Explore practical advice, transportation guides, and essential travel information to help you navigate Rio de Janeiro with confidence. From arrival tips to getting around the city, these articles cover the details that make your trip smoother.
Rio travel tips & practical guides
Is Rio de Janeiro expensive? A cost breakdown for travelers of all budgets
The same trip to Rio de Janeiro can cost $40 a day or $500. Here's what really drives the difference, with real prices across every budget.
Rio de Janeiro in September: Weather, events and what to expect
A month bookended by Rock in Rio and the city's first NFL game, with spring's first rains arriving in between.
How to Pay in Brazil: Credit Card, Cash or Pix for Foreigners
Everything you need to know about using cash, cards and Pix, including how foreigners can actually use Pix without a Brazilian ID.
What to wear in Rio de Janeiro: The details nobody tells you
Rio de Janeiro aesthetic is clean, fitted, and unbothered. The opposite of trying too hard.
What to pack for Rio de Janeiro (Packing list from a Carioca)
The Carioca experience starts the moment you land Bring the basics, arrive prepared, and go straight to the beach.
Rio de Janeiro tourist attractions: Every place worth visiting
This guide covers the best tourist attractions in Rio de Janeiro organized by category, with practical notes on what's free, what's paid, and what to prioritize. Whether you're visiting for the first time or coming back to go deeper, use it as your starting point.
Best Restaurants in Rio de Janeiro: A Brazilian Food Guide
Brazilian cuisine is one of the richest and most diverse in the world, and in my opinion that's where your attention deserves to go.
Samba Schools in Rio de Janeiro: You don't have to wait for Carnival
Samba schools are active year-round with weekly rehearsals open to the public - one of the most authentic cultural experiences Rio de Janeiro has to offer.
Whale watching in Rio de Janeiro: Season, tours and a bit of history
Every year between June and August, humpback whales pass through the waters off Rio de Janeiro on one of the longest migrations on earth. Here’s all you need to know about the whale season.
Best Churrascarias in Rio de Janeiro: Rodízio, À La Carte, and Classic Carioca Meat Dishes
Rio de Janeiro has some of the finest churrascarias in the country, and understanding the difference between formats is the first step to choosing the right experience.
Food in Rio de Janeiro: A guide to all the things you must try
From the slow-cooked depth of feijoada to the crispy comfort of coxinha, from the brigadeiro that ends every celebration to the açaí bowl that starts every beach morning, Brazilian, and carioca, cooking has deep roots and rewards those who take the time to explore it properly.
Rio de Janeiro nightlife: A guide to nights out in the city
This guide organizes Rio's nightlife by energy and budget, from casual to memorable, so you can choose what kind of night you're actually looking for.
Rio de Janeiro beaches: how to choose the right one for you
Calm water, surf, fewer crowds or an iconic first visit? A guide to Rio de Janeiro's beaches by what actually matters
Rio de Janeiro itinerary: How many days do you need?
In Rio de Janeiro, flexibility beats a strict plan. But whatever time you have, either 3, 5 or 7 days, is worth using well.
Rio de Janeiro in August: Weather, beaches and what to do
Rio's driest month with less crowds, great weather for beach and outdoor activities. Plus the humpback whales.
Rio de Janeiro in July: Weather, beaches and what to expect
July sits at the heart of Rio's dry season, with clear skies, hiking trails are at their best and the humpback whales out in full force.
Things to do in Rio de Janeiro: The must-see sides of the city
Rio is one of those cities that reveals itself slowly. The icons are worth every bit of their reputation but the city doesn't stop there.
Rio Carnival blocos: The complete guide to street parties
Rio Carnival happens on the streets as much as in the Sambadrome. Here's everything you need to know about blocos — Rio's free street parties — from what they are to how to join one safely.