Arcos da Lapa, Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro Attractions
Christ the Redeemer Statue
More than a symbol of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil itself, Christ the Redeemer is one of the most iconic monuments in the world. The statue itself is an incredible feat of engineering, and the panoramic views are sensational from more than 2000 feet above sea level. Though you can get here by van, most people ride the Corcovado Tram up and down.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Locally called Pão de Açucar, Sugarloaf Mountain is named after the traditional sugarloaves used during the yesteryears. The peak overlooking Guanabara Bay is 395 meters (1000 feet) and overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. At the top, capture photos for a lifetime of the sparkling beaches, Christ statue, and the green forests. Situated in Urca, the Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain) showcases spectacular mountain views of Rio. The view is best appreciated on a clear day, so check the weather forecast. Visiting the peak at sunset is also breathtaking when the flickering colors of the sun make way for a blanket of stars.
Sugarloaf Cable Car
Sugar Loaf Cable Car is one of the oldest cable cars in the world and the first one in Brazil. It was launched in 1912, as the brainchild of Brazilian engineer Augusto Ferreira. Millions of tourists have since traveled on these 4 cable cars moving through three stations.
Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon
Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas mostly known as Lagoa is a lagoon and a district in Rio bordered by Ipanema, Leblon, Gávea, Jardim Botânico, Copacabana, Botafogo, and Humaitá districts.
It attracts many tourists during the Christmas season when a special Christmas tree installed on a floating platform moves about in the water. The lagoon is popular for its nightclubs, bars, restaurants, and hotels. It is also the headquarters of the soccer teams – Flamengo and Botafogo. There are several free sports courts, aquatic sports facilities and jogger’s lanes, playgrounds for children, and gourmet food kiosks.
Arcos da Lapa
The famous white arches span the entrance to Rio’s buzzing nightlife spot, Lapa. What was once an active aqueduct supplying fresh water to the city in the 18th century is now the track for the famous street tram to Santa Teresa. It is also a key meeting spot before visiting Lapa’s nightclubs.
Escadaria Selaron in Lapa
This colorful mosaic is the work of Chilean-born Jorge Selarón who dedicated his life to decorating the stairway in honor of the city that he considered his home. The vibrant Escadaria Selarón is one of Rio’s most beloved and visited attractions, and starts in Lapa before leading up to Santa Teresa.
Santa Teresa
A traditional district that lets you experience the Carioca population of Rio. Cycle the cobblestone streets idly, and visit the Ruins Park and the Chácara do Céu Museum. Enjoy the tram ride around the Santa Teresa District to admire its architectural and cultural beauty.
Maracanã Football Stadium
Inaugurated during the 1950 World Cup, this stadium can hold 100,000 cheering fans. Owned by the Rio de Janeiro State Government. Fans of legends like Pele and Ronaldo, Romario will love to visit to the Mecca of Football, Maracanã Stadium, and its sports museum.
Institute of Research and New Black Memory Cemetery
One of the most important historical points in Rio, the lesser-known Institute of Research and New Black Memory (Cemitério dos Pretos Novos) depicts the history of the slave trade in the city, providing an eye-opening glimpse into the past that is largely kept under wraps. The venue is also the final burial ground for thousands of enslaved Africans who died on the way over to Rio.
Museum of Modern Art
The striking postmodern architecture of MAM stands out against its peaceful surroundings in Flamengo Park. The museum contains an impressive collection of modern art from significant Brazilian artists such as Bruno Giorgi and Maria Martins, as well as exhibitions of important international artists.
Vidigal
This area was an experiment in Rio’s favela pacification projects. Today, it is home to bars, musicians, artists, and fashion designers. For visitors, it has an intoxicating artistic vibe. From Vidigal, you can reach the summit of the Dois Irmaos peaks and enjoy the superb views over the city before heading to Alto Vidigal at the top of a favela for some of Rio’s best music and parties.
Baixo Gavea
For parties, Baixo Gavea holds its own with Lapa District. The square is filled with thriving bars and hordes of people spilling into street parties – a cheaper drinking option that attracts the city’s students, both Brazilian and international. Later on in the night, head to nightclub Zero Zero.
Forte de Copacabana
Rio’s military base is also home to a fascinating museum that explores the history of the Brazilian military and its involvement in world affairs throughout the years. It’s also home to Confeitaria Colombo, an elegant café with exceptional food options and delicious coffees. Take a seat outside to enjoy the pleasant views of Copacabana Beach and the ocean.
Cachoeira do Horto in Tijuca Forest
This breathtaking waterfall can be accessed by travelers who veer off the main Estrada da Vista Chinesa Road and take a short hike through exotic vegetation. Small enough to stand under for welcome respite on hot days, the waterfall lets you take a shower under cold waters and lay in the pool with views over the forest canopies.
Pedra do Sal
To experience a samba-fueled night like a local, head to Pedra do Sal on a Monday evening. Groups of samba bands come together to perform jam sessions to a gleeful crowd that sips cocktails and dances well into the night. The casual event takes place in the main former square of the slave trade, now considered a cultural heritage site.
Hang Gliding in Rio
See Rio de Janeiro Attractions from above by hang-gliding from a very tall cliff. Previous experience is not necessary to enjoy one of these tours, which allows you to enjoy unparalleled views of Ipanema Beach, Copacabana Beach, Christ the Redeemer, and Sugarloaf Mountain.
