Things to do in Rio de Janeiro State

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Ipanema Beach
Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden
Copacabana Beach showing a sunset, mist or fog and a beach
Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro State Attractions

Learn what makes Rio de Janeiro State tick with the most popular tours & day trips. Look into our {951 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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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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Palms and Two Brothers Mountain on Ipanema beach, Rio de Janeiro

3. 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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Aerial view of Rio de Janeiro city skyline in Brazil, Shutterstock ID 1033504918, Purchase Order: SP-1506 Go Guides, Order Number: , Client/Licensee: Faa Praharnpap, Other: Hcom budget

4. 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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Rua das Pedras showing night scenes and a small town or village

5. 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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Geriba Beach featuring a beach, general coastal views and a coastal town

6. 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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Joao Fernandes Beach which includes general coastal views and kayaking or canoeing as well as a couple

7. Sugar Loaf Mountain

Located on the coast of the southeastern corner of Rio de Janeiro, Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) resides within forests, water and hills at the edge of Guanabara Bay. Rock climbers conquer the mountain using appropriate gear, but most visitors take the glass-sided cable car to the top. Originally built in 1912, the cable car transports 65 visitors per trip and offers panoramic views the entire way.
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2 beaches is better than 1!
Breathtaking view of Copacabana Beach and Praia Vermelha in Rio de Janeiro!
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8. 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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Forte Beach which includes a beach and general coastal views as well as a small group of people

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:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Rio de Janeiro State? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Rio de Janeiro State

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro State

Copacabana

Copacabana

4/5(940 area reviews)

Famed for its 4 km balneario beach, this lively Rio de Janeiro neighborhood offers surfing at Arpoador Beach, historic Fort Copacabana, and the iconic promenade designed by Roberto Burle Marx. Enjoy numerous hotels, restaurants, and nightlife, with easy access via three subway Metro stations.

Copacabana
Barra da Tijuca showing a sandy beach as well as a large group of people

Barra da Tijuca

4.5/5(115 area reviews)

Boasting stunning beaches, lakes, and rivers, this upper-class neighborhood offers surf competitions, parachuting experiences, and tennis courts. Explore large modern malls, bars, and restaurants, while enjoying easy access to public transportation.

Barra da Tijuca
Ipanema which includes markets as well as a large group of people

Ipanema

4.5/5(151 area reviews)

Surrounded by elegant development, Ipanema's beach boasts vibrant beach culture, with daily gatherings of surfers, sunbathers, and sports enthusiasts. Stroll along the grid-like streets to explore world-class restaurants, shops, and the bustling Ipanema Hippie Market.

Ipanema
Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro Centro

3.5/5(114 area reviews)

You might enjoy the museums while in Rio de Janeiro Centro. Saara Rio is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Tiradentes Tram Stop or Colombo Tram Stop to see more of the city.

Rio de Janeiro Centro
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Penedo

4.5/5(2 area reviews)

Travelers like the parks in Penedo, and Tres Cachoeiras is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Penedo
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Leblon

4.5/5(33 area reviews)

Wealthy and cosmopolitan, this South Zone gem boasts sights like Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, Morro Dois Irmãos, and Jardim de Alah channel. Enjoy lively nightlife with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Leblon

 

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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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