Christ the Redeemer, Copacabana and Carnival
Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro · Beaches, mountains and Carnival spirit
Rio spills between forested granite peaks and world-famous beaches, watched over by the outstretched arms of Christ the Redeemer. Samba, football and Carnival pulse through a city that lives outdoors on its sand and in its hills.
Top sightsSights
Christ the Redeemer
The iconic statue atop Corcovado mountain.
Sugarloaf Mountain
A cable car to twin peaks over the bay.
Copacabana & Ipanema
The city’s legendary curving beaches.
Selaron Steps
A tiled staircase in the Lapa district.
Santa Teresa
A hilltop bohemian neighborhood with a tram.
What to eatFood
Feijoada
A hearty black-bean and pork stew, the national dish.
Pao de queijo
Chewy cheese bread eaten all day.
Caipirinha
The national cocktail of cachaca, lime and sugar.
Good to know
- Visit Christ the Redeemer early to beat cloud and crowds.
- Keep valuables out of sight on the beaches.
- Carnival (Feb/Mar) is spectacular but book far ahead.
Getting there
Galeao International (GIG) handles international flights; Santos Dumont (SDU) is the downtown domestic airport.
Next city
São Paulo