Get to know the best places to visit, the historical curiosities, its architecture, things to do and the most interesting legends of Rio de Janeiro, while enjoying a walk through its streets.
Don't wait any longer to immerse yourself in the magic of Rio de Janeiro! Download our free tour audio guide now and start planning your next adventure. Without schedules, without groups, at your own pace... to discover what things to do, see or visit in Rio de Janeiro, whether you are just passing through or staying for several days.
Download our free app for a unique experience!
Our audio guide will accompany you in every corner of Rio de Janeiro, giving you privileged information and secrets that only an expert would know. Let your ears guide you and transform your trip into an unforgettable experience! It doesn't matter if you are an experienced traveller or a newcomer, this audio guide is perfect for everyone. Download it now and immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Rio de Janeiro!
About the city of Rio de Janeiro: Your comprehensive guide
Discover the vibrant heart of Brazil's cultural and natural beauty, where golden beaches meet lush, green mountains under the watchful eyes of the majestic Christ the Redeemer statue. This city is a treasure trove of adventure, history, and the lively rhythms of samba that echo through its colorful streets. From the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain offering breathtaking views to the lively Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, there's an endless array of experiences waiting. And no visit is complete without indulging in the local cuisine, where the flavors of feijoada and caipirinhas will tantalize your taste buds, making it a gastronomic delight you won't forget.
Gastronomy: Delicious Discoveries
When in Rio de Janeiro, foodies are in for a culinary adventure that reflects the city's rich cultural tapestry. Start with the national dish, Feijoada, a hearty stew of black beans, pork, and beef, traditionally served on Saturdays. It's a must-try for an authentic taste of Brazil's culinary heritage. For seafood lovers, Moqueca, a flavorful fish stew with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and coriander, offers a taste of the coast.
No visit is complete without sampling the street food. Acarajé, a spicy dish of fried black-eyed peas filled with vatapá (shrimp paste), is a delicacy brought over from Africa. For a quick snack, Pão de Queijo, the famous Brazilian cheese bread, is irresistible and found at almost every corner bakery.
For something sweet, indulge in Brigadeiros, chocolate fudge balls covered in sprinkles, a staple at any Brazilian celebration. And to quench your thirst, the national cocktail, Caipirinha, made with cachaça, sugar, and lime, is both refreshing and potent.
As you explore the wonders of Rio, remember, each spot on our audio guide comes with recommendations for the nearest restaurants rated highly by Google users, ensuring you're never far from a delicious meal.
Transportation and getting around the city
Getting from the airport to the city in Rio de Janeiro is pretty straightforward. You've got a couple of options: the official airport taxis, which operate with fixed rates to various parts of the city, or you can opt for app-based services like Uber, which are often cheaper and just as reliable. If you're feeling adventurous and want to save some cash, the BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system connects the airport to the main parts of the city efficiently.
Once you're in the city, public transport is your best friend for getting around. The metro system is clean, safe, and covers most tourist destinations. It's also air-conditioned, a blessing in the Rio heat. Buses are abundant and can get you pretty much anywhere the metro doesn't cover, though traffic can be a bit of a headache.
For exploring the city's more scenic areas, like Copacabana or Ipanema, walking is definitely the way to go. These neighborhoods are not only pedestrian-friendly but also packed with cafes, shops, and bars, making for a pleasant stroll.
If you're aiming to hit multiple sights in a day, consider the hop-on hop-off tour buses. Tickets can be bought online or at major tourist spots. These buses cover most of the major attractions and offer an easy way to get a feel for the city without the hassle of navigating public transport.
Now, onto some practical travel tips: the local currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL), and while credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, carrying some cash is advisable for smaller purchases, street vendors, or in areas less frequented by tourists. ATMs are readily available, but be mindful of using them in less crowded areas.
As for electricity, Brazil uses both the type N (like in South Africa) and type C (European) sockets, and the voltage is generally 110 or 220V, so bringing a universal adapter is a good call.
These tips should help you navigate Rio like a pro, leaving you more time to soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this vibrant city.
Key spots included in our audio guide and grouped for your 1, 3, 5-day trip or more: