Rio De Janeiro Brazil 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Rio’s Iconic Landmarks

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty Brazilian breakfast at Café Palo Alto in the Lapa neighborhood. Try their famous tapioca, a thin, crepe-like dish filled with various sweet or savory ingredients.

  • Head to the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar). You can either take the cable car or hike if you’re up for it. The panoramic view of Rio from the top is breathtaking.

Afternoon:

  • After descending Sugarloaf, head to nearby Copacabana Beach. Relax on the sand, enjoy a fresh coconut water from one of the many street vendors, or take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean.

  • Visit the Rio Olympic Park (Parque Olímpico). Explore the various venues used during the 2016 Summer Olympics and take a stroll through the lush green areas.

Evening:

  • For dinner, head to Aprazível in Santa Teresa. This restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its colorful decor and amazing views of the city.

  • Finish your day by experiencing the vibrant nightlife in Lapa. Visit Arco Iris or Lapa 40 Graus, famous for their live samba music and lively crowds.

Day 2: Discovering Rio’s Culture and History

Morning:

  • Begin your day with breakfast at Confeitaria Colombo, a historic café in the city center that has been operating since 1894.

  • Visit Corcovado Mountain and the famous Christ the Redeemer statue. You can reach Corcovado by taking the cogwheel train from Cosme Velho station. The statue, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, offers a symbolic representation of Rio.

Afternoon:

  • After descending Corcovado, head to the Sambódromo. This is where the famous Carnival parade takes place. Even if you’re not there for Carnival, you can still learn about the rich history of samba and the annual festivities at the Samba Museum.

  • Explore the charming neighborhood of Santa Teresa. Visit Parque das Ruinas for a panoramic view of the city, or wander through its narrow, cobblestone streets filled with colorful houses and street art.

Evening:

  • For your final dinner in Rio, head to Garota de Ipanema at Ipanema Beach. This iconic restaurant offers delicious seafood and a great view of the beach where the famous bossa nova song “The Girl from Ipanema” was inspired.

Things to Know:

  • Brazil operates on 240V electricity, so make sure to bring an adapter if needed.
  • Rio’s tap water is not safe to drink, so stick to bottled water.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like beaches and tourist spots.

Transportation:

  • The best way to get around Rio is by using the metro, buses, or taxis. You can also use the bike-sharing system BikeRio if you prefer cycling.

Tips:

  • Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases to make your interactions with locals easier and more enjoyable.
  • Embrace the local culture by trying various Brazilian dishes like feijoada, moqueca, and acai berry bowls.
  • Enjoy your trip to Rio de Janeiro!