Location: Rio de Janeiro
Top Things to do in Rio de Janeiro
Countries
Things to do in Rio de Janeiro, State of Rio de Janeiro (RJ): The Best Scenic Railroads
With its plentiful beaches, dramatic mountains, and backdrop of samba and bossa nova rhythms, it's easy to fall in love with Rio de Janeiro. Made famous in song, Ipanema Beach is still the place to stroll, sunbathe, and be seen. The largest Art Deco statue in the world, Christ the Redeemer, beckons visitors to Corcovado Mountain. Rio’s annual Carnaval celebrations are bacchanalian extravaganzas of feasting, music, dance, and costumed revelry.
Restaurants in Rio de Janeiro
1. Private Tour: Icons of Rio (Christ and Sugar Loaf), Santa Teresa and City Center
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
The perfect balance between nature and history, this private tour covers visits to the 2 icons of Rio (Christ and Sugar Loaf), part of the historical City Center and the famous Santa Teresa neighborhood with a break for lunch (typical brazilian food or whatever you prefer). All with the comfort and attention that only a private tour can provide.
Inclusions: Private Car with Driver, Tour Guide, Flexible starting time with pick-up and drop-off at Hotels, Airbnbs, Airports and Cruise Terminal., Bottled Water and Snacks (snacks suspended due to the situation)
Exclusions: Tickets for attractions. But we'll help you with that !, Food and Drinks
Reviewed By cindy5000
Marcel Elias made sure we had the perfect car to accommodate us and my wheelchair and the perfect guide Rafi, his partner! our cruise was 3 hours delayed disembarkation (checking for CoVid-19 and they waited! Rafi ensured we maximized the day and got to all of our destinations with all the modifications for time and wheelchair. We loved Rio and every stop was fun...unplanned was going to the school. and seeing the floats and costumes. The day was perfect. Thank you Be Free Turs!
2. Santa Teresa - Ancient Rio
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Come to Ancient Rio and Santa Teresa. Known for its access with the tram, Santa Teresa is home to the city's artistic, cultural and bohemian atmosphere. In this tour we will know about the history of Rio, go up the neighborhood of Santa Teresa using its famous streetcar and we will have the Parque da Ruínas, a public park with an art gallery built around the ruins of a mansion, with one of the best viewpoints in the city! Be impressed by this tour.
Inclusions: two-way ticket at Santa Teresa Train.
Exclusions:
Reviewed By Pjb96003
I had the pleasure to be taken on a fishing tour via Lima tours. Firstly, any traveler can appreciate being treated honestly and professionally. Rodrigo completely outlined the itinerary, the cost and how to be prepared (let me capitalize SUN SCREEN:). The tour was as described and better. I felt like a real local, fishing in locations that were definitely off the normal touristy spots. The natural beauty was amazing. Additionally, Rodrigo was very knowledgeable about Rio and Brazil in general (both from a historical perspective and in regard to present day). No question was too small or too inconsequential. Instead of being on a tour, i felt like I was out with a few friends. Any traveler can appreciate that the absolute best way to travel is via local residents. Lastly (but not least), the local fishing guide Gustavo was amazing. His passion towards fishing was unparalleled. It was a pleasure to be introduced to someone with so much local fishing knowledge. If you are in Rio and want to fish (or do any other activity via a tour) Lima tours will make you feel like you are local Carioca returning to Rio:)
3. 12-Day South America: Machu Pichu, Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls, Rio de Janeiro
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
From north to south, this South America tour will give you a taste of the diversity of this incredible continent. With a mix of nature, flavours and cosmopolitan cities, you will be impressed by each destination's magical touches. Travel to the energetic mind-blowing Machu Picchu and the colonial city of Cusco, and explore the ruins of one of the world’s early civilizations. Discover Argentina's flavours and the tango culture in Buenos Aires and get to know its historic neighbourhoods. Then, visit the breathtaking Iguazu Falls, one of the most incredible waterfalls in the world. And finally, have a perfect closure for your trip in an incredible beachside paradise: Rio de Janeiro, where you will see the best of its colourful and charming landscape. With accommodation and tours included, all you need to bring is your sense of adventure!
Inclusions: 11 nights of accommodation (5 nights in Perú, 4 in Argentina & 2 in Brazil), Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Tours and transfers mentioned in the itinerary, Professional guide (English / Spanish) , Vistadome train tickets, Entrance fees to Perú’s and Rio’s attractions, Iguazú Eco-Fee
Exclusions: International or Domestic Flights & Buses, Iguazu Falls National Park entrance fees (Argentinian & Brazilian sides) , Food and beverage, unless otherwise specified , Travel / Medical Insurance, Optional Tours & Tips
4. Private Tour: Rio's City Essentials including Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 89 reviews
Important ! The itinerary described here is a suggestion. We're very flexible to change it according to your interests ! Enjoy a private city tour in Rio de Janeiro with a driver/guide or separate driver and tour guide for a more complete experience (choose the option that suits you better when booking). Visit major landmarks, such as Corcovado (Christ the Redeemer Statue), Sugar Loaf, the Rainforest, Selaron Stairs and more ! A truly unforgettable experience !!
Inclusions: Private car with driver, Tour Guide (if 'Driver and Tour Guide' option is chosen when booking, check the price options), Flexible starting time with hotel, airbnb, airport and cruise terminal pick-up and drop-off, Bottled Water and Snacks (snacks temporarily suspended due to the covid-19 pandemic)
Exclusions: Tickets for the attractions (due to the flexibility of the itinerary, but we will help with that !), Food and Drinks
Reviewed By Les S
My wife and I just returned from our vacation in Brazil and are happy to share these comments with other travellers. We booked Be Free Tours for three days of private touring in the Rio area, blending together a few of their suggested itineraries. From the moment we were greeted at the airport by our guide, Marcelo G Elias, we knew we had made a good decision. His English was excellent, his manner relaxed, and we knew that we could adjust our plans on the fly if needed depending on weather and traffic. On the first morning we met a second guide, Rafael, and he and Marcelo worked together to show us the highlights of Rio. On the second day we all visited Petropolis and on our last day we did a walking tour of the downtown area followed by an interesting visit to one of the Samba Schools that was making their final preparations for Carnival. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Rio and the little local touches that can only happen with a private guide. Marcelo ensured that things went smoothly, paving the way by making lunch reservations and bypassing the crowds using local knowledge. We sampled local cuisine, fell in love with cinnamon flavoured Cappuccino, and appreciated the restaurant suggestions. Thanks to both Marcelo and Rafael for the wonderful experience.
5. Santa Teresa, Lapa, and Cinelândia with Tram Ride and Selarón Steps
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 50 reviews
Begin your tour at Downtown (“Centro”), where you will get the tram (“bondinho”) to the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa. You will drive over the Arcos da Lapa. Then, walk along the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa, a bucolic area in Rio de Janeiro. You will visit the Ruins Park (closed on Mondays), a public park with an art gallery built around the ruins of a mansion. Up next, you will walk down the colorful Selarón Steps, one of Rio’s landmarks, and arrive at the district of Lapa, the zone with most traditional nightlife. Take a stroll in the Passeio Público, the oldest public park in the South America, to reach Cinelândia, a lively spot in Rio thanks to its bars, restaurants and cultural attractions. Your last stop will be at Confeitaria Colombo (closed on Sundays), a permanent member of all “must-see cafés” rankings around the world.
Inclusions: Guided half-day walking tour, All Fees and Taxes, Santa Teresa tram ride included, Entrance fees, Professional guide with live tour commentary in English, Spanish & Portuguese., Hotel pickup and drop-off from hotels in South Zone (Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, Leme) hotels, Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
Exclusions: Food and Drinks (available for purchase at Confeitaria Colombo), Gratuities (optional)
Reviewed By freddyl550
It was a Great experience. Adriano was knowledgeable in the local customs and history which made the entire experience that much better! We had plenty of opportunities for photos in all the must see spots In Rio!!! I don't think there would be a better way to see all the things we were able to see! Adriano our guide was even kind enough to take photos of us along the way. I was surprised but my favorite part of the trip was sambódromo cathedral!!
6. Private Tour: Rio de Janeiro Customizable City Sightseeing with Optional Corcovado and Sugar Loaf Tickets
Overall Ratings
4.3 based on 20 reviews
See the best of Rio de Janeiro with a knowledgeable local guide on a private, customizable city tour! You’ll be chauffeured around Rio in a comfortable private vehicle and have the unique opportunity to fully customize your own itinerary. Head to whichever neighborhoods, beaches or city landmarks you’d like to see, from the shores of Guanabara Bay to the hilltop enclave of Santa Teresa – your choice. If you opt to upgrade your tour, travel through the Tijuca Forest by cog train to Corcovado and/or by cable car to Sugar Loaf Mountain.
Inclusions: Professional guide, Transport by private vehicle
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities, Entrance fees (if option not selected)
Reviewed By Roam445153
We traveled to Brazil on a Wim during these unfortunate times and everything was planned last minute. Our hotel set this tour up for us and we just expected to go see Christ and sugar loaf. However, due to the ongoing situation and the weather it ended up being only us two on this tour. I have been on many tours around the world, never a private tour though. This was beyond expectation. I was planning on renting a car and driving around, but no need as we got all of that out of the way with our tour guides. Wanderlei was absolutely amazing and should I say had much knowledge about the history of Rio which was very interesting. Driving around yourself you wouldn’t know half the things you passed by, but Wanderlei made sure to point out everything! Wanderlei aka Luis, spoke English very well and was an amazing photographer. He was so kind to take soooo many pictures everywhere we stopped. I’m not sure they could have sent us a better tour guide! Also, Marco the driver was absolutely amazing! Just so accommodating! Never made us wait, ALWAYS opened the doors for us, carried an umbrella when it rained, and lastly was very kind and always ensuring we were enjoying our time. I could go on and on but I think I have made my point. If you could, get a private tour, you won’t regret it! By far the best tour experience I have had. After all, it’s not always about the places you go see, it’s also about the company your with that makes it much more enjoyable. B&L
7. Rio de Janeiro Super Saver: Corcovado and Sugar Loaf Mountain plus Ginga Tropical Show
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 41 reviews
Combine a full-day tour of Rio de Janeiro’s top attractions with an evening of samba at the Ginga Tropical Show! This is the ultimate day out in Rio — enjoy a city tour of downtown attractions like the Metropolitan Cathedral and Cinelandia Square; ride the cable car to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain and the cog train to the top of Corcovado Mountain; take a lap around the lendary Maracanã Stadium; see the statue of Christ the Redeemer; marvel at amazing views of the city; and end your day with a colorful dance performance that celebrates Brazil’s cultural roots. Hotel or port transport, barbecue lunch included.
Inclusions: Cog train ride on Corcovado Mountain, Cable car ride on Sugar Loaf Mountain, Local guide, Barbecue lunch, Ticket to Ginga Tropical Show, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transport by air-conditioned bus or minivan, Port pickup and drop-off
Exclusions: Drinks, Gratuities, Dinner
Reviewed By Roam445153
We traveled to Brazil on a Wim during these unfortunate times and everything was planned last minute. Our hotel set this tour up for us and we just expected to go see Christ and sugar loaf. However, due to the ongoing situation and the weather it ended up being only us two on this tour. I have been on many tours around the world, never a private tour though. This was beyond expectation. I was planning on renting a car and driving around, but no need as we got all of that out of the way with our tour guides. Wanderlei was absolutely amazing and should I say had much knowledge about the history of Rio which was very interesting. Driving around yourself you wouldn’t know half the things you passed by, but Wanderlei made sure to point out everything! Wanderlei aka Luis, spoke English very well and was an amazing photographer. He was so kind to take soooo many pictures everywhere we stopped. I’m not sure they could have sent us a better tour guide! Also, Marco the driver was absolutely amazing! Just so accommodating! Never made us wait, ALWAYS opened the doors for us, carried an umbrella when it rained, and lastly was very kind and always ensuring we were enjoying our time. I could go on and on but I think I have made my point. If you could, get a private tour, you won’t regret it! By far the best tour experience I have had. After all, it’s not always about the places you go see, it’s also about the company your with that makes it much more enjoyable. B&L
8. Rio Shore Excursion: Skip the Line Christ Redeemer and Sugar Loaf Day Tour
Overall Ratings
3.9 based on 17 reviews
Combine two of Rio's most popular tours on a full-day shore excursion packed with breathtaking views. Int he morning, you'll enjoy a panoramic city tour and have the opportunity to ride a cable car to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain. After lunch, you'll travel through the Tijuca Rain Forest with skip the line cog train tickets to the statue of Christ the Redeemer on top of Corcovado Mountain. This tour is an excellent option if your time in Rio de Janeiro is limited, giving you the best of Rio in one great day.
Inclusions: Skip The Line Train Ticket to Christ Redeemer Statue Access, Cable Car Ticket to Sugar Loaf Access, Professional guide, Barbecue Lunch (Vegetarian options available) - On option with Lunch. If selecting an option without lunch, our guide will offer a variety of nearby suggestions that can fit any budget or taste!, Port pickup and drop off
Exclusions: Gratuities, Drinks
Reviewed By Roam445153
We traveled to Brazil on a Wim during these unfortunate times and everything was planned last minute. Our hotel set this tour up for us and we just expected to go see Christ and sugar loaf. However, due to the ongoing situation and the weather it ended up being only us two on this tour. I have been on many tours around the world, never a private tour though. This was beyond expectation. I was planning on renting a car and driving around, but no need as we got all of that out of the way with our tour guides. Wanderlei was absolutely amazing and should I say had much knowledge about the history of Rio which was very interesting. Driving around yourself you wouldn’t know half the things you passed by, but Wanderlei made sure to point out everything! Wanderlei aka Luis, spoke English very well and was an amazing photographer. He was so kind to take soooo many pictures everywhere we stopped. I’m not sure they could have sent us a better tour guide! Also, Marco the driver was absolutely amazing! Just so accommodating! Never made us wait, ALWAYS opened the doors for us, carried an umbrella when it rained, and lastly was very kind and always ensuring we were enjoying our time. I could go on and on but I think I have made my point. If you could, get a private tour, you won’t regret it! By far the best tour experience I have had. After all, it’s not always about the places you go see, it’s also about the company your with that makes it much more enjoyable. B&L
9. Full Day Sugar Loaf, Maracanã including Skip the Line Christ Redeemer By Train
Overall Ratings
3.9 based on 557 reviews
Take a city tour through Downtown Rio with a Stop at the Metropolitan Cathedral, travel to the top of Sugar Loaf Mountain, Enjoy Lunch at a traditional Barbecue house, all you can eat style, stop at the Maracanã Stadium and visit the Christ the Redeemer statue with Skip the Line tickets to the cog train through the Tijuca Rainforest National Park, which is the best way to reach the statue. Enjoy all Rio has to offer in this full-day comprehensive tour of Rio's most famous landmarks and enjoy top quality food and VIP Skip the Line privileges. This 9-hour tour, which includes round-trip transportation from most Rio hotels, allows you to see all of Rio's sights in just one day.
Inclusions: Professional guide, Barbecue Lunch (Vegetarian options available) - On option with Lunch. If selecting an option without lunch, our guide will offer a variety of nearby suggestions that can fit any budget or taste!, Hotel pickup and drop off, Skip The Line Train Ticket to Christ Redeemer Statue Access, Cable Car Ticket to Sugar Loaf Access
Exclusions: Gratuities, Drinks
Reviewed By Roam445153
We traveled to Brazil on a Wim during these unfortunate times and everything was planned last minute. Our hotel set this tour up for us and we just expected to go see Christ and sugar loaf. However, due to the ongoing situation and the weather it ended up being only us two on this tour. I have been on many tours around the world, never a private tour though. This was beyond expectation. I was planning on renting a car and driving around, but no need as we got all of that out of the way with our tour guides. Wanderlei was absolutely amazing and should I say had much knowledge about the history of Rio which was very interesting. Driving around yourself you wouldn’t know half the things you passed by, but Wanderlei made sure to point out everything! Wanderlei aka Luis, spoke English very well and was an amazing photographer. He was so kind to take soooo many pictures everywhere we stopped. I’m not sure they could have sent us a better tour guide! Also, Marco the driver was absolutely amazing! Just so accommodating! Never made us wait, ALWAYS opened the doors for us, carried an umbrella when it rained, and lastly was very kind and always ensuring we were enjoying our time. I could go on and on but I think I have made my point. If you could, get a private tour, you won’t regret it! By far the best tour experience I have had. After all, it’s not always about the places you go see, it’s also about the company your with that makes it much more enjoyable. B&L
10. Rio de Janeiro Super Saver: Guanabara Bay Cruise with Barbecue Lunch and Christ Redeemer with Selaron Steps and Sugar Loaf
Overall Ratings
3.8 based on 6 reviews
Catch the view of Rio from the Sea in the amazing Guanabara Bay Cruise, followed by a barbecue lunch (all you can eat), a stop at the Selaron Steps, then heading to the Christ Redeemer by van and Sugar Loaf, just in time for sunset. This tour allows you to get different perspectives of Rio in just one day from its main sights and landmarks. Enjoy magnificent views from the sea and atop Corcovado and Sugar Loaf Mountains. An unforgettable day in the Wonderful City, for sure
Inclusions: Roundtrip Transfer to Most Hotels in São Conrado, Leblon, Ipanema and Copacabana, Professional Tour Guide, Season tropical fruits, such as watermelon and pineapples for free in the boat, Lunch
Exclusions: Drinks, Optional Gratuities
Reviewed By Roam445153
We traveled to Brazil on a Wim during these unfortunate times and everything was planned last minute. Our hotel set this tour up for us and we just expected to go see Christ and sugar loaf. However, due to the ongoing situation and the weather it ended up being only us two on this tour. I have been on many tours around the world, never a private tour though. This was beyond expectation. I was planning on renting a car and driving around, but no need as we got all of that out of the way with our tour guides. Wanderlei was absolutely amazing and should I say had much knowledge about the history of Rio which was very interesting. Driving around yourself you wouldn’t know half the things you passed by, but Wanderlei made sure to point out everything! Wanderlei aka Luis, spoke English very well and was an amazing photographer. He was so kind to take soooo many pictures everywhere we stopped. I’m not sure they could have sent us a better tour guide! Also, Marco the driver was absolutely amazing! Just so accommodating! Never made us wait, ALWAYS opened the doors for us, carried an umbrella when it rained, and lastly was very kind and always ensuring we were enjoying our time. I could go on and on but I think I have made my point. If you could, get a private tour, you won’t regret it! By far the best tour experience I have had. After all, it’s not always about the places you go see, it’s also about the company your with that makes it much more enjoyable. B&L
TAGS
