Things to do in Rio de Janeiro State

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A crowded beach with numerous umbrellas and people enjoying the sand and water.
A pathway lined with tall palm trees under a clear sky.
A beach with people walking along the shore and some in the water.
A cityscape with modern and historic buildings, trees, and streetlights.
A cityscape with tall buildings, a pedestrian plaza, and people walking.

Rio de Janeiro State Attractions

Learn what makes Rio de Janeiro State tick with the most popular tours & day trips. Look into our {1237 fun activities in Rio de Janeiro State fun activities in Rio de Janeiro State}, and book with ease knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

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Rio de Janeiro State must see attractions

1. Copacabana Beach

Gleaming hotels and forested hills line the perfectly curved 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) stretch of Copacabana Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the world. Abutting one of Brazil’s highest density residential areas, this beach is nearly always filled to capacity, but that’s part of its charm. Swim in the cool waters of the Atlantic amongst thousands of other visitors, join in a game of soccer on the sand or just sit back on a beach chair and order snacks from a beach vendor and watch the passing parade.
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A beach with a road running parallel to it, palm trees, and buildings in the background.

2. Ipanema Beach

Located in one of the wealthiest areas in Rio de Janeiro, Ipanema Beach is between Leblon and Arpoador, adjacent to the famed Copacabana Beach. Although the word Ipanema literally translates to “stinky lake” in the Tupi language, this description doesn’t fit what you’ll find along this stretch of white-sand beach where the rich and chic come to worship the sun. Beyond the western limit of the beach, there is a beautiful view of the two mountains, Dois Irmãos.
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A beach with palm trees, ocean waves, and mountains in the background.

3. Geriba Beach

Geriba Beach is a large stretch of golden sand with bars serving shrimp and empanadas. The tranquil sandy haven has warm water and fairly large waves that lure surfers to its shores. Rent a surfboard or stand-up paddleboard to join your fellow watersports enthusiasts on the waves.
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A coastal landscape with a prominent cliff, a beach, and a cluster of houses on top.

4. Christ the Redeemer

Corcovado, which means “hunchback” in Portuguese, is a mountain in the Tijuca National Park in central Rio. The mountain offers three attractions in the one place. Although the Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor) statue may be the highlight, you can also see the world’s largest urban forest that is Tijuca National Park, and experience a scenic journey on the historic Corcovado Train, the country’s oldest tourist attraction.
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The Christ the Redeemer statue on a mountain peak, overlooking Rio de Janeiro.

5. Rua das Pedras

Rua das Pedras is the most famous street in the picturesque resort town of Búzios. Come here to shop for souvenirs in independent stores and galleries, sip coffee outside pretty cafés and experience Búzios’ lively nightlife.
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A cobblestone street at dusk with illuminated storefronts and outdoor seating.

6. Maracanã Stadium

No arena is more central to the history of Brazilian soccer than Maracanã Stadium. The location of the final matches in both of Brazil’s FIFA World Cups, this stadium has hosted all the great names in Brazilian soccer. Watch one of Rio de Janeiro’s “Big Four” teams play a game, or take a guided tour of this iconic stadium and you’ll soon understand just how large soccer looms in the Brazilian psyche.
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A large, empty stadium with blue and yellow seats and a green field.

7. Forte Beach

Long, scenic Forte Beach is the main strand of Cabo Frio. The busy bay, which takes its name from its historic fort, is packed with huts, lodgings and stores. Come here to enjoy stunning views of the verdant promontories overlooking the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
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A beach with clear turquoise waters, a sandy shore, and green hills in the background.

8. João Fernandes Beach

Praia de João Fernandes, or João Fernandes Beach, is one of the best-loved stretches of sand in the resort town of Búzios. Choose your spot here on the golden sand beneath a brightly colored beach umbrella. Prepare for a day of basking in golden sunlight, swimming in clear blue waters and taking photo after photo.
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A beach with palm trees, umbrellas, and people.

9. Avenida Atlantica

No Rio de Janeiro holiday is complete without a visit to Avenida Atlântica. This avenue is famous for its events year-round, including a massive New Year’s Eve celebration covering the entire avenue and Copacabana Beach. Stroll along the avenue’s promenade to experience Rio’s lively beach culture and oceanfront events.
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A beach with palm trees, a sandy shore, and buildings in the background.

10. Ferradura Beach

Praia Ferradura, or Ferradura Beach, is an idyllic crescent of sand on Búzios’ least busy coast, to the southwest. Located in one of the resort town’s wealthiest and most stylish neighborhoods, this glamorous beach is rumored to be a favorite with celebrities. It’s also an excellent place for a family day out. Bring or rent snorkeling masks and spend hours exploring the calm turquoise waters of this lovely cove.
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A beach with clear blue water, boats, and hills in the background.

What to do in Rio de Janeiro State

Free Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro

Escaping to Rio de Janeiro on a budget? The following can be seen for nada.

Astronomia e Ciencias Afins Museum - Approach the friendly staff or curator and find out about the interesting collections held at this museum.

Sambodrome - Satisfy your passion for arts and culture here and see creativity and talent at work.

Praca da Apoteose - This popular landmark is an unique backdrop for a selfie.

Pedra do Sal - Educate yourself about some of the interesting history of the region through this attraction.

Praca da Cruz Vermelha - This is a bustling area where you can soak in the atmosphere and experience local life.

Feira Nordestina - Organize a visit and discover the significance of this place to the local community.

Catedral Presbiteriana Do Rio De Janeiro - Take a moment for some prayer or meditation at this tranquil place of worship.

Urca Beach - Breathe in the sea air and watch the waves splashing against the shore at this gorgeous coastal spot.

Mirante Dona Marta - You're certain to feel connected with Mother Earth at this beautiful attraction.

Quinta da Boa Vista - Grab your rug, throw together a few snacks and find a cozy spot to be with nature.

Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro State with Kids

There's fun for the entire family no matter where you go in Rio de Janeiro State. Here are some family friendly experiences to try together that are bound to make your trip a blast:


 

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Stay near popular Rio de Janeiro State attractions

Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro State

Find the best Rio de Janeiro State areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Rio de Janeiro State
Learn more about Rio de Janeiro State

Copacabana

Copacabana is highly notable for its stunning beaches, and you might want to visit top sights like Copacabana Beach and Rua Barata Ribeiro. See more of Rio de Janeiro by jumping on the metro at Siqueira Campos Station or Cardeal Arcoverde Station.

Ipanema

Ipanema Beach and Rua Farme de Amoedo are top sights in Ipanema, and you should be sure to explore the stunning beaches. Hop aboard the metro at Nossa Senhora da Paz Station or Ipanema-General Osorio Station to see more sights in the area.

Barra da Tijuca

Visitors often come to Barra da Tijuca for its beaches, but many stay to explore sights like Barra Shopping Mall and Village Mall. Getting around the area on the metro is easy if you catch a ride at Jardim Oceânico Station.

Botafogo

Botafogo is a destination travelers like for its beaches, and you might hop aboard the metro at Botafogo Station or Futura estação Morro de São João Station to explore sights like Botafogo Praia Shopping.

Leblon

Travelers choose Leblon for its beaches. Hop aboard the metro at Antero de Quental Station or Jardim de Alah - Leblon Station and check out top sights like Ipanema Beach.


 

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Popular day trips from Rio de Janeiro State

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Rio de Janeiro State on a sunny day?
What to do in Rio de Janeiro State on a rainy day?
If it's pouring with rain during your trip, put your umbrella aside and try out a couple of these appealing indoor activities:


What is Rio de Janeiro State famous for?
Get set for loads of sightseeing, because these renowned sights are waiting for you:

  • Christ the Redeemer
  • Sugar Loaf Mountain
  • Geriba Beach

What should I not miss in Rio de Janeiro State?
You just can't go home without checking off the following list of superb attractions:

  • Maracana Stadium
  • Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden
  • Forte Beach
  • Joao Fernandes Beach

Are there cheap things to do in Rio de Janeiro State?
What can you do in Rio de Janeiro State for free?
Your time in Rio de Janeiro State needn't cost a bundle with free things like these to keep you on the go:

  • Geriba Beach
  • Forte Beach
  • Joao Fernandes Beach
  • Icarai Beach

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