Best Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro: Popular Attractions & Hidden Gems

If you’re wondering what the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro are, you’re in the right place.

I spent three weeks exploring this amazing city, and I can confidently say that, at least to me, it lives up to the hype, and it even surprised me with more. Rio de Janeiro is one of those cities that hits you with its energy the second you arrive – it’s colorful, chaotic, loud, beautiful, sometimes frustrating, but always unforgettable. A place you can so easily fall in love with.

This article highlights the must-see Rio de Janeiro attractions and hidden gems, ensuring you experience the very best the city has to offer.

*Make sure to also read my other article on Rio de Janeiro travel tips and budget breakdown to get a better idea of not only how much it costs to visit Rio, but also how to prepare for your trip and what to expect.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Rio de Janeiro: Popular Attractions and Hidden Gems

Enjoy the beaches

No list of things to do in Rio de Janeiro is complete without the city’s iconic beaches — Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon. These are more than just places to sunbathe: they’re the living and breathing heart of Rio, where both locals and tourists play beach volleyball, sip caiprinhas, and socialize until sunset.

I personally didn’t like the world-famous Copacabana beach much, but I absolutely loved Ipanema and Leblon. I also loved the fact that you can find whatever you need from the beach vendors – food and snacks, drinks, a new pair of swimsuits, sunglasses, or a towel, ice cream, and more.

Make sure to also visit the beaches of Arpoador, Vidigal, Leme, and Vermelha.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve

If you’re lucky enough to be in Rio on December 31st, celebrating the New Year on Copacabana Beach is one of the most unforgettable things you can do. Millions of locals and tourists dress in white, fireworks explode over the ocean, and live samba music fills the air. It’s chaotic but magical. Just keep in mind: go early, stay with your group, and don’t bring valuables.

Do a free city tour

One of the best things you can do in Rio de Janeiro to learn more about the city is to go on a free walking tour. There are several free walking tours (tip-based) to help you get oriented and learn about the history behind places like Cinelândia, Lapa Arches, and the cathedral.

We went on our first full day in the city on December 30, and there were over 100 people. It started really interesting, but it quickly got too difficult to hear and follow, so we left and went to the beaches instead. Regardless, I still think the tour is worth going to and I would definetely go again the next time I visit the city.

Explore Santa Teresa

Santa Teresa is easily the most charming neighborhood in Rio and absolutely worth putting on your list of things to do in Rio de Janeiro. Perched on a hill above the city center, this bohemian district is known for its winding cobblestone streets, colonial mansions, and vibrant street art. It’s also where many local artists live and work, so you’ll find plenty of small galleries, murals, and handicraft shops.

One of the highlights is simply wandering around — spotting tiled stairways, catching views of the city, and stopping at quirky bars or cafés along the way. The neighborhood is connected to downtown Rio by the famous Santa Teresa tram (bondinho), which has been running since the late 19th century.

I loved wandering its narrow streets, popping into small cafes, and stumbling upon Parque das Ruínas — a free viewpoint with some pretty amazing city views.

The neighborhood is hilly, so wear comfortable shoes.

Do a favela Rocinha tour

Visiting favela Rocinha, Rio’s largest favela, with a local guide gave us a perspective on life in Rio beyond beaches and samba. I must admit, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to visit a favela at all, but as a traveler passionate about understanding local cultures, the idea of exploring such a place definitely intrigued me. In the end, my curiosity won, and we went to learn more about these famous Brazilian communities.

All in all, visiting Favela Rocinha was one of the most interesting, intense, and thought-provoking experiences we had during our trip to Brazil. I don’t regret going, but I do think it’s important to approach it with sensitivity and the right expectations.

Hike to Pedra Bonita

If you want a hike with maximum reward for relatively little effort, Pedra Bonita is it. The trail takes about 40 minutes and isn’t too difficult, making it one of the most accessible outdoor activities and best things to do in Rio de Janeiro. At the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of São Conrado Beach, Pedra da Gávea, and the endless coastline. The highlight, though, for me, was seeing a toucan in the wild.

*Also, make sure to bring a repellent. During our Pedra Bonita hike, I got attacked by flies and mosquitoes so badly that I counted 82 bites after we got home (yes, I counted).

Enjoy the view from Mirante Dona Marta

For one of the best panoramic views in the city, head to Mirante Dona Marta. From here, you can see Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer, and the entire Guanabara Bay in one breathtaking view.

Many people go there for sunrise to get the most Instagrammable pictures; we went on a random day at a random time, and for a moment, we had the place pretty much to ourselves.

You can take an Uber up to the viewpoint, and on the way back, you’ll find drivers offering rides down for a small extra fee — totally worth it, since the viewpoint sits right above a favela.

Explore Centro

Rio’s Centro district is often overlooked, but it’s packed with history and stunning architecture. Some highlights include the Theatro Municipal, the Candelária Church, and the National Library — where you can step inside and explore the impressive interior for free.

I really enjoyed exploring this area of the city, but be aware that it is more sketchy than the Southern districts of Rio. Regardless, if you’re looking for things to do in Rio de Janeiro away from the beaches and the typical tourist trail, you’ll enjoy wandering around Centro.

Snap a selfie with Christ the Redeemer

No list of things to do in Rio de Janeiro would be complete without Christ the Redeemer. This iconic statue is not only the symbol of Rio but also one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. At 30 meters high (excluding its 8-meter pedestal), the statue is the largest Art Deco-style sculpture in the world.

It’s not only one of the most popular attractions in Rio, but in the whole world, so a little bit of planning is essential to make the most out of your visit. The lines for buying tickets at the spot can be ridiculously long, so make sure to book your tickets online in advance and plan to go as early as possible to beat the crowds. I recommend booking your Christ the Redeemer ticket from the official site here.

TIP: If the weather is bad on the day you booked your ticket and there is no good visibility, you can reschedule your visit for free.

Christ the Redeemer (train ticket): €17 ($18 / 34 BGN)

Go up Sugarloaf Mountain

Another must-see iconic Rio de Janeiro attraction is Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar). Rising nearly 400 meters above Guanabara Bay, its rounded peak is one of the city’s defining landmarks.

To reach the top, you’ll take two glass-walled cable cars: first up to Morro da Urca, then onward to Sugarloaf itself. Each ride takes just a few minutes, but the views are incredible the entire way. Once at the summit, you’re rewarded with 360° panoramas of the city, beaches, Christ the Redeemer, and the surrounding mountains.

Like with Christ the Redeemer, buying your ticket online in advance will save you from long queues at the station. I recommend booking your tickets from the official site here.

Sugarloaf Mountain cable car: €20 ($22 / 40 BGN)

Hike to Morro Dois Irmaos

This was, hands down, my favorite hike in Rio. The trail to Morro Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers Mountain) starts in Vidigal, a favela, which already makes the journey unique. From there, it’s a steep but short climb — about 40 minutes — that rewards you with one of the most dramatic views of the city.

From the top, you see Ipanema, Leblon, Lagoa, and even Christ the Redeemer in the distance. The mix of urban sprawl and natural beauty is breathtaking.

During our hike, we were also lucky enough to spot a massive lizard crossing the trail — one of those unexpected wild encounters that make the experience even more memorable.

Indulge in the food scene

One of my favorite things to do in Rio de Janeiro was simply to eat. The food scene is vibrant, varied, and way more affordable than I expected. From casual street food like tapiocas and açaí bowls to traditional Brazilian dishes like feijoada, there’s something for every taste.

We had amazing sushi, incredible Middle Eastern bites, and even artisanal pastries that rivaled Europe’s. If you’re a foodie, you’ll love it here. I wrote a full Rio de Janeiro food guide where I share my favorite restaurants and cafés across different neighborhoods, so make sure to check it out if you’re wondering where to eat in Rio.

Check out the Metropolitan Cathedral

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro is unlike any cathedral I’ve seen before. From the outside, it looks almost like a concrete pyramid — very different from the ornate European-style churches you might expect. Step inside, though, and the scale will blow you away.

The vast, dim interior is lit by four massive stained-glass panels that rise up 60 meters, filling the space with colorful light. Whether you’re religious or not, it’s worth stopping by just to see this striking example of modern architecture. It’s also free to enter, making it one of the best free things to do in Rio de Janeiro.

See the Arcos da Lapa

The Arcos da Lapa, or Lapa Arches, are one of Rio’s most recognizable landmarks. Originally built in the 18th century as an aqueduct, today they carry the tram line to Santa Teresa. But for most visitors, the arches are the heart of Rio’s nightlife.

At night, the surrounding streets come alive with samba bars, live music, and street parties that spill out until morning. If you want a taste of Rio’s legendary nightlife, this is the place to be. By day, the arches are great for photos, but by night, they’re one of the most vibrant things to do in Rio de Janeiro.

Explore the street art

Rio might not be as famous as São Paulo for graffiti, but the street art here is still incredible. Don’t miss the Boulevard Olímpico, home to the world’s largest mural — Eduardo Kobra’s “Etnias.” Beyond that, you’ll find colorful murals scattered across Centro, Santa Teresa, and other places around the city.

Stroll around Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas

Right behind Ipanema, the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas is a large lagoon encircled by a walking and cycling path. With mountains on all sides, it’s one of the most scenic places to go for a jog, a bike ride, or just a lazy stroll.

We rented scooters here one afternoon and loved the relaxed vibe — families, runners, and locals hanging out by the water. It’s a peaceful contrast to the busy beaches nearby and a perfect spot for sunset. For anyone looking for relaxing things to do in Rio de Janeiro, Lagoa is a great choice.

Snap a photo at Escadas do Selaron

The Selarón Steps (Escadaria Selarón) are one of Rio’s most iconic attractions. This colorful staircase in Lapa was created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, who covered 215 steps with more than 2,000 brightly colored tiles from over 60 countries.

It’s crowded, yes, but also a must-see. We had fun spotting tiles from places we’ve visited, and the whole staircase is like a living piece of art — Selarón himself kept updating it until his death. If you’re into quirky, colorful landmarks, this is one of the best Rio de Janeiro attractions to check off your list.

Make sure to visit it as early as possible, as it does get extremely crowded during the day and also at night.

Visit the Museum of Tomorrow

If you love futuristic architecture and thought-provoking exhibits, the Museum of Tomorrow (Museu do Amanhã) in the Porto Maravilha district is a must. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the building itself is a masterpiece — it looks like a spaceship floating on the water.

Inside, it’s not your typical museum. Instead of focusing on history, it asks questions about the future of our planet: sustainability, climate change, technology, and humanity’s role in it all. The interactive exhibits are immersive and even if you’re not a “museum person,” you’ll likely find it fascinating.

Tip: combine a visit here with a walk along the Olympic Boulevard to see street art, including Kobra’s massive “Etnias” mural.

See the Portuguese reading room

One of the most beautiful Rio de Janeiro attractions for book lovers is the Real Gabinete Português de Leitura (Portuguese Reading Room). Its neo-Manueline architecture and ornate interior are jaw-dropping, with walls stacked floor-to-ceiling with thousands of books.

We didn’t manage to get inside due to the long lines, but if you arrive early enough, I assume it’s well worth the wait.

Experience Pedra do Sal

For a truly local experience, head to Pedra do Sal on a Monday night. Known as the birthplace of samba, this historic neighborhood fills with crowds dancing and singing to live samba music under the stars. Drinks are cheap, the atmosphere is electric, and it’s one of those “only in Rio” experiences.

If you want to see the city’s musical soul, this is hands-down one of the best things to do in Rio at night.

Visit the Botanical Garden

The Jardim Botânico is another place where nature steals the show. Founded in 1808, this massive garden is home to thousands of plant species, from giant Amazonian water lilies to towering royal palms that line the main avenue.

It’s a calm, lush retreat from the city’s chaos and a great spot for spotting wildlife, including monkeys, and if you’re lucky, you might see a toucan as well. We loved wandering here in the morning before it got too hot. If you’re into nature, this is easily one of the top Rio de Janeiro attractions you shouldn’t miss.

Visit Parque Lage

Parque Lage is one of the most beautiful and relaxing things to do in Rio de Janeiro, located at the foot of Corcovado Mountain. The highlight is its historic mansion, with a courtyard and pool framed by the towering Christ the Redeemer above. This courtyard has become one of the most photographed spots in the city and is completely free to visit.

Beyond the famous courtyard, the park itself is lovely to wander, with landscaped gardens, forest trails, and even small caves. It’s a great place for a peaceful break from Rio’s buzz. Inside the mansion, you’ll also find the Escola de Artes Visuais (School of Visual Arts) and a café.

The café is hugely popular (and Instagram-famous), especially for brunch. Be prepared to queue, if you want to take a seat, though.

Watch the sunset at Aproador rock

Between Copacabana and Ipanema lies Arpoador Rock, one of the best sunset spots in Rio de Janeiro. Locals gather here every evening to watch the sun dip behind the mountains of Dois Irmãos in the distance. When the last light disappears, it’s not uncommon for the whole crowd to erupt into applause.

It’s a free, simple, but unforgettable Rio experience. Just get there early to grab a good spot on the rocks, and bring a drink or snack to enjoy while the sky changes colors.

Take a picture with Ayrton Senna

For Formula 1 fans, like me, taking a photo with the Ayrton Senna statue in Copacabana is a must. Senna is a Brazilian legend and national hero, widely considered one of the greatest F1 drivers of all time.

The bronze statue is located along the Copacabana beachfront, and it’s a popular spot not just for racing fans but for anyone curious about Brazil’s modern cultural icons. Even if you’re not deep into motorsport, stopping by the statue is one of those unique Rio de Janeiro attractions that adds a personal touch to your trip.

Go on a day or half-day trip to Niteroi

Just across the Guanabara Bay, Niterói is one of the best day trips from Rio. Whether it’s admiring Niemeyer’s futuristic Museum of Contemporary Art or soaking up the views from Parque da Cidade, Niterói offers some of the most stunning perspectives back toward Rio itself.

Check out the view from Copacabana fort

At the end of Copacabana Beach, the Forte de Copacabana is part museum, part historic site, and part café with one of the best beach views in Rio. It’s a small but rewarding stop if you’re exploring the city’s coastline and want to mix history with leisure.

With cheap entry and a prime location, this is one of those Rio de Janeiro attractions that’s both affordable and worth the visit.

Explore the markets

Exploring Rio’s markets is one of the best ways to experience the city’s local culture and food scene. They’re lively, colorful, and full of energy — and some of them are among the most authentic things to do in Rio de Janeiro.

Feira Hippie in Ipanema: Every Sunday, Praça General Osório fills with stalls selling crafts, clothes, souvenirs, and some food. It’s touristy, yes, but still fun to browse and a great place for souvenirs.
Feira da Glória: Held every Sunday morning, this is one of Rio’s best food markets. You’ll find tropical fruits, fresh seafood, pastel stalls, sugarcane juice, and homemade sweets. It’s a foodie’s paradise.
Feira de São Cristóvão: Dedicated to Northeastern Brazilian culture, this huge market combines food, music, and crafts. It’s a bit further out, but if you want to dive deep into regional Brazilian cuisine and culture, it’s well worth the trip.

Visiting markets in Rio is more than just shopping — it’s a chance to mingle with locals, taste traditional foods, and see a side of the city far from the postcard beaches.

Visit the Museum of the Republic

Located in a former presidential palace, the Museum of the Republic is one of the most interesting museums in Rio. It’s not just about politics; the exhibitions cover Brazil’s history, culture, and society in a way that’s easy to follow.

Even if you’re not into museums, the building and the park behind it are stunning and worth a walk. It’s a quieter spot compared to the big attractions, making it perfect if you’re looking for things to do in Rio beyond the usual tourist spots.

See the cutias and other wildlife at Praca de República

If you’re a nature lover wondering what to do in Rio de Janeiro that’s unique, visit Praça da República. Here, you can often spot wildlife like cutias (small rodents similar to capybaras), and other animals roaming freely.

It’s not your typical tourist attraction, but it’s one of those unexpected Rio de Janeiro experiences that make the city so special — a reminder that even in the middle of a sprawling metropolis, nature is always close by.

Just be aware that Praça da República is not in the safest area and be aware of your surroundings and belongings.