Rio de Janeiro Things to Do

The yellow bondes (trams) that rattle their way up the cobbled hills of Santa Teresa are much-loved by locals and visitors alike, and this charming little museum charts the history of what was once the principle form of tran... more

This neighborhood was named after the famed dentist and leader of the Inconfidência Mineira, the emancipation movement that eventually led to Brazil's independence from Portugal. Located right downtown off Rua da Carioca, the n... more

Located in Parque Nacional & Floresta da Tijuca, this road is closed to traffic during the weekends. Not only is it a great place to go hiking, jogging or biking, but it is also a fine opportunity to see wildlife such as monkey... more

One of the best views of Rio is at the topmost of one of the roads that connect Jardim Botânico to the Parque Nacional & Floresta da Tijuca, known as the Vista Chinesa. From this Chinese-style folly you can admire the Corcovad... more

At the Academia da Cachaca you'll learn how to eat, drink and be merry ... like the Brazilians. With over 500 concoctions to choose from, you'll never tire of visiting this up-scale yet casual place. Most drinks are made from t... more

Manuel e Juaquim is located in front of the Copacabana beach, and is a good example of what is referred to here as a botequim: an informal bar and restaurant, usually not very large. This is a busy place, so be prepared for a l... more

Monteiro is a very popular house, having been around for more than 80 years. It is very busy at lunchtime, and because it closes early, it is a good place to meet friends for a happy hour after a tough day at work. Although the... more

Located in the district of Santa Teresa, the Bar do Arnaudo is the oldest in the area, and its owner, Arnaudo, is a local character. The specialty of the house are the fruit cocktails, made from cane spirit and typical Brazilia... more

One of the most traditional fast-food restaurants in Rio, right in the middle of Ipanema's most trendy area, and always full, especially in the afternoon. The pies and cakes are spectacular, and there is a memorable selection o... more

In the middle of the 18 century two sisters began to build the convent, where the chapel of Desterro formerly existed. The nuns belonged to the order of Saint Clara, but in 1777 adopted the severe rules of the Teresianas, and s... more