Last December, I had the chance to go on an inspection trip to one of the cities that had long been on my bucket list—Rio de Janeiro. With only a few days available, I made sure to maximize every moment. In this article, I’ll share the best things to do in Rio over three days. If you're like me and want to make the most of your time—wondering where to go, what to eat, and where to stay—then keep reading for my top recommendations and insider insights.
As with any new city, we always recommend starting your visit with a city tour to get to know the main sights and key landmarks. A typical Rio de Janeiro city tour includes the Municipal Theatre, the pyramid-shaped Metropolitan Cathedral, the Lapa Arches (an 18th-century aqueduct turned tram bridge), and the Santa Teresa neighborhood (a bohemian area with colonial mansions and vibrant art studios).
Another must-visit stop is the Real Gabinete Português de Leitura. This stunning 19th-century library, often ranked among the most beautiful in the world, houses an impressive collection of Portuguese literature. With its towering wooden bookshelves, intricate carvings, and stained-glass skylight, stepping inside felt like entering a literary time capsule. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the library is a symbol of Brazil’s deep-rooted connection to Portuguese culture and language. I recommend at least 30 minutes to truly appreciate this unique library.
Another iconic stop is the Selarón Steps (Escadaria Selarón), a world-famous mosaic staircase created by Chilean-born artist Jorge Selarón. Adorned with over 2,000 colorful tiles from more than 60 countries, each step tells a unique story. Take your time to admire the artwork and learn about Selarón’s journey, passion, and dedication to this ever-evolving masterpiece.
For lunch, you can’t miss the legendary Confeitaria Colombo. Established in 1894, this historic café is a true Rio institution, exuding old-world charm with its Art Nouveau decor, large mirrors, and elegant chandeliers. Once frequented by Brazilian intellectuals and politicians, it remains the perfect spot to indulge in traditional pastries, coffee, and Brazilian delicacies. I would definitely recommend trying the coxinha (shredded chicken pastries) and empada de camarão (small pies filled with shrimp).
After lunch, head to Copacabana Beach, one of the most famous stretches of sand in the world. Here, you can fully immerse yourself in the Carioca lifestyle—whether that means sunbathing, playing beach soccer, or simply sipping on coconut water while people-watching. The vibrant energy of Copacabana is infectious, with vendors selling everything from açai bowls to bikinis, and locals gathering for impromptu samba sessions.
As the sun begins to set, make your way to Boteco Belmonte in Ipanema. This laid-back yet lively bar is a local favorite, known for its fantastic caipirinhas and casual yet authentic atmosphere. Head up to the second floor, where you’ll have an incredible view of the sun dipping below the horizon over the Atlantic Ocean. Aside from the long list of flavored caipirinhas, my favorite thing about this bar is the Brazilian-style circulating snacks (petiscos), where waiters walk around with trays of different appetizers. You simply pick what you like and pay for what you consume—an excellent way to sample a variety of local flavors.
Start your day with a visit to Christ the Redeemer, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and Rio’s most iconic landmark. Completed in 1931, this 38-meter-tall statue of Jesus Christ stands atop Corcovado Mountain, overlooking the entire city. More than just a monument, it symbolizes faith, unity, and Brazilian identity.
Arriving early is essential, as crowds grow quickly throughout the day. The scenic tram ride to the top offers stunning views, and if you're lucky, you might spot small monkeys swinging through the trees and snacking on jackfruit along the way.
Next, head to Sugarloaf Mountain, another must-visit attraction. To avoid long lines, we recommend getting fast-track tickets for a smoother experience. The cable car ride to the top offers breathtaking panoramic views of Rio’s coastline, and once you reach the summit, you can soak in the stunning scenery. This is the perfect place for lunch—our top recommendation is Embaixada Carioca, where you can savor the traditional feijoada, Brazil’s national dish.
Feijoada is a rich and hearty black bean stew, traditionally slow-cooked with a selection of premium meats, including charque (dried beef), ribs, pork loin, paio sausage, and fine cured sausage. It is served in a clay pot, accompanied by white rice, sautéed collard greens, farofa (toasted cassava flour), and fresh orange slices to balance the richness. This dish is perfect for sharing between two people and offers a true taste of Brazilian comfort food.
After lunch, spend the afternoon enjoying Sugarloaf Mountain. If you time it right, catching the sunset from the top is an unforgettable experience. The golden light over Rio’s coastline and the sight of the city gradually lighting up is simply magical. As the sun sets, many visitors rush to take the cable car down, leading to long queues—another reason why fast-track tickets come in handy.
To wrap up your day, enjoy a night of Brazilian music, especially Bossa Nova, the smooth, jazz-infused genre that was born in Rio de Janeiro. You have two fantastic options, depending on the type of experience you're looking for:
For your final day in Rio, choose between two fantastic experiences—one for adventure seekers and one for those looking for a more relaxed way to enjoy the city's beauty.
If you’re up for an active morning, hiking Pedra Bonita is one of the best ways to experience Rio’s stunning natural landscape. Located in Tijuca National Park, this moderate 45-minute hike leads to one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the city. At 696 meters (2,283 feet) above sea level, Pedra Bonita offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, São Conrado Beach, and the famous Pedra da Gávea, making it a must for nature lovers and photographers. This is also where hang gliders take off, so you’ll get to watch adrenaline junkies soaring over Rio. The hike is well-marked and relatively easy, making it accessible even for beginners.
For a more laid-back morning, head to the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Gardens (Jardim Botânico), a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. Established in 1808, the gardens are home to over 6,500 species of plants and trees, including towering imperial palm trees, orchids, and giant Amazonian water lilies. One of the highlights is the Japanese Garden, with koi ponds and bonsai trees, as well as the Avenue of Royal Palms, a dramatic row of 134 palm trees leading to the stunning visitor center. Keep an eye out for toucans and small monkeys that often roam the gardens. It's the perfect spot to unwind and soak in Rio’s lush greenery.
For your final meal in Rio, treat yourself to an authentic Brazilian churrasco experience at Fogo de Chão. While the restaurant has multiple locations, the Botafogo venue stands out for its breathtaking views of the harbor and Sugarloaf Mountain. This world-famous steakhouse specializes in rodízio-style dining, where waiters circulate with skewers of perfectly grilled meats, slicing them tableside onto your plate. Expect a selection of premium cuts, including picanha (top sirloin), costela (beef ribs), cordeiro (lamb), and linguiça (Brazilian sausage).
Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel ($$$$) – The most iconic hotel in Rio, offering 5* luxury with historic charm. Overlooking Copacabana Beach, it features elegant suites, a world-class spa, and a stunning pool. A favorite among celebrities and dignitaries.
Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana ($$$) – A modern and sophisticated 5* hotel, perfectly located between Copacabana and Ipanema. It boasts luxurious rooms, an infinity pool, a rooftop bar, and a top-tier spa. Ideal for those seeking both comfort and exclusivity.
Hotel Nacional Rio de Janeiro ($$$) – A stylishly retro 5* hotel housed in an iconic Oscar Niemeyer-designed building in São Conrado. It offers spacious rooms with ocean views, a lush tropical garden, a large pool area, and is just steps away from the beach. A great choice for travelers looking for a blend of design, history, and relaxation.
Windsor California Hotel ($$$) – A stylish 4* hotel right on Copacabana Beach, offering a rooftop pool, comfortable rooms with sea views, and excellent service. A great balance of quality and value in a prime location.
Windsor Plaza Hotel ($$) – A 3-4* hotel in Copacabana, with good amenities, a rooftop pool, and a convenient location near the beach and city attractions. A solid choice for travelers looking for comfort without splurging.
