Where to Stay in Río de Janeiro (2024): The Ultimate Rio Neighborhood Guide

Wondering where to stay in Rio? Continue reading. I got you!

Río de Janeiro is an energetic and vibrant city full of culture and exciting things to do around every corner. Known for its stunning Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, Christ Redeemer Statue, the picturesque Sugarloaf Mountain, and the world-famous Carnival, Río de Janeiro has something for everyone.

However, as it is such a large city, deciding where to stay in Río de Janeiro can be a difficult choice. Having recently navigated this decision myself while visiting Rio with my family, I understand the importance of finding the perfect accommodation to suit your preferences and needs. 

Rio de Janeiro offers a diverse range of neighborhoods and lodging options, each possessing its own unique charm and character. From the lively beachfront neighborhoods of Copacabana and Ipanema to the historic and picturesque Santa Teresa, the city caters to all tastes and interests. Choosing the best area in Rio that will suit your needs is essential, as it can significantly impact the convenience of accessing attractions, dining options, and local amenities during your stay.

Luckily, while I was making the decision on where to stay in Rio with my family, I had the guidance of multiple friends and coworkers that are local to the city. 

In this guide, I will share my learnings, detail the various neighborhoods and accommodations available in Rio de Janeiro and explore their distinct features, advantages, and experiences they offer. Whether you seek a luxurious resort experience, a comfortable and convenient family-friendly hotel, or a budget-friendly lodging option, Rio has it all. I will share my personal insights and reflections on the decision-making process, providing you with valuable information to make an informed choice for your own family’s visit.

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The 7 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Río de Janeiro

There are so many options when it comes to choosing where to stay in Río de Janeiro. Below is a complete guide to the best areas to stay in Río, along with the top-rated hotels in each neighborhood for every budget.

Copacabana – The Best Area to Stay in Río de Janeiro

Copacabana is located in the south of Río de Janeiro and is best known for its beautiful 2.5-mile-long crescent-shaped beach. This neighborhood is a true paradise and offers both stunning beaches and lively streets. For a first-time visitor, Copacabana is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Río de Janeiro.

Why Stay in Copacabana?

Copacabana is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Río for first-time visitors. Travelers from all around the world come to experience Copacabana. The area is always full of people and very lively. It is also central to other neighborhoods and attractions in Río de Janeiro. 

Copacabana is a dynamic neighborhood that shows the fun and vibrant culture in Brazil. There is something for everyone in Copacabana, from great restaurants, live music, beautiful beaches, lots of shops, and incredible street fairs and festivals. It is a great area to experience the energy of Río de Janeiro.

Things to do in Copacabana

• Visit Copacabana Beach, one of Brazil’s most popular beaches
• Enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene in one of Río’s most energetic areas
• Hike up Morro do Leme
• Check out the feiras livres, which are open-air markets
• Visit the historic Forte de Copacabana
  

Where to Stay in Río de Janeiro’s Copacabana Neighborhood

Budget: Windsor Martinique Copacabana Hotel

Windsor Martinique Copacabana Hotel is a great budget-friendly hotel option located only half of a block away from Copacabana Beach. The rooms are basic but modern. Hotel amenities include a breakfast buffet and an outdoor pool with an American-style poolside bar.

Mid-Range: PortoBay Rio de Janeiro

Located directly in front of the beach, this 4-star hotel is a great choice for anyone wanting to experience incredible views in Río. Most rooms offer incredible views of the ocean or Sugarloaf Mountain, and some rooms even have panoramic views of the city from their balconies.

PortoBay Rio de Janeiro amenities include an amazing outdoor pool that has views of the ocean, a bassa nova bar, a Brazilian restaurant, and a full breakfast that is included with your stay.

Luxury: Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel

This exquisite 5-star hotel is the perfect choice for where to stay in Río de Janeiro for a luxury vacation. The rooms are elegantly decorated, each with marble bathrooms, unique pieces of English antique furniture, and original artwork. Many rooms also offer balconies and panoramic views.

Copacabana Palace is truly a luxury resort and is ideal for special occasions or an incredible 5-star vacation. The hotel features three highly-rated restaurants, a piano bar, beach access, a full spa, a fitness center, and a resort-style outdoor pool.

Ipanema – Where to Stay in Río de Janeiro for Incredible Beaches

Ipanema is located in the southern part of Río de Janeiro and is one of the most popular areas to stay. Ipanema Beach was made famous by a 1960s song called Girl from Ipanema, and today it remains one of Brazil’s most famous beaches.

Why Stay in Ipanema?

Things to do in Ipanema

• Check out the famous Ipanema Beach
• Visit the local art galleries that showcase contemporary art
• Visit the luxury shops at Garcia d’Ávila Avenue
• Enjoy the buzzing nightlife 
• Play the popular beach game futevôlei, a mix of soccer and volleyball 
• Catch a sunset at Arpoador Beach
  

Where to Stay in Río de Janeiro’s Ipanema Neighborhood

Budget: Ipanema Beach House

The Ipanema Beach House hostel is perfect for budget travelers that want to stay in the Ipanema area, which tends to be a bit pricier. The hostel is located just a short walk from the beautiful Ipanema beach. Rooms are basic but cozy, and amenities include an outdoor pool, kitchen, and lounge.

Mid-Range: Hotel Arpoador

Hotel Arpoador is located on the stunning coastline of Ipanema Beach. This hotel is in an ideal location and offers great beach access and incredible views. As a bonus, the rooms were recently redesigned in a modern style. 

A highlight of this hotel is their terrace where you can enjoy an included Brazilian breakfast with ocean views. Other amenities include a rooftop pool and terrace, a Brazilian restaurant, and a tropical bar.

Luxury: Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro

This elegant, 5-star hotel provides the ultimate luxury stay in Río de Janeiro. Located directly on Ipanema Beach, this high-end property offers fantastic ocean views. Rooms at Hotel Fasano are elegantly designed with beautiful balconies. 

Hotel Fasano amenities include a rooftop pool and bar with stunning views, the distinguished Gero Rio Restaurant, a full spa and wellness center, a fitness center, a terrace, beach access, and a nightclub.

Leblon – Where to Stay in Río de Janeiro for an Upscale Vacation

Located just west of Ipanema, Leblon is a beautiful beach neighborhood. This is another one of the best areas to stay in Río. It is known for its tranquil beach, as well as being one of the more upscale and luxury neighborhoods in Río de Janeiro.

Why Stay in Leblon?

Leblon is a trendy area that is perfect for a luxury vacation. It boasts a beautiful beach that is lined with fine-dining restaurants, Botequim-style cafes, steakhouses, French bistros, and luxury shops. Leblon also has a variety of vibrant nightlife, from bars to nightclubs.

Things to do in Leblon

• Relax at the beautiful Leblon Beach
• Experience the nightlife and try a Caipirinha – Brazil’s national cocktail
• Check out luxury stores and Brazilian brands at Shopping Leblon
• Try some gourmet food at some of Leblon’s best restaurants 
• Walk one of the nature trails at Parque Municipal Dois Irmãos
  

Where to Stay in Río de Janeiro’s Leblon Neighborhood

Budget: Hotel Vermont Ipanema

Hotel Vermont Ipanema is a budget-friendly, 3-star hotel located right on the border of Leblon and Ipanema, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers that want to stay in one of Río de Janeiro’s nicest neighborhoods. Amenities include a daily breakfast with tropical fruits and juices.

Mid-Range: Promenade Palladium Leblon

Promenade Palladium Leblon is a 4-star hotel located just 400m from the trendy Leblon beach. This hotel is a great mid-range option in Leblon and has a variety of room types from a standard option to suites with ocean-view balconies. Hotel amenities include an outdoor pool, fitness center, and included breakfast.

Luxury: Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort

This 5-star resort is located directly on the upscale Leblon Beach. The rooms here are recently renovated, spacious, and feature balconies with incredible ocean views for a truly luxurious experience.

The highlight of the Sheraton Grand Rio is its stunning pool area that features a lush tropical landscape, as well as a large terrace and a Jacuzzi tub facing the ocean. Other hotel amenities include a full spa and fitness center, as well as several on-site restaurants including a French Bistro, an Italian restaurant, a Brazilian restaurant, and the Dry Martini Bar.

Barra da Tijuca – Where to Stay in Río de Janeiro for Families

Barra da Tijuca is an upscale neighborhood that is located in the western part of Río de Janeiro. This stunning area of the city boasts mountain views, beautiful lakes, and sandy beaches. Barra da Tijuca Beach stretches over 18km and is the longest beach in Río de Janeiro.

Why Stay in Barra da Tijuca?

Barra da Tijuca is a modern and upscale neighborhood built over 30 years ago in Río de Janeiro. The area offers a variety of luxurious hotels and resorts.

Barra da Tijuca is a great neighborhood for families as it has a calmer atmosphere compared to other popular beach neighborhoods (like Copacabana). The waters here are a beautiful turquoise color, making it a very picturesque place to stay. There is also a large variety of casual bars and seaside restaurants in the area.

Barra da Tijuca Beach is the perfect place for watersports, such as surfing, kitesurfing, and bodyboarding. There is also a great bicycle path that goes along the beach. 

We personally stayed in this neighborhood when visiting Rio de Janeiro and the family-friendly atmosphere was perfect! It was about a 30-45 minute drive from some of the key Rio attractions; however, there was plenty to see and do in the neighborhood. So much so, it made us want to move to Barra da Tijuca. 

Things to Do in Barra da Tijuca

• Take part in some water sports at Barra da Tijuca Beach
• Relax in the calm atmosphere of Reserva Beach
• Visit Barra Olympic Park – which served as the Olympic Park for the Summer 2016 Olympics in Río de Janeiro
• Go shopping at the New York City Center Mall and see the Statue of Liberty Replica
• Take a hike up the famous Pedra Da Gávea
• Check out the Cidade das Artes cultural center
  

Where to Stay in Río de Janeiro’s Barra da Tijuca Neighborhood

Budget: Entremares Hotel

Entremares Hotel is a great budget-friendly option that is located only 500 meters from Barra da Tijuca Beach. The hotel has basic amenities such as air conditioning, a minibar, and a private bathroom. If you plan to rent a car, this hotel does offer free private parking. 

Mid-Range: Windsor Oceanico Hotel

Windsor Oceanico Hotel is located off Barra da Tijuca Beach and is a great option for a mid-range beach hotel in Río de Janeiro. The rooms are modern with a contemporary design, and some rooms offer ocean views.

The hotel has several amenities including beach access, a sauna, and a fitness center. However, the highlight of this hotel is its incredible rooftop pool, which offers stunning ocean views.

Luxury: Grand Hyatt Rio de Janeiro

Grand Hyatt Rio de Janeiro is a resort with incredible views, as it is located in between the mountains, ocean, and one of the city’s beautiful lakes. This is the perfect luxury beach resort and is directly across from the serene and relaxing Reserva Beach. 

There are a variety of room options available – from standard to suite-style, as well as many rooms with ocean views and balconies.

The hotel features beach access with beach service available. There are three restaurants on-site, as well as a variety of activities including yoga and biking. The hotel has an incredible resort-style outdoor pool and spa, perfect for relaxing. There is also a kid zone, with babysitting services available for guests.

Santa Teresa – Best Artsy Neighborhood in Río de Janeiro 

Located just south of central Río, Santa Teresa is a beautiful hilltop neighborhood that’s rich with culture and home to many artists, writers, and musicians. 

Why Stay in Santa Teresa?

Santa Teresa is an artsy neighborhood that has a unique bohemian flair to it. The charming streets are full of street art and murals. Santa Teresa also has a variety of eclectic eateries, cafes, and art galleries. It is also home to the famous Selaron Steps and is close to Mount Corcovado – the site of the world-famous Christ the Redeemer statue.

This is the perfect neighborhood for anyone looking for less of a beach vacation, and more of a cultural experience in Río de Janeiro. The area is more local and less touristy than the beach areas of Copacabana and Ipanema. As it is located on a hilltop, there are some incredible views in Santa Teresa, but it is further away from the beach areas and not well connected by public transport.

Things to Do in Santa Teresa

• Visit Mount Corcovado to see the famous Christ the Redeemer statue
• Admire the Escadaria Selarón – known as the Selaron Steps, these vibrantly-colored steps are a unique piece of artwork
• Check out Museu da Chácara do Céu – one of the largest art museums in Río
• Visit Parque das Ruinas to admire great views of Guanabara Bay
• Walk past some of the 19th-century mansions – some of which are left to ruins
• Admire the street art and visit the local art galleries
• Ride the historic yellow Tram do Santa Teresa up to the hilltop neighborhood

Where to Stay in Río de Janeiro’s Santa Teresa Neighborhood

Budget: Casa 48 Guesthouse

Casa 48 Guesthouse is a budget-friendly, 3-star hotel that is a great option for those on a budget looking to stay in the Santa Teresa neighborhood. The hotel offers basic private rooms, although the bathrooms are shared – similar to a hostel. Some rooms have balconies with great views. Amenities include an outdoor pool, hammocks, local dishes as breakfast options, a kitchen, and a shared lounge.

Mid-Range: Gerthrudes Bed & Breakfast

This lovely bed & breakfast is a highly-rated option in Río de Janeiro and is perfect for anyone looking for a local experience in the artsy Santa Teresa district. Each room offers a lovely patio or balcony, and a full continental breakfast is included with your stay.

Other amenities at Gerthrudes Bed & Breakfast include an outdoor pool with views of Sugar Loaf Mountain and Guanabara Bay, a garden terrace, and barbeque facilities.

Luxury: Santa Teresa Hotel RJ – MGallery

For anyone wondering where to stay in Río de Janeiro, Santa Teresa Hotel RJ – MGallery is the perfect option. Although not directly on the beach, this 5-star boutique hotel is full of lush tropical gardens and is the ultimate paradise in the artistic Santa Teresa neighborhood.

This hotel offers incredible panoramic views of Río de Janeiro’s bay, spacious, modern-designed rooms with art from Brazilian artists, a full-service spa, a restaurant, a bar, and an incredible pool area surrounded by tropical plants. It is the perfect escape for a relaxing and cultural stay in Río.

Botafogo – Where to Stay in Río de Janeiro for Cultural Immersion

Botafogo is a central neighborhood in Río de Janeiro, located between downtown and the popular beach areas of Copacabana and Ipanema. A portion of Botafogo is on the bay, so you’ll find gorgeous views of the famous Sugarloaf Mountain.

Why Stay in Botafogo?

Botafogo is a very local neighborhood in Río de Janeiro, so you won’t find tons of Brazilian English speakers or tourists here! Botafogo is perfect for travelers that are looking to fully immerse themselves in Brazilian culture. It’s a good option for people that have been to Río de Janeiro before or are confident travelers and want to avoid a touristy experience. Botafogo is also conveniently located in the city as it is well connected by the metro.

Things to do in Botafogo

• Take a Cable Car up Sugarloaf Mountain
• Admire the art at Urban Art at GaleRio
• Visit the Museum Of Indigenous People
• Watch Brazil’s favorite sport, Futebol, at a local bar
  

Where to Stay in Río de Janeiro’s Botafogo Neighborhood

Budget: Ibis Styles Rio De Janeiro Botafogo

Ibis Styles Hotel is great for those looking for a budget-friendly stay. The hotel is centrally located and is only 500 m from Botafogo Beach and 2.7 km from Copacabana Beach. The rooms are basic, but modern and affordable.

Mid-Range: Novotel RJ Praia de Botafogo

Novotel RJ Praia de Botafogo is a great mid-range hotel option in Botafogo, for those looking to experience local culture in the heart of the city. This hotel is located just in front of Botafogo Beach, making it a nice option for city-dwellers who also want beach access. There are also great views of Sugarloaf Mountain from Novotel RJ.

Luxury: Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro by Intercity

There aren’t many luxury hotels in Botafogo since it’s more of a local hotspot vs. a tourist area. However, Yoo2 Rio de Janeiro by Intercity is a 5-star hotel option in Botafogo that is perfect for a mix of luxury vacation and local culture.

This hotel has beautiful, modern rooms, but the best part is the incredible views of Sugarloaf Mountain and the beach. Amenities include a rooftop bar and pool – perfect for relaxing on your vacation. While this is a 5-star hotel, it is still much more budget-friendly compared to accommodations in other neighborhoods of Río.

Lapa – Best Neighborhood in Río de Janeiro for Budget Travelers

Lapa is located in the heart of Río de Janeiro, next to the Centro district. This area is known for its traditional bars and restaurants, nightclubs, architecture, and historical monuments. Lapa is also home to many wonderful hotels that won’t break the bank.

Why Stay in Lapa?

Lapa has a central location, making it easy to access other parts of the city. This is a great neighborhood for budget travelers, as this part of Río de Janeiro is much more affordable compared to the popular neighborhoods on the beach. Lapa has a laid-back bohemian vibe and generally less tourists. It’s known for its nightlife and offers a wide variety of nightclubs, bars, and music venues. It also has interesting architecture, such as the Carioca Aqueduct. 

Things to do in Lapa

• Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral
• Check out the unique Carioca Aqueduct
• Go shopping at the Lavradio Market
• See an open-air Samba show
  

Where to Stay in Río de Janeiro’s Lapa Neighborhood

Budget: Mambembe Hostel

Mambembe Hostel is a great option when wondering where to stay in Río de Janeiro on a small budget. The rooms are basic, but the hostel is located near several bars, restaurants, and attractions in central Río – so there’s no need for Brazilian Uber. The hostel also has a shared lounge and outside terrace.

Mid-Range: Casa Nova Hotel

Casa Nova Hotel is a good option for anyone looking to stay in Rio de Janeiro’s city center. The hotel is modern and features an outdoor rooftop pool – perfect for relaxing and taking in the views. There is also a spacious patio and outdoor bar.

Luxury: Vila Galé Rio de Janeiro

The Lapa and Centro neighborhoods of Río de Janeiro are budget areas, and therefore you won’t find many 5-star hotels in these neighborhoods. However, Vila Galé Rio de Janeiro is a great 4-star hotel option located in the Lapa neighborhood.

The hotel is located near the Carioca Aqueduct and Lapa’s bohemian center. Hotel amenities include an outdoor pool, wellness center, and on-site restaurant and bar.

Carnival in Río de Janeiro

Carnival is Brazil’s largest festival and is celebrated every year in February. Río de Janeiro is home to the largest carnival celebrations, with over two million people per day taking to the streets to celebrate.

Carnival in Río is a vibrant and energetic festival, filled with Samba dancers in exquisite costumes, elaborate floats, street parties, and Samba rhythms that fill the streets.

Where to Stay in Río for Carnival

The south zone is a great option when wondering where to stay in Río for Carnival. Southern Río includes the popular tourist neighborhoods – Ipanema, Copacabana, and Leblon. These areas are known for hosting lively street parties and exciting events during Carnival.

While the main events of Carnival will happen in the center of Río de Janeiro at the Sambadrome, it still makes sense to stay in the south zone, as it is well connected by public transport. The southern areas also tend to be safer for tourists and have a lot to offer during Carnival. Get ready for stunning beaches, live music, street parties, and more!

During Carnival, some hotels will also hold special events, such as the glamorous Magic Ball which is held every year at the Copacabana Palace Hotel.

When deciding where to stay in Río for Carnival, it is important to know that many hotels book up ahead of time, so it’s essential to make your booking ASAP.

Where to Avoid Staying in Río de Janeiro

Since Río de Janeiro is a large city that historically has experienced higher crime rates, there are definitely some areas that travelers should completely avoid in Río. These areas include the favelas, which are the slums in Brazil and are not safe places for tourists due to high levels of crime. The only way you should visit a favela is on an organized tour. 

Tips on Safety when Staying in Río de Janeiro

Like any big city, it’s smart to take certain precautions when visiting Río de Janeiro. Below are some quick tips for staying safe during your trip.

• Don’t walk the beach at night, especially alone.
• Keep watch over your belongings. Using a money belt or crossbody bag can also help deter pickpockets – especially when you’re at the beach. Be sure to take your phone, money, and valuables in the water with you. Wear a waterproof fanny pack to keep your valuables safe and dry. 
• Avoid the Favelas, as there is a lot of organized crime in these areas.
• Stay in the main areas of Río, especially at night.

FAQ: Where to Stay in Río de Janeiro

Conclusion: Where to Stay in Río de Janeiro

Río de Janeiro is a vibrant and energetic city that is home to incredible beaches, friendly people, interesting culture, and Carnival. It’s one of the most visited cities in South America (for good reason!) and is definitely a city worth visiting. 

Since the city has so many unique neighborhoods, there are many options when deciding where to stay in Río de Janeiro. For a bohemian and artsy vibe, the Santa Teresa neighborhood is perfect. Budget travelers or those looking to immerse themselves in local culture may want to consider the Botafogo or Lapa neighborhoods, which are close to central Río de Janeiro. For families, the Barra da Tijuca area is a great option as it has a beautiful beach, but tends to be on the calmer side. For the overall best areas to stay in Río de Janeiro, Leblon, Ipanema, and Copacabana are perfect as they are home to both stunning beaches and vibrant culture.

Pro tip: If you’re planning a visit to Brazil, don’t miss out on visiting all the beautiful and fascinating cities in Northern Brazil!