Rio de Janeiro State Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden

From the beaches of one of the world’s most vibrant cities to hill towns set amid jungle-covered mountains and idyllic islands, this state is packed with attractions.

Rio de Janeiro state’s awe-inspiring scenery spreads out in all directions from the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. Discover hills draped in lush rainforest and a coastline dotted with lively cities and old fishing towns. Sweeps of pristine sand stretch for miles and tropical islands sit in piercing-blue waters. This, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of bossa nova and samba, make Rio de Janeiro state one of the highlights of a holiday in Brazil.

Rio de Janeiro, the Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvellous City) or simply Rio, is the perfect introduction. The beach suburbs of Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon are famous for their style, swagger and watersports. Enjoy the action while sipping on caipirinhas and cold beers at beachside bars called botecos. Get a bird’s-eye view of the city from Sugarloaf Mountain and the huge statue of Christ, which dominates Mount Corcovado.

Head to Centro to visit museums and ride a historic streetcar to the bohemian district of Santa Teresa. Get your groove on at the outdoor samba parties in Lapa. The pace slows down at the beaches of Niteroí and traffic-free Ilha de Paquetá island. Hike to waterfalls and spot birdlife in Parque Nacional da Tijuca urban rainforest.

Buses depart constantly for the state’s meandering coastline. Cabo Frío, on the Costa do Sol, excites with snorkeling, surfing and superb seafood. Hop between almost 20 beaches on the Búzios peninsula. To the west, the Costa Verde dazzles with its fjord-like landscapes. Take a boat from Conceição de Jacareí to explore the snorkeling spots and jungle hikes of Ilha Grande.

See a slice of Brazilian colonial history in Paraty. The hill towns of Petrópolis and Teresópolis offer a break from the coast. Between these towns, Parque Nacional da Serra dos Órgãos has excellent treks in a dramatic mountain range.

Reach the state of Rio de Janeiro by flying to Rio from major worldwide cities. The infectious Brazilian charm hits you the moment you step out of the plane. Experience Brazil’s love for parties by joining in the Rio Carnival and Réveillon (New Year’s Eve) celebrations.

Popular cities in Rio de Janeiro State

Rio de Janeiro featuring general coastal views, a sunset and mountains
Rio de Janeiro
Known for Beaches, Sea and Scenery
The stunning scenery, vibrant atmosphere and year-round heat will ensure that you have the holiday of a lifetime in this ocean-front city.

Reasons to visit

  • Museum of Tomorrow
  • Copacabana Beach
  • Christ the Redeemer
Prainha Beach featuring general coastal views, a coastal town and a beach
Búzios
Known for Beaches, Surfing and Natural parks
Stroll along a scenic promenade dedicated to an iconic French diva, admire gorgeous colonial architecture and scuba dive in pristine bays.

Reasons to visit

  • Geriba Beach
  • Rua das Pedras
  • Orla Bardot
Angra dos Reis showing boating, a bay or harbour and a sunset
Angra dos Reis
Known for Beaches, Islands and Marinas
Colonial landmarks, emerald waters, dozens of white-sand beaches and forest-clad tropical islands make this a quintessential beach town on the Costa Verde.

Reasons to visit

  • Praia Grande
  • Abraão Beach
  • Angra dos Reis Port
Meio Beach showing rugged coastline, a beach and general coastal views
Paraty
Known for Boating, Snorkelling and Rain forests
Learn about local history and traditions in the museums and churches of the old town and travel to Trindade for its stunning beaches.

Reasons to visit

  • Paraty House of Culture
  • Church of Our Lady of the Remedies
  • Praia de Fora
Sao Mateus Fort showing island views, a sandy beach and general coastal views
Cabo Frio
Known for Surfing, Natural parks and Scuba diving

Reasons to visit

  • Japanese Island
  • Aguas Square
  • Sao Mateus Fort
Petropolis
Petrópolis
Known for Rafting, Rock climbing and Rain forests

Reasons to visit

  • Imperial Museum
  • Cathedral of Saint Peter of Alcantara