Best Things to do in Rio de Janeiro | Must-see attractions 2025

Instituto Moreira Salles

10:00 AM–5:50 PM

Museum

Rua Marques de Sao Vicente 476 Gavea

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Instituto Moreira Salles in Rio de Janeiro features exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events within a landmark modernist house surrounded by lush gardens.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Rio Museum of Art

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Praça Mauá

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The Rio Museum of Art in Rio de Janeiro showcases unique Brazilian art in a striking blend of historic and modern architectural styles.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

General Admission: R$20. Free on Sundays.

Aterro Do Flamengo

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

Avenida Infante Dom Henrique s/n

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Aterro do Flamengo is a prominent recreation area in Rio de Janeiro, featuring parks, gardens, and stunning bay views, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some events may have additional costs.

Modern Art Museum

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

85 Av. Infante Dom Henrique

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Modern Art Museum in Rio de Janeiro features contemporary art with unique architecture, water gardens, a theater, and lecture halls.

Duration: About 2-3 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require paid tickets.

Navy Cultural Space

Tu-Su 12:00-17:00

Museum

Avenida Alfred Agache s/n Boulevard Olímpico

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Navy Cultural Space in Rio de Janeiro displays maritime history, naval artifacts, and art. Open Tuesday to Sunday, it offers a rich cultural experience.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Workshops may have a fee.

Shopping Leblon

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Avenida Afranio de Melo Franco 290 Leblon

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Shopping Leblon Mall in Rio de Janeiro offers a diverse selection of Brazilian and international brands, dining options, and a cinema in an elegant multistory setting.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. No admission fee for general entry to the mall.

Shopping Tijuca

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Mall

Avenida Maracana 987 Tijuca

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Shopping Tijuca Mall in Rio de Janeiro offers a variety of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment for all ages, making it a key shopping destination in the Tijuca neighborhood.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free to enter. Individual stores have their own pricing for goods and services.

Casa do Pontal Museum

Tu-Fr 9:30-17:00; Sa-Su 10:30-18:00; PH 10:30-18:00

Museum

Estrada do Pontal 3295 Recreio dos Bandeirantes

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Casa do Pontal Museum is Brazil's largest folk art museum, housing over 8,000 sculptures by 200 artists, showcasing diverse Brazilian culture.

Duration: 2 hours.

Paid. Adults R$15, children R$7. Free on Sundays.

Sao Januario Stadium

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Stadium

Gal Almerio de Moura

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Sao Januario Stadium is a significant sports venue in Rio de Janeiro, serving as the home of Vasco da Gama football club since 1927. It features unique architecture and rich history.

Duration: Around 1-2 hours.

Paid. Prices vary for events; check specific event details.

Joao Havelange Olympic Stadium

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Stadium

Rua Jose dos Reis 425 Engenho de Dentro

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Joao Havelange Olympic Stadium, known as Engenhao, is a multi-purpose stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, primarily used for athletics and football events.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Varies by event. General entry for standard events often starts at R$30.

Chico Mendes Ecological Park

7:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

Avenida Jarbas de Carvalho 679 Ponta de Sernambetiba

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Chico Mendes Municipal Park in Rio de Janeiro is a vast green space offering hiking trails, rich biodiversity, and a serene environment for outdoor activities.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free.

Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro

8:00 AM–7:00 PM

Church

Rua 1 de Marco Praça XV

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The Cathedral of Rio de Janeiro features a modernist design and serves as a prominent religious site in Brazil's largest city, blending architectural innovation and cultural significance.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry. Some guided tours may have a fee.

Carmen Miranda Museum

Tu-Fr 11:00-17:00;Sa-Su 13:00-17:00;PH 13:00-17:00

Museum

Av. Rui Barbosa Flamengo

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Carmen Miranda Museum in Rio de Janeiro honors the legacy of the 1940s actress with costumes, memorabilia, and artifacts from her life and career.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Admission fee: R$10. Discounts available for students and seniors.

Museum of Tomorrow

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1 Praça Mauá

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Museum of Tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro showcases science and innovative design in a futuristic waterfront structure, offering engaging exhibitions and a café.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

General Admission: R$ 30. Free for children under 5. Discounts for seniors and students.

Chacrinha State Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

Rua Guimaraes Natal S/N Copacabana

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Chacrinha Park in Rio de Janeiro features lush landscapes, vibrant gardens, and recreational areas, honoring the beloved Brazilian entertainer, Chacrinha.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a ticket fee.

Citibank Hall

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Theater

Avenida Ayrton Senna 3000

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Citibank Hall in Rio de Janeiro is a 6,000-seat concert venue hosting top international acts, ballet, opera, and Broadway shows within a shopping complex.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours for attending a show.

Tickets typically range from R$50 - R$300 depending on the event. Check for discounts through the official site.

Municipal Theater of Rio de Janeiro

12:00 PM–5:00 PM

Theater

Praça Floriano

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The Municipal Theatre in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, built in 1905, hosts opera, orchestra, and ballet, featuring a lavish interior and guided tours.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour for tours; 2-3 hours for performances.

Guided tours: BRL 20. Regular performances vary in price.

H. Stern Museum

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

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H. Stern Museum in Rio de Janeiro showcases the artistry of Brazilian gemstones, featuring over 200 unique pieces and interactive displays on gemology and design.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free entrance, but some special exhibitions may have a fee.

Girl from Ipanema Park

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

2-224 Av. Francisco Bering

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Girl of Ipanema Park in Rio de Janeiro features tree-lined paths, a playground, and a lookout point over Ipanema Beach. Ideal for relaxation and occasional summer concerts.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Concerts and special events may have admission fees.

Catacumba Park

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

Av Epitácio Pessoa

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Catacumba Park in Rio de Janeiro offers lush landscapes, trails, and cultural activities in a historic site known for its art installations and scenic views.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some special events may require paid tickets.

Rio de Janeiro State University

8:00 AM–10:00 PM

University

R. S. Francisco Xavier

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Rio de Janeiro State University (UERJ) is a leading public research university in Brazil, known for its strong law, medical, and social science programs.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free for general access; some events may charge a fee.

Quinta da Boa Vista

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

Av. Pedro II

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Quinta da Boa Vista is a historical park in Rio de Janeiro, featuring a zoo and an archaeological museum amid former royal buildings and expansive gardens.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Shopping Downtown

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Mall

500 Av. das Américas

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Shopping Downtown in Rio de Janeiro combines work, shopping, study, and leisure in an open space, featuring diverse commercial activities and services.

Duration: Around 2-3 hours.

Free. Costs may apply for cinema screenings and special events.

Oswaldo Cruz Foundation

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

Av. Brasil

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Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, a major biomedical research institution in Rio de Janeiro, was established in 1900 to combat infectious diseases and promote public health.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Lagoa Stadium

8:00 AM–10:00 PM

Stadium

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Lagoa Stadium in Rio de Janeiro hosts various sporting events and cultural activities, offering a modern facility in a scenic lakeside location.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

Post 2 - Copacabana

Open All Day

Stadium

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Post 2 - Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro features vibrant beach culture, diverse dining options, and scenic views, making it a prime social hub for locals and tourists alike.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Events and certain services may have costs associated.

Olympic Aquatics Stadium

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Stadium

Pq. Olímpico do Rio de Janeiro

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The Olympic Aquatics Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, served as a primary venue for water sports during the 2016 Summer Olympics, featuring state-of-the-art facilities.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free on non-event days; ticket prices vary for events.

Maria Lenk Aquatics Centre

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Amusement Park

Pq. Olímpico do Rio de Janeiro

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Maria Lenk Aquatics Centre in Rio de Janeiro hosted the 2007 Pan American Games and serves as a premier venue for swimming and diving events.

Duration: 2 hours.

Paid. General admission varies by event; public swimming sessions may have a lower fee.

City of Arts

Tu-Su 10:00-18:00

Event hall

Av das Américas 5300

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City of Arts in Rio de Janeiro is a cultural hub featuring a concert hall, theaters, and a cinema, hosting the Brazilian Symphony Orchestra and various performances.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free entry for the complex. Special events may require a ticket.

Shopping Mall Novo Leblon

Mo-Sa 10:00-22:00;Su 11:00-20:00

Mall

Av. das Américas

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Shopping Novo Leblon Mall, located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, offers diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment options in a modern environment.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Shopping and dining options available for all budgets.

Acao da Cidadania Cultural Centre

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Event hall

Av. Bar. de Tefé

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The Acao da Cidadania Cultural Centre in Rio de Janeiro fosters cultural exchange and community engagement through diverse programs and exhibits.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a ticket.

Caixa Cultural Rio de Janeiro

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Av. Alm. Barroso

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Caixa Cultural Rio de Janeiro features diverse art exhibits, cultural events, and a blend of historical architecture, located in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Rio Scenarium

7:00 PM–4:00 AM

Event hall

Rua do Lavradio 20

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Rio Scenarium, a vibrant nightlife venue in Rio de Janeiro, features three floors of antique decor and lively samba performances, attracting locals and tourists alike.

Duration: 3–4 hours.

R$50 and up, especially on weekends.

Vivo Rio

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Theater

Av. Inf-D. Henrique

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Vivo Rio is a versatile event space in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, hosting concerts, corporate events, and community initiatives with a capacity of up to 5,000 people.

Duration: 2-3 hours depending on the event.

Varies. Most events require paid admission; check event-specific prices.

Cathedral of Saint Peter of Alcantara

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Monument

R. S. Pedro de Alcântara

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Cathedral of St. Peter of Alcantara in Petropolis, Brazil, is a neo-Gothic architectural masterpiece and a significant cultural landmark since its completion in 1933.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

Rio de Janeiro Zoological Garden

9:00 AM–5:30 PM

Park

Parque da Quinta da Boa Vista S/N - São Cristóvão

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Jardim Zoológico RIOZOO in Rio de Janeiro features over 2,000 animals, focusing on native and exotic species. It is Brazil's oldest zoo with rich biodiversity.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Paid. Adult tickets are R$ 50, children aged 3-12 R$ 25. Free for children under 3.

Bosque da Barra Park

8:00 AM–7:00 PM

Park

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Bosque da Barra Park in Rio de Janeiro offers over 1.5 million square meters of green space, featuring diverse flora, walking trails, and a lake for relaxation.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free access.

Shopping da Gavea Mall

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Mall

R. Mq. de S. Vicente

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Shopping da Gavea Mall in Rio de Janeiro features 200 stores, a cinema, theaters, and diverse dining options, popular among artists and intellectuals.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. No admission fee required for entry.

Rio Sul Shopping Center

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Rua Lauro Muller 116 Botafogo

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Rio Sul Shopping Center, opened in 1980, is a major shopping destination in Rio de Janeiro, featuring diverse retail stores and dining options.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. All shopping areas and facilities can be accessed without charge.

Arena Carioca 3

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Stadium

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Arena Carioca 3, an indoor arena in Rio de Janeiro, hosts sporting events and cultural activities, contributing to the city's vibrant atmosphere and event scene.

Duration: 2 hours.

Ticket prices vary by event; check official site for details.

Whitewater Stadium

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Stadium

Parque Radical

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Whitewater Stadium in Nilopolis, Brazil, is a premier venue for white water sports, featuring advanced facilities for competitive events and training.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Paid. Prices vary by event; check the official site for details.

Reserva Florestal do Grajau

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

742 Rua Comendador Martinelli

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Reserva Florestal do Grajau is a conservation area in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, featuring diverse flora, fauna, and walking trails for nature enthusiasts.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. No charges for entrance.

Rio Water Planet

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Amusement Park

Estrada dos Bandeirantes 24000 Vargem Grande

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Rio Water Planet is the largest aquatic park in Latin America, featuring waterfalls, artificial beaches, lazy rivers, and various themed areas.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Paid entry. Children under 1m tall get in free.

Shopping Village Mall

10:00 AM–12:00 AM

Mall

Avenida das Americas 3.900 Barra da Tijuca

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Village Mall in Rio de Janeiro offers a diverse shopping experience with high-end brands, dining options, and entertainment facilities, catering to visitors of all ages.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Saint Benedict's Monastery

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

R. D. Gerardo

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Saint Benedict's Monastery in Rio de Janeiro, founded in 1590, features breathtaking Baroque architecture and serves as a center for spiritual and cultural heritage.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require tickets.

Parque Lage

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

Rua Jardim Botanico 414 Jardim Botânico

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Parque Lage, set at the base of the Tijuca Forest, features trails, a café, and an art school in a historic mansion, along with views of Christ the Redeemer.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Ilha Fiscal

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Architectural Building

Avenida Alfredo Agache s/n Centro

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Ilha Fiscal is a historic neo-Gothic castle in Rio de Janeiro's Guanabara Bay, showcasing rich cultural heritage and guided tours of its ornate structure.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

R$ 20 for adults, R$ 10 for children and seniors. Free for children under 6.

Sambadrome

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Stadium

R. Mq. de Sapucaí (Av. Pres. Vargas x R. Frei Caneca)

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Sambódromo da Marquês de Sapucaí is a purpose-built parade area in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, renowned for hosting samba school parades during the annual Rio Carnival.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Varies. Free access during non-Carnival events. Paid tickets during Carnival parades.

Riocentro

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

Avenida Salvador Allende 6.555

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Riocentro Exhibition & Convention Center in Rio de Janeiro is Brazil's largest convention center, hosting numerous international events and exhibitions since 1977.

Duration: 2-4 hours depending on the event.

Varies by event. Some events are free, while major exhibitions may charge admission.

Rio Olympic Arena

9:00 AM–10:00 PM

Stadium

Avenida Embaixador Abelardo Bueno 3401

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Jeunesse Arena is a multifunctional arena in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, known for hosting major events including concerts, sports, and shows, with a capacity of 18,000 seats.

Duration: 2-4 hours, depending on the event.

Prices vary by event, generally ranging from $20 to $150. Discounts may apply for children and seniors.