram Ride

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Rio has dozens of neighborhoods worth visiting to get a feeling for local culture, character, and color. Santa Teresa is located on a hill that borders the central areas of Rio.

Characterizing the colonial period it has become a home to artists, musicians, and intellectuals. The most common way of reaching the town is by using a tramway that was founded in 1877.

Take the tram up to the top then walk down stopping at various points of interest. You can hop on hop off the tram but you see less that way. You will see walls with lots of graffiti and find quite a few bars and restaurants for nightlife.

13. Savor Afternoon Snacks or Meal At Confitería Colombo

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This is a popular pastry shop with historical relevance and phenomenal decor. It tells you a little about the society in Rio and how things were back in the golden days.

Food is good and expected quality is provided for the price they charge. Besides, food this place is known for its beautiful interior in the style of Belle Epoque.

Amazing stained glass, beautiful mirrors, and exquisite carvings of wood give it that classic feeling. The service is attentive embodying the warmth of Brazilian culture. It is a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon enjoying a cafezinho or a full meal.

14. Experience The Sugar Loaf Cable Car

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Sugarloaf Mountain is an iconic rock of Rio. The cable car ride to the top is a different experience in itself and offers fantastic views even before you reach the summit.

The ride is smooth and gives you plenty of opportunities to snap great photos of the city and the bay below. Once you are at the top, the views are nothing sort of spectacular. There are lovely little walks which give you a chance to sit and drink in the views.

Book your tickets ahead to avoid the long line. One can also opt for the fast pass. It is considered one of the best things to do in Brazil.

15. Be A Part of Copacabana Beach Fun

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Copacabana Beach is amazing and full of life. It stretches for miles with colorful umbrellas and a fun, lively vibe all day long.

You can have fun in many ways. One can swim in the clean water, surf their way through the gentle breeze, or munch on food and drinks from local vendors. The beach falls under the list of famous beaches in the world.

The beach can be busy and packed quite close together, but that is just part of it being so lively and fun. You can also have a nice walk at night. Do check out some of the best beaches in the US for vacation.

16. Vintage Finds At Feira de Antiguidades da Paulista

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This is a quaint antique market right under the Museum of Art Sao Paulo (MASP) on Avenida Paulista. This Sunday market mainly focuses on antiques and vintage goods.

You will find items such as old weapons, old coins, jewelry, dishes, and novelties. This is better known as an open-air flea market with numerous separate stands, offering various kinds of souvenirs.

What would be enjoyable is walking up and down the aisle, browsing through the relics of Brazil. It is one of the interesting things to see in Rio de Janeiro Brazil, especially on Paulista Avenue.

17. Spend Family Time At Quinta da Boa Vista

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BioParque do Rio is a pleasant city park adjacent to the zoo. You can enter the park for free but may have to pay a small price for parking.

As you enter the park, you will see nice grounds with a lake and a gazebo, bikes, and boats available for rent, and some food vendors. People who have visited the place expressed that the food vendors are the only way to eat when there.

But there is a very nice restaurant called Restaurante Quinta Da Boa Vista that serves diverse meals. You can also walk to the zoo with R$10 for entry or visit the National Museum. Go there for a river walk, a peaceful escape, or simply to be close to nature.

18. Travel To Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil (CCBB)

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This is another least visited location in Rio found in a historical building. It hosts periodical art exhibits, movies, and plays.

It is an underappreciated attraction in the city. It is not near any of the beaches or major attractions but is close to the metro which ensures hassle-free travel.

The interior is beautiful with chic places to eat, drink,k and spend time or meet someone. There is also a fab shop on the ground floor that sells art and books mainly made by people from the Amazon and a cute little cafe on the mezzanine.

19. Take A Walking Tour of Pequena África (Little Africa)

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Anyone who wants to learn about the African history and influences in Brazil should take this walking tour of Pequena Africa. The area comprises Saude, Gamboa, and Santo Cristo neighborhoods in the port regions.

These are where enslaved Africans first arrived in Brazil. It is important to learn history and cover the story from the year 1500 to the present day.

With the help of a guided tour, you will learn about the African slave trade and the struggles and influences brought to Brazil. It shaped Brazil and Rio as we know it today.

20. Stay At Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana

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This is one of the loved hotels in Rio de Janeiro that is conveniently situated on Copacabana Beach. The service level is incredible and their ocean-facing room affords sublime views of Sugarloaf.

They have their beach club and the premises, and rooms are always clean. It is easy to check in and the staff takes care of everything from the moment you enter.

There are two pools; one for the morning and one for the afternoon with comfortable sun beds and attentive staff. Whether on business or for vacationing, the location is impeccable and the amenities are excellent when on the road.

21. Take A Boat Trip In Angra dos Reis

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Angra dos Reis is a beautiful state in Brazil that holds dozens of islands and has water that is as clear as the sky. The tour is usually done by rail where you board from Rio de Janeiro and pass through the Costa Verde.

Once in Rio, it is time to board a typical Brazilian schooner. There are tourist attractions, like Ilha Grande which is home to Blue Lagoon with fishes and starfish which you can swim with.

You should also not miss the old town area of Freguesia de Santana where the first church of Angra dos Reis was constructed in 1843. The lunch can be enjoyed in a buffet at Japariz Beach and beautiful Cataguases beach during the adventure.