Rio De Janeiro 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Rio

Morning:

  • Check-in at your preferred accommodation. We recommend Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro for a luxurious experience or Praia Inn Hostel for a more budget-friendly option.
  • Start your day with a traditional Brazilian breakfast at Café Palo Alto, located in the historic center of Rio.
  • Visit the iconic Corcovado and the Christ the Redeemer Statue. You can reach Corcovado by taking the train from Cosme Velho Station or opt for a guided tour that includes transportation.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Copacabana Beach for some sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t forget to try a Caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail!
  • Explore the Leme and Copacabana Forts, offering stunning views of the beach and the city.

Evening:

  • Dine at Aprazível Restaurante & Casa Cool in Santa Teresa, a charming neighborhood with a bohemian vibe. The restaurant offers a variety of regional dishes.
  • Spend your evening enjoying Rio’s nightlife. Visit Lapa, famous for its vibrant streets and samba clubs like Carioca da Gema.

Transportation: Rio’s public transportation system is extensive, but taxis are also readily available. Consider getting a Rio Card (Cartão Smart) for easier access to buses and metro.

Day 2: Discovering the Marvelous City

Morning:

  • Visit Praia de Ipanema, made famous by the song “The Girl from Ipanema”. Grab a seat at Bar da Urca or Garota de Ipanema for breakfast with a view.
  • Explore the Jardim Botânico de Rio de Janeiro (Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden), home to over 5,000 species of plants.

Afternoon:

  • Take a cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) for panoramic views of the city and Guanabara Bay.
  • Visit the Museum of Tomorrow, located at the foot of Sugarloaf, which explores future challenges for humanity.

Evening:

  • Dine at Casa Nosso Senhor do Bonfim in Santa Teresa, known for its hearty regional dishes and live music.
  • End your day with a traditional Samba show at Rio Scenarium, another popular spot in Lapa.

Things to Know:

  • Rio de Janeiro is famous for its safety issues, especially after dark. Always be aware of your surroundings, particularly in tourist areas.
  • English is not widely spoken, so it’s helpful to learn a few Portuguese phrases or have a translation app handy.
  • Brazil uses the Real as currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
  • Enjoy your trip to Rio de Janeiro and embrace its vibrant culture, delicious food, and beautiful sights!