10 Things You Cannot Miss in Rio

Rio de Janeiro is a visual paradise - glistening beaches, verdant mountains, and tropical rainforests as far as the eye can see. With so many options for adventure, your head might begin to spin with indecision. But never fret. Read ahead to see the 10 activities you absolutely cannot miss on your vacation to Rio de Janeiro.

1- Getting that classic snapshot with Christ the Redeemer

Number one on your list, and probably the most glaringly obvious: taking a photo with Christ the Redeemer himself. The famous statue lies in the Tijuca Forest National Park, and stands tall and proud, overlooking the city of Rio. This famous tourist attraction has become the face of Rio de Janeiro, but it is far from the only exciting one.

Travel Tip: With the Christ the Redeemer City Tour you can get to know this impressive attraction guided by experts.

One of the must-sees in Rio de Janeiro is Christ the Redeemer, don't miss it! / Photo: jeep tour

2- Strolling around Lagoa Rodrigo De Freitas

Take a stroll around the magnificent Lagoa Rodrigo De Freitas and marvel at the scenery. This lovely lagoon rests in the district of Lagoa and abounds with outstanding beauty. You can see this natural wonder from Christ. Also located along Lagoa Rodrigo De Freitas is the Jardim de Alá park.

Travel Tip: Get to know Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon and other emblematic sites with these 4 wonders of Rio by Jeep

Enjoy a breathtaking view at the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon, you will see the city from a spectacular point of view / Photo Rodolpho Reis

3- Watching the sunset from Pedra do Arpoador

Your visit won’t be complete without a visit to one of Rio’s lovely beaches. You can try something more obscure if you’re looking for privacy, or you could head to Arpoador, an area made famous for surfing and one of the most popular beach areas in Rio de Janeiro. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch the sunset at Pedra do Arpoador.

Take the best pictures of Rio accompanied by the incredible sunset from Pedra do Arpoador / Photo: Marco Aurelio Neves Junior

4- Visiting Escadaria Selarón

Alight in blue, yellow, and green tiles, Escadaria Selaron is quite a sight to behold. Made out of tile, ceramic, and little mirrors, the staircase is a beautiful mosaic. Climbing the colourful steps should be at the top of your to-do list while in Rio.

Travel Tip: Explore the main tourist attractions of Rio de Janeiro with this Big Dude tour. Visit São Condrado, Tijuca Forest, Selaron Steps, Christ the Redeemer and more.

Enjoy the handcrafted beauty of Escadaria Selarón, beautiful mosaic as a National Monument / Photo Filipefrasao

5- Eating a typical Feijoada

No visit to a foreign country is complete without sampling the local cuisine. The Feijoada, a traditional dish made up of black beans, vegetables, and pork, is a delicious meal that should not be skipped.

Travel Tip: If you want to taste the best, you can't miss the Authentic Feijoada Tour.

Enjoy a delicious Feijoada on your visit to Rio de Janeiro / Photo: Mauricio Milan 

6- Breaking out some samba moves

The thing about Brazil, and any South-American country, is that you know the locals can really move their hips. Samba, a traditional Brazilian dance with roots in West Africa, is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the dance culture of the country. Take some lessons or just hit up a local club; break out some Samba moves anyway you can.

Travel Tip: Learn the basic steps of Samba and Forró and get ready to go out to one of the most traditional Samba clubs in Rio de Janeiro.

Learn the best steps of the samba dancers and let yourself be seduced by the Brazilian flavor / Photo: jeep tour

7- Sampling an açaí fruit

If you or anyone you know associates with hipster culture, then there’s no way you haven’t heard of the Açaí berry. People eat it in their oatmeal, blend it into smoothies with kale, and some just like to take pretty pictures of it for instagram. But how often do you get the chance to taste it from it's native country? Make sure to eat some while it’s fresh on your trip to Rio!

Travel Tip: Besides the açaí, try other exotic flavors with the Fruit Market Tour in Rio.

Exotic and with an exceptional flavor, this is the açaí fruit in Brazil / Photo: wagner Soares 

8- Taking a day trip to Angra or Buzios

Rio de Janeiro is a beautiful city, as you already know. But keep in mind it's always nice to expand your horizons while on vacation and spend some time in another town. Angra dos Reis, still located in Rio de Janeiro state, is made up of over a hundred islands and is a short 3-hour drive from Rio. Buzios is also a lovely destination, 2 hours away, replete with idyllic beaches.

Travel tip: Live a fun experience with the Excursion to Ilha Grande & Angra dos Reis or if you prefer take a day tour to Búzios

Lose yourself in the tropical beauty of Angra dos Reis / photo: Gilberto_mesquita 

9- Buying a canga on Copacabana

Colours and patterns galore, Cangas are a pretty addition to any clothing collection. Find your favourite print and wear it as a dress or skirt over your bathing suit, spread it out on the sand and lay out to tan, or even hang it on your wall to add some flavour to your favourite room. Copacabana, an extensive neighbourhood with miles of beautiful beach, is the ideal place to purchase one. 

One of the most beautiful and visited beaches in Rio, Copacaba / Photo: Luoman

10- Exploring Tijuca Rainforest

While Christ the Redeemer is definitely a main attraction, there are tons of other reasons to want to explore the Tijuca Rainforest. Corcovado Mountain is another hot spot as well as Taunay cascade. Make sure to stop at the restaurant located in the park when your energy starts to flag.

Travel Tip: Discover the corners of this magical forest with the Tijuca Forest Jeep Tour.

Live a complete immersion in the Tijuca Forest / Photo: jeep tour

Rio de Janeiro is an alluring city, full of impending adventure. While there are a hundred other activities for you to indulge in, these 10 are definitely a great way to start you on your journey! To discover more things to do in the Marvellous City, visit Daytours4u.

By: Daytours Team Content