4 days in Rio de Janeiro
Mountains, beaches and samba between them. A 4-day plan.
Rio's setting is unbeatable: granite peaks rising from the sea, rainforest in the middle of the city and famous beaches lined with kiosks selling ice-cold coconut water.
Day by day
Day 1: Christ and Santa Teresa
Go up to Christ the Redeemer early, explore Santa Teresa and the Selarón steps, and dance samba in Lapa at night.
Day 2: Beach day
Spend the day on Ipanema and join the sunset clap at Arpoador.
Day 3: Forest and Sugarloaf
Hike in Tijuca National Park, then take the cable car up Sugarloaf at sunset and finish at Bar Urca.
Day 4: Downtown
Visit the Museum of Tomorrow and Confeitaria Colombo, and catch a match at the Maracanã if one is on.
Make it work
- Best months: Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct. See the season calendar.
- Book ahead: the most popular sights and restaurants, especially in peak season.
- Where to eat along the way: Confeitaria Colombo, Bar Urca, Oteque.
- Getting around: Use the metro and ride-hailing apps.
Short on time, or staying longer?
With less time, keep the first days and skip the day trip. With more, add a slower day for a neighbourhood from our best areas to stay, or choose more from the full list of things to do.
Opening days and times change, and some sights close one day a week. Check before you go. Last reviewed October 2026.