Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro Itinerary

Monday October 16: Arrival in São Paulo

Welcome to São Paulo! Start your trip by checking into Hotel Minho, where you will be staying for the next four nights. In the morning, explore the historic city center and visit attractions such as Sé Cathedral and Theatro Municipal. In the afternoon, head to the trendy neighborhood of Vila Madalena, known for its vibrant street art and bohemian atmosphere. In the evening, indulge in delicious Brazilian cuisine at a local restaurant.

  • Sé Cathedral: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Theatro Municipal: Entrance fee: $10, 1-2 hours
  • Vila Madalena: Free, 2-3 hours
Tuesday October 17: São Paulo Museums

Start your day by visiting the São Paulo Museum of Art (MASP), which houses an impressive collection of European and Brazilian art. In the afternoon, explore the Ibirapuera Park, a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city, where you can visit the Museum of Contemporary Art and enjoy a leisurely stroll. In the evening, experience São Paulo's vibrant nightlife in the neighborhood of Vila Olímpia.

  • MASP: Entrance fee: $15, 2-3 hours
  • Ibirapuera Park: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Vila Olímpia: Cost varies, evening
Wednesday October 18: São Paulo Market and Shopping

Start your day by exploring the Municipal Market, a bustling food market where you can sample local delicacies. In the afternoon, indulge in some retail therapy at Rua Oscar Freire, São Paulo's most luxurious shopping street. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance at Theatro Municipal or visit a traditional samba club for an authentic Brazilian experience.

  • Municipal Market: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
  • Rua Oscar Freire: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
  • Theatro Municipal: Entrance fee: $10, evening
Thursday October 19: São Paulo Parks and Gardens

Explore the city's beautiful parks and gardens today. Start with a visit to the Botanical Garden of São Paulo, where you can admire a wide variety of plants and flowers. In the afternoon, visit the Parque da Independência, home to the historic Ipiranga Museum. In the evening, relax and unwind at a rooftop bar, enjoying panoramic views of the city.

  • Botanical Garden of São Paulo: Entrance fee: $5, 2-3 hours
  • Parque da Independência: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Rooftop Bar: Cost varies, evening
Friday October 20: Arrival in Rio de Janeiro

Check out from Hotel Minho and fly to Rio de Janeiro. Upon arrival, check into Carnaval Rio Hostel, where you will be staying for the next three nights. In the morning, explore the iconic Copacabana Beach and take a dip in the refreshing waters. In the afternoon, visit the famous Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking views of the city. In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Lapa.

  • Copacabana Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Sugarloaf Mountain: Entrance fee: $20, 2-3 hours
  • Lapa: Cost varies, evening
Saturday October 21: Explore Rio de Janeiro

Spend the day exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Rio de Janeiro. Start with a visit to the bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa, known for its charming streets and art galleries. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to the top of the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Brazilian barbecue dinner at a local churrascaria.

  • Santa Teresa: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Christ the Redeemer: Entrance fee: $15, 2-3 hours
  • Churrascaria: Cost varies, evening
Sunday October 22: Rio de Janeiro Beaches

Explore the stunning beaches of Rio de Janeiro today. Start with a visit to Ipanema Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the lively beach culture. In the afternoon, head to the famous neighborhood of Leblon for shopping and dining. In the evening, watch the sunset from the beautiful Arpoador Beach.

  • Ipanema Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Leblon: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
  • Arpoador Beach: Free, evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring São Paulo, don't miss the opportunity to visit Beco do Batman in Vila Madalena, a narrow alley covered in vibrant street art. In Rio de Janeiro, venture off the beaten path and visit the tranquil Parque Lage, a stunning public park nestled at the foot of Christ the Redeemer. Locals love to spend their weekends there, enjoying picnics and exploring the art school housed within the park's mansion.

Click here to check hotel and flight prices.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version