Rio de Janeiro attractions

One of Rio de Janeiro’s oldest landmarks, the São João Fort (Fortaleza de São João) dates back to 1565. Established by Estácio de Sá—who was also the founder of Rio de Janeiro—the fort is one of several that protected the city for centuries. It is still an active military site today and offers dramatic views of the water.

Each Sunday, General Osório Square in Ipanema transforms into one of Rio de Janeiro’s most popular open-air markets, the Ipanema Hippie Fair (Feira Hippie de Ipanema). The market, which has been running since 1968, comprises hundreds of vendors and is one of the best places in town to find souvenirs and gifts.

Rio’s imposing Catete Palace (Palácio do Catete) was Brazil’s presidential palace from 1894 until 1960, when the capital was moved from Rio de Janeiro to Brasilia. The urban mansion now houses the Museum of the Republic, focusing on art and period furnishings from the Republican period, as well as presidential memorabilia from past leaders.

One of Rio de Janeiro’s top viewpoints, the Pedra do Telégrafo offers beautiful vistas overlooking the coast and prime selfie backdrops, thanks to an optical effect that makes visitors look like they’re hanging off the edge of a cliff. Located in western Rio’s Pedra Branca State Park (Parque Estadual da Pedra Branca), it’s an excellent nature escape.

Considered one of the most beautiful libraries in the world—and home to some 350,000 volumes, the largest collection of Portuguese–language works outside of Portugal—Rio de Janeiro’s Royal Portuguese Reading Room (Real Gabinete Português de Leitura) is an architectural and intellectual wonder. Located in the city’s Centro neighborhood and open to all, it’s well worth venturing in to discover.

The colorful, diagonally striped houses of the Santa Marta Favela cascade down the steep hillsides above Botafogo in Rio de Janeiro, housing a community of residents living in a challenging socioeconomic environment. Courtesy of Dutch artists Dre Urhahn and Jeroen Koolhaas’ Favela Painting Foundation, the artwork is meant to draw attention to populations that are traditionally excluded or overlooked, including that in Santa Marta.

Perched on the edge of Copacabana Beach, the World War I–era Copacabana Fort provides a glimpse into Brazil's military past. Guests can see Krupp cannons, the Army History Museum, and centuries-old artillery displays. With its panoramic views and immersive exhibits, this often-overlooked attraction helps tell the story of the region.

Nicknamed the Marvelous City, Rio de Janeiro is a glittering, vibrant, and sexy city that's six million inhabitants strong. Its combination of dramatic landmarks, iconic urban beaches, and friendly people have made it one of the world’s most popular cities and a frequent port of call for cruises along the South American coast.

One of Rio de Janeiro’s most popular markets, the Ipanema Farmers Market draws locals and visitors alike every Friday morning. Just a few blocks from the beach, with vendors specializing in fresh fruits and vegetables (as well as fish, meat, flowers, and other items), it’s a great place to browse, sample, and purchase snacks or ingredients.

Within the city limits of Rio de Janeiro, Marapendi Natural Park offers 380 acres (155 hectares) of peaceful escape from the bustling city. Its lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and well-preserved ecosystems make it a guaranteed hit for anyone looking to connect with the natural beauty of Brazil.

In the heart of Rio de Janeiro, at the foothills of Corcovado, lies Paineiras Road (Estrada das Paineiras), a vital 3-mile (4.8-kilometer) pathway to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. Whether by foot, bike, or car, travelers ascending this winding road through the Tijuca National Park yields rewarding panoramic vistas of the city below.

A cultural legacy from one of Brazil’s elite families, the Moreira Salles Institute(Instituto Moreira Salles) is a modernist mansion set in the jungle, the former home of the Moreira Salles family. It has been transformed into a museum and educational space, celebrating Brazilian culture and arts. The Institute focuses on four artistic areas: photography, music, literature and iconography. The main focus is on photography, with rotating exhibits featuring the works of top visual artists from Brazil and worldwide. Exhibits range from old, historic photos, to contemporary photo-essays to abstract photography. They also scheduled screenings of films and documentaries from around the world. The structure is a perfect example of 1950s modernism in South America, with an angular design and some geometric patterns. Semi-open air rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows incorporate the natural beauty of the property, set on the border of the Tijuca National Forest. In the surrounding garden, tall trees tower up toward the sky and paths weave among the tropical, green garden. Streams, fountains, and a pond surrounded by a modern mosaic design also add to the property’s serene, modern design.

Itaipu Beach (Praia de Itaipu) was once a paradise for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Rio de Janeiro. Unfortunately, pollution has made swimming conditions less than ideal and now the sandy strips of coast, although still picturesque, are often crowded. However, on a quiet day, Itaipu Beach still epitomizes the beauty of Brazilian beach life.

Museu de Cera de Petrópolis (Petropolis Wax Museum) showcases wax replicas of Brazilian and global celebrities, historical figures, and fictional characters. The figures displayed in the museum—which is the only one of its kind in the state of Rio de Janeiro—exhibit a high standard of realism.

A beachfront public park located between Copacabana Fort (Forte de Copacabana) and Arpoador Rock (Pedra do Arpoador), Parque Garota de Ipanema takes its name from the bossa nova hit “Garota de Ipanema” (“The Girl From Ipanema”). It’s a tranquil green space with features including a skate park and playground, as well as scenic viewpoints overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Designed by French landscaper Auguste Glazio in 1808, Quinta da Boa Vista Park is one of Rio’s largest urban parks. Once the imperial gardens of São Cristóvão Palace, it’s now home to the National Museum of Brazil (housed in the former palace) and RioZoo. Visit to walk its palm-lined paths and check out the boating lake.