Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this iconic 30-meter Art Deco statue stands atop 710-meter Corcovado Mountain with arms outstretched over the entire city. The journey via the historic cog railway through Tijuca Forest is an experience itself, passing through lush Atlantic rainforest before emerging at the viewing platform. On clear days, panoramic views extend across Sugarloaf, Guanabara Bay, Copacabana, and the entire metropolitan area. Approximately two million visitors annually make the pilgrimage to this symbol of Brazilian Christianity and national identity. The chapel at the base hosts occasional masses with unforgettable backdrops.

Ride two consecutive cable cars to the summit of Pão de Açúcar, Rio's famous 396-meter granite peak at the mouth of Guanabara Bay. The journey begins at Praia Vermelha, ascends to Urca Hill's forested midpoint, then continues to the dramatic summit offering 360-degree views of Rio's coastline, mountains, and urban sprawl. Sunset visits are particularly magical as the city transitions from golden hour to twinkling lights. The Urca station features restaurants, bars, and even outdoor concerts, making this more than just a viewpoint visit. Clear days reveal views extending to the Serra do Mar mountain range.

Perhaps the world's most famous urban beach, Ipanema stretches for 2km of golden sand backed by the Two Brothers mountains. Each section of the beach has its own personality with different crowds gathering at numbered posts from families and sports enthusiasts to the LGBTQ+ community and surfers at Arpoador. The beach culture is quintessentially Carioca with vendors selling everything from açaí to fresh coconuts, spontaneous soccer and volleyball games, and the ritual of watching the sunset from Arpoador rock. The surrounding neighborhood offers easy access to cafes, restaurants, and the famous Sunday Hippie Market.

This world-famous stairway in Lapa was transformed by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón who covered 250 steps with over 2,000 colorful tiles collected from more than 60 countries. Selarón worked on his "tribute to the Brazilian people" from 1990 until his death in 2013, constantly evolving this living artwork. The vibrant tiles feature the green, yellow, and blue of the Brazilian flag alongside contributions from visitors worldwide. The stairway connects the Lapa and Santa Teresa neighborhoods, providing a unique photo opportunity and window into Rio's artistic soul. Best visited in the morning before crowds arrive.

The world's largest urban rainforest covers 32 square kilometers of mountains, waterfalls, and hiking trails within Rio's city limits. Home to diverse wildlife including toucans, monkeys, and hundreds of bird species, Tijuca offers a dramatic escape from beach culture into pristine Atlantic Forest. Popular trails lead to Pico da Tijuca summit, Vista Chinesa viewpoint, and refreshing waterfalls like Cascatinha Taunay. The park was actually hand-replanted in the 1860s after coffee plantation deforestation, making it a remarkable conservation success story. Guided hikes and adventure activities like rock climbing and rappelling are available.

The 18th-century Roman-style aqueduct, known as Arcos da Lapa, serves as the gateway to Rio's most legendary nightlife district. Every weekend, the surrounding streets transform into an open-air party with samba clubs, live music venues, and crowds spilling from bars onto the cobblestones. Historic venues like Rio Scenarium and Carioca da Gema preserve traditional samba while newer spots offer forró, funk, and electronic music. The area comes alive on Fridays with the Pedra do Sal gathering, where Afro-Brazilian rhythms fill the night. The tram line running atop the arches connects to bohemian Santa Teresa neighborhood.

Once the world's largest football stadium and host of two World Cup finals, Maracanã remains a temple of Brazilian football passion. The stadium seats 78,000 fans and has witnessed legendary moments including Pelé's 1,000th goal. Stadium tours explore the locker rooms, press area, and field access while exhibits celebrate Brazilian football history. Attending an actual match between Flamengo, Fluminense, Botafogo, or Vasco da Gama provides an unforgettable glimpse into Carioca culture with passionate fans, drums, and massive tifos. The 2016 Olympics opening and closing ceremonies were held here.

Rio's bohemian hilltop neighborhood offers cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and panoramic views far from the beach crowds. Once home to coffee barons, Santa Teresa now attracts artists, musicians, and travelers seeking authentic Carioca culture in its ateliers, restaurants, and cultural centers. The historic yellow tram (bonde) climbs from Centro over the Lapa Arches through narrow streets lined with bougainvillea. Key attractions include the Chácara do Céu museum with stunning views and art collection, numerous ateliers open for visits, and the famous Bar do Mineiro for traditional food. The area hosts community events and offers some of Rio's most charming guesthouses.