Rio de Janeiro travel guide
Meet Rio de JaneiroRio de Janeiro Weather ReportGetting into Rio de JaneiroTop attractions in Rio de JaneiroGetting around Rio de JaneiroWhere to eat in Rio de Janeiro Page 2 : More information on Rio de Janeiro
Meet Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro is a city that Surges with festive energy . Impromptu samba dancers sway to Brazilian beats in the lively neighborhood of Lapa , passionate football fans beat the bongos at the Maracana stadium and , during Rio 's world - famous carnival , the entire city becomes a party .
Yet , if you're looking for a spot of calm , Rio is also home to tranquil natural beauty . Forest -covered hills Soar into the skyline , and soft sandy shores , like the Celebrated Copacabana beach , lead you into crystal clear waters .
Evidence of Rio 's rich history is everywhere . Opulent Portuguese colonial architecture is Nestled Alongside modern skyscrapers , and iconic landmarks , like the awe inspiring statue , Christ the Redeemer , celebrate the city 's Catholic heritage .
will not need to be in Rio de Janeiro for very long , to appreciate why the locals call it " Cidade de Maravilha " : the Marvellous City .
Rio de Janeiro Weather Report
Rio enjoys a temperate climate all year round , Which makes it an ideal destination for a beach holiday at any time of year .
The summer months , from December to March , are peak season , when temperatures can easily reach 104 F (40 C ) . However , Rio also receives the most rainfall at this time of year , and tropical storms can be expected.
If you visit Rio during the winter , from July to September , you will have the best chance of bagging yourself a bargain holiday and , although the climate will be cooler than in the summer months , the temperature remains around 75 F (25 C ) .
For the latest weather info use the Pampo weather forecast tool.
Getting into Rio de Janeiro
All international flights to Rio de Janeiro land at Galeao International Airport, Which is located 20 km away from the city center .
An hourly airport shuttle bus is available , Which stops at most major hotels , and costs about R $ 6 ( £ 2 ) . Airport taxis are also an easy way to reach popular tourist areas . Prepaid taxi vouchers can be purchased from the Rio de Janeiro Tourism Authority desk .
Top attractions in Rio de Janeiro
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The most iconic of Rio 's landmarks is Undoubtedly the 100 feet tall statue , Christ the Redeemer , Which Welcomes visitors to the city with its 92 feet wide , open arms . Erected in 1931, the statue is a stunning example of Art Deco design , and officially ranks Alongside the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal as one of the " New Seven Wonders of the World " .
Situated at the peak of the lush , green Corcovado Mountain , the statue is also a great observation point , offering magnificent panoramic views of Rio . here you can see everything from forest to favelas , beaches to buildings , and mountains to the Maracana Stadium . The best time to visit is in the late afternoon , when you can watch the sun set over this spectacular city .
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If you're a bit of a culture vulture , be sure to visit Rio 's Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil : the city 's principal arts center . Inside this beautiful , Domed building , that was once the headquarters of Brazil 's national bank , you'll find a cinema , two theaters , and a variety of art exhibitions , many of Which are free . 's no wonder that the Centre Welcomes over 120,000 visitors every month .
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The city 's botanical gardens also definitely deserve a place in your holiday itinerary . Founded by John VI of Portugal in 1808, these picturesque grounds are a great place to find local wildlife . Amid the 6.000 species of plants , you'll find toucans and Guans , Howler monkeys and marmosets . Many of the animals have become Accustomed to people , so you can really get up close to them . This is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic , and relax after a hectic day of sightseeing .
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Of course , no visit to Rio would be complete without at least one day at the beach . Copacabana beach , with its 4 km of pristine , white sands is the most famous , while Ipanema beach , with its mix of boutiques and bars , is the chicest . Why not try your hand at beach volley ball , or simply sip Brazil 's national cocktail , the caipirinha , while you soak up the sun Rio ?
Getting around Rio de Janeiro
Although Rio is a large city , it is extremely easy to travel around . Buses are the most popular form of public transportation , and will enable you to enjoy some great views of the city as you journey . Ticket prices start from as little as R $ 2 ( 70p ) for standard buses , or R $ 2.25 for air conditioned vehicles . Remember to hold on tight though , as Rio 's bus drivers are notoriously fast , and race each other OFTEN !
If you want to Avoid the busy traffic of Rio , the city 's clean , underground metro system is an ideal transportation choice . All signs are written in both Portuguese and South, and there are pink , female only carriages , Which Provide a safer traveling experience for women . You can purchase tickets at station entrances , and a single ticket costs about R $ 2.30 .
As night falls , fewer travelers journey by bus and metro , and this can be a little dangerous . After dark , the best way to get around is in one of Rio 's many bright yellow taxis . Relatively inexpensive : you would expect to pay around R $ 6 ( 2 pounds ) to ride from Ipanema to Copacabana .
If you fancy exploring the city at a slower pace , why not rent a bike ? Many locals prefer to travel on two wheels , and there are over 74 km of cycle paths Throughout the city . Bicycles can be rented for about R $ 40 ( £ 14 ) for the day , or R $ 14 ( £ 5 ) per hour .
Cars can also be rented for around U $ 70 ( £ 25 ) a day , including insurance . However , bear in mind that parking in the city is difficult , and traffic can get incredibly hectic . 's public transport system is so efficient , that it is only really worth renting a car if you plan to take a trip out of the city .
Where to eat in Rio de Janeiro
Rio's inhabitants , the Cariocas , have a genuine passion for food and , with over 900 restaurants in the city , there is cuisine here to suit everyone 's tastes .
During your stay , be sure to sample the Brazilian national dish : Feijoada . This delicious stew made with beans , beef and pork , is Traditionally served on Saturdays , but is available every day at Casa da Feijoada : a specialized restaurant in Ipanema , Which Serves authentic Brazilian fare .
Many of Rio 's restaurants offer beautifully fresh fish caught from the city 's clear , turquoise waters . One of the best seafood restaurants is Azul Marinho , he Arpoador beach . Come here to enjoy delicious Moqueca , made with shrimp , cod , lobster , crab , or octopus , while you watch the sun set from a beach- facing dining table .
Vegetarians should head to Celeiro : an organic Leblon Eatery restaurant on the strip , Which boasts a variety of 40 salads , Which would you pay for the kilo , along with excellent soups , pasta , quiches , and delicious deserts . The restaurant is small , with book in advance to Avoid disappointment .
Meals in Rio 's restaurants OFTEN serve two people , having it is a good idea to check portion sizes with the staff , or you might end up with overwhelming amount of food on your plate !
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