Last updated: October 2026
Ipanema is one of the most desirable areas to stay in Rio de Janeiro. I live here, and I get why. Walking distance to the beach, close to Rio's most iconic sunset, and surrounded by an incredible food scene. Ipanema is a great base whether you're visiting for the first time or deciding to stay longer.
That comes at a price, though. Hotels in Ipanema run higher than most other neighborhoods in the city, because there are fewer hotels to choose from. And rates spike hard during Carnival, New Year's, and the summer months.
To help you choose the best hotel in Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, for your style and budget, I've grouped my picks below, from the splurge-worthy to the genuinely affordable, so you can find something that fits without overpaying.
New in Ipanema: the Sofitel Rio de Janeiro Ipanema reopens on December 1, 2026, after years of renovation. Jump to the luxury hotels section for the details.
If you're still deciding whether Ipanema itself is the right fit, my guide to the best areas to stay in Ipanema breaks down the neighborhood. This post is just about the hotels, the ones I'd actually point a friend toward.
My favorite hotel in Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro
Hotel Arpoador ⭐⭐⭐⭐
If I had to pick just one, it's Hotel Arpoador. The design says a lot about Rio itself: sophisticated but never stiff, with that easy elegance the city seems to share. The location sets it apart, as it’s the only hotel on the stretch of Arpoador where cars don't pass. You still get access from the avenue side, which makes arriving and leaving with luggage easy.
It's a small hotel, and if you can, pick a room with ocean views. Some have a balcony while others have a hammock strung up for the afternoon. Downstairs, the beachfront restaurant, the same Arp suggested on the best restaurants in Ipanema guide, serves breakfast right on the sand. And when you've had enough of the beach, there's a rooftop pool waiting upstairs.
Best luxury hotels in Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro
Hotel Fasano ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fasano is the name that comes up first whenever luxury in Ipanema is the topic. The rooftop pool, exclusive for guests, overlooks the beach and the most photographed view in the city, and the rest of the hotel matches: modern interiors that feel more like a private residence than a hotel lobby.
It's also where many celebrities visiting Rio choose to stay, drawn to that same modern take on luxury.
Check rates and availability at Fasano Rio de Janeiro.
New: Sofitel Rio de Janeiro Ipanema (from December 1, 2026) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sofitel's is opening its first flagship hotel in Brazil, right on Ipanema Beach. The renovated hotel, former Ceasar Park, has a rooftop infinity pool with views of the beach and Dois Irmãos, a spa, and Lasai, two-Michelin-star restaurant, which is moving here from Botafogo.
Bookings are already open for stays from December onward. Definitely one of the most exciting new places to stay in Ipanema this summer.
Best mid-range hotels in Ipanema
Ipanema has options for travelers who want comfort and charm without paying a fortune.
Sol Ipanema Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sol Ipanema is the right choice for anyone who wants to be beachfront without being right on top of the Arpoador sunset crowds. Located at Posto 9, Ipanema's social heart, the hotel offers beach service with chairs and umbrellas right on the sand, plus a rooftop with a pool and bar for whenever you'd rather admire the view in comfort.
Check rates at Sol Ipanema Hotel
Arena Ipanema Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Arena Ipanema isn't beachfront, but it might as well be. The rooftop pool looks straight out over the beach and Arpoador, and you're just a few steps from the sand either way. It's an older hotel, but the location is hard to beat.
Check rates at Arena Ipanema Hotel
Ipanema Inn Hotel ⭐⭐⭐
Ipanema Inn is a small, modern hotel in the heart of Ipanema, close to shopping and the metro but still just steps from the beach. It offers beach service with chairs and umbrellas, and a breakfast I've tried a few times myself and can vouch for.
Best budget hotel in Ipanema
Hotel Vermont ⭐⭐⭐
Hotel Vermont is one of the best value-for-money options in the neighborhood, for anyone who wants real hotel services without paying a premium for them. It sits on Ipanema's main street, so ask for a room away from the street-facing side if you're a light sleeper because it can get noisy.
Best hostels in Ipanema
El Misti Hostel Ipanema
A classic hostel with a friendly, social atmosphere and shared and private rooms. El Misti Ipanema is a good choice for travelers looking to meet people and enjoy a laid-back stay near the beach.
Check rates at El Misti Hostel Ipanema
More Ipanema Hostel
With contemporary interiors and a more design-forward approach to hostel living, More Ipanema offers a stylish base, shared and private rooms just steps from the beach.
Explore more of Ipanema
There’s even more to discover in Ipanema. These guides will help you with the best places to eat and making the most of the neighborhood’s.
Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro
Start here: where Ipanema is, how to get there and what it’s like.
Where to Stay in Ipanema
The best areas of the neighborhood with my hotel picks for every budget.
What to do in Ipanema
An one-day itinerary from breakfast to dinner.
Best Restaurants in Ipanema
My favorite places, from braseiros to rooftop bars.
What to wear in Rio de Janeiro
Beach essentials and what locals actually wear.
Written by Karina
Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Karina spent over a decade working in the tourism industry, with experience in some of the world's leading travel destinations. She created Going to Rio to bring that same standard of practical, traveler-first guidance to visitors exploring Rio de Janeiro. Learn more about Karina
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