Start your day by taking in the incredible panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro from the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. You'll take two cable car rides to reach the summit and experience breathtaking landscapes along the way. Once you're at the top, you can grab a bite to eat at the upscale restaurant and soak in the stunning scenery.
Visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the New7Wonders of the World, atop the Corcovado Mountain. The view of the city from the statue is awe-inspiring. After that, take a stroll through the vibrant roads of Santa Teresa until you reach the iconic Selaron's Staircase, which is popular for its colourful steps and lively atmospheres.
Take a relaxed day off and head to Rio de Janeiro's most renowned beaches, Copacabana and Ipanema. Beaches are the heartbeat of Rio de Janeiro, and visiting these places will give you an insight into the city's culture, history and lifestyle of the locals, not to mention the exotic beach drinks and Brazilian delicacies.
You can use Uber or taxi services to get around Rio de Janeiro comfortably. On average, a trip can cost around R$20-30 per 5 km, but the price may vary depending on surge and traffic. Public transportation is also available, but it can be crowded and challenging for non-locals to navigate.
If you have extra time, visit the National Museum, Botanical Garden, or hike in Tijuca National Park. If you have less time, swap the beach day for downtown shopping or Olympic Boulevard. Consider downloading offline maps, learning some Portuguese phrases and practicing safety awareness.
Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport (GIG) is the international airport, located about 20 km north of Rio de Janeiro's city centre. There are a lot of taxis and shuttle buses outside the airport terminal that can take you to and from the city. You can also take a domestic flight from Santos Dumont Airport (SDU), located in the city centre, but it only serves flights within Brazil.