Dramatic, teeming with life 24/7, Rio de Janeiro perches twixt ocean and jungle and is both a great one-stop destination as well as a perfect entry point into Latin America. Some of the best places to stay in Rio de Janeiro can be found in the boutique city centre B&Bs, but if luxury is what you're after, then the city does not disappoint, with plenty of stylish hangouts, either beachside or slightly further out of town.
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Even with images from films such as City of God ingrained in the mind, the city’s truly breathtaking views do not disappoint. Rio lies in one of the world's most specular settings: a line of lights between high peaks, rainforests and white sandy beaches. From the bossa nova cafés of Santa Teresa, to the caipirinha-soaked beaches of Ipanema and Copacobana, Rio has so much to offer, and a wide range of accommodation to match.
The locals have a reputation for good living and fun. This is an easy place to eat and drink extremely well; to dance the night away; or to spend hours people watching. It's also a great base for surfing and sailing. Finally, dense and exotic rainforests are just a short distance away from the centre of the city.
For sightseeing, there is plenty on offer, from the Cristo Redentor (aka Christ the Redeemer), one of Rio's most famous attractions, to the rocky Pão de Açúcar (sugar loaf mountain) or, for a dose of culture, the Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil (CCBB), set in a glorious Art Deco building, with its three theatres, multiple libraries and a cinema.
Where To Stay - which neighbourhood?
- Botafogo is the best place for those who want to take advantage of the city's bustling nightlife.
- If you're here for the museums and culture then finding a great place to stay in Lapa is probably your best bet.
- Those visiting for business should try and find a room in Centro, or as close to as possible.
- But if you fancy spending your days on the beach then check in to one of Copacabana's hotels.
- Arpoador is where the hip surf crowd hang. It's situated in between Copacabana and Ipanema beaches and is the place to go to watch the sunset.
- Ipanema and Leblon are both good options for the beach too. Both are wealthy residential areas and filled with high end restaurants and designer shops, and there are some great designer and boutique hotels here.
- If you are after a bohemian vibe, then book a B+B or hotel in Santa Teresa. Its hilltop location means the views are to die for, and the arty atmosphere is amplified by its charming squares with their grand, faded mansions and artisan galleries.
Our pick of the best places to stay in Rio de Janeiro has something for every taste, whether you are looking for art and culture, street life, or beach. But remember to book well ahead, especially if you plan to visit during Carnival.
