Rio de JaneiroBrazil
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Dramatic granite peaks plunging into white-sand beaches, samba rhythms pulsing through favela streets, and Cristo Redentor watching over it all. Rio's energy is contagious — from Copacabana to Carnival, nothing is half-hearted here.
Best Time to Visit
May to September
Daily Budget
$50-120/day
mid-range tier
Weather
Tropical. Hot humid summers (30-40°C, December-March). Mild dry winters (20-27°C, May-September). Winter is the best time to visit.
Top Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro
- Christ the Redeemer — the 30m Art Deco statue atop Corcovado
- Sugarloaf Mountain — cable car to the iconic granite peak at sunset
- Ipanema and Copacabana beaches — the world's most famous urban beaches
- Santa Teresa — bohemian hilltop neighbourhood with street art and samba bars
- Carnival (February/March) — the world's biggest street party
Travel Tips
- 1.Use Uber/99 instead of hailing taxis — safer and cheaper
- 2.Don't bring valuables to the beach — leave everything at the hotel
- 3.Escadaria Selarón (tiled steps) is best visited in the morning for photos without crowds