Destination guide: Rio de Janeiro

Visiting Rio for the first time?

Christ the Redeemer is a monumental statue located in Rio de Janeiro. It was completed in 1931 and stands 98 feet tall, its horizontally outstretched arms spanning 92 feet. The statue is the largest Art Deco-style sculpture in the world and is one of Rio de Janeiro’s most recognisable landmarks. The sight is impressive on photos, but the reality is even better, so make sure it’s on your list.

Located in Zona Sul, Copacabana Beach is one of the most famous and beautiful beaches in the world. But don’t expect to relax, Copacabana Beach is full of energy and excitement. The beach promenade is a good spot for those wishing to ride a bike, skate or play sports. There are lots of kiosks and many of them offer live music, especially at night and on the weekend.

Enjoy beautiful 360-degree views over the city during a ride in a Sugarloaf Cable Car. The car will take you to Sugarloaf Mountain where you can stay as long as you like, taking in the beauty of Rio.

The Lapa Steps are a popular attraction where visitors can climb the 215 colourful tiled steps that lead from the Lapa neighbourhood to Santa Teresa. Chilean Artist Escadaria Selarón started laying tiles on the dilapidated steps that ran in front of his house. He laid colourful tiles from around the world until his death in 2013.

Looking for something different?

Clocking in for a jazz night at The Maze is one of the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro. This place has an interesting origin story too: inside a pacified favela (shanty town), a former BBC journalist bought a tiny house on the hill, converted it into a guesthouse and venue and began hosting live jazz bands.

Want to go further?

If you’re looking to escape the city’s harshness and experience some new adventures, you need to visit Petropolis which is located 68km from Rio. This Mountain Resort offers a cool and calm environment with plenty of historic architecture from the 19th century as well as some charming hotels.

In Portuguese, Prainha means “Little Beach.” Prainha is one of the cleanest beaches in Rio and a favourite among nature lovers. It is bordered on the sides by rocks, high cliffs, and cool evergreen mountains adding to its breath-taking beauty. This halfmoon beach is one of the most popular surfing spots in the city and is surrounded by a tropical rainforest. Make a trip to this must-­visit beach to explore the wildlife that hides within the rocks.