Rio De Janeiro Brazil 7 Day Itinerary

Rio de Janeiro 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Copacabana Beach (Beach Day)

  • Arrive in Rio de Janeiro and check into your hotel, we recommend Hotel Praia Park Copacabana for its excellent location.
  • Freshen up and head to the iconic Copacabana Beach. Relax, swim, or try your hand at beach volleyball.
  • For lunch, visit Bar do Lobo, a local seafood restaurant with great views of the beach.
  • In the evening, enjoy a Brazilian Churrasco dinner at Fogo de Chão for an authentic experience.

Day 2: Christ the Redeemer & Sugarloaf Mountain (Sightseeing Day)

  • Start early to avoid crowds and visit Corcovado Mountain and the famous Christ the Redeemer Statue. You can reach by taking a train from Cosme Velho station.
  • After lunch, head to Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking views of Rio. You can take a cable car from Praia Vermelha beach.
  • For dinner, explore the Lapa neighborhood and try some traditional Brazilian food at Confeitaria Colombo or Casa da Porco Preto.

Day 3: Historic Center & Santa Teresa (Exploration Day)

  • Visit the Historic Center of Rio, including the Paço Imperial, Catedral Metropolitana, and the Rio Scenarium for some samba music.
  • Take a scenic tram ride or hike up to the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa. Don’t forget to visit the Parque das Ruinas and enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants like Casa Santa Teresa.

Day 4: Ipanema Beach & Shopping (Relaxation Day)

  • Spend the day at Ipanema Beach, famously known for the song “The Girl from Ipanema”. Try some acai berry ice cream and watch the sunset.
  • For lunch, visit Garota de Ipanema or Aprazível Ipanema for delicious regional cuisine with a view.
  • In the afternoon, head to Shopping Leblon for some shopping.
  • Return for dinner at Restaurante Casa Nostra, an Italian restaurant offering fantastic seafood options.

Day 5: Jardim Botânico & Tijuca Forest (Nature Day)

  • Spend the day exploring Jardim Botânico, Rio’s beautiful botanical garden, and the nearby Tijuca Forest. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • For lunch, visit Boteco da Glória in Jardim Botânico for a taste of traditional Brazilian food.
  • In the evening, return to Copacabana or Ipanema and enjoy a casual dinner at a local beachside restaurant.

Day 6: Pedra Bonita & Paragliding (Adventure Day)

  • Head to Pedra Bonita, a popular spot for paragliding with stunning views of Rio. Book your flight in advance to secure a spot.
  • For lunch, visit Parque Lage near Pedra Bonita for a relaxed meal at its lakefront restaurant.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding area or relaxing at Ipanema or Copacabana beach.
  • For your final dinner in Rio, enjoy an upscale experience at D.O.M., one of Latin America’s best restaurants.

Day 7: Departure

  • Spend the morning at leisure, perhaps picking up some souvenirs or revisiting favorite spots.
  • Head to the airport for your flight home with memories of a fantastic trip to Rio de Janeiro.

Transportation: Rio’s public transportation system includes buses and metro. For shorter distances, consider using taxis leves (light taxis) or mototaxis (motorcycle taxis).

Things to Know:

  • Brazil uses the Real as its currency. Exchange your money before arrival, or use ATMs at the airport.
  • Portuguese is the official language, but many people speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Safety is a concern in Rio, so be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas, particularly at night.