Rio de Janeiro Tourist Attractions

Rio de Janeiro is famous for its beautiful natural setting, lush green mountains and long white sandy beaches — a true paradise for those who love sightseeing. Those alone are a good reason to visit, but there are many more famous sights, attractions and activities to enjoy in Rio de Janeiro including museums, parks, walks, hikes, shopping and dining.

To discover the best destinations to visit in Rio, including gems that are lesser known or off the beaten path, browse through the following attractions. We include a descriptive overview, an interactive map, transit and walking directions and photos of each attraction to help you plan your trip.

Some of Rio de Janeiro's top tourist attractions include Sugar Loaf Mountain, Corcovado and Christ the Redeemer, Copacabana and Ipanema Beach, the Rio de Janerio Botanical Garden, Quinta de Boa Vista, the National Museum of Brazil and the Niterói Contemporary Art Museum.

Parks, Beaches and Views

Copacabana BeachCopacabana Beach

Nearest Metro Stations: Cardeal Arcoverde | Siqueira Campos | Canatagalo

When deciding what to see in Rio de Janerio, the world famous Copacabana Beach is one probably one of the most obvious places to include on your list. The three mile long white sand beach fronts one of the more populated residential areas of Rio making for plenty of people to watch and ...... read more

CorcovadoCorcovado

Nearest Metro Station: Largo do Machado

Followed by a spectacular train ride up the mountain you will be treated not only to an up close look at the statue of Christ the Redeemer that overlooks the city, but you will enjoy the stunning panoramic views from the same vantage point. ..... read more

Forte Duque de Caxias - Hike and LookoutForte Duque de Caxias - Hike and Lookout

Nearest Metro Station: Cardeal Arcoverde

Forte Duque de Caxias can be found in Leme at the eastern end of Copacabana Beach. The trail up to the fort is not a difficult climb and the view from the top is well worth the effort. Going up to Forte Duque de Caxias is ..... read more

Ipanema BeachIpanema Beach

Nearest Metro Station: Ipanema/General Osório

Ipanema Beach fronts the neighbourhood of the same name, one of the most expensive places to live in Rio. The area is filled with world-class restaurants and shops and is noted for some of the best ...... read more

Lage-ParkLage Park (Parque Lage)

Nearest Metro Station: Botafogo

Lage Park is a stunning and beautiful park with a wide variety of things to see and do. You'll find beautiful buildings including the mansion and it's amazing courtyard. There are many walking and hiking trails, spectacular views, a picnic area and a childrens playground. This park should definitely be on your must see list. ...... read more

Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon | Lagoa Rodrigo de FreitasRodrigo de Freitas Lagoon | Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas

Nearest Metro Stations: Ipanema / General Osório | Botafogo | Cantagalo

Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, also sometimes referred to as the Heart of Rio de Janiero, is a place of beauty and a must see for any water sports fan. You can spend a few hours or even an entire day on the bank of the lake enjoying ...... read more

Pista Cláudio Coutinho Walking TrailPista Cláudio Coutinho Walking Trail

Nearest Metro Station: Botafogo

The Pista Cláudio Coutinho Walking Trail is about a 2 kilometer long trail bordering the bay at the base of Morroa Da Urca. The trail starts in Praia Vermelha in Urca. It is a great trail offering an easy scenic walk away from the crowds of the city ..... read more

Morro Da Urca - Hike and LookoutMorro Da Urca - Hike and Lookout

Nearest Metro Station: Botafogo

The view from the top of Morro Da Urca is certainly something to be remembered. You can see Christ the Redeemer on top of Corcovado and a beautiful section of Rio de Janeiro's Botafogo and Flamengo Beaches. ...... read more

Sugarloaf Cable Car - Pão de Açúcar e bondinhoSugarloaf Cable Car - Pão de Açúcar e bondinho

Nearest Metro Station: Botafogo

Sugarloaf Mountain or Pão de Açúcar is one of the most popular attractions in Rio de Janeiro having had over 37 million visitors. The Sugarloaf Cable Car is one of the safest in the world taking you to a breathtaking 360 degree view. ..... read more

Vista Chinesa Walking TourVista Chinesa

Nearest Metro Stations: Botafogo

If you want to enjoy what many consider one of the best views of Rio, head on up to the Vista Chinesa. Here you will not only get to enjoy spectacular views of the city and mountains without the ..... read more

Rio de Janeiro Botanical GardenRio de Janeiro Botanical Garden

Nearest Metro Station: Botafogo

The beautiful Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden sits at the foot of Corcovado Mountain in the shadow of the Christ the Redeemer statue. This 140 acre garden should be on the must see list for anyone who loves plants and gardens or just wants to escape the bustle of the city for a day. ...... read more

Rio de Janeiro Zoo Rio de Janeiro Zoo

Nearest Metro Station: São Cristóvão

The Jardim Zoológico da Cidade do Rio de Janeiro is the oldest zoo in Rio de Janeiro. It was built in 1945 in Boa Vista in St. Kitts district and has been entertaining and educating the public since then. ...... read more

Garden of Allah | Jardim de AlahGarden of Allah | Jardim de Alah

Nearest Metro Station: Ipanema / General Osório

The Garden of Allah or Jardim de Alah in Portuguese, is a beautiful park that divides Ipanema from Leblon in Rio de Janeiro. It is named for the film by the same name produced in 1936 starring Marlene ...... read more

Paris Place | Praca ParisParis Place | Praca Paris

Nearest Metro Station: Gloria

You will find Praca Paris in the Glory neighbourhood of Rio de Janeiro. It was built in 1926 under the guidance of Alfred Crouch on the site of the first landfill of Rio. His vision was an elegant Parisian garden. He included ...... read more

General Tiburcio Place | Praca General Tiburcio General Tiburcio Place | Praca General Tiburcio

Nearest Metro Station: Botafogo

The Praca General Tiburcio is a beautiful public park featuring a monument to the various hero's that feature in Brazil's history. From bronze lions to writers and war hero's, the statues and monuments in this park are definitely something ...... read more

Garota de Ipanema Park Garota de Ipanema Park

Nearest Metro Station: Ipanema/General Osório

The Parque Garota de Ipanema is a beautifully landscaped park with something for everyone. From bike paths and skating rinks to a children's playground, this is definitely a park that every visitor to Rio de Janeiro should take the time to come and visit. ...... read more

Quinta da Boa Vista Quinta da Boa Vista

Nearest Metro Station: São Cristóvão

The Quinta de Boa Vista is literally "Park of the Nice View" and is aptly named. The views in and around the park are truly spectacular. Originally part of the Sao Cristovao Palace, the Quinta de Boa Vista now houses ...... read more

Landmarks and Architecture

CorcovadoChrist the Redeemer

Nearest Metro Station: Largo do Machado

Over looking the city with outstretched arms, the statue of Christ the Redeemer is without a doubt one of Rio de Janeiro's most iconic landmarks. This 30 metre tall statue is built on an 8 metre high pedestal at the top of Corcovado and can be seen from just about anywhere in the city. It has been named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. ..... read more

Igreja da Candelária Igreja da Candelária

Nearest Metro Station: Uruguaiana

Located in the heart of central Rio de Janeiro one will find Candelária Church or Igreja da Candelária in Portuguese. This beautiful old Roman Catholic church has a rich history and due to no fault of its own became associated with one of the darkest days in Rio's history. ..... read more

Church of Our Lady of the Glory Church of Our Lady of the Glory

Nearest Metro Station: Gloria

One very special and beautifully distinct church is the Church of Our Lady of the Glory, considered to be one of the most characteristic monuments to come out of Brazil's colonized years. ..... read more

Copacabana-PalaceCopacabana Palace

Nearest Metro Station: Cardeal Arcoverde

This beautiful Art Deco hotel, one of most significant and beautiful hotels in the city has become synonymous with Rio de Janeiro itself. ..... read more

Fort CopacabanaFort Copacabana

Nearest Metro Station: Ipanema/General Osório

Opened in 1914 Fort Copacabana is now a fascinating museum showcasing many exhibits pertaining to the Brazilian Army. Located on a rocky outcrop at the southern tip of Copacabana Beach, the fort also provides visitors with ..... read more

Metropolitan CathedralMetropolitan Cathedral

Nearest Metro Station: Carioca

In stark contrast to the Old Cathedral, also known as the Old Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro, stands the Metropolitan Cathedral at 75 metres in height. The shape and architecture of this Cathedral has nothing in common with the ..... read more


Municipal Theatre | Teatro Municipal Municipal Theatre | Teatro Municipal

Nearest Metro Station: Cinelândia

One of the most beautiful buildings in the city of Rio, the Municipal Theatre stands in all its splendour as a testament to the impeccable craftsmanship of the architects and builders of those times. ..... read more

MAM - Museum of Modern ArtMAM - Museum of Modern Art

Nearest Metro Station: Cinelândia

The Museum of Modern Art is home to a number of collections of modern and contemporary art including paintings, photographs and sculptures. There are over ...... read more

National Library of Brazil National Library of Brazil

Nearest Metro Station: Cinelândia

The National Library of Brazil in Rio de Janeiro is both a magnificent building as well as a treasure chest of manuscripts, books, lithographs, cartographic material, photographs, coins and medals. ...... read more

MAC de Niterói - Contemporary Art MuseumMAC de Niterói - Contemporary Art Museum

Nearest Metro Station: Carioca Station

The striking modern design of the Niteroi Contemporary Art Museum (MAC) has made it one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Brazil. It is well worth the visit, even if just to see it from the outside. ..... read more

Old Cathedral of Rio de JaneiroOld Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro

Nearest Metro Station: Carioca

The Old Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro is a beautiful 19th century structure that stands in homage to the rich history of Rio de Janeiro and is, in fact, the most important historic building in Rio. For those who love visiting places of historical interest you will ..... read more

Royal Portuguese Reading RoomRoyal Portuguese Reading Room

Nearest Metro Station: Uruguaiana

For an afternoon of wonder in a world of literature and amazing architecture, visit the Real Gabinete Portugues da Leitura, a beautiful library built in the Portuguese manueline style back in 1837. ..... read more

Escadaria Selarón | Selarón StepsEscadaria Selarón | Selarón Steps

Nearest Metro Station: Gloria

The steps of Selarón situated on Rua Joaquim Silvia Selarón Lapa are to Rio what the Spanish steps are to Rome. Beautifully tiled with mosaic tiles and mirror, these 250 steps, measuring 125 metres long, are a true artistic feat requiring years of hard work and dedication. ..... read more

Museums, Galleries and Science

CCBB - Bank of Brazil Cultural CentreCCBB - Bank of Brazil Cultural Centre

Nearest Metro Station: Uruguaiana

Once a bank and now a museum of art and natural history, inside the CCBB you will find multiple art galleries, three theatres, a cinema, a library, a book store, coffee shops and a restaurant. ..... read more

Cultural Space of the Navy of BrazilCultural Space of the Navy of Brazil

Nearest Metro Stations: Uruguaiana | Carioca

For those who love the sea, ships and the culture of the Navy, you cannot miss a trip to Espaco Cultural da Marinha. This museum is delightful with model ships, sailing rafts and other sailing artefacts which ..... read more

Fort CopacabanaFort Copacabana

Nearest Metro Station: Ipanema/General Osório

Opened in 1914 Fort Copacabana is now a fascinating museum showcasing many exhibits pertaining to the Brazilian Army. Located on a rocky outcrop at the southern tip of Copacabana Beach, the fort also provides visitors with ..... read more

Museum of Fine ArtsMuseum of Fine Arts

Nearest Metro Station: Cinelândia

Rio’s Museum of Fine Arts (Museu Nacional de Belas Artes), located in Rio’s central square, Cinelândia is famous for its collection of early Brazilian and international art. it boasts over 17000 square feet of exhibits on 2 floors ..... read more

MAM - Museum of Modern ArtMAM - Museum of Modern Art

Nearest Metro Station: Cinelândia

The Museum of Modern Art is home to a number of collections of modern and contemporary art pieces, these pieces include paintings, photographs and sculptures. ...... read more

Catete Palace - Museum of the RepublicCatete Palace - Museum of the Republic

Nearest Metro Station: Catete

What started off as a palatial home and then turned into a hotel and then a presidential home is now the Museum of the Republic (Museu da República), housing a wealth of information and artifacts pertaining to the history of Brazil. ..... read more

MAC de Niterói - Contemporary Art Museum MAC de Niterói - Contemporary Art Museum

Nearest Metro Station: Carioca

Worth visiting just to witness its stunning design first hand, it sometimes easy to forget that the MAC is also home to a collection and exhibitions of contemporary art. ...... read more

National Historical MuseumNational Historical Museum

Nearest Metro Station: Carioca

The National Historical Museum (Museu Historico Nacional) is known to be one of the most important museums in Brazil. It highlights, through its exhibitions and artefacts, the social as well as economic history of Brazil. ..... read more

National Monument to the dead of World War IINational Monument to the dead of World War II

Nearest Metro Station: Gloria

The National Monument to the Dead of World War II stands as a commemoration to the Brazilian soldiers who participated in and to those who lost their lives during the Second World War (WWII). ..... read more

National Museum of BrazilNational Museum of Brazil

Nearest Metro Station: São Cristóvão

The National Museum of Brazil was once called the Royal Museum as established by the King of Portugal Dom João VI's. The purpose of the museum was to promote scientific research in Brazil which ..... read more

MAST | Museum of AstronomyMAST | Museum of Astronomy

Nearest Metro Station: Estácio

The Museum of Astronomy and Related Sciences is an academic research centre under the auspices of the Brazilian Ministry for Science and Technology. There are many free activities and guided tours available to the public free of charge. ..... read more

Conde de Linhares Military MuseumConde de Linhares Military Museum

Nearest Metro Station: São Cristóvão

For those of you who are interested in history and the military, make sure you pop down to the military museum Conde de Linhares Military Museum on Avenida Pedro II, 383 Sao Cristovao when you visit Rio. ..... read more

Eva Klabin FoundationEva Klabin Foundation

Nearest Metro Station: Cantagalo

If you are interested in classical art then a trip to the Eva Klabin Foundation (Fundação Eva Klabin) will not leave you wanting. The Eva Klabin Foundation (Fundação Eva Klabin) has the most important collection of classical art of any Brazilian museum. ..... read more

Museum of the Indian | Museu do ÍndioMuseum of the Indian | Museu do Índio

Nearest Metro Station: Botafogo

Though you may find many museums and cultural institutions dedicated to Portuguese history and Brazilian history after the Portuguese arrived, there is only one official institution in Brazil that is exclusively dedicated to the indigenous cultures and tribes of Brazil. ...... read more

Neighbourhoods and Markets

Barra da Tijuca Barra da Tijuca

Nearest Metro Station: General Osório Station

Noted as being the most Americanized and developed area of Brazil, Barra da Tijuca is an interesting place to visit even if just for curiosity. But it is not the development which keeps people coming back, being ..... read more

FavelasFavelas

Nearest Metro Station: Various

Something you won't see pictured in many of the tourism brochures are Rio's sadly famous favelas. Having a little closer look at this side of life in Rio de Janeiro is an eye-opening experience ..... read more

IpanemaIpanema

Nearest Metro Station: Ipanema/General Osório

The neighbourhood of Ipanema located on a strip of land that lies between the Atlantic Ocean and Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon. Adjacent to its famous beach, the area is filled with residential highrises, hotels, world-class restaurants and is noted for some of the best shopping in the city. ...... read more

Santa TeresaSanta Teresa

Nearest Metro Station: Cinelândia

A picturesque town on a hill with beautifully winding and narrow roads lined with trees, impressive older mansions and gorgeous views is what you will find when you visit Santa Teresa in Rio de Janeiro. ..... read more

Fair of St. Kitts - Feira de São CristóvãoFair of St. Kitts - Feira de São Cristóvão

Nearest Metro Station: São Cristóvão

If an authentic experience is what you are after as you plan your trip to Rio de Janeiro, then you will need to include São Cristóvão Market (Feira de São Cristóvão) on your list of to do's. This vibrant market is not the type of tourist attraction most ..... read more

Theatre, Sports and Entertainment Venues

CCBB - Bank of Brazil Cultural CentreCCBB - Bank of Brazil Cultural Centre

Nearest Metro Station: Uruguaiana

Inside the CCBB you will find multiple art galleries, three theatres, a cinema, a library, a book store, coffee shops as well as a restaurant. Due to the fact that this was previously a bank the building has ample space to accommodate all of the exhibitions and cultural activities that take place inside. ..... read more

Olympic Stadium (Estádio Nilton Santos)Olympic Stadium (Estádio Nilton Santos)

Nearest Train Station: Engenho de Dentro Station

The Olympic Stadium (Estádio Nilton Santos) lays claim to being the most modern stadium in Latin America. It is home field for the Botafogo Football team and hosts a variety of other sporting events and concerts. It was also a major venue at the 2016 Olympics. ..... read more

Maracanã StadiumMaracanã Stadium

Nearest Metro Stations: Maracanã | ‎São Cristóvão

There is nothing which unites the Latin races quite like their love of football and to get a true feel of a Latino country you need to watch a football match or tour a famous football stadium and Maracana Stadium is indeed famous. ...... read more

Municipal Theatre | Teatro MunicipalMunicipal Theatre | Teatro Municipal

Nearest Metro Station: Cinelândia

If you have the opportunity, be sure to see a show or two at this amazing theatre. Take time in the intermission to appreciate the architecture and art showcased so magnificently. If you cannot see a show you can still enjoy one of 4 guided tours available on ..... read more

Sambadrome and the Rio Carnival ParadesSambadrome and the Rio Carnival Parades

Nearest Metro Station: Praça Onze

The Sambadrome is a special parade route constructed along both sides of Marquês de Sapucaí street in Rio de Janeiro's old city centre. It consists of permanent spectator stands, viewing boxes, and event lights running for ..... read more

Rio 2016 Olympic Venues: Maracanã StadiumRio Olympic Venues

Nearest Metro Stations: Maracanã | ‎São Cristóvão

Want to check out some of the 2016 Rio Olympic Venues. You can find them along with locations and public transportation information on our Olympic Venues and Transportation page, ...... read more

Zoos

Rio de Janeiro ZooRio de Janeiro Zoo

Nearest Metro Station: São Cristóvão

Rio de Janeiro is not just about festivals, beaches and sun. Visitors to the wonderful city can also enjoy visiting the zoo and seeing some truly rare and special animals. ..... read more

Some of the above photos are made available under a Creative Commons license. Photo Credits can be viewed on the detail page for each attraction.

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