5-Day Rio de Janeiro Itinerary for First-Time Travelers
Experience the vibrant culture and breathtaking sights of Rio de Janeiro in this 5-day itinerary, featuring must-visit landmarks, local cuisine, and exciting nightlife.
5-Day Rio de Janeiro Itinerary
Explore top attractions and cultural experiences in Rio de Janeiro, including Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, local beaches, samba nightlife, and Favela Vidigal.
Arrival and Christ the Redeemer 2
Check-in at Rio Hotel
(Check-in)Visit Christ the Redeemer
(Attraction)Visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Explore Santa Teresa
(Attraction)Discover the bohemian vibe, street art, and galleries in Santa Teresa.
Lunch in Santa Teresa
(Restaurant)Enjoy traditional Brazilian cuisine in a local Santa Teresa restaurant.
Samba Nightlife Experience in Lapa
(Experience)Enjoy a lively samba night with music, dance and local drinks in Lapa.
Sugarloaf Mountain and Beaches
Breakfast at Ipanema Café
(Restaurant)Start the day with a Brazilian breakfast at a café in Ipanema.
Relax at Ipanema Beach
(Free Time)Enjoy some leisure time relaxing and sunbathing on Ipanema Beach.
Explore Copacabana Beach
(Attraction)Walk the famous Copacabana Beach, enjoy the beach vibe and kiosks.
Lunch at Copacabana Kiosk
(Restaurant)Enjoy fresh seafood and Brazilian dishes at a beach kiosk in Copacabana.
Cable Car Ride & Visit Sugarloaf Mountain
(Experience)Take the famous cable car to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for stunning city views.
Dinner in Ipanema Neighborhood
(Restaurant)Dinner at a popular Ipanema restaurant serving Brazilian and international specialties.
Favela Vidigal and Local Culture
Breakfast in Leblon
(Restaurant)Enjoy a traditional Brazilian breakfast in the Leblon neighborhood.
Guided Favela Vidigal Experience
(Experience)Explore Favela Vidigal with a local guide, learning about community life, art and culture.
Lunch at Ipanema Food Market
(Restaurant)Sample local street food and Brazilian cuisine at the Ipanema food market.
Explore Ipanema Neighborhood
(Activity)Spend afternoon exploring shops, galleries and vibrant street life in Ipanema.
Escola de Samba Rehearsal Visit
(Experience)Witness the samba school rehearsal and immerse yourself in the carnival culture.
Dinner in Leblon
(Restaurant)Taste Brazilian seafood specialties in a Leblon restaurant.
Scenic Viewpoints and Beach Leisure
Breakfast at Copacabana
(Restaurant)Enjoy a casual breakfast near Copacabana beach.
Visit Dois Irmãos Hill Viewpoint
(Attraction)Enjoy breathtaking views over Rio’s beaches and lagoons.
Relax and Watch Sunset at Arpoador
(Free Time)Spend time watching the sunset at the famous Arpoador rock.
Dinner at Copacabana
(Restaurant)Enjoy a traditional Brazilian barbecue dinner in Copacabana.
Shopping, Leisure and Departure
Breakfast at Hotel
(Other)Enjoy your last breakfast at the hotel before checkout.
Shopping and Souvenir Shopping
(Activity)Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs, local crafts and gifts.
Lunch in Botafogo Neighborhood
(Restaurant)Have a relaxing lunch in Botafogo before heading to the airport.