One of the most popular destinations in Brazil is the city of Rio de Janeiro. The city might be popular for its stunning architecture and incredible cuisine, or it may be a hot destination because of its 45 mile long stretch of beach. Whatever the reason, we guarantee you’ll find the “Marvelous City” to be as charming as it is dramatic.

When Should I Visit Rio de Janeiro?

There’s really no wrong time to visit Rio de Janeiro. The spring, in December, is the least desirable time because of the spring rains and the summer months, which run from January through March feature temperatures that often range well over 100 degrees. The rest of the year is incredibly comfortable. Even during the winter months, from May through October, the temperatures rarely fall below 70 degrees during the day.

The most interesting time to visit is during the month of February when the annual Carnival celebration is held. Carnival lasts for four full days and if you’d like to visit during this time you’ll have to book your trip well over a year in advance in order to find a hotel room anywhere near the city.

What’s So Special about Carnival in Rio de Janeiro?

While other cities host carnivals (usually timed before Lent), the one in Rio de Janeiro is the original and most exciting. Think Mardi Gras in New Orleans and you might have an inkling as to the level of activity and excitement that occurs during the four day celebration. Carnival is all about parades, dancing mulatas (scantily clad women) performing the samba, and lots of beer.

The parade includes floats created by each of the city’s samba schools. Each school has a series of wings, and each has its own float. Each school has one hour and 20 minutes at some point throughout Carnival to perform for a panel of judges who will then choose the best school at the end of the festivities. The competition to be named best school is closely followed by millions of Brazilian citizens, not just those in Rio de Janeiro.

What Else Should I See in Rio de Janeiro?

The peak of Corcovado is one of the best places to go for a spectacular view of the city and landscape below. It’s often rivaled by Pao de Aquar but if you insist on visiting both, go to Pao de Aquar first. It’s a nice view, but you’ll be disappointed with it after seeing Corcovado. You can reach the top of Corcovado by train or taxi, each providing different angles and views during the ascent.

Catedral de Sao Sebastiao do Rio de Janeiro is one of the most popular religious sites in Rio de Janeiro. Built somewhere around the 1960’s the cathedral was designed to look like a beehive – a sharp contrast to a traditional cathedral. The inside, however, makes up for any of the exterior’s shortcomings. The cathedral can hold up to20,000 people contains stunning stained-glass windows you’ll want to stare at for hours.

Museu Carmen Miranda is located in Flamengo and is dedicated to the memory of the actress Carmen Miranda. She was either well loved or incredibly hated, depending on who you speak to. The museum contains photographs, jewelry, costumes, and a collection of outrageous platform shoes. The museum is free to the public but you’re on your own to explore unless you’re bi-lingual. The guides who work here do not speak the English language.

Theatro Municipal is an incredible site located in Centro and should be your first stop when you arrive in that section of Rio de Janeiro. The theatre is the home of several dance and music concerts. As you tour Theatro Municipal, built in 1909, you’ll observe incredible architecture including statues, mirrors, stained-glass windows, brazilwood floors, and much more. The lower levels of the theatre are incredibly ornate while the upper levels are very simply decorated. This change in d?cor represents not only a time when different classes were required to use different entrances, but the result of a budget exhausted too early in the building project as well!

What about the Beaches in Rio de Janeiro?

There’s really no point to visiting Rio de Janeiro if you’re not going to spend at least a day on its stunning beaches. The 45 miles stretch of sand houses 23 individual beaches, some more popular and less polluted than others and each with distinct features for the weary traveler.

Praia de Diablo, for example, is a small strip of beach between Copacabana and Ipanema. The beach provides a beautiful view and is a hot destination for those who want to surf.

Praia de Copacabana is one of the more popular stretches of beach. This section of beach spans about two miles and you’ll have difficulty finding a space to lay out your blanket on a sunny day. There are sunbathers, kiosks, and sun lovers all over the beach.

If you’d like to watch the hand gliders you should head on over to Praia do Sao Conrado. This is not a popular beach amongst tourists and is only worth the trip if you’re interested in watching the gliders.

The beach at Praia Barra da Tijuca is the best beach for swimming. In a city where water pollution can be a problem, this 11 mile stretch of beach tends to be amongst the cleanest and is a favorite destination for families with children as well as more mature adults looking for a pleasant atmosphere.

No matter where you go in Rio de Janeiro you’re going to find a beach, museum, restaurant, or activity to keep you happy and occupied. Make sure you pack some extra sunscreen and a big floppy hat to protect you from the harsh sun, hit the beach, and enjoy a cool evening on the town. Your trip to Rio de Janeiro is one you’ll always remember.

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