Curator’s statement
Sure, you've heard of Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the iconic Copacabana Beach — but have you heard about the bohemian charm of Santa Teresa? The vibrant, culture-soaked Feira de São Cristóvão? Or flea markets bursting with vintage finds and one-of-a-kind pieces? This isn’t your typical Rio itinerary. It’s designed for travelers who want to dive deeper — those who crave authentic flavors, artsy corners, and unforgettable local experiences. And while the experiences are budget-friendly, you’ll rest easy in mid to high-end hotels that offer exclusive perks when booked through me.
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Where to stay in Rio
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Things to do in Rio
Take the Tram through Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa (Neighborhood): Artsy, bohemian vibes in a historic hilltop area. Affordable walk-in restaurants (~R$45 per plate). Hop on the iconic yellow tram — still running and irresistibly charming! No need for a tour. Walking is the best way to explore.
Feira de São Cristóvão (Cultural Fair & Market) Cultural hub rooted in Brazil’s northeast. Best for street food, live music and shopping. Open most days, but Saturday nights are especially lively.
Praça XV Flea Market (Saturdays Only): Vintage treasures and local crafts in Downtown Rio. Look out for unique handmade pieces and one-of-a-kind finds. Pro tip: Grab that “Rock in Rio” jean jacket if you see it, because I should have when I was there!
Downtown Rio + Feijoada Saturdays: Budget-friendly museums and restaurants (great for families). Saturday is traditional feijoada day. Don’t miss it! Great for cultural immersion on a budget.
Feira da Gávea (Sundays Only): Local Sunday market close to the beach. Combine with a beachfront walk or brunch. Surrounded by casual restaurants.
Copacabana: Iconic, historic and culturally rich. Copacabana is more than just a beach. It's a symbol of Rio's vibrant spirit and cultural tapestry. This 4 km stretch of golden sand has been the backdrop for numerous significant events:
Historic landmarks
Fort Copacabana (1914) and Fort Duque de Caxias (1779).
Cultural Moments: Copacabana Fort's revolt (1922). Copacabana Palace (1923), mega concerts by Rod Stewart, The Rolling Stones, Madonna.
New Year's Eve: Legendary fireworks and traditional ocean offerings.
Olympics: Hosted beach volleyball and triathlon in 2016.
Promenade: Designed by Roberto Burle Marx — photogenic and iconic.
Todo Mundo no Rio – Annual Mega Concerts (2024–2028): Copacabana will host free mega concerts every May through 2028. The 2024 event featured Madonna. Lady Gaga is set for May 2025. Stay tuned for more insider info on upcoming performances!
Ipanema isn't just a beach. It's a cultural icon. The inspiration behind the globally loved song "The Girl from Ipanema," this beach embodies effortless charm and timeless elegance. Known for its soft sands, scenic views and vibrant beach culture. A favorite for people-watching, especially from the legendary Posto 9. Safe, walkable and full of life, with kiosks with food, ice cold beers and drinks, bike paths, and easy access to nearby restaurants and boutiques. The sunsets here, especially when viewed from Arpoador Rock, are unforgettable.
Urca: Visit the charming neighborhood of Urca, where the Oscar-winning film "I’m Still Here," starring Fernanda Torres, was filmed. The house used in the film is becoming the Casa do Cinema Brasileiro, celebrating Brazilian cinema history.
Places to eat & drink in Rio
Portella Bar e Restaurante – Santa Teresa: Located right in front of the Santa Teresa sign. This casual gem brings the rich, bold flavors of Brazil’s northeast to the heart of Santa Teresa. Great for drinks and hearty, regional dishes.
Aprazível – Santa Teresa: A lush, open-air restaurant with sweeping views of the city. Expect elevated Brazilian cuisine with tropical influences, set in a romantic, treehouse-like atmosphere that’s perfect for a special meal.
Adega do Pimenta – Santa Teresa: A cozy, old-world pub serving hearty German cuisine and cold lagers. Great for something unexpected in Rio’s food scene.
Confeitaria Colombo — Centro: Step into a beautifully preserved Belle Époque-era café for afternoon tea, traditional sweets and a truly grand experience. It’s as much a cultural attraction as a place to dine.
Pavão Azul – Copacabana: An iconic, no-frills Copacabana bar serving icy beers, fried sardines and a loyal local crowd. Perfect for an authentic neighborhood experience after a beach day.
Bar Astor — Ipanema: Trendy, vibrant and located right across from the beach. Known for its cocktails and elevated bar food, this is a go-to for locals and visitors alike who want a stylish but laid-back scene.
Need to know
Uber is the safest and most affordable option. Always use marked rideshare services like Uber or Lyft — never accept rides from unmarked or unofficial vehicles.
Avoid driving, especially in Santa Teresa and near Christ the Redeemer. Navigation can be tricky, and taking the wrong turn into unfamiliar neighborhoods can be dangerous.
Downtown is walkable by day. Stay aware of your surroundings, and stick to well-traveled areas.
Safety Tip: Rio is absolutely worth visiting, but like many big cities, it requires smart travel habits. With the right guidance and awareness, you'll have an incredible, worry-free trip.
Travel Advisor
Ana Frazier
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For more inspiration and travel recommendations, check out our Rio de Janeiro page.