The awe-inspiring city of Rio has world-class beaches, Brazilian icons like the Corcovado statue of Christ, and first-rate museums, squares and parks. Yet, it also reveals a gritty reality in the shantytowns called favelas. Thankfully, Rio has a well-developed transportation network and it’s relatively easy to get around, even without a car.
Ask for a metro and bus map as soon as you arrive (they are free at subway stations) and study it to figure out the best route between the places on your list. Taking public transit can be an enjoyable part of the experience, especially when you travel with other people. Locals love to chat and you may learn a lot about Brazil, its people and culture in the process.
When planning your itinerary, remember that buses and taxis don’t always run on time and they can be expensive, so factor that into your budget. Alternatively, you can rent a car to explore the neighborhoods in greater depth. However, traffic in Rio can be a nightmare and it’s often easier to get around on foot or by public transport.
If you’re interested in the history of Brazil http://guidefrancophoneriodejaneiro.com, head to the nearby Praça Tiradentes (Tiradentes Square). The area used to be a teeming slum and today it’s home to state legislature offices as well as the Museu Nacional de Belas Artes, which houses an impressive collection of international and Brazilian artwork. There are also a number of nice bars in the square.
A few blocks from here you’ll find the Real Gabinete Portugues de Leitura (Royal Portuguese Library) – which is also nominated as one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Founded in 1837 by Portuguese immigrants, it’s a lovely little spot to visit.
The famous Samba parades in the Sambodromo (Samba stadium) during Carnival are a must-see. But there’s much more to the festival than this, and samba blocks can be found in the streets of most of Rio’s neighborhoods during the rest of the year. These are groups of dancers, dressed in elaborate costumes or t-shirts that represent a particular neighborhood, theme or logo, and they’re joined by percussionists and musicians.
Another must-see is the soaring Christ Redeemer, an enormous concrete statue that towers over the city from Corcovado hill. This iconic landmark is a must-see for anyone visiting Rio and the views from its platform are spectacular.
A final must-see is the botanical garden on the island of Ilha Grande. The lush gardens are a great place to relax and recharge. The beach is a gorgeous setting for a picnic or a barbecue, and the island’s hiking trails offer stunning views.
A word of caution: As you walk around the city, you may hear Brazilians calling tourists “gringos” or “gringas.” This isn’t meant to be derogatory and it simply refers to foreigners. If you’re a gringo or gringa, take care to dress appropriately and blend in. If you don’t, you’re a target for pickpockets and other types of street crime.