Ahh, Rio de Janeiro. A city that captures the hearts of so many!
Rio de Janeiro is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, samba music, and Carnaval festivities. Lovingly called the Marvelous City by Brazilians, it’s full of culture, history, tasty cuisine, and friendly locals.
As well as all of this, the Harbour of Rio de Janeiro is surrounded by unique and spectacular landscapes. Part of the city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for Cultural Landscapes and it’s included in the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. It’s pretty damn beautiful!
With all these special designations, it’s no wonder that Rio is one of the most visited cities in the Southern Hemisphere.
Deciding where to stay in Rio de Janeiro is important and can be a tricky task. That’s where I come in! I’ve compiled the best areas and places to stay in Rio de Janeiro depending on your travel style and budget. This way you can focus on the things that matter to you most.
So, let’s get down to disco and find which neighbourhood in Rio de Janeiro is best for you!
Photo: @sebagvivas
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Rio de Janeiro?
- Psst! Just a sec.
- Rio de Janeiro Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Rio de Janeiro
- Rio de Janeiro’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Rio de Janeiro
- What To Pack For Rio de Janeiro
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Rio de Janeiro
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Rio de Janeiro
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are my highest recommendations for places to stay in Rio de Janeiro.
If you’re traveling on a budget, I’d recommend staying at one of Rio’s best hostels. Keep the costs low while enjoying a comfy bed and a great place to rest your head while meeting like-minded backpackers.
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Ipanema Inn Hotel | Best Hotel in Rio de Janeiro
Just a 3-minute walk to beach access, this beachfront hotel is stylish and perfect for those looking for a relaxing vacation at Ipanema Beach. They offer a small continental breakfast that you can request to eat in your room. The on site restaurant and bar serve exotic caipirinhas and regional dishes. Plus, the drinks are half off during happy hour!
Chairs and towels for the beach are also provided to guests. The neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly and has lots of shops and restaurants within walking distance. Alternatively, the train station is close by if you want to venture to the city center of Rio de Janeiro.
Sugar Loft Apartments | Best Apartment in Rio de Janeiro
Located in the famous bohemian neighborhood of Santa Teresa, Sugar Loft is set in a 1930s building that has been renovated to have modern rooms. The apartments offer a practical dining area and full kitchen, and a supermarket is conveniently located in front of the property.
The owners are helpful and friendly too! The best part about these apartments is the views of the city. Overall, this is an affordable apartment that caters well to couples and groups who are looking to be more self-sufficient on their trip to Rio de Janeiro.
Tupiniquim | Best Hostel in Rio de Janeiro
Tupiniquim aims to provide a fully immersed Brazilian experience in a classic beach neighborhood. The cook only makes Brazilian food, the movies in the chill room are mostly Brazilian, and they play some of the best Brazilian music.
It’s located in Botafogo, which is centrally located near all of the city’s best areas, making it easy to bounce around. They also have a terrace with views of Christ the Redeemer Statue and a bar with drinks. Hunt for street art, and visit Botafogo Beach and Sugarloaf Mountain while you’re here.
It’s a wonderful option for where to stay in Rio de Janeiro, especially if you want to indulge in Brazilian culture while meeting other travelers.
Exclusive Seafront Loft | Best Airbnb in Copacabana
Stay at this apartment in Copacabana beach and you won’t be disappointed. With a rooftop pool, modern rooms, and walking distance (mere steps!) to the beach, this is a prime position on one of Rio’s most famous beaches. Christ the Redeemer and stunning ocean views out your window, what more could you want?
Make the most of the fitness center or walk the two blocks to the subway if you need a switch up from the beautiful beaches.
Copacabana
Copacabana is the most well-known area of Rio de Janeiro. In its heyday of the 50’s and 60’s, the name was synonymous with glitz, glamour, and luxury. Although its golden age has passed, it’s still the most popular area for travelers.
Centro
Centro is the area of the city with the largest variety of museums, and historic and cultural centers. These days, it functions as the business and financial center of the city, but it used to be the heart of the city.
Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is a hilltop neighborhood just outside of Centro with an artsy, Bohemian vibe. It’s here that you’ll find some of the best Carnaval blocos. In fact, I stayed in this neighborhood when I was in Rio for Carnaval and the blocos would pass right by my place!
Ipanema
Fashionable and trendy, Ipanema is known for its iconic namesake beach. It’s a place to see and be seen. Located right next door to the famous Copacabana Beach, Ipanema is slowly stealing the spotlight as the cool place to be thanks to its younger crowd, stunning natural views and great bars and restaurants.
Botafogo
The neighborhood of Botafogo is centered around its namesake half-moon bay and is a very up and coming ‘hood in Rio. The sandy beach offers a nice view of Sugarloaf Mountain and there are lots of entertainment options from shopping malls and cinemas to trendy bars and restaurants.
If you’re backpacking Brazil, there is simply no way around Rio. The city isn’t the smallest, so knowing where to stay is advantageous when booking accommodation. Rio de Janeiro is split into four main zones. They are the Historic Center, the South Zone, the North Zone, and the West Zone. Each zone is then further broken down into neighborhoods.
Guanabara Bay is to the East, hence the lack of an eastern zone. The North Zone has the highest crime rate in Rio. It’s the ‘burbs, not a very touristy area and theft is big here. The North Zone, including Rocinha and Vila Mimosa, does not contain a lot of attractions or places to visit for tourists so I’d avoid it.
The Historic Center and the South Zone have the best neighborhoods for travelers as they have the best mix of safety, attractions, restaurants, beaches, and nightlife.
Each neighborhood in Rio has its own lifestyle and culture, making the neighborhoods feel more like small towns than neighborhoods.
Centro is the neighborhood for lovers of all things cultural. Its vibrant museums and architecture will keep you entertained for hours. Catch the Ballet at the Teatro Municipal (Municipal Theater) or visit the Museu Nacional de Belas Artes (Museum of Fine Arts) to take in the impressive collection.
At night the streets come alive with all-night street parties where you can dance the night away to Samba music. And let’s not forget that Rio is home to Brazil’s biggest festival – Carnival!
Lapa is the star neighborhood in Centro, and where to stay in Rio de Janeiro for nightlife. The beautiful Escadaria Selaron Steps are the iconic mosaic steps of Rio and shouldn’t be missed. The area around the Lapa arches hosts some of the most famous street parties during Carnaval season.
Santa Teresa is the coolest neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro thanks strong bohemian vibe emanating throughout the streets. Many artists who reside there paint awe-inspiring murals along the walls. There are lots of boutique shops and galleries to peruse, and it’s perched on a hill so the views of the sea are incredible.
Botafogo is full of fun restaurants and bars that get hoppin’ on the weekends. It’s located amongst the hills just south of Santa Teresa and is known for its attractions such as the Native Brazilian Museum, Casa Rui Barbosa and the Villa-Lobos Museum. There’s also a food fair with live music at Cobal Public Market. It even has its own beach with a view of Sugarloaf Mountain.
As you move further south, you’ll come into the areas most popular with travelers seeking a beach vacation. Leblon, Copacabana, and Ipanema are all neighborhoods with world-class beaches and nightlife.
Photo: @monteiro.online
Lagoa is a neighborhood situated around the saltwater lake. It has a bike path that goes the full circle around the lake and a never-ending list of entertainment possibilities.
If you’re up for a road trip from Rio de Janeiro, Buzios is an epic beach spot just down the coast. Check out the Barra de Tijuca neighborhood on your way down. Often referred to as just “Barra”, has around 15 miles of beaches and 3 lakes. Home to beautiful beaches and epic Buzios hostels to crash at.
You’re sure to have an amazing time wherever you stay in Rio de Janeiro but given the massive size of the city, it’s best to stay in the ‘hood that suits your interests. I’ve broken those down below.
Rio de Janeiro’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Rio de Janeiro is a sprawling city but there is a metro making it easy to get from one point to the other. There are also lots of buses and taxis. Plus, Uber is there.
However, you’re going to have a much more enjoyable time if you have the things that are most important to you right around the corner. So let’s take a closer look and what you can do in each area!
1. Copacabana – Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro for the First Time
Copacabana is one of the most famous beaches in Rio de Janeiro. This neighborhood is located closer to the historic center, meaning you can easily visit the city center. Popping off in the 50’s, Copacabana Beach is still the most popular area for travellers.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
Find a spot to relax and soak up the sun on the 2.5 miles of gorgeous golden sand while you’re here. I would also highly recommend strolling the sidewalk and checking out some of the handicrafts for sale. Slink back to your accommodation for a little disco nap or a freshwater dip in the swimming pool before the night begins.
Of course, with so many tourists, there are pickpockets operating day and night in the area. This isn’t the safest neighborhood at night, especially on the beach. Hitting up a happy hour for a caipirinha and a snack is probably going to be your next step. Be safe, and have fun!
Copacabana Palace | Best Luxury Hotel in Copacabana
This beachfront hotel is the epitome of elegance. Luxurious rooms with marbled bathrooms and panoramic ocean views located on Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beachfront are what you get here.
Featuring a wellness center, an outdoor swimming pool, and complimentary havianas, the Copacabana Palace is worth every Brazillian real. Make sure to enjoy at least one of the three on site restaurants during your stay at the Best Luxury Hotel in Copacabana.
Aquarela do Leme | Best Hostel in Copacabana
Aqualera do Leme has the best atmosphere and is a great place to meet other people. It’s the kind of Brazilian hostel that makes travelers extend their stay just so they can spend more time making friends and enjoying the company.
With beach access within walking distance and a fitness center, you’ll be getting your steps in at this Copacabana Beach hostel. Take advantage of the homemade breakfast buffet on offer in one of Rio’s most loved beach neighborhoods.
Exclusive Seafront Loft | Best Airbnb in Copacabana
Stay at this apartment in Copacabana beach and you won’t be disappointed. With a rooftop pool, modern rooms, and walking distance (mere steps!) to the beach, this is a prime position on one of Rio’s most famous beaches. Christ the Redeemer and stunning ocean views out your window, what more could you want?
Top Things to Do in Copacabana:
- Stroll down the famous Avenue Nossa Senhora de Copacabana in the early hours before tourists arrive.
- Bake in the sun on the golden Copacabana beach or take up a game of beach volleyball.
- Climb the Morro do Leme for incredible views of the sea and surrounding areas. Check out the Forte do Vigia at the top.
- Music lovers should stop by Bossa Nova e Companhia to peruse the vast collection of Bossa Nova music CDs and musical instruments.
- Dance until the sun comes up at Mariuzinn Night Club. Be sure to NOT arrive before midnight! Start your night with Samba.
- Grab a board and get slotted on some tasty barrels at the Arpoador or just take in sunset if you’re not a surfer.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Centro – Best Place to Stay in Rio de Janeiro on a Budget
Centro is the city with the largest variety of museums, and historic and cultural centers. These days, it functions as the business and financial center of the city, but it used to be the heart of the city center. As such, it’s full of beautiful, colonial architecture and old alleyways dotted with cafes and shops.
Photo: Sasha Savinov
Nightlife options are available almost every night of the week. Happy hours begin around 5 pm and go until late in the evening. You’ll see lots of Brazilians relaxing over a drink at the end of the workday.
The street parties really get going near the small neighborhood of Lapa. The Lapa Arches are one of the most famous landmarks in the area. Not only is this one of the best places to stay in Rio de Janeiro on a budget, but you will also get your culture and nightlife fix here!
Selena Lapa | Best Hotel in Centro
The Selena Lapa Hotel is great for those who want to be in a happening part of Centro. It’s located in a small neighborhood called Lapa which is well-known for its bars, clubs, and overall nightlife. The rooms are charming and beautiful and include a minibar and air conditioning. There is an onsite restaurant and bar where the cocktails are quite famous in the area. It’s a great city center choice for where to stay in Rio de Janeiro.
Books Hostel | Best Hostel in Centro
Books is a fun, sociable hostel located in the Lapa neighborhood of Centro where all the best bars and nightlife are. This is the place to make life-long friends as well as find companions to explore the city with.
They offer a free breakfast plus lots of different day tours for waterfalls, hiking, and trips to the beach, free of charge. Who needs a fitness center?! This is a perfect choice for where to stay in Rio de Janeiro!
One Bedroom Loft | Best Airbnb in Centro
Brand new apartment located in the best and most refined neighborhood of Rio. Perfect for 2 people. Walking distance to the metro station, the best bars and restaurants you can find in Rio, and the beach, of course. It’s a one-bedroom loft with wireless internet, cable TV, a washing machine, a dryer, private parking, and a 24-hour doorman.
Top Things to Do in Centro:
- Dance in the street by the Lapa Arches at one of the many street parties.
- Enjoy the ballet or opera at the Theatro Municipal (Municipal Theater), then take in the impressive collections at the Museu Nacional de Belas Artes (Museum of Fine Arts).
- Learn about ways to avoid climate disasters, environmental degradation, and social collapse at the Museum of Tomorrow. For a more reflective museum experience, visit the National Historical Museum
- Watch a soccer game at The Maracanã – the legendary football stadium that also hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2016 Summer Olympics.
- Relax with sunset drinks and scenic views of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as Sugar Loaf Mountain on a Sunset Sailing Tour.
- Visit the Saint Sebastian Metropolitan Cathedral and marvel at the unique architecture inspired by the Mayan Pyramids of Mexico.
- Get a taste of Baroque-style architecture by visiting the Candelaria Church and admiring the marble interior.
- Get out of town and cruise further south to Barra da Tijuca beach to enjoy a more mellow ambiance.
3. Santa Teresa – Best Area to Stay in Rio de Janeiro for Nightlife
Santa Teresa is a hilltop neighborhood just outside of Centro with an artsy, Bohemian vibe. It’s here that you’ll find some of the best Carnaval blocos (street party). In fact, I stayed in Santa Teresa when I was in Rio for Carnaval and the blocos would pass right by my place!
Photo: Sasha Savinov
Santa Teresa is a traditional neighborhood which you’ll notice from the beautiful mansions and the old-school cable car taking residents up and down the steep hills. Visitors can walk up to the viewpoints at the top of the hill for incredible views of the harbor and surrounding neighborhoods.
Staying in Santa Teresa, you can still feel what the city used to be like in its golden days. Beach access is not within walking distance from Santa Teresa, hence the hotel and Airbnb I’ve recommended both have a swimming pool.
Vila Santa Teresa | Best Hotel in Santa Teresa
The best of Santa Teresa’s boutique hotels, I love the stunning ocean views from the rooftop swimming pool at Vila Santa Teresa. Enjoy the onsite restaurant or order room service as you lay by the outdoor pool on the terrace. Close to Botafago Beach, you can immerse yourself in the culture of Santa Teresa as much as you like, then relish retreating to your luxurious rooms at this modern hotel.
Mambembe Hostel | Best Hostel in Santa Teresa
Located in the lively neighborhood of Santa Teresa is Mambembe Hostel. This is the best place to stay for a social atmosphere and being close to the action. It’s the kind of hostel that has everything you need including a fully equipped kitchen, free wifi, living room, bar, and outdoor chill areas.
Vila Carioca | Best Airbnb in Santa Teresa
If you are looking for a perfectly located home in the center of Santa Teresa with a hide-away feeling, this is the right place for you. Vila Carioca has a beautiful view of the city as well as the Petropolis and Teresopolis mountains and the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. Escape from the heat in the shady outdoor pool on the ground floor after a game of basketball on your private half-court.
Top Things to Do in Santa Teresa
- Climb the colorful Escadaria Selarón Steps (aka Lapa Steps) admiring the tiles from all around the world.
- Check out the Mercado das Pulgas every first and third Saturday of the month. Contrary to its name, it’s a Samba celebration complete with local drummers where Santa Teresa locals dance in the streets while sipping Caipirinhas.
- Celebrate Carnaval if you’re in town for it!
- Take in the impressive collection at the Museu da Chácara do Céu – one of the city’s most comprehensive art museums.
- Ride the tram from downtown up to the top of Santa Teresa then learn about the detailed history of the tram at Museu do Bonde.
- Visit the Parque das Ruinas to enjoy the art and the views built around the ruins of an old mansion.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Ipanema – Coolest Place to Stay in Rio de Janeiro
Fashionable and trendy, Ipanema is known for its iconic namesake beach. It’s a place to see and be seen. Located right next door to the famous Copacabana Beach, Ipanema is slowly stealing the spotlight as the cool place to be thanks to its younger crowd, stunning natural views, and great bars and restaurants.
Considered the “Little Paris” of Rio, Ipanema is also renowned for its bookstores, movie theatres, and avant-garde galleries. You’ll also find high-end fashion boutiques, fine-dining restaurants, and relaxed bars playing bossa nova.
Ipanema Inn Hotel | Best Luxury Hotel in Ipanema
Just a 3-minute walk to beach access, this beachfront hotel is stylish and perfect for those looking for a relaxing vacation at Ipanema Beach. They offer spacious rooms and a small continental breakfast that you can request to eat in your room. The restaurant and bar serve exotic caipirinhas and regional dishes. Plus, the drinks are half off during happy hour!
Chairs and towels for Ipanema Beach are also provided to guests. The neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly and has lots of shops and restaurants within walking distance. Alternatively, the train station is close by if you want to venture to the city center of Rio de Janeiro.
Che Lagarto Hostel Ipanema | Best Hostel in Ipanema
Che Lagarto Hostel is located just one block from Ipanema Beach. They offer free caipirinhas every day for half an hour to start the night! You really can’t beat that.
In addition to that awesomeness, they have a fully equipped kitchen, free wifi, computers for guest use, lockers for all beds, air conditioning, and tourist information. The staff keeps the atmosphere lively by playing music and always offering a friendly smile. It’s a great choice for where to stay in Rio de Janeiro in this upscale neighborhood.
Beachfront Apartment | Best Airbnb in Ipanema
Why stay anywhere but the famous Ipanema Beach? If you’re going to make the trip to Rio for the beautiful beaches, this is the place to be. With a small rooftop pool, fitness center, and sauna, this apartment sleeps 4 and your stay will be one for the books!
Top Things to Do in Ipanema:
- Head to the famous Ipanema beach to sunbathe or join in a game of Frescobol.
- Shop at the Hippie Fair every Sunday for the best souvenirs and to try delicious local specialties such as Acarajé – a croquette, fried in Dendê (Palm) oil, and filled with spicy shrimp.
- Check out the Girl From Ipanema Cafe to see where the famous song was penned.
- Learn how to surf with lessons from a surf school near Arpoador, a rock at the end of the beach jutting out into the ocean where people gather to hang out.
- Get an enlightening glance into the history of human communication at Oi Futuro – the Museum of Communications.
- Learn how to fight like a Brazilian by taking a Jiu-Jitsu class at Brazilian Black Belt.
5. Botafogo – Best Neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro for Families to Stay In
The neighborhood of Botafogo is centered around its namesake half-moon bay and is a very up-and-coming ‘hood in Rio. The sandy beach offers a nice view of Sugarloaf Mountain and there are lots of entertainment options from shopping malls and cinemas to trendy bars and restaurants.
Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro by Intercity | Best Hotel in Botafogo
The Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro is located just a short walk to the beach in Botafogo. Some of the rooms offer amazing views of Sugarloaf Mountain, the ocean, and Corcovado Mountain. Feel like you’re at the best luxury hotel and treat yourself to a spa package at the wellness center during your stay!
The Yoo has a fitness center, a rooftop bar and swimming pool with sweeping views of the city. A buffet breakfast is included in the cost of the room and the Yoo also has stunning restaurants and bars.
Tupiniquim | Best Hostel in Botafogo
Tupiniquim aims to provide a fully immersed Brazilian experience. The cook only makes Brazilian food, the movies in the chill room are mostly Brazilian, and they play some of the best Brazilian music.
They have rooms to suit all types of travelers including families, super budget travelers, and solo female travelers. They also have a terrace with views of Christ the Redeemer Statue and a bar with all kinds of drinks. It’s a wonderful option for where to stay in Rio de Janeiro.
Top Things to Do in Botafogo:
- Head to the summit of Morro Dona Marta for the best panoramic view of the city.
- Get a real taste of Brazilian life and culture by joining the Santa Vidigal Favela Tour.
- Take the cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain to enjoy the views of the incredible landscapes.
- Visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue via train and look over the city center sprawling below.
- Get some exercise in nature by going for a hike up Corcovado Mountain.
- Learn about graffiti and urban art at GaleRio where you can see the street art of some of Brazil’s best artists.
- Take in a Brazilian film at Estação Botafogo, a cinema that screens movies made by Brazilians filmmakers and actors.
- Shop for Brazilian brands at Shopping Rio Sul – this is the most popular shopping mall in the South Zone.
- Learn about indigenous societies at the Museum of Indigenous People. See Christ the Redeemer lit up to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Rio de Janeiro
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Rio de Janeiro and where to stay.
What To Pack For Rio de Janeiro
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
How long should I stay in Rio de Janeiro?
At least 5 days in my opinion. Being such a huge city, there’s heaps to see in the city center, and I imagine you’ll want to see the famous beaches too. Maybe even spend a day checking out some street art? I encourage you to stay awhile and uncover the secret side of Rio de Janeiro.
Where is the best rooftop pool in Rio de Janeiro?
With all the heat, all the partying, and all the tasty treats, regular cool down periods are a must in Rio. Here’s where I dip when I’m not at the beach;
- Modern Hotel Rooftop Pool – Enjoy the vistas of Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountains from the outdoor pool. Get the rooftop bar to refresh you with drinks and food while you’re here too.
- Rooftop Pool in Copacabana Beach – Make an evening of it, enjoy the sunset at their on site restaurant.
- Rooftop Pool in Leblon – This upscale neighborhood is worth visiting, even if it’s just to be in the outdoor pool at this beachfront hotel.
What should I do in Rio de Janeiro?
Of course, Brazil is very famous for Carnival AKA the biggest party on the planet. It is a fun cultural experience with millions of samba dancers wearing colorful costumes and dancing the whole day with live music from all directions. Make sure you book your accommodation months in advance.
Check out the Things To Do sections I’ve listed earlier in this article for more neighborhood specific activities.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing ambience, check out all the wonderful nature Rio de Janeiro has to offer… Take a trip down the coast to Barra da Tijuca Beach, a quiet relief from Ipanema Beach and the other famous beaches further north.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Rio de Janeiro
Unfortunately, Rio de Janeiro does have a reputation for theft. Make sure you have good travel insurance always.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro can be overwhelming. This Marvelous City is a massive one. While it’s relatively easy to get around, you want to make sure you’re in the best area for your stay. With the help of this guide, I hope I have made it easy to figure out where to stay in Rio de Janeiro!
Just to recap, my top hostel recommendation is Tupiniquim, thanks to the fully immersed Brazilian experience they provide.
For the best hotel in Rio de Janeiro, you’ll want to book a room at the Ipanema Inn Hotel. Enjoy a relaxing vacation and the best sunset in Rio at Ipanema Beach.
Have you been to Rio de Janeiro and think I missed something? Let me know in the comments below! Cheers!
Photo: @sebagvivas
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Brazil.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Rio de Janeiro.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth South America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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