What to do in Sao Goncalo

Activities, attractions and tours

Places to Visit in Sao Goncalo

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Sao Goncalo, Rio de Janeiro while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Sao Goncalo attractions from NZ$12, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Sao Goncalo tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 346 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Sao Goncalo. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

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Top places to visit

1. Copacabana Beach

Gleaming hotels and forested hills line the perfectly curved 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) stretch of Copacabana Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the world. Abutting one of Brazil’s highest density residential areas, this beach is nearly always filled to capacity, but that’s part of its charm. Swim in the cool waters of the Atlantic amongst thousands of other visitors, join in a game of soccer on the sand or just sit back on a beach chair and order snacks from a beach vendor and watch the passing parade.
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2. Ipanema Beach

Rio de Janeiro’s legendary Ipanema Beach is located in one of the most exclusive parts of the city. Its reputation reached far and wide with the release of the track “The Girl from Ipanema” in the 1960s, sparking many a daydream of sand, sea and beautiful people.
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Palms and Two Brothers Mountain on Ipanema beach, Rio de Janeiro

3. Christ the Redeemer

The distinctive silhouette of Corcovado, or “hunchback” in Portuguese, is clearly visible from all over Rio. This peak stands in the Tijuca National Park, the largest urban forest in the world. Visitors from all over the world flock to see the famous statue of Jesus that crowns this mountain, but the scenic ascent is a breath-taking experience in itself, and the national park has a wealth of natural treasures just waiting to be discovered.
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Aerial view of Rio de Janeiro city skyline in Brazil, Shutterstock ID 1033504918, Purchase Order: SP-1506 Go Guides, Order Number: , Client/Licensee: Faa Praharnpap, Other: Hcom budget

4. Maracanã Stadium

No arena is more central to the history of Brazilian soccer than Maracanã Stadium. The location of the final matches in both of Brazil’s FIFA World Cups, this stadium has hosted all the great names in Brazilian soccer. Watch one of Rio de Janeiro’s “Big Four” teams play a game, or take a guided tour of this iconic stadium and you’ll soon understand just how large soccer looms in the Brazilian psyche.
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Maracana Stadium featuring modern architecture and interior views

5. Sugar Loaf Mountain

The unmistakable conical silhouette of Sugarloaf Mountain, or Pão de Açúcar, rises up from the mouth of the Guanabara Bay, on the south-eastern corner of Rio de Janeiro. The origins of its name lie in Brazil’s long history in the sugar cane trade, with the shape of this mountain resembling a block of refined sugar. At 396 metres high, the panoramic views from its peak draw crowds of visitors every day.
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2 beaches is better than 1! Breathtaking view of Copacabana Beach and Praia Vermelha in Rio de Janeiro! #LifeAtExpedia

6. Avenida Atlantica

No Rio de Janeiro holiday is complete without a visit to Avenida Atlântica. This avenue is famous for its events year-round, including a massive New Year’s Eve celebration covering the entire avenue and Copacabana Beach. Stroll along the avenue’s promenade to experience Rio’s lively beach culture and oceanfront events.
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Sao Conrado Beach featuring a sandy beach

Recommended things to do in Sao Goncalo

Number of things to do
346
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
The History of Samba in Rio de Janeiro - Centro: NZ$12
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Sao Goncalo

Discover the most popular places to visit in Sao Goncalo

Copacabana Beach which includes general coastal views, a beach and a sunset

Copacabana Beach

More than just a stretch of sand, Rio de Janeiro’s most famous beach is where locals and visitors from all over the world come to relax, strut, pose and play.

Copacabana Beach
Ipanema Beach featuring a sandy beach and mountains as well as a large group of people

Ipanema Beach

Join the crowds of sun-worshippers at this world-famous beach, the epitome of Rio’s outdoor lifestyle.

Ipanema Beach
Corcovado featuring a statue or sculpture, religious elements and a sunset

Christ the Redeemer

Famous the world over for the towering statue of Christ the Redeemer at its summit, this mountain peak is one of the top attractions in Rio.

Christ the Redeemer
Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach

Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach during your travels in Rio de Janeiro? While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Recreio dos Bandeirantes Beach
Flamengo Beach

Flamengo Beach

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Flamengo Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Rio de Janeiro. Take in the art scene and sunsets in the area.

Flamengo Beach
Sugar Loaf Mountain which includes a sunset and mountains

Sugar Loaf Mountain

Enjoy stunning views of Rio de Janeiro’s beaches and landmarks as you ascend this iconic mountain peak.

Sugar Loaf Mountain
Maracana Stadium featuring modern architecture and interior views

Maracanã Stadium

To truly appreciate Brazil’s obsession with “the beautiful game,” watch a match or take a guided tour of one of the world’s largest and most historic soccer stadiums.

Maracanã Stadium
Avenida Atlantica

Avenida Atlantica

Golden sandy beaches, excellent restaurants, walking paths and some of Rio de Janeiro’s most popular neighborhoods surround this bustling seaside avenue.

Avenida Atlantica
Copacabana Fort

Copacabana Fort

Visit this historic fort at the south end of Copacabana Beach to learn about Brazil’s military history through many fascinating displays and artifacts.

Copacabana Fort

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Sao Goncalo

Rio de Janeiro featuring general coastal views, a sunset and mountains

Rio de Janeiro

Niteroi

Niteroi

Frequently asked questions

Is Sao Goncalo worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor activities and history, there are many interesting things to do in Sao Goncalo. Be sure to discover the area's blend of awesome sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Sao Goncalo?
Start your day with a visit to Icarai Beach and Paqueta Island Beach. Then, tour other parts of Sao Goncalo for a bite to eat and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Sao Goncalo?
You can't leave without visiting Icarai Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Sao Goncalo.
Is three days enough to stay in Sao Goncalo?
If you just want to check out the leading attractions, three days is more than enough time for a getaway in Sao Goncalo. Stay for a week or more for the chance to really appreciate the local vibe, visit nearby hotspots and discover a few hidden gems.
What are some activities to do in Sao Goncalo with kids?
Planning what to do in Sao Goncalo with kids is easier than ever. Whether you have little ones or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly tours and attractions to keep them busy here.

What to do in Sao Goncalo for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or fan of Mother Nature, there are loads of things to do in Sao Goncalo for adults including Image and Sound Museum.
Are there free things to do in Sao Goncalo?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around vibrant neighbourhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Sao Goncalo. If you need inspiration, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Ilha de Itapacis is a top spot for anyone looking to save on their travel adventures.