Where to Stay in Rio de Janeiro
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Rio de Janeiro
Copacabana
Mid-rangeIconic and bustling beachfront avenue lined with hotels, restaurants, and a lively promenade.
- +World-famous beach with a vibrant atmosphere
- +Wide range of accommodation and dining options
- +Good transport links
- -Can be very crowded and noisy
- -Safety requires vigilance, especially at night
🛡️ Be very aware of your surroundings during the day, especially on the beach. At night, avoid empty streets and take taxis or rideshares directly to your destination.
Leblon
LuxuryUpscale and sophisticated residential neighborhood adjacent to Ipanema, known for its fine dining and designer shops.
- +Quieter and more residential than Ipanema
- +Excellent restaurants and high-end shopping
- +Safe and pleasant for strolling
- -Very expensive
- -Limited nightlife options compared to other areas
🛡️ One of Rio's safest neighborhoods, but still exercise standard precautions against pickpocketing and be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark.
Santa Teresa
Mid-rangeBohemian and artistic hilltop neighborhood with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and stunning city views.
- +Unique artistic atmosphere and charming streets
- +Excellent restaurants and bars
- +Cultural attractions like museums and galleries
- -Hilly terrain can be challenging for walking
- -Less accessible by public transport, requires taxis/rideshares or the tram
🛡️ Generally safe during the day for exploring, but it's best to use taxis or rideshares to get here and back, especially at night. Be mindful of your belongings.
Ipanema
LuxuryChic and vibrant beachside neighborhood known for its stylish boutiques, upscale restaurants, and iconic sunset views.
- +Beautiful beach with good infrastructure
- +Excellent dining and shopping options
- +Generally safe and well-maintained
- -Can be very crowded, especially on weekends
- -Expensive
🛡️ Generally safe during the day, but be aware of pickpockets on the beach and street. At night, stick to well-lit, populated areas and avoid walking alone.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
BRL 500/day
Hidden Gems in Rio de Janeiro
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Parque Lage
FREEThis stunning park features a historic mansion with an art school, beautiful gardens, and trails leading to waterfalls. It's a popular spot for locals to picnic and enjoy the lush scenery, with a famous view of Christ the Redeemer through the mansion's courtyard.
Feira de São Cristóvão
Experience the vibrant culture of Northeast Brazil right in Rio at this lively indoor market. You can find authentic regional food, crafts, music, and dance, offering a true taste of Brazilian heritage.
Museu do Amanhã
This futuristic science museum on the waterfront explores the future of humanity and the planet with interactive exhibits. Its striking architecture and thought-provoking displays make it a unique cultural experience.
Safety in Rio de Janeiro
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise caution, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, avoid displaying valuables, and be aware of your surroundings. Using rideshares or taxis for nighttime travel is recommended.
At Night
Be extra vigilant. Avoid walking alone in less populated areas or beaches. Stick to busy streets and popular establishments. Consider using taxis or rideshares for transport.
Emergency
190 (Military Police)
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1The 'coke' scam (offering a drink that's actually drugged or watered down).
- 2Distraction theft (a common tactic where someone bumps into you or spills something to create an opportunity).
- 3Overpriced taxis (ensure the meter is running or agree on a price beforehand for specific trips).
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Rio de Janeiro