Two Weeks in Rio — The Carioca Way

I recommend taking it easy on your first day — soak in the fact that you're in Rio. Enjoy the iconic Copacabana Beach and take some time to observe the local beach culture, just like the locals do. Along the shore, you'll find vendors offering food, drinks, towels, beach chairs for rent and much more.

Don't miss these spots:

• Parada de Copa Boteco — As the name suggests ("parada" means "stop"), this is the perfect place to pause and enjoy a unique and delicious combo: filet mignon topped with cheese and pineapple, served with warm bread. This flavor pairing is a local favorite and definitely worth a try.

• Galeto Sat's - A local favorite that dishes out mouthwatering grilled chicken well into the early hours of the morning.

About an hour before sunset, take the bondinho (cable car) to the top of Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain). Personally, this is my favorite view of Rio — it’s truly unforgettable.
Once you reach the summit, relax with a drink or a bite to eat as you take in the sweeping panorama. Watch the sky shift through a palette of colors, and wait for the sun to dip behind the mountains. As the final rays disappear, join the locals in a round of applause — a beloved tradition that celebrates the beauty of the moment.

Before hopping on the cable car, take some time to explore Urca, the charming neighborhood nestled at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain. With its quiet, tree-lined streets and beautiful homes, Urca feels like a peaceful escape from the city’s buzz.

You can also unwind at Praia Vermelha, a small, serene beach tucked between Sugarloaf and Leme. With its calm waters and stunning backdrop, it has an almost private, exclusive vibe — perfect for a relaxing pause before your sunset adventure.

A first-time trip to Rio wouldn’t be complete without visiting Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer). From the top, you’ll be treated to yet another breathtaking panoramic view of the city.

The easiest and most convenient way to reach the summit is by van. Paineiras-Corcovado offers transport that winds up through the lush Tijuca Forest, eventually arriving at the top of Corcovado Mountain, where the iconic statue stands.

The main meeting point is at Largo do Machado, near the Nossa Senhora da Glória Church. Look out for the Paineiras-Corcovado kiosk — that’s where you can purchase your tickets and begin your journey to one of Brazil’s most famous landmarks.

Nestled at the edge of Tijuca National Forest — the largest urban rainforest in the world — Santa Teresa offers a peaceful retreat without ever losing touch with the vibrant pulse of Rio. Once an exclusive enclave for the city’s elite, where elegant European-style mansions still grace its winding streets, Santa Teresa has evolved into one of Rio’s most bohemian and artistic neighborhoods. Wander through its hills and you’ll encounter colorful murals, the sound of live music drifting from open windows and countless botecos — those laid-back corner bars and hidden gems that embody the soul of Rio.

Don't miss:

• Cafe Do Alto - A cozy restaurant serving Northeastern Brazilian cuisine

• Bar Mineiro - A quintessential boteco serving ice-cold beer and crispy fried bites.

• Adega do Pimenta - Another boteco, but serving traditional German dishes.

• Casa Nossa Lounge - A beautiful, vibrant restaurant with a prime view of the street, where the iconic yellow tram (bonde) passes by.

• Bondinho - Hop on the bonde for a leisurely ride and enjoy a great tour of the entire neighborhood.

• Park dos Ruins & Escadaria Selarón - Keep an eye out for the signs pointing to Parque das Ruínas and the colorful Escadaria Selarón, two cannot-miss attractions near Santa Teresa.

Take a swim, or join a game of futevôlei — a lively mix of soccer and volleyball that’s a staple of Rio’s beach culture. As the day winds down, don’t miss one of the city’s most iconic experiences: watching the sunset from the Arpoador rocks, where the view stretches over the ocean toward the stunning Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers) mountains.

It’s the perfect spot to soak in the magic of Rio — locals often applaud the sunset here too, and you’ll quickly understand why.

Don’t miss this vibrant market held every Sunday — a true celebration of Brazil’s rich culinary and cultural diversity. Explore stalls overflowing with exotic fruits from the Amazon, fresh seafood, fragrant spices, bold chili peppers, locally roasted coffee and colorful produce. Artisanal vendors offer everything from traditional Brazilian breads and street snacks to craft beers, all set within a lively, bustling atmosphere that captures the spirit of Brazil.

If you’re visiting Rio between March and December, don’t miss the chance to experience a soccer match at the iconic Maracanã Stadium — a legendary venue that once held the world record for attendance. Tickets usually need local help, so contact me if you are interested in seeing a game.

Experience the lush tropical vegetation of Jardim Botânico, one of Rio’s most peaceful and scenic escapes. It’s a perfect spot to slow down and recharge amidst a busy, adventure-filled itinerary.

Rio is rich in culture, offering a wide array of museums and entertainment options to explore. Highlights include the stunning Teatro Municipal, the futuristic Museu do Amanhã (Museum of Tomorrow) and the thought-provoking Museu de Arte do Rio (Rio Museum of Art). Literature lovers shouldn't miss the breathtaking Royal Portuguese Cabinet of Reading, while history buffs can dive into Brazil’s past at Paco Imperial.

Later, experience Rio’s unique nightlife in Lapa, set beneath the iconic arches of the Carioca Aqueduct. This historic neighborhood comes alive after dark, with its narrow colonial streets lined with bars, restaurants and live music venues that seem to never close. Whether you're into samba, Pagode, forró or just sipping a caipirinha while people-watching, Lapa delivers an unforgettable night out.

Botafogo may be primarily a residential neighborhood, but in recent years it has emerged as a hot spot for trendy bars and incredible gastronomy. Botafogo is another great alternative for a night out, offering a more laid-back and local vibe compared to the busier nightlife hubs.

If you love nature, a hike through the Tijuca National Forest — the largest urban rainforest in the world — is an absolute must. Discover hidden waterfalls, encounter native wildlife and immerse yourself in the region’s rich biodiversity, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the city below.

If you're into extreme thrills, take to the skies with a hang gliding adventure off Pedra Bonita, located in the São Conrado neighborhood. It's an unforgettable adrenaline rush you won’t want to miss.

• Ilha Grande/Paraty - Southwest of Rio and accessible by car or bus, Paraty and Ilha Grande offer a more laid-back vibe, with beautiful beaches and a charming colonial-era town.

• Arraial Do Cabo - Located about two hours northeast of Rio by car, Arraial do Cabo boasts some of the bluest waters in all of Brazil.

• Petrópolis - Another significant colonial town, Petrópolis was once home to the Brazilian imperial family. Nearby, the Serra dos Órgãos National Park offers excellent hiking opportunities.