Downtown by day, Lapa by night, a local's guide to Rio's most historic (and budget-friendly) area, from a Carioca who knows both sides.

Where you stay during Carnival shapes your entire experience. Here's an honest breakdown of every major neighborhood regarding crowds, logistics, prices, and who each area is really right for.

From beachfront Copacabana to bohemian Santa Teresa: a local's honest guide to every Rio neighborhood, and who each one is really right for.