Rio de Janeiro skyline view — top attractions and sightseeing

Rio de Janeiro Travel Guide

Brazil

About Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, also known simply as Rio, is the capital of the state of Rio de Janeiro. It is the second-most-populous city in Brazil after São Paulo and the sixth-most-populous city in the Americas. Founded in 1565, the city was initially the seat of the Captaincy of Rio de Janeiro, a domain of the Portuguese Empire. In 1763, it became the capital of the State of Brazil. In 1808, when the Portuguese Royal Court moved to Brazil, Rio de Janeiro became the seat of the court of Queen Maria I of Portugal.

Best time to visit: April, May, June, September, October. Language: Portuguese. Currency: BRL.

Learn more about Rio de Janeiro on Wikipedia.

Top Attractions in Rio de Janeiro

From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Rio de Janeiro offers world-class sightseeing. Whether you're exploring cultural heritage, dining, or capturing the city skyline, there's something for every traveler. Use our map below to plan your visit and discover the best things to do in Rio de Janeiro.

Map of Rio de Janeiro