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Our Rio Guide
Where to stay, eat, drink and explore while you’re in Rio.
Stay
Eat and Drink
Explore
Brazil has diverse and delicious cuisine and increasingly more vegetrain options. Whilst Brazil is famous for meat (churrasco), Bahia is famous for African inspired seafood dishes. Caiprinhas are essential - get them on the beach!
Braseiro da Gávea
One of our favourite places for a proper Brazilian barbecue. It's known for its picanha, farofa and lively atmosphere.
Brisa Catete
A relaxed neighbourhood bar and restaurant, for sharing a few dishes over cold beers.
Yayá Comidaria
A cute restaurant celebrating bold Brazilian flavours with seasonal and local ingredients.
Botica
Pet nat paradise; a cosy wine bar with small plates, natural wines and a laid-back atmosphere.
Bar Bracarense
A classic Rio boteco that's always buzzing. Come for the chopp, stay for the legendary sandwiches and bar snacks.
Ocya
Hyped but great - if you enjoy seafood, this is definitely worth a visit. The menu changes often depending on what's fresh.
Lasai
One of the best restaurants in Brazil, offering a seasonal tasting menu built around local ingredients.
Aprazível
Close to the wedding venue in Santa Teresa. Surrounded by tropical gardens with beautiful views over the city, for a long lunch or dinner.
Rio is a beautiful city with a rich history and incredible scenery, from beach days to mountain hikes. We recommend exploring during the daytime and sticking to busy, well-known areas, especially after dark.
Sugar Loaf
A Rio classics that's definitely worth the trip. Go in the late afternoon for incredible views and stay to watch the sunset.
Christ the Redeemer
You can't really come to Rio and not say "ola" to the big man. Go early to avoid the biggest crowds. The brave will hike but the sane get the cable car.
Just beach
Sometimes the best plan in Rio is no plan at all. Spend the day at Ipanema, Leblon, Leme or the smaller Praia Vermelha, grab a chair and an umbrella, and enjoy a mate or a caipirinha.
Santa Teresa
The wedding venue's neighbourhood and one of Rio's most charming areas. Wander the colourful streets and take a ride on the iconic yellow tram and enjoy the beautiful views over the city.
Parque Lage hike
For the adventurous: hike through the forest from Parque Lage towards Christ the Redeemer. It's beautiful but challenging, so come prepared and check the trail conditions before you go.
Museum of Tomorrow
A beautiful interactive science museum on Rio's waterfront. Worth a trip just for the building.
Samba
On Monday evenings, head to Pedra do Sal for one of Rio's most traditional samba nights. Its a taste of carnival - and free!
Walking tours
Discover Rio on foot with a local guide, exploring its history, architecture and hidden corners. A great way to see the city.
We recommend staying in Leblon or Ipanema neighbourhoods that are close to the beach and with plenty to do within walking distance. There are lots of great Airbnbs and apartments too. We will be staying in Ipanema.
Fasano Rio de Janeiro
Iconic Ipanema stay with a rooftop pool overlooking the ocean. €€€€
Copacabana Palace
Rio landmark combining old-world glamour with a beachfront setting. €€€€
Hotel arpoador
Stylish beachfront stay in one of Rio’s best locations. €€€
Ipanema inn
Boutique hotel just steps from Ipanema Beach. €€€
Nacional inn Copa
Comfortable, well-located option close to Copacabana Beach. €€
Hotel Arena Leme
Beachfront hotel in the quieter end of Copacabana. €€
Novotel Leme
Modern stay with a rooftop pool and ocean views. €€
Mercure Copacabana
Beachfront location in the heart of Copacabana. €€
Ibis Botafogo
Simple, affordable base with easy access around Rio. €
Ibis Copacabana
Budget-friendly stay a short walk from the beach. €
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