Rio De Janeiro 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Downtown Rio & Copacabana Beach

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Antonio Carlos Discoveries Cafe, famous for its traditional Brazilian dishes.
    • Visit the Paço Imperial, a 18th-century palace that now serves as a museum showcasing Rio’s colonial history.
    • Head to the Museum of Tomorrow located at Pier Mauá, learning about the future through the lens of science and sustainability.

  • Afternoon:

    • Stroll along the famous Copacabana Beach, soak up the sun or enjoy a game of beach volleyball.
    • Visit the Rio Olympic Boulevard to relive the 2016 Summer Olympics’ spirit, and take pictures at the Carioca Aquatic Arena (Maracanãzinho).
    • For lunch, try Bar do Bolinha on Copacabana Beach, offering delicious seafood dishes.

  • Evening:

    • Ride the iconic Selarón Stairs (Escadaria Selarón) adorned with thousands of tiles from around the world.
    • Enjoy a Brazilian Churrascaria dinner at Fogo de Chão, famous for its rodizio-style dining experience.

Day 2: Corcovado & Sugarloaf Mountain

  • Morning:

    • Start your day early with breakfast at the hotel and then head to Cosme Velho Train Station for a scenic ride up to the top of Corcovado. Don’t miss the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue!

  • Afternoon:

    • Grab a quick lunch at Pão de Açúcar Café, located at the foot of Sugarloaf Mountain.
    • Take the cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking views of Rio.

  • Evening:

    • Visit the Lapa Arches (Arcos da Lapa) and enjoy the vibrant nightlife in the surrounding streets, particularly Rua Mem de Sá and Rua Joaquim Silva.
    • Dine at Aprazível, a restaurant offering a unique experience with its terrace overlooking Lapa and live music performances.

Day 3: Ipanema & Leblon Beaches & Santa Teresa

  • Morning:

    • Visit the Posto 9 on Ipanema Beach, made famous by the song “The Girl from Ipanema.”
    • Head to the nearby Museu do Amanhã, an interactive museum that explores humanity’s impact on nature.

  • Afternoon:

    • Have lunch at Confeitaria Colombo, a historic café located in Leblon, offering classic Brazilian cuisine.
    • Take the Bonde Santa Teresa (Santa Teresa Tram) for a scenic ride through the charming neighborhood of Santa Teresa. Visit Parque das Ruinas to take in the panoramic views of Rio.

  • Evening:

    • Return to Ipanema and relax on the beach as you watch the sunset.
    • Dine at Garota de Ipanema, a restaurant that offers great seafood dishes while you reminisce about the famous song.

Things to Know:

  • Rio’s official language is Portuguese, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
  • Be aware of your belongings, especially on beaches and in crowded areas.
  • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps like 99Taxis and Uber for safe transportation around the city.
  • The local currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL). Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas.
  • The time zone in Rio de Janeiro is Brasília Time (UTC -3).

Transportation: Rio’s public transport system includes buses, trams (bonde), and subways. Buy a RioCard for unlimited rides or use the Brasil Card to travel with ease. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also available.