Carol & Raphaël

When planning your stay in Rio de Janeiro, we strongly recommend that you prioritize safety by following our guidelines below

Accommodations:
We highly suggest staying in the neighborhoods of Ipanema, Leblon, or Santa Teresa. These areas not only offer a range of accommodations to suit various budgets but are also known for being the safest in the city. While Copacabana is world-famous and has its charm, it is also a bustling tourist area where incidents like pickpocketing are more common. It’s not off the table as an accommodation option, but if you choose to stay there, be more attentive. Besides the hotels we listed below, there is always the option to rent an Airbnb, which we also recommend in regards of safety and affordability.

Safety Tips:
When exploring Rio, please be mindful of your surroundings. To minimize the risk of theft:

  • Do not walk in the street at night, always take Uber or Taxi which are both affordable and safe 
  • Avoid wearing jewelry or displaying expensive items, such as phones or cameras, while walking in the streets
  • Keep your belongings secure and out of sight (preferably in a safe at a hotel/airbnb)
  • When going on hikes, or other walks/outdoor activities, make sure you are not going the wrong way and ending up in a favela.  
  • If you choose to do hikes near the favelas or do a tour of a favela, get a guide

By following these precautions, you can enjoy a safe and memorable experience in Rio de Janeiro.

Hotels

JW Marriott Hotel

The risk-free option. You can say “Marriott” with your best French accent and the taxi will still get you there
Av. Atlântica, 2600
Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro
https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/riomc-jw-marriott-hotel-rio-de-janeiro/overview/

Arena Ipanema

The full touristic experience at the front row of Ipanema beach
Rua Francisco Otaviano, 131
Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro
https://www.arenahotel.com.br/en/arena-hoteis/arena-ipanema

Orla Copacabana Hotel

Perfect for people that can’t make a decision, right in between Ipanema & Copacabana beach
Av. Atlântica, 4122
Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro
https://www.orlahotel.com.br/

Chez Georges

You want to play cool, take a designer house in Santa Teresa. We can’t regret such a decision
Ladeira do Meireles, 90,
Rio de Janeiro
https://georges.life/en/rio/

Fasano

Super upscale option at the heart of Ipanema
Avenida Viera Souto, 80
Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro
https://fasano.com.br/en/hotel/fasano-rio-de-janeiro/

Sheraton Grand Rio

Right in front of the beach, near the famous Leblon neighborhood 
Avenida Niemeyer 121
Leblon, Rio de Janeiro
https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/riosi-sheraton-grand-rio-hotel-and-resort/overview/

Touristic activities

Ipanema & Leblon beach

Enjoy an afternoon at the beach, with beer and cachaça in your hands. On your right, you will recognize the two mountains called the Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers). Whenever we go to any other beach, Caro never forgets to mention that it is not as good as Ipanema, go check this out

Ipanema or Leblon, Posto 8 until posto 12, Rio de Janeiro

Parque Lage & Jardim Botânico

Best known for its palace with swimming pool and terrace. You can spend 30min lining up to take a picture, or just ignore the tourist trap and go to the botanical garden in the neighborhood that has 6500 varieties of Brazilian plants, monkey jumping around, and views of the Christ the Redeemer. It is worth it

Palácio Parque Lage, Rio de Janeiro

Santa Teresa

Named after the small convent built on the hill by nuns built in the 1750s. It has little left from the original convent spirit. It is the most European part of the city with a charming, village-like vibe. People back home will certainly ask you if you have been there. Don’t worry, you can still get cachaça there too

Santa Teresa, Rio de Janeiro

Beside the city of Rio, the destinations below offer a variety of experiences, from historical and cultural exploration to beach relaxation and outdoor adventures. Perfect for a day trip from Rio!

  1. Petrópolis:
    Distance: About 1.5 hours by car.
    Highlights: Known as the Imperial City, it features the Imperial Museum, the Crystal Palace, and charming colonial architecture. The Serra dos Órgãos National Park is also nearby for nature lovers.
  2. Niterói:
    Distance: About 30 minutes by car.
    Highlights: Famous for the Contemporary Art Museum designed by Oscar Niemeyer, beautiful beaches like Itacoatiara, and scenic viewpoints such as Parque da Cidade.
  3. Teresópolis:
    Distance: About 1.5 hours by car.
    Highlights: Offers stunning views of the Serra dos Órgãos National Park, the iconic Dedo de Deus (God’s Finger) peak, and the charming Granja Comary, which is the training ground for the Brazilian national football team.
  4. Angra dos Reis:
    Distance: About 2.5 hours by car.
    Highlights: Known for its beautiful coastline and islands, including Ilha Grande. Perfect for boat trips, snorkeling, and relaxing on pristine beaches.
  5. Paraty:
    Distance: About 4 hours by car.
    Highlights: A historic colonial town with cobblestone streets, well-preserved architecture, and beautiful beaches. The nearby Serra da Bocaina National Park offers great hiking opportunities.
  6. Búzios:
    Distance: About 2.5 hours by car.
    Highlights: A picturesque beach town with a lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and excellent restaurants and nightlife.
  7. Ilha Grande:
    Distance: Accessible by ferry from Angra dos Reis.
    Highlights: An island paradise with stunning beaches, hiking trails, and clear waters perfect for diving and snorkeling. No cars are allowed, adding to its tranquil charm.