Rio de Janeiro really is a Marvelous City, there’s no doubt about that! With more than 450 years of history, here you can find a bit of everything, from beaches to cultural attractions, not to mention excellent places to eat and enjoy the carioca nightlife.
In this sea of infinite possibilities, we’ve listed some of the things that everyone should do at least once in their lives. How many have you done?
1 – Ride the cable car to Sugar Loaf Mountain
It doesn’t matter if it’s cliché. If you’re from Rio, there’s no way around it, you have to go on the Sugar Loaf cable car! After all, this is one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
2 – Take pictures at the most incredible viewpoints
Rio has several incredible viewpoints where you can fall in love with the Marvelous City even more!
Some of our favorites are Mirante Dona Marta, Mirante Dois Irmãos and Vista Chinesa. But, of course, there are many more.
3 – Take a walk in Lapa
Historically, Lapa is linked to samba and, of course, this appeals to every carioca. However, the truth is that in this bohemian neighborhood you’ll find many other cultural options.
4 – Visiting Christ the Redeemer
This is one of the places that everyone has to visit. The truth is that we can see Christ the Redeemer from different points in the city, because it’s so imposing. But have you ever been there to say hello up close?
5 – Have a chat with Carlos Drummond de Andrade
The statue of the poet Carlos Drummond de Andrade is one of Rio’s attractions. Are you going to say that you’ve never noticed him while walking along Copacabana Beach ? That’s practically impossible, almost as much as not wanting to stop and take a photo.
6 – Visit the Museum of Tomorrow
The Museum of Tomorrow is not only a cultural site, but also a symbol of architecture. The façade alone is worth a visit, but there are always great exhibitions going on there!
The Museum of Tomorrow and many other incredible places in the city host the famous Candlelight concerts, the live music show illuminated by the soft light of thousands of candles is an experience that everyone should try at least once in their life.
7 – Applauding the sunset at Arpoador
Everyone knows that Rio has wonderful places to watch the sunset, but going to Arpoador and applauding the spectacle is an experience that every Carioca should have!
8 – Riding the cable car in Santa Teresa
Around here, we love riding the cable cars, so this list couldn’t fail to include the Santa Teresa streetcar.
A true historical relic that connects the city center to the well-known artistic district of Santa Teresa. A ride that everyone, resident or tourist, should take at least once in their lives!
9 – Rummaging at the Lavradio Fair
You’ve probably heard of the Lavradio Fair, right? We think so, because this is one of the most traditional street markets in Rio de Janeiro. There are dozens and dozens of exhibitors with everything you need, but also what you didn’t even know you needed!
10 – Have a nice draft beer at Jobi
Jobi is probably one of the best-known bars in the city. After all, it’s here that you can find some of the best draft beer in Rio de Janeiro. That’s why this one couldn’t be missing from our list either.
11 – Going all the way around Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon
If you like outdoor activities, then take advantage of the scenery at Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas. Whether on foot or by bike, you won’t regret it.
12 – Enjoy the best beaches
Rio has some magnificent beaches, in fact we believe they are some of the most beautiful in the world.
And the best thing is that there are options for all tastes! So grab your coconut water and just enjoy!
13 – Going to the theater
Rio is samba and beaches, but it’s also synonymous with culture. For this reason, and for those who love the performing arts, there is no shortage of options for seeing a good play. The Municipal Theater is our favorite!
14 – Explore the Tijuca Forest
This is a true paradise in the heart of Rio de Janeiro. That’s because you don’t have to go far to see incredible species of Brazilian fauna and flora. After all, you have it all right next door, in the Tijuca Forest.
There are several attractions to visit there, like the Chinese View, for example!
15 – Have breakfast at Confeitaria Colombo
Confeitaria Colombo is one of the most traditional in Rio and Brazil!
Created in 1894 by Portuguese immigrants, it still fills the hearts (and bellies) of all Cariocas with its incredible breakfasts . Its architecture and decorative style take us straight back to the Belle Époque.
16 – Watching a movie in the city’s street cinemas
In Rio, the street cinemas are still going strong and it’s certainly one of the things you should do once in your life here!
The great thing is that many street cinemas focus on national productions and films that are out of the ordinary. In addition, festivals of different nationalities often take place in these spaces. So it’s a great choice for those who want to immerse themselves in film culture!
17 – Watching a game at the Maracanã Stadium
Another passion of Cariocas is soccer! However, even if you’re not a big fan, if there’s one thing you should do in Rio de Janeiro, it’s go to the Maracanã Stadium.
Do you know why? Well, it’s the scene of some of the world’s greatest soccer derbies. The fact is that the Maracanã has seen so many historic moments that it has become an attraction, even for tourists.
18 – Visit a samba school
Samba runs through the veins of every carioca and everyone has their own samba school. Whether you have the rhythm or not, the important thing is to experience it. So go to a samba school to understand why this experience is so contagious!
19 – Enjoying an incredible show at Circo Voador
Circo Voador you’ve probably heard of. If not, the best thing to do is to go there and enjoy a show. After all, this is one of the most important concert halls in Rio de Janeiro and it has an indescribable vibe!
20 – Have a picnic at Aterro do Flamengo
Rio de Janeiro has many parks, perfect for those who like to spend the day outdoors. However, having a picnic at Aterro do Flamengo on a Sunday shouldn’t be left off your list of things to do in Rio at least once in your life!
21 – Stroll through the Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden also stands out for its beauty and historical heritage, since it was built in 1808, after the arrival of the Portuguese royal family, as a garden of exotic plants and spices. The imperial palm trees, which are still there today, make the space even more beautiful!
22 – Watching the New Year’s fireworks on Copacabana Beach
There are those who love it, there are those who shun it, but one thing is certain: you have to see the New Year’s Eve fireworks display on Copacabana Beach, even once. The spectacle is truly breathtaking !
23 – Hiking Pedra do Telégrafo
You can go hiking in many places in Rio de Janeiro, but who hasn’t wanted to take the famous photo at Pedra do Telégrafo? What’s more, the view from this trail is one of the most beautiful in the city!
24 – Visit Pedra do Sal
Pedra do Sal was once the place where the product was unloaded from the boats that docked nearby. Then it became a meeting place for samba d ancers who worked as dockers. Nowadays, everyone gathers there to enjoy a samba and a caipirinha!
25 – Taking a photo on the Selarón Staircase
The truth is that there is no shortage of ‘instagrammable’ places in Rio. However, one of the most colorful is the famous Escadaria Selarón. Located between the neighborhood of Santa Teresa and Lapa , this is a work decorated by the Chilean artist Jorge Selarón.
Which Carioca hasn’t taken a photo there? It’s hard to find, isn’t it?
