6 Things to do in Rio de Janeiro Brazil

from my personal experience as a woman solo traveler

Rio de Janeiro is a dynamic, beautiful city situated on the coast of Brazil. Small mountains lush with greenery dot the coastline making it one of the most scenic cities I’ve been to. YES you can (and should?) take samba classes and visit the favelas. Other popular things to do in Rio are hang gliding and visiting the Christ the Redeemer statue. There is so much to do in Rio, and I felt very safe there.  Here are 6 other fun things to do in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on your next trip.

1. Eat great food

Rio has a plethora of delicious dining options, and many noted Michelin star or bib restaurants. I loved Maria e o Boi and Lasai! At Maria e o Boi be sure to get a steak and the heart of palm. Plus the cocktails are incredible. At Lasai you will need reservations since there are schedule seatings of 10 people at a time.

2. Visit the beach/hang glide

Of course you’ll want to hit up the beaches in Rio! Rio is such an active city. In the mornings people jog and bike along the beach and there are fitness classes in the sand, and even group meditation! In the afternoons people go to chill. I loved Ipanema and São Conrado (the spot for hang gliding). Those two are a bit more chill than Copacabana, which has a lively party vibe. Want to book your hang gliding experience? Click here.

3. Go to Pão de Açucar

The view from the top is incredible and this is absolutely worth the visit. Here’s my tip – get the rapid access pass. You can buy this online or when you arrive just ask one of the people working to help you get to the kiosk to purchase it. This will save you HOURS in lines. Also I went up for the sunset, along with so many other people. It gets crowded so if you really want to watch the sunset go early to secure your spot.

4. Check out the Rio Gastronomy Fest

This festival takes place every year near the end of August, and lasts 2-3 weekends. It takes place in the Jockey Club in Rio and spans several weekends, with artisan producers, music, food kiosks and a wide representation of Brazil’s incredible culinary scene. Keep up to date by following @riogastronomia on Instagram.

5. Go dancing in Lapa

Lapa is a popular neighborhood for dancing, I even found Cuban salsa on Saturdays at Havana 59! There are lots of clubs and popular spots for enjoying a night out. You can find Samba clubs, dance halls, mellow jazz bars, casual pubs, upscale lounges and great spots to eat and dance the night away. Take a taxi.

6.Do a photoshoot

A photoshoot is a great way to commemorate a trip!I hired a local photographer I found on Airbnb and it turned out great! Plus it’s a fun way to meet locals and get to know the city better. Book your spot here!

Have you been to Rio? What did I miss?

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Traveling to Brazil unlocks an experience unlike any other, from the most friendly people to the scenery and nightlife. There is so much to do! Need help planning your trip? Contact me here for rates!