Rio de Janeiro , Brazil

Private Tour: The Best of Rio

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About this experience

Discover the most famous sightseeing spots of Rio de Janeiro on this private 8-hour tour. Benefit from seeing all the major attractions in just one day, making this tour ideal for those short on time. Enjoy full privacy and flexibility!

Available options

Private Tour: The Best of Rio

Pickup included

What's included

Private tour

Transportation by air-conditioned coach

Bilingual driver/guide

Hotel pickup and drop-off (Zona Sul and Centro)

What you'll see

You'll be picked up from your hotel at 8:00 a.m. in the morning to start your tour. Head straight to the world-famous Christ the Redeemer statue on the top of the Corcovado Mountain. Enjoy breathtaking views over the city of Rio and soak up the atmosphere at the top of the mountain. At around noon, you'll have a break where you can buy lunch.

Afterwards, drive by the Maracanã soccer stadium, location of the FIFA World Cup 2014 final and continue to Lapa, a popular nightlife district of the city. Watch the Carioca Aqueduct, the emblem of Lapa and Selarón’s Staircase, a masterpiece of Rio's street art. After that, you'll visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian in the city center of Rio.

Your final stop of the day will the Sugar Loaf. Enjoy the exciting cable car ride to the top of the mountain and watch the spectacular view over the city. This is guaranteed to be a unique experience which will leave you knowing just why Rio is referred to as the "marvelous city".

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

DE PT EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

May be operated by a multi-lingual guide

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Important notes

• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
• Please bring a valid ID for all travelers

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time

About Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, known as the 'Marvelous City,' is famous for its natural settings, Carnival, samba, bossa nova, and Balneario beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema. It's a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, including the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain.

Top Attractions

Christ the Redeemer

One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this iconic statue offers breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours R$84 (including train ticket)

Sugarloaf Mountain

A famous peak offering stunning views of Rio de Janeiro and its beaches.

Nature 2-3 hours R$88 (round-trip cable car)

Copacabana Beach

One of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful sunsets.

Beach Half day or full day Free

Tijuca National Park

The world's largest urban forest, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Nature Half day or full day Free (some attractions may have fees)

Santa Teresa

A historic and bohemian neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and scenic views.

Cultural Half day Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Feijoada

A hearty stew made with black beans and various cuts of pork, often served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices.

Dinner Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Pão de Queijo

Cheese bread made with tapioca flour, giving it a unique texture and flavor.

Snack Vegetarian, but contains dairy.

Moqueca

A traditional fish stew cooked in coconut milk and dendê oil, with various seafood and vegetables.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan with vegetable broth and tofu.

Açaí

A thick, creamy fruit pulp from the açaí palm, often served with granola and condensed milk.

Dessert/Drink Can be made vegan with plant-based milk.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Tijuca National Park Surfing in Arpoador Paragliding in Pedra Bonita Beach lounging in Ipanema Spa treatments in Copacabana Yoga in Botafogo Visiting museums in Centro Attending a samba show

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and the famous Carnival in February/March. Expect crowded beaches and higher prices.

25-30°C 77-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Brazilian Real (BRL)

Time Zone

GMT-3 (Brasília Time)

Electricity

110V/220VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Rio de Janeiro is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and violence can occur. Exercise caution, especially in less touristy areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night in unsafe areas
• Use common sense and stay alert to your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Rio de Janeiro-Galeão International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
Santos Dumont Airport • 12 km (7.5 miles) from city center

By train

Central do Brasil

By bus

Rodoviária Novo Rio, Terminal Rodoviário da Gavea

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and air-conditioned, the metro is a great way to avoid traffic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, 99 Taxis

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Copacabana Ipanema Santa Teresa Lapa Botafogo

Day trips

Petrópolis

65 km (40 miles) • Full day

A charming colonial town in the mountains, known for its historic architecture and cool climate.

Paraty

170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight

A historic coastal town with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches.

Búzios

170 km (105 miles) • Full day or overnight

A picturesque beach town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

Festivals

Carnival • February/March (dates vary) Rio Carnival Samba Parade • February/March (dates vary) New Year's Eve (Réveillon) • December 31

Pro tips

Visit Christ the Redeemer early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views
Take a helicopter tour for a unique perspective of the city
Explore the less touristy neighborhoods like Santa Teresa and Botafogo for a more authentic experience
Try local street food like pão de queijo and coxinha for a taste of Brazilian flavors
Learn some basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals