Travel Guide to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro has long and rich history. After the short French period, in 1567 the Portuguese started to live there. At first, the city grew with a very slow speed, till on the territory of Brazil they found gold. In 1763-1960 Rio de Janeiro was the capital of the country, but in 1960 this honor was given to Brasilia. In the end of the 19th century thanks to the mass emigration from Europe and local villages the population of Rio started growing very quickly. At this very time such famous areas, as Copacabana and Ipanema appeared. It's also the time of birth of 'favelas', well-known quarters for the poor.

The special beauty of Rio de Janeiro can be mostly explained by its wonderful location: it takes place along the endless coast with marvelous beaches and rocky hills. At present day Rio de Janeiro has the population of 7 million people and it makes it one of the most populous cities in the world. The natives are friendly, self-confident and crazy about music, nightlife and, of course, football.

Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches. Beach life in Rio is a real art, which can be learnt in a moment. Show everything you can do – it's the motto of the world-famous Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches. The other thing why the natives come to the beach is to laze in the sun, listen to music, do surf-riding and play football or volleyball. Copacabana is the most popular beach. The largest hotels are situated there. The international beau-monde mostly prefers Ipanema and Leblon, the posh outskirts of Rio. Admission there is free. Endless boulevards along the beaches are full of music, bars and restaurants.

The statue of Jesus. On the very top of Corcovado Mountain you'll see the enormous statue of Jesus, which has become the symbol of Rio. Jesus can be seen in every point of the city. One can get to Corcovado Mountain by a small train, minibus or taxi. The marvelous view on the city is just unforgettable. At the bottom of the statue take place cafes, a small museum and the chapel. Train from Rue Cosmo Velho goes every half an hour from 8.30 to 18.15. If to go back by the last train, you'll have an opportunity to enjoy the fantastic view on Rio.

Pao de Acucar. Another place with a beautiful view on the city and the harbor (Bahia de Guanabara) is the rocky mountain to the south from the center Pao de Acucar (in Portuguese it means 'the sugar-loaf'). On half way to it you'll see Urca Mountain with its restaurants and small galleries. In evenings some open-air concerts are organized there. To get to the top of Pao de Acucar one can either use a funicular or go afoot, but in this case you should get prepared for a hard way. Pao de Acucar is very popular with alpinists: there are a lot of routes. Another way to look at Pao de Acucar is flying by helicopter.

In the center of Rio you'll find not only gorgeous colonial architecture, churches and ancient cloisters, but skyscrapers as well. A splendid historical route would get you from Praca de 15 de Noviembre with the Royal Palace through Rua 1 de Marco Street to the cultural center Banco do Brasil and Candelaria Church.

Santa Theresa Quarter. Beyond the bounds of the center, at the place of shady hills takes place colonial Santa Theresa Quarter, the favorite place of artists and intellectuals. One can spend a night in numerous hotels and hostels that are located in the historical buildings of the area. In the evenings the main square Largo do Guimaraes starts to get crowded with jolly people and merry music. From the center to Santa Theresa Quarter one can get by a small old tram, which starts at the station near PetroBras building. It'll take not less than half a day to visit the Atlantic Forest of the National Tijuca Park. Paths that cross the hilly tropical forest, lead to the waterfalls and places with wonderful views. There one can have a picnic or eat out. Not to get lost, you'd better either follow the main routes or hire a guide, who will tell you everything about plants, animals and especially about the exotic reptiles that live there.

The Maracana Stadium. The Maracana Stadium is one of the biggest stadiums in the world that can seat 120 000 people. Guides would help you to make a visit there as impressive and informative as possible. The natives are devoted fans, you can feel it if go to any football match. The greatest thing there is not the game itself, but a special atmosphere, created by the drummers playing samba. You'd better buy a ticket in advance (you can do it at any Point Of Sale). More than that, there are special excursions, which include a trip from your hotel and suitable seats at stadium.

Carnivals. There is nothing more spectacular in the world than carnivals in Rio de Janeiro. It is five days of endless joy. In February the whole city turns into a one big ground for the carnival. On every step you run into various shows. Along the streets walk singing and dancing people. You can join any company. Hotels organize different masquerades starting with mad nights and ending with posh parties.

Read more about Rio de Janeiro:
Restaurants and cuisine in Rio de Janeiro
Local traditions and lifestyle
'Must visit' places in Rio de Janeiro
Nightlife and attractions in Rio de Janeiro
Preparing for Rio de Janeiro: Advices
Rio de Janeiro photogallery