Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro

A steep staircase tiled with over 2,000 hand-painted tiles collected from 60 countries by the late Chilean artist Jorge Selarón. Connects the Lapa and Santa Teresa neighbourhoods.

🕐 Open 24 hours (best in daylight)

💡 Go early (before 9am) to avoid crowds and get unobstructed photos. The tiles are fragile — please don't step on them. Nearby bars in Lapa have live samba for free or a small cover charge.

The first peak of Sugarloaf Mountain, accessible via a short, steep trail through Atlantic forest. Rewards with sweeping views of Guanabara Bay, Botafogo, and the city. Free, unlike the cable car to Sugarloaf.

🕐 Open daily 8am–6pm (last descent recommended by 5:30pm)

💡 The trailhead is next to Praia Vermelha. Wear sturdy shoes — it's a 30-minute climb with some loose rocks. Go late afternoon for golden light and fewer people. Bring water. No entrance fee.

Iconic 30-metre Art Deco statue of Jesus atop the 710-metre Corcovado Mountain, visible across Rio de Janeiro. Reached by rack railway.

🕐 08:00-19:00

A long stretch of golden sand and excellent people-watching. The shoreline is divided into sections known as 'postos', each with its own vibe. Good for swimming, jogging, and beach football.

🕐 Open 24 hours; lifeguards on duty 8am–6pm

💡 Walk to Posto 9 for the liveliest scene, or Posto 10 for a quieter spot. Watch out for strong currents near the rocks at Arpoador. Arrive early on weekends to claim a good spot.

A sprawling 140-hectare botanical garden with over 6,000 plant species, including a famous avenue of towering imperial palms. Contains fountains, greenhouses, and a Brazilian Amazon section.

🕐 Mon-Sun 8am–5pm (last entry 4:30pm)

💡 Entry is R$38 (about £6) — one of Rio's best low-cost attractions. Visit on a weekday morning for peace. The Orchid House and the cactus garden are highlights. Allow 2–3 hours.

A science museum focused on sustainability and the future, housed in a striking futuristic building with a cantilevered roof. Interactive exhibits on climate, population, and technology.

🕐 Tue-Sun 10am–6pm (closed Mon)

💡 Entry is R$30 (about £5). Free on Tuesdays — but arrive by 10am to avoid a queue. The building itself is worth seeing from outside, especially at sunset. Allow 1.5–2 hours.