Holiday lettings & accommodation in Rio de Janeiro

Along the seafront is where much of the excitement can be found in Rio, meaning that the beachside districts of Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon are among the most popular places to search for accommodation. The hilltop district of Santa Teresa is another firm favourite among visitors, with some of the city’s most beautiful architecture. Streets here can be pretty steep though! Botafogo is close to the famous Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf Mountain) and has it’s own beautiful lagoon beach, which is often a little quieter than Ipanema/Copacabana, though without the waves. Further from the coastline, the city sprawls out across the bay. The residential district of Tijuca is much less touristy, a good place to see how the locals live, and accommodation here is generally cheaper than on the beachfront. Visitors looking for a more peaceful place to stay could consider Niterói, a city of old forts and world class museums, a short ferry ride across Guanabara Bay from central Rio.

Buzzing with atmosphere, yet still somehow relaxed, Rio de Janeiro is a city that has something for everyone. The beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana are a good place to start; since the city gets an average of 250 days of sunshine a year, chances of a hot day during your visit are strong. Stroll down the sand watching surfers, volleyball games and much more going on. A trip up the Sugarloaf Mountain is not to be missed. The trail to the top is pretty hard going, but a beautiful walk if you’re up to it. Otherwise the cable car can take you to the top in no time. Taking the train up to Christ the Redeemer, the largest statue of Jesus in the world, is also not be missed. Santa Teresa is the city’s bohemian district, perfect to spend a lazy afternoon browsing the eclectic selection of shops, galleries and bars; as well as the mish mash of architectural styles and the street art that covers every available space.

The tropical climate in Rio means there is a wealth of delicious fresh fruit, always the best way to start your day. Typical breakfasts consist of mango, watermelon and other fruits, alongside eggs and coffee. Rio is well served by restaurants, although eating out here isn’t usually cheap. There is a wealth of street vendors everywhere; selling everything from deep fried ‘Coxinhas’ - a popular local snack, to orange juice that’s squeezed before your eyes. Another cheaper option that’s popular throughout Brazil are the self service ‘pay per kilo’ restaurants, which can be found throughout the city. These usually offer a wide ranging buffet and are fairly cheap, as long as you remember that isn’t all you can eat! Beer is the most popular drink here; most bars serve a large bottle inside a cooler, with small glasses - so that you can enjoy a leisurely drink without the heat spoiling it. Cocktail bars are also everywhere: be sure to try a Caipirinha; the national cocktail of Brazil.

Rio de Janeiro is served by a comprehensive public transport system. The underground metro feels brand new, and thanks to the air conditioning, you’ll struggle to get off once you reach your stop. Pick up a prepaid card when you arrive and you’ll be able to ride to wherever you like. There is also an excellent bus network running all over the city. Taxis in Rio are cheap and easy to find at any time of day; the best way to ensure a reliable driver is to queue at one of taxi stands which you’ll find all over the city, although the yellow taxis can be hailed anywhere. Due to its sprawling layout, Rio is not an easy to walk around, it is, however, a pretty bike-friendly place. If you choose to cycle, be prepared for some big hills, plan your routes beforehand and if possible have a local or tour guide with you, as certain areas of the city are not advisable to visit if you don’t know what you’re doing.