What to Do in Rio de Janeiro: Icons, Food and the Sea

Rio's modernization had its epicenter in the port area, a circuit that is now easy to explore by VLT (Veículo Leve sobre Trilhos), the modern light rail system that conveniently, affordably and sustainably connects downtown with Orla Conde. To travel, simply top up your card at the stations and validate it when boarding.

Along the bay, Olympic Boulevard (Orla Conde) functions as a huge open-air art gallery. The completely flat route is ideal for walking or cycling and connects some of the area's main attractions, including the Museum of Art of Rio (MAR) and the imposing AquaRio aquarium.

Good to know: Etnias, a mural by Eduardo Kobra, is one of the largest graffiti murals in the world, covering 2,600 m². It depicts five faces representing Indigenous peoples, inspired by the five Olympic rings.

Where: Orla Pref. Luiz Paulo Conde, New Port Area; Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Olympic Boulevard.

With its futuristic design that seems to float over Guanabara Bay, the museum is impressive not only from the outside: its interactive approach encourages visitors to reflect on climate change, biodiversity and the future of the planet, making it a must-visit cultural stop.

Its exhibits invite visitors to consider how the decisions we make today can transform the world we inhabit and what kind of future we want to build. Through science, art and innovation, the museum proposes new ways of thinking about the present and the future.

Good to know: The museum has a very active program that includes exhibitions, workshops, guided tours, talks and other activities. The schedule is updated on its website, so it's worth checking it before your visit to see what's on.

Where: Praça Mauá, 1, Centro, Rio de Janeiro.

Going up Corcovado Mountain remains a must for appreciating the scale of Rio, where Tijuca Forest meets the urban landscape and the sea. Since 2019, the historic route has featured renovated trains, panoramic roofs and greater accessibility for wheelchair users and bicycles, as well as an operating capacity that has doubled to 600 passengers per hour.

The sight of Christ the Redeemer embracing the city remains moving, but the journey through Tijuca National Park has also become part of the experience. Surrounded by vegetation and panoramic views, the ascent offers a unique perspective of Rio even before reaching the monument.

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Good to know: The final stretch can be done by elevator or stairs. We recommend the latter, as you'll find wonderful viewpoints and opportunities to stop for shopping along the way.

Where: R. Cosme Velho, 513 - Cosme Velho, Rio de Janeiro.

The cable car ride to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views in Rio, especially at sunset, when the light falls over Guanabara Bay. The ascent takes place in two cable car stages, reaching almost 400 meters above sea level.

Much more than a viewpoint, Parque Bondinho Pão de Açúcar brings together entertainment, dining and outdoor experiences throughout the year. A tip for the more adventurous: it is possible to walk the first section, up to Morro da Urca, along a trail through the tropical forest.

Good to know: If you go in the afternoon, watching the sunset from the top is an unforgettable experience. On certain dates, special sunset events with DJs and drinks are also organized.

Where: Urca, Rio de Janeiro, Sugarloaf Mountain; Av. Pasteur, 520, Urca, Rio de Janeiro.

Rio's dining scene unfolds across different levels, but panoramic views are a common thread. Located on the rooftop of Bossa Nova Mall, Xian serves contemporary Asian cuisine in a sophisticated setting, with privileged views of Marina da Glória and Sugarloaf Mountain. It's a great place for lunch, watching the sunset or ordering one of its signature cocktails.

It also has a lounge that is perfect for extending your visit: in the late afternoon, it offers happy hour with sunset views, while at night, the menu features cocktails, sake and wine. Designed as an amphitheater and integrated into its surroundings, the restaurant serves modern Asian cuisine overseen by chef Osami Oyama.

Good to know: Don't miss the Magret de Canard Indochine, a combination of grilled duck and kabocha purée that captures the restaurant's take on modern Asian cuisine.

Where: Av. Alm. Silvio de Noronha, 365, Centro, Rio de Janeiro.

Located on the 26th floor of the Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort, this exclusive space offers one of the most dazzling nighttime views of the Leblon coastline. Its gourmet offering stands out for classic French starters such as frog legs and escargots, as well as fresh creations like the impeccable Ceviche L’Étoile. For dessert or an after-dinner treat, the crème brûlée is incredible.

The experience is completed by a fine-dining French menu with South American influences, led by chef Juan José Molina and with consulting from chef Jean Paul Bondoux. The restaurant was also featured in the 2024 Michelin Guide, reinforcing its position among Rio's standout dining experiences.

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Good to know: If you're lucky and it's on the menu, don't miss the dessert featuring creative transformations of cashew fruit (cajú), presented in different textures unlike anything you've seen before.

Where: 26th Floor - Sheraton Rio - Av. Niemeyer, 121 - Vidigal, Rio de Janeiro.

For a sophisticated yet relaxed dinner, Bene, located on the hotel's ground floor, captivates with its huge windows practically overlooking the sea. Its cuisine pays tribute to the flavors of Italy with a Brazilian touch, with highlights including Polvo à Luciana (tender octopus with tomato sauce) and the refined Atúm com Taglioline negro.

The restaurant also stands out for its fresh fish and seafood, Italian charcuterie and handmade pasta prepared in-house with organic ingredients from small local producers. For dessert, the trio of Sobremesas is the ideal choice: three unexpected bites that turn the end of the meal into a complete surprise.

Good to know: It is one of the few restaurants in Rio located practically on the sea, a setting that perfectly complements its culinary offering.

Where: Ground Floor - Sheraton Rio - Av. Niemeyer, 121 - Vidigal.

For those looking to combine the intensity of urban excursions with the tranquility of a beach getaway, the Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort in Leblon stands out. Set on the cove of Vidigal Beach, it remains the only resort in the city with direct access to the sand. Its views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding hills are unforgettable, while its privileged location has everything you need for a perfect stay.

Staying here feels like a true escape from reality; after a few days, it's easy to understand why it has become the hotel of choice for Argentine travelers. Its understated yet sophisticated architecture combines with first-class service defined by genuine warmth and a wide variety of options designed for all ages.

Its rooms feature private balconies offering endless ocean views, while exclusive access to the Sheraton Club Lounge provides a peaceful retreat with a private breakfast area and a wide variety of dining options throughout the day. To complete the feeling of disconnection, there's nothing like booking a massage at the Shine SPA, with the sound of the waves in the background after a day spent exploring the city.

Good to know: An ideal price-to-quality ratio, plus the possibility of accommodating guests of different ages without sacrificing privacy—everyone is sure to leave satisfied.

Where: Av. Niemeyer, 121 - Vidigal, Rio de Janeiro.

They say there is no vacation in Rio without stopping by a traditional bar for a well-shaken caipirinha or an ice-cold cerveja. Facing the iconic Ipanema Beach, Boteco Belmonte is an ideal stop for experiencing the laid-back spirit and vibrant energy of Carioca nightlife up close.

The menu brings together classics of boteco cuisine, with pastéis filled with a variety of flavors taking center stage. Add an ice-cold beer, the constant movement of the street and the informal atmosphere, and you have a scene that is as quintessentially Carioca as the beach right across the street.

Good to know: In Rio, dinner starts early, so ideally arrive from 7pm onward, when the atmosphere starts to pick up and you can still enjoy the evening by the sea.

Where: Av. Vieira Souto, 236 - Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro.