WHY RIO DE JANEIRO?
Rio, the Marvelous City
Rio de Janeiro, often called Cidade Maravilhosa — the Marvelous City — was named in 1502 when Portuguese explorers mistook its vast bay for a river. Set between dramatic mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, the city’s identity is shaped by its natural beauty: towering peaks like Corcovado and Sugarloaf, golden beaches stretching across the coastline, and lush forests weaving through its hills.
Despite its modern energy, Rio still carries the charm of its past. Wander through the artistic streets of Santa Teresa, explore colonial buildings tucked between contemporary structures, or gaze out from Christ the Redeemer over a landscape where emerald mountains meet deep blue sea. Rio is a blend of nature, culture, and history — vibrant, unforgettable, and uniquely its own.
Fun activities
Things to do at Rio
Take a cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain
The Sugarloaf Cable Car in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is an iconic system that opened in 1912. The journey involves two stages: the first car goes from Praia Vermelha to Morro da Urca, and the second ascends to the 1,299-foot summit of Sugarloaf Mountain, offering panoramic views of the city.
Address
1A Rua Moeda
What i like about it
The enduring appeal of the Sugarloaf Cable Car lies in the unmatched, breathtaking panoramic views it provides over Rio de Janeiro. The two-stage ascent culminates in an extraordinary perspective of the city's most famous landmarks, including the sweeping crescent of Copacabana Beach, the statue of Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado, and the stunning expanse of Guanabara Bay, making the entire journey a blend of scenic wonder, engineering history, and modern sightseeing.
Visit the Ipanema Beach
Ipanema is more sophisticated, famous for its sunsets over the Two Brothers mountains and inspiring the bossa nova classic, "The Girl from Ipanema.
Address
1A Rua Moeda
What i like about it
People love the vibrant culture and stunning scenery. Ipanema is cherished for its sophisticated, chic vibe, clean sand, and the spectacular sunset views over the Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers) mountains.
Experience the Carnival Festival
The Rio Carnival is the biggest carnival in the world, held annually before Lent. Its highlight is the spectacular Samba School Parades at the Sambadrome, featuring dazzling costumes, massive floats, and competitive dance.
Address
Cidade Nova, Rio de Janeiro
What i like about it
People adore the overwhelming, infectious energy and joyful spirit. The Carnival is loved for the dazzling, competitive Samba School Parades at the Sambadrome, which are spectacles of elaborate costumes and massive floats. Additionally, the countless, free street parties (blocos) offer a truly democratic, all-day dancing experience