Rio de Janeiro 7-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrival in Rio

Arrive at Rio de Janeiro–Galeão International Airport (GIG), transfer to your accommodation, and check in.

Settle in and prepare for your exciting Christmas in Rio.

Book an airport transfer in advance for ease on Christmas Day. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

Copacabana Beach Walk

Take a leisurely walk along the iconic Copacabana Beach, soak in the festive atmosphere, and admire the famous mosaic promenade.

Enjoy the sunset over the Atlantic.

Christmas Day often brings a lively atmosphere to the beach. Be mindful of your belongings.

Festive Christmas Dinner

Enjoy a special Christmas dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Brazilian cuisine or international fare.

Many upscale hotels and restaurants offer special holiday menus.

Reservations are highly recommended for Christmas dinner, as popular restaurants fill up quickly. Ask your hotel concierge for recommendations.

Christ the Redeemer Visit

Journey to the top of Corcovado Mountain to see the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

It's best to go early in the morning to avoid crowds and haze. You can take the cog train (Trem do Corcovado) or a licensed van.

Lunch in Santa Teresa

Head to the charming hilltop neighborhood of Santa Teresa for lunch, known for its bohemian vibe and excellent restaurants with great views.

Try some traditional Brazilian dishes in one of the many cozy eateries.

Explore Escadaria Selarón

Visit the vibrant Escadaria Selarón (Selarón Steps), an iconic mosaic stairway created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón.

It's a colorful and photogenic landmark.

This popular spot can get crowded, especially in the afternoon. Watch out for street vendors and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Santa Teresa Neighborhood Walk

Wander through the picturesque streets of Santa Teresa, admire the colonial architecture, art studios, and boutique shops. Enjoy the relaxed, artistic ambiance.

The winding streets are best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes.

Dinner in Lapa

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Lapa with dinner at a local restaurant.

Lapa is famous for its samba clubs and lively atmosphere, especially on weekends.

If you're interested in live music, many bars and clubs in Lapa offer samba and other Brazilian genres. Be aware of your surroundings at night.

Sugarloaf Mountain Ascent

Take the iconic cable car ride up Sugarloaf Mountain, enjoying stunning 360-degree views of Rio, including Copacabana Beach, Christ the Redeemer, and the city skyline.

Go all the way to the top for the best views.

Purchase tickets online in advance to save time. Best visited on a clear day for optimal visibility.

Lunch near Ipanema Beach

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many restaurants or kiosks near Ipanema Beach, famous for its 'Girl from Ipanema' song and chic atmosphere.

Sample some fresh seafood or a classic Brazilian 'prato feito' (set meal).

Relax on Ipanema Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the golden sands of Ipanema Beach.

You can swim, sunbathe, or people-watch. Don't forget to visit Posto 9, a popular section.

Rent chairs and umbrellas from vendors on the beach. Enjoy the vibrant scene and maybe grab a caipirinha.

Sunset at Arpoador Rock

Head to Arpoador Rock, located between Ipanema and Copacabana, for one of Rio's most spectacular sunset views.

It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Bring your camera! The sight of the sun dipping behind the Dois Irmãos mountains is unforgettable.

Dinner at Garota de Ipanema

Have dinner at the famous Garota de Ipanema restaurant, where the bossa nova song 'The Girl from Ipanema' was inspired.

Enjoy classic Brazilian food and music history.

A must-visit for music lovers and those wanting to soak in a piece of Rio's cultural heritage. Reservations are advisable.

Theatro Municipal Tour

Take a guided tour of the magnificent Theatro Municipal do Rio de Janeiro, a stunning example of Belle Époque architecture.

Admire its opulent interiors, murals, and stained-glass windows.

Check tour schedules in advance, as they can vary. This is a Tripadvisor attraction.

Real Gabinete Português de Leitura

Visit the Real Gabinete Português de Leitura, an exquisite library known for its stunning Gothic-Renaissance architecture and vast collection of Portuguese literature.

It feels like stepping into a Harry Potter movie.

Admission is usually free. Be respectful of the quiet atmosphere.

Lunch in Downtown

Grab lunch at a traditional 'quilo' (pay-by-weight) restaurant or a casual eatery in the bustling Centro district, offering a taste of local working-day fare.

These places offer a wide variety of Brazilian food and are very popular with locals during lunchtime.

Igreja da Candelária

Explore the majestic Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Candelária, a beautiful colonial church with an impressive dome and intricate interiors.

It's a significant historical and architectural landmark.

Entry is typically free. Respectful attire is recommended.

Metropolitan Cathedral Visit

Visit the unique conical-shaped Catedral Metropolitana de São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro.

Its distinctive architecture and stunning stained-glass windows create a truly memorable interior space.

The cathedral is an architectural marvel both inside and out.

Dinner in Botafogo

Enjoy dinner in the Botafogo neighborhood, close to your hotel.

This area offers a mix of casual and upscale dining options.

Botafogo has become a culinary hub with diverse restaurants and lively bars, especially along Rua Voluntários da Pátria.

Private 4-Hour City Tour

Embark on a private customized tour of Rio with a local guide.

This allows for flexibility to revisit favorite spots or discover new ones, tailored to your interests. Consider exploring the Tijuca Forest, the largest urban forest in the world, or the Botanical Garden.

Customize your tour with your guide. This is a great way to gain deeper insights into the city's history and culture. Recommended operators include Rio Tours Operator or Rio Maximo Tours, who offer personalized tours.

Lunch in Leblon

Enjoy lunch in Leblon, Rio's most affluent neighborhood, known for its sophisticated dining scene and relaxed beach.

It offers a more upscale and quieter atmosphere than Ipanema.

Leblon is a great place for high-quality restaurants and charming cafes.

Free Afternoon for Leisure

Spend your afternoon at leisure.

You could return to a favorite beach, do some souvenir shopping, or simply relax at your hotel's pool or by the waterfront.

This is a good opportunity to explore local markets or revisit a spot you particularly enjoyed.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a farewell dinner in Rio, perhaps at a restaurant with live music or a stunning view, celebrating the amazing experiences of your trip so far.

Consider trying a traditional 'churrascaria' (Brazilian steakhouse) for a memorable culinary experience.

Real Gabinete Português de Leitura

Visit one of the world's most beautiful libraries, a stunning architectural masterpiece with a vast collection of Portuguese literature.

Marvel at its intricate design and serene atmosphere.

Admission is free. Photography is allowed but be respectful of others. Check for special exhibitions.

Municipal Theater Tour

Take a guided tour of the Municipal Theater of Rio de Janeiro, a lavish 1909 building showcasing stunning architecture, gilded mirrors, statues, and murals.

Learn about its rich history and cultural significance.

Tours are usually offered in Portuguese and English. Check their official website for current tour schedules and availability. Pre-booking might be advisable.

Lunch in Centro

Enjoy a traditional Brazilian lunch at a local restaurant in the historic city center, offering a taste of authentic Carioca cuisine.

Convento de Santo Antônio

Visit the Convento de Santo Antônio, one of the oldest and most important colonial religious complexes in Rio, featuring beautiful Baroque architecture and sacred art.

Check visiting hours, as they can be limited. Photography might be restricted in certain areas.

Rio Scenarium Live Music

Immerse yourself in Rio's vibrant nightlife at Rio Scenarium, a unique cultural hotspot featuring live samba, choro, and Brazilian popular music.

It's also an antique shop!

Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on a Tuesday. There's usually a cover charge and a minimum spend for tables. It can get very crowded but offers an authentic experience.

Morning at Ipanema Beach

Spend a relaxed morning enjoying the famous Ipanema Beach.

Walk along the shore, soak up the sun, and observe the vibrant local beach culture before the New Year's Eve crowds arrive.

Rent a beach chair and umbrella from vendors. Be mindful of your belongings. Enjoy fresh coconut water or a caipirinha.

Lunch in Ipanema

Have lunch at one of the chic boutiques or eateries in the Ipanema neighborhood, offering a variety of culinary options.

New Year's Eve Preparation

Return to your hotel to relax and prepare for the evening's festivities.

Consider wearing white, as it's a Brazilian tradition for good luck on New Year's Eve.

Plan your route to Copacabana Beach in advance, as public transport can be very crowded and roads closed. Many people wear white for good luck.

New Year's Eve Dinner

Enjoy a special New Year's Eve dinner.

Many hotels and restaurants offer fixed-menu dinners with reservations required, or you can opt for a more casual meal before heading to the beach.

Book well in advance if you plan to dine at a specific restaurant, as places fill up quickly. Prices will be significantly higher than usual.

Copacabana New Year's Eve

Join millions of revelers on Copacabana Beach for one of the world's largest and most spectacular New Year's Eve celebrations, featuring live music stages and an incredible fireworks display over the ocean.

Arrive early to find a good spot. Be prepared for large crowds and a lively atmosphere. Protect your valuables. After midnight, enjoy the festive street parties.