Discover stories from the field, expert advice, and travel inspiration across Latin America.
Visitors arriving in Rio de Janeiro usually already have a list of iconic places they want to see. Standing at the foot of Christ the Redeemer for panoramic views of the city, taking the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain, strolling along Copacabana’s famous promenade, cooling off in the waters of Ipanema with a caipirinha, and enjoying the sounds of Rio’s bohemian nightlife in Lapa are experiences travelers from around the world already have on their to-do lists.
Whether you are arriving in Brazil for an expedition through the Pantanal or to discover the paradisiacal landscapes of the Rota das Emoções, Rio can also surprise you with historic buildings and European influences that often go unnoticed by first-time visitors, but are well worth exploring during a few days dedicated to discovering the Cidade Maravilhosa. Here are some of them.
From the street, few would imagine that the largest Portuguese library outside Portugal is hidden at this address in downtown Rio. With more than 350,000 titles, the library impresses with its Neo-Manueline architecture and almost fantastical atmosphere, making it a fascinating stop for visitors interested in art and history.
Located in the iconic Cinelândia district, the Theatro Municipal occupies a prominent position in the main square, surrounded by some of the city’s most imposing buildings. Inaugurated in the early 20th century, its architecture, with gilded details, sculptures and stained-glass windows, reflects the sophistication of Rio’s Belle Époque. Beyond its artistic performances, visitors can also take guided tours of the interior, with tickets available directly at the box office.
The Atlantic Rainforest covers around 30% of Rio de Janeiro’s urban area, and this public park offers one of the city’s most charming gateways to Brazil’s tropical flora. Located in the Jardim Botânico neighborhood, the park features European-style gardens, grottoes, trails and lakes at the foot of Corcovado. The experience becomes even more enjoyable with a coffee at the iconic Café Plage, located in the courtyard of the historic mansion.
Perched on a hilltop, or morro in local usage, Santa Teresa is an ideal retreat for those seeking good food, art studios, live music and striking views across the city. Home to boutique hotels and acclaimed restaurants, the neighborhood offers a more intimate and authentic atmosphere. Reaching Santa Teresa is an experience in itself aboard the historic Santa Teresa tram, which crosses the Lapa Arches before climbing the neighborhood’s cobblestone streets.
Located at Largo da Carioca in downtown Rio, this museum and church complex houses valuable historical pieces from Brazil’s colonial period. Its greatest highlight is the church’s richly gilded woodwork, considered one of the most elaborate decorative interiors in Latin America and one of Brazil’s great Baroque masterpieces.
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