Must-See Attractions Of Rio de Janeiro

Most popular attractions

Rio de Janeiro, known as the "Cidade Maravilhosa" (Wonderful City), is best known for the impressive statue of Christ the Redeemer on Corcovado Hill, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The city is also known for the Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, bustling with life and culture. The Rio Carnival, one of the largest in the world, attracts tourists with its colorful parades and samba. The famous Maracanã stadium, a mecca for football fans, cannot be missed either.

Corcovado Hill

Christ the Redeemer Statue

Located atop Corcovado Mountain, the Christ the Redeemer statue is an icon of Rio de Janeiro. Standing 30 metres high and embraced by Tijuca National Park, it is a symbol of peace and Brazilian hospitality. The statue is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The site also offers breathtaking views of the city and the bay. I will share its history (which includes a Polish connection) and explain the city’s topography, which is perfectly revealed from above.

Urca Hill

Sugarloaf

Sugarloaf Mountain, known locally as Pão de Açúcar, is one of Rio de Janeiro’s most recognisable landmarks. This imposing mountain, set on a peninsula at the entrance to Guanabara Bay, offers breathtaking views of the city, the bay and nearby beaches. Access to the summit is provided by a two-stage cable car. Passengers can admire panoramic views of the famous Copacabana Beach, Corcovado Mountain with the Christ the Redeemer statue, and the sprawling metropolis.

Street Art

Selaron Steps

The Selarón Steps are an iconic artwork in Rio de Janeiro, created by the Chilean artist Jorge Selarón as a tribute to the people of Brazil. They are covered with more than 2,000 tiles from different parts of the world, making them a unique place full of colour and energy. The steps have become one of Rio’s most recognisable tourist attractions, drawing visitors from across the globe. This piece is not only an exceptional example of street art, but also a mosaic of cultures and histories.

Przejazd zabytkowym tramwajem

Santa Teresa Neighbourhood

Santa Teresa is a picturesque district of Rio de Janeiro, celebrated for its narrow, winding streets, colourful houses and vibrant artistic scene. With its bohemian atmosphere, it is a magnet for artists. One of its main attractions is the historic tram known as the Bonde. A ride on this tram is more than a journey on public transport; it is a trip back in time, letting you experience the unique charm of bygone Rio.

Brazilian martial art

Capoeira

A capoeira show in Rio de Janeiro is a fascinating experience that combines fight, dance, acrobatics, music, and tradition. Capoeira, an expression of Brazilian culture, is a martial art with African roots, aiming to harmoniously blend strength, speed, and agility in fluid, dance-like movements. During the show, one can admire various styles of capoeira, with spectators having the opportunity to see incredible acrobatics and listen to traditional rhythms and singing. The interactive part offers a chance to try basic capoeira movements. At the end, everyone can take a souvenir photo, capturing unforgettable moments spent discovering this unique martial art.

Dance on the Sambodrome

Samba Bar

The samba bar is a unique venue, beloved by both locals and visitors, offering an authentic Brazilian experience that blends the energetic rhythms of samba with traditional hospitality. Guests can feel like dancers on the Sambadrome, try on genuine samba-school costumes and savour local snacks and cocktails. It is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Brazilian culture and spend time to the rhythms that are the heart and soul of Rio.

Maracanã Stadium

The Maracanã Stadium, Rio de Janeiro’s sporting icon, is one of the world’s most illustrious arenas. Since opening in 1950 it has witnessed countless historic moments, including a FIFA World Cup Final. Maracanã is not only for football enthusiasts; it symbolises Brazil’s passion for sport, embodying both triumphs and dramas. Its monumental structure and rich history draw thousands of tourists each year, making it one of Rio’s must-see attractions. A visit to Maracanã is an unforgettable experience that fuses sporting heritage with Brazilian enthusiasm.

The Safest Favela In Rio

The Maze

The Maze is an original house-gallery built by a British artist in Tavares Bastos, the safest favela in Rio de Janeiro. It stands as a symbol of social and cultural transformation. This unique place, with breathtaking views over Rio, brings together people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. The colourful houses and narrow lanes of the Tavares Bastos favela challenge stereotypical images of favelas, highlighting residents’ vibrancy and creativity.

Historical Heart Of Rio

XV November Square

The Imperial Palace, located on the historic Praça XV in Rio de Janeiro, is a captivating colonial-era palace that transports visitors back in time, offering a unique glimpse into Brazil’s rich past. Today it serves as a cultural and artistic centre, where you can enjoy contemporary exhibitions alongside the building’s own architectural splendour. Its intimate courtyards overlook the bustling city centre, making it an ideal spot for a moment of calm amid the urban bustle.

Port Quay

Museum Of Tomorrow

The Museum of Tomorrow is more than a museum; it is a place of inspiration and reflection on our planet’s future. Its futuristic architecture on the shore of Guanabara Bay and its interactive exhibitions encourage visitors to think about ecology, sustainability and the future of the global community. The museum forms part of Porto Maravilha, the revitalised historic waterfront district.