Rio de Janeiro Tourist Attractions
- Parks, Beaches, & Views
- Landmarks and Architecture
- Museums, Galleries and Science
- Neighbourhoods and Markets
- Theatre, Sports & Entertainment
- Zoos
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 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
Corcovado
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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
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 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
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 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 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
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
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
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
Christ 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
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
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 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 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 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
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 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
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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
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
Favelas
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
Ipanema
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 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 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 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)
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 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 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 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 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 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.