On this page I want to tell you about some of the less obvious things to do in Rio. If you’re interested in getting off the tourist trail and taking a look at the real Rio, then check out these suggestions and see if they appeal to you.
Climb Dois Irmãos
A fairly easy walk that takes you to the top of one of Rio’s great landmarks. Even by Rio’s standards the views from the summit are spectacular – Corcovado and Cristo Redentor, the beaches of Ipanema, Leblon and São Conrado, the Lagoa, Pedra da Gávea and Rocinha, Latin America’s largest favela. As well as the views and the wildlife, this walk gives you a chance to explore Vidigal, the favela at the foot of the mountains. All this in just a few hours walk! More details…
Feira de São Cristóvão
Rio’s large population of nordestinos (people from the Northeast of Brazil) get together every weekend to eat, shop, dance and generally have fun! If you need a break from the glitz (and expense!) of Ipanema and want to see another side of Brazilian culture, head over to this fun and unpretentious party that they call Feira de São Cristóvão. More details…
Museu de Arte do Rio (MAR)
Rio’s newest art museum is as spectacular on the outside as it is fascinating on the inside. With four floors of exhibition space covering everything from classical to contemporary art (both Brazilian and international artists), MAR offers a great day out. If it’s raining in Rio and you’re not into shopping, MAR is the perfect place to catch up on some culture. More details…
Gardens, Graffiti and a Juicy Steak
This gentle stroll takes you through two of Rio’s most beautiful gardens, along the graffiti ‘Wall of Fame’ and finishes at one of Rio’s best-loved restaurants. Along the way you’ll see beautiful architecture, sub-tropical forest pathways, an orchid house, a sensory garden and some of Rio’s best street art. Finish if off with one of the best steaks in town and you should be left feeling very satisfied! More details…
Spend a sunny afternoon at Bar Urca
One of the great, simple pleasures of a life in Rio is to spend a sunny afternoon (and evening!) drinking ice cold beer, chatting with friends and enjoying something tasty to eat. When the weather is good it is hard to think of a better (or more beautiful) place to do this than Bar Urca – spectacular views, delicious food and a great caipirinha! More details…
Rio Sailing Trips
Sail out into Guanabara Bay (and beyond) for breathtaking views of Rio’s unique skyline and the beautiful surrounding coastline and islands. Pick up some cold drinks and a picnic for an unforgettable day out. More details…