A cultural guide to Rio de Janeiro
Sun-soaked and steeped in samba rhythms, Rio promises endless beach days and, once a year, the world’s largest carnival celebration
Key neighborhoods
Santa Teresa
Overview
Away from the beach, pretty Santa Teresa is a hillside neighborhood with a bohemian heart. To get there in style, catch a yellow bondinho (tram) from downtown over the 18th-century aqueduct, the Lapa Arches (go early, as it gets busy). Ocean views and cobbled, leafy streets lined with galleries, crumbling mansions, and chic restaurants make Santa Teresa a thoroughly lovely place to explore and stay. Book a room at Vila Santa Teresa.
What’s Nearby
Ipanema
Overview
If you want to get a real taste of what makes the city tick, then stay near the beach. Centrally located Ipanema lies close to Copacabana and Leblon with easy access to the city center. It’s known for restaurants, shops (hit Farme de Amoedo for boutiques and Sunday’s weekly Hippie Fair for trinkets), and of course, the beach. At the end of Ipanema lies the rocky Arpoador outcrop, a popular spot for surfing and watching the sunset.
What’s Nearby

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