10 must-see places in Rio de Janeiro before you die

Because we know Rio de Janeiro is on your list of places to visit, here we leave you with a list of 10 places you can't miss. And if you want to learn in depth everything you should know to visit Rio, then we recommend you read our complete guide What to do in Rio de Janeiro: make the most of your visit.

1. Corcovado Hill and Christ the Redeemer

The icon of Rio de Janeiro. To reach the summit we recommend taking the Corcovado train, which crosses the lush local jungle until reaching the viewpoint where Christ the Redeemer is located. Once there, in addition to contemplating the statue, you'll be able to enjoy one of the best views of Rio de Janeiro, including iconic places such as Guanabara Bay, the beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, and Sugarloaf Mountain.

2. Sugarloaf Mountain

One of the most emblematic places for tourists in Rio de Janeiro is Sugarloaf Mountain, a rock formation that rises 396 meters above Guanabara Bay. To reach the summit, you must take two cable cars. The entrance, which includes tickets for both cable cars and access to the hill, costs 160 reals (about 30 euros) and can be purchased online or in person, although the latter option usually has long lines.

3. Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches

What would Rio de Janeiro be without its beaches? Without a doubt, the sea and sand are one of the main attractions (if not the main one) of this city. Copacabana and Ipanema are the most well-known throughout the world and of course you have to visit them and spend hours watching what life is like on these beaches. You can even take a free tour of these beaches and their neighborhoods to learn more about the history and life of this famous area. 

4. Selarón Steps

One of the most famous staircases in the world is the Selarón Steps in Rio de Janeiro. It has already become a classic to visit this city and take one (or a thousand) photos on this ascending mosaic of colors. This staircase, decorated with multicolored tiles from all over the world, is the result of the work of Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, who dedicated much of his life to beautifying it.

Metropolitan Cathedral

When you visit the Selarón Steps and the Santa Teresa neighborhood, also take the opportunity to visit the impressive cathedral of Rio de Janeiro, a unique construction by architect Edgar de Oliveira da Fonseca. On the outside, it stands out for its inverted cone structure that can remind you of a Mayan pyramid. Inside, without a doubt, the most impressive are its stained glass windows that filter natural light.

6. Lage Park

Lage Park is the perfect place to enjoy a day of tranquility, strolling through its gardens and enjoying a picnic by the lake, all with the image of Corcovado in the background. Entrance to the Lage Park mansion is free, but you must make a reservation online to be able to access it.

7. Telegraph Stone

If there is a Rio de Janeiro destination that has become famous thanks to Instagram, it's Telegraph Stone. Getting here by public transport is a bit complicated, since you have to take several means of transport and it can take more than two hours. Our recommendation is that you go on our organized tour to make better use of your time.

8. Niterói Contemporary Art Museum

Designed by renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer, this impressive circular building, which looks like a spaceship, houses a collection of contemporary art by Brazilian and international artists. Additionally, its external ramp will take you to the upper floors, where you'll have a 360-degree panoramic view of Guanabara Bay and the cities of Rio de Janeiro and Niterói.

9. Maracanã

Brazil's favelas awaken much curiosity among tourists. Some venture to explore them, while others prefer to avoid the visit for safety reasons. For a peaceful experience, it's recommended to hire a tour. These guided visits take you to neighborhoods accustomed to tourism, where you'll be able to interact with residents and learn firsthand what life is like in these places. This legendary stadium has witnessed some of the most memorable moments in football history, including the 1950 FIFA World Cup final, when the famous Maracanazo occurred. If your visit doesn't coincide with any match, you can take a guided tour of the stadium, where you'll be able to see the locker rooms, the field and the museum and learn about the history and cultural importance of this place.

10. Favela Rocinha

Brazil's favelas awaken much curiosity among tourists. Some venture to explore them, while others prefer to avoid the visit for safety reasons. For a peaceful experience, it's recommended to hire a tour. These guided visits take you to neighborhoods accustomed to tourism, where you'll be able to interact with residents and learn firsthand what life is like in these places.

If you want to learn in depth everything you should know to visit Rio, then we recommend you read our complete guide What to do in Rio de Janeiro: make the most of your visit.