Rio de Janeiro is what a country. Population and attractions of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
It is considered a top vacation spot, and it has become such since the time when Brigitte Bardot and Madonna “hanged out” there. In general, all bohemians strive to visit there. Don’t despair, entry there is also open for ordinary people. I'm not talking about the luxury hotels in Copacabana and the climb to the world famous statue Christ the Savior, there are a sufficient number of other, no less luxurious places and attractions that you can visit in this delightful city - Rio de Janeiro. So, let's go.
To experience the atmosphere of Rio de Janeiro myself, I bought tickets through aviasales service, and went on a journey to the land of carnival and eternal celebration. Despite the fact that Brazil offers various tours, I still decided to go to this wonderful place on my own. And having bought flights to Rio de Janeiro, I flew off to meet adventures.
Yacht tour to Guanabara Bay
There is no need for your own yacht to visit this beautiful city. But the holiday in Rio itself provides you with many opportunities. So a short sailboat excursion to Guanabara Bay, taking into account the relatively low prices drinks from the bar will be a great way to spend the whole evening.
The feeling of a tropical breeze and magnificent views on the horizon will make you feel like the same Madonna. Similar excursions also include short stops at some of the small islands in the bay, diving and visiting wild beaches. In general, you will be provided with an experience of a lifetime from a two to three hour trip.
Visit Buzios
Probably ten pages are not enough to describe all the delights and attractions this small town not far from . Let's return again to Brigitte Bardot, who in her youth, hiding from the paparazzi, went to what was then a small fishing village for the purpose of a peaceful quiet rest. It was her presence that helped turn that village into one of the most sought-after places in the entire Brazil.
You can still meet international stars there in a simple T-shirt and shorts, drinking beer and basking in the warm sun. And believe me, you can easily stay in a regular hotel and visit a regular restaurant here for mere mortals like me.
Beaches of Ipanema
For many years, the famous Copacabana district was considered the most fashionable holiday destination in all of Rio, but for those who want a more relaxed leisure time without large parties and 24-hour buzz, we can suggest heading further west to the Ipanema district. Or just book a tour of Rio, then you can visit many wonderful places. And the prices for tours are, in principle, reasonable.
My journey here began with a visit to a large hippie market for which the word “legality” does not exist. Believe me, here you can buy everything to go to nirvana or meet Bob Marley.
In addition, this region is known for cheap jewelry. For example, diamond jewelry is sold on the beaches here, just like the same bakery products here. The sunset deserves special attention, it is beautiful enough to watch sober, but more romantic with a Caipirinha in hand.
Drink tea at Copacabana Palace
Copacabana Palace is considered the place where all the famous people of our generation have visited. But to be honest, the Queen herself rested here. The hotel itself opened its doors back in 1923 and was a special “dacha” for royal family and all the cream of society.
But despite expensive rooms at the hotel, here you can just sit on the terrace, drinking tea with a national dessert, and feeling on top of the world. Several hundred photos will definitely decorate your album.
Dinner at Satyricon
If you're looking for something more substantial than afternoon tea, I can recommend Satyricona in Ipanema. This classic Italian seafood restaurant is frequented by Madonna when she is in Rio de Janeiro and the great king of football - Cristiano Ronaldo (this guy, judging by his reviews of Rio, visited all the local establishments).
This is, of course, not the cheapest place in the city, but the service here is adequate, therefore, this place can be used as a place to spend your last evening in Rio de Janeiro.
Climbing Mount Christ the Savior
No visit to Rio would be complete without visiting one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Christ the Savior, or as it is called here - Cristo Retendor, is considered the largest art-decorated statue in the world. Christ statue located on the peak of Mount Corcovado in national park Tijuca Forest, overlooking the entire city. This statue became an icon not only for Rio, but for all of Brazil.
A short story about Copacabana deserves special attention. Copacabana Beach today is a very visited place in, the most popular Brazil, and one of the most famous beaches in the world.
When foreigners think of Rio de Janeiro or Brazil, Copacabana Beach immediately pops up in their minds (and only then, of course, samba, football, beautiful women and their characteristic carnivals, the 2016 Olympic Games, the statue of Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf pop up and so on).
Talking about the best time of year to spend a few days on Copacabana Beach
Copacabana Beach is beautiful all year round, since the weather in Rio de Janeiro from January to December differs only by two to three degrees. In the winter months (don't be alarmed that these are July, August and September) the temperature here averages 20-22 °C, while the water temperature drops to about twenty degrees.
You can consider this time a full-fledged velvet season. In addition, this temperature stays here around the clock, and you will not feel the difference if you go to the beach at 12 noon and at 2 am. And you don’t have to worry about all sorts of natural disasters such as hurricanes, cyclones or tsunamis - we’ve never even heard of such things here.
Copacabana itself in Rio de Janeiro is incredibly crowded with tourists at any time of the year, not only during the day, but also at night. Let me give you the numbers: 100 hotels per square kilometer, more than 1 million tourists per season, more than 20 carnival days a month and long weekends on holidays, when people from all over Brazil come there. Look for yourself how many hotels there are here
This abundance is due to the fact that it has quite decent prices for tours, and besides, there are many different beautiful places, huge beaches and delicious national dishes.
Depending on your income, you can offer several hotels in different price category. Naturally, it is considered the most famous and cool hotel here, and in general no one argues with this. More cheap hotels in the western part of the city, closer to Ipanema.
Some of the cheapest places to stay are Windsor Palace and Atlantic Copacabana - mere mortals or those who are too lazy to spend money on more expensive hotels relax here.
The highlight of Copacabana is definitely its beach. In addition, I recommend visiting the huge promenade in Rio de Janeiro with dozens of cafes offering Caipirinhas of all colors and varieties.
For those who don’t know, this is the national Brazilian cocktail. In addition, among the views of Copacabana, we can also recommend the Fort of the same name, which is a must-visit place when staying here.
It is worth noting that bicycles are available for rent here, so for a reasonable fee you can travel not only all of Copacabana, but also all of Ipanema.
Is it expensive to visit Copacabana?
Copacabana is not the most expensive area in Rio de Janeiro. However, Rio de Janeiro itself is one of the most expensive cities in South America, and this is felt regardless of the area in which you holiday.
In fact, prices here are rising steadily every year. Planning a budget trip? Then visit Rio de Janeiro off-season while staying in Ipanema in no time.
Well, a few final tips from me
1) Don't spend too much money on airport transfers. I recommend that you immediately think about the route from the airport to your place of residence, since local bigwigs here can drive up prices so much that you could live here for two days, and you won’t even think that it’s possible to find cheaper. The cheapest way to get to the other end of the city is, naturally, by bus. The most expensive bus fare is $4. But even if you don’t have the opportunity to go by this type of transport, order a taxi directly from your hotel, in any case it will be easier.
Of course, the favelas and extreme poverty in some indigenous areas of the Amazon prove otherwise, but it's worth bearing in mind that Brazil has already eclipsed the UK as the world's sixth-largest economy. True, the prices here are appropriate; the visa fee alone is $140.
3) Try to learn at least a little Spanish
Take with you not only a Spanish phrasebook, but also a Portuguese one. A huge number of different diasporas from other countries in South America live here, which naturally affects the local dialect. I’ll give you the simplest example: in one store you can buy yourself a chocolate bar, and in another they will look at you with wide eyes and give you a bottle of Brahma instead of the desired product. It’s good to have a choice of where to shop or go out to dinner, but you won’t always have it.
4) Realistically assess the possible risks of staying in Rio
For many years, Rio was one of the most dangerous cities in South America, however, this fact has never stopped tourists from visiting it. In general, you don’t have to worry about street thefts or possible violence from locals. This is absolutely not true.
I don’t argue, the city has become much safer than before, and this parameter is growing every year, still for the sake of tourists. Even excursions to favelas have now become available, but this does not mean that crimes are not committed in this city. Of course, you don’t need to be paranoid, but still don’t forget about the rules for being in big city I personally recommend it. Be careful when leaving valuables at home, it is better to remove them from a visible place, use taxi services at night, and, of course, trust your intuition.
Have a good time and try not to spend too much
Considering the climate, holidays here will be pleasant all year round, but the optimal weather conditions between April and June and August and September. The average air temperature ranges from 23-27°C, but from November to March the thermometer can rise to 40°C. The middle of winter is least suitable for holidays - in July it is relatively cold here, up to 17°C, and it often rains (do not forget that with the change of hemispheres, the seasons change places). The water temperature is highest from January to March - an average of 26°C. However, this figure also depends on the beach.
History of the city
The name “Rio de Janeiro” is translated from Portuguese as “January River”: the colonialists mistakenly mistook the bay for the mouth of a water artery. The city here was founded on March 1, 1565 by Estácio de Sa along with José de Anchieta and was originally called San Sebastian de Rio de Janeiro, in honor of the Portuguese king Sebastian I. The main industries at that time were logging and sugar cane cultivation. With the development of trade communications, Rio began to play an increasingly important role in the history of the country, and in the 18th century it practically became the center of Brazil.
In the 19th century, during Napoleon's victorious march across the world, the royal court of Portugal moved to Rio de Janeiro. So it became the center of an empire that attracted emigrants from all over Europe. After losing its capital status in 1960, the city still remained a symbol of the state.
What to see in Rio de Janeiro
To explore the main attractions of the city, you will need at least three days. First of all, you should go to Mount Corcovado to the monument of Christ the Redeemer, which is one of the seven new wonders of the world. The second point of the excursion program is a visit to the Pan de Azucar mountain, which offers beautiful views of the beaches, islands in the ocean and the statue of Christ itself. You should set aside a whole day to explore the museums and palaces of Downtown. You can spend half a day walking around the colorful Santa Teresa district, where local bohemians gather. It is also interesting to visit the oldest Botanical Garden in Rio. And in the evening you should pay attention to samba, going to the Sambodrome to watch the rehearsal of the famous carnival. After a unique cultural program, you can go to the beaches of Copacabana.
Statue of Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor)
From the platform at the foot of the Christ the Redeemer statue there is an amazing view of the city and the bay. But you won’t be able to admire the night Rio from here - the entrance is at observation deck possible until 19:00. The ascent takes place on a small electric train, the ticket for which costs from 51 to 62 reais (approximately 13-16 USD), or by car. It's best to come here in the morning to avoid standing in line.
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Sugar Loaf Mountain (Monto do Pão de Açúcar)
Another mountain that is worth climbing for a beautiful view is called “Sugar Loaf”. Leads to it cable car, however, the bravest and most resilient can climb to the observation deck on foot. There are several restaurants here where you can watch the sunset over a glass of wine, and in November the Carioca Nights music festival is held at the summit. In addition, right here you can hire a helicopter for a sightseeing tour. The flight over the city lasts from 10 minutes to an hour, and the price directly depends on this.
Botanical Garden of Rio de Janeiro (Jardim Botânico)
One of most beautiful places in Rio - Botanical Garden. It is divided into several thematic zones. Thus, vacationers can stroll along the alley of orchids, admire the Amazonian landscapes, and see an amazing collection of cacti and succulents. All this is complemented by fountains and sculptures that harmoniously fit into the landscape. The inhabitants of the garden - tropical birds, monkeys and other representatives of the fauna of Brazil - are accustomed to visitors and often come quite close. Entrance to the park is paid for everyone over 7 years old. The ticket price is about 9 Brazilian reais or 2.5 USD.
Carmen Miranda Museum
Carmen Miranda is one of the most famous actresses and singers in Brazil who managed to conquer Hollywood. She was bright and memorable - this woman shocked, bewitched, enchanted. After the death of Carmen Miranda, more than half a million fans came to the funeral. In Rio de Janeiro, a museum is dedicated to the diva, where admirers of her work can see unique jewelry and headdresses of the “Brazilian Bombshell,” including a hat with fruit, which brought her fame.
Selaron Staircase (Escadaria Selaron)
Amazing creation contemporary art– a colorful staircase decorated with mosaic tiles – runs through two blocks. It starts on the street. Joaquim Silva and ends at st. Manuel Carneiro, thus connecting the areas of Lapa and Santa Teresa. This architectural miracle has become one of the symbols of the city, so its photo can be seen on many souvenirs. Tiles for the stairs were brought from all over the world, including from Russia.
Maracana Stadium (Estadio Jornalista Mario Filho)
It's no secret that Brazil lives by football. In the love of the locals, it can only be rivaled by the carnival. To be in Rio and not visit one of the largest stadiums in the world is a real crime. The uniquely designed building can accommodate more than 200 thousand spectators. It was here that the legendary Pele set records, Pope John Paul II preached, Madonna, Tina Turner, Sting and many other legends of the music world performed.
Cathedral of Saint Sebastian (Metropolitana de São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro)
If tourists claim that the church building cannot surprise them, then they have never been to Rio. The Cathedral of St. Sebastian reminds some vacationers of the Mayan pyramids, and others - a chimney of a thermal power plant. There is very little of canonical religious buildings in its architecture. The inside of the cathedral is as unusual as the outside: vertical windows decorated with stained glass windows rise from four walls to the dome itself. They depict abstract paintings symbolizing the church: one, holy, Catholic, apostolic. Under the ceiling they converge into a cross - a huge transparent window at a height of 64 meters.
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Golden beaches of Rio
The beaches of Rio de Janeiro have an atmosphere of lightness and fun, so you get the feeling that everyone has known each other for a long time. There are three favorite tourist destinations: the elite and privileged Leblon, the calm, measured Ipanema and the noisy Copacabana.
Leblon Beach
This is the most prestigious beach in the city, located in the area of the same name. It is considered the safest and is chosen by wealthy tourists and wealthy locals. Duration coastline is only 1.3 km, but a huge number of elite restaurants are concentrated here.
You can get to Leblon Beach by car or bus. The Avenida Delfim Moreira stop is located along routes nos. 175, 177, 382, 387, 557, 1133, 1134 and 1135.
Leblon BeachIpanema Beach
The second most prestigious and popular beach in Rio is also considered one of the most optimal places for family vacation. Due to the peculiarities of the terrain, large waves are rare here.
This beach is definitely worth a visit on Sunday, when part of Ipanema becomes a pedestrian zone. This is used not only by vacationers who can ride rollerblades or bicycles along the road, but also by street performers. Those who will go to the beach by bus should choose routes No. 382, 1133, 1134, 1135, 2016, 2018, 2113, 2113, stop - Avenida Vieira Souto.
Copacabana Beach
This beach can be called the calling card of the city. An eternal holiday reigns here, and the audience gathers the most diverse. Due to the large waves, it is more suitable for surfing than swimming, but this does not stop foreign tourists. There are also volleyball nets throughout the beach, and along the alley there are numerous kiosks offering drinks, food and souvenirs. Young people who love to party come to Copacabana, and it’s simply impossible not to succumb to the positive atmosphere here. Buses No. 175, 382, 1133, 1134, 1135, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2113, 2113, 2113, S020 run to the beach, stop - Avenida Atlantica.
Carnival in Rio de Janeiro
Probably the most long-awaited event for all locals and tourists who come to rest in Rio de Janeiro is the Brazilian Carnival. This is a real national holiday, the roots of which go back to the distant past. The custom of going out into the squares in costumes and dancing to the accompaniment of street musicians has so harmoniously integrated into the lives of the townspeople that it has become one of the symbols of the country.
The opening of the holiday falls on the last Saturday before Easter, and it lasts four days. In 2016, the Carnival will take place from February 5 to 8, and the Champions Parade will take place on February 13. For this short time, power over the city passes to the King of the Carnival, who is chosen by voting according to the principle “the fatter, the more worthy.” His responsibilities, in addition to passing laws and signing documents, also include attending all city events: balls, competitions.
The central event of the carnival is the parade of samba schools at the Sambodrome. Each group of participants appears before the audience in truly fabulous costumes. Sequins, feathers, precious stones, massive headdresses - all this makes the dancers look like heroes of oriental fairy tales. The performance platforms are decorated with the same pomp - the best technicians and designers of the city work on their development and decoration. The winners will parade on the closing day of the carnival.
Brazilian Carnival in Rio de Janeiro!
To see the competitions of samba schools, tickets must be purchased in advance. The best option would be to order via the Internet, for example, on the sites: http://www.carnavalticketrio.com, http://www.camarotecarnaval.com, http://www.rio-carnival.net and others. The price per seat varies from $50 to $1,500 and depends on the view, the availability of nearby infrastructure and the level of security. There is also the possibility free visit carnival in the so-called “sector zero”, located on Avenida Presidente Vargas.
The most courageous can buy a place in the procession itself. To do this, it is enough to purchase a costume from one of the schools and take several samba lessons from a master. Although, as they say, the latter is even unnecessary: the body itself begins to move to the fiery rhythms.
Brazilian New Year
Celebrating the New Year in Rio de Janeiro is a guaranteed unforgettable and incomparable experience. According to tradition, on this night, local residents, dressed all in white, make sacrifices to the sea goddess Imanja. However, do not worry - flowers are brought as a gift. To ask a higher power for help, you need to lower a boat with a lit candle into the water.
All this action, which starts at six in the evening and lasts until the next morning, takes place on Copacabana Beach. Of course, it wouldn’t be complete without a festively decorated Christmas tree. Only here it is installed not on the main square, but on a specially equipped platform in the middle of the lake. After all the wishes have been made, the countdown of the last seconds to midnight begins, and at exactly 00:00 the sky lights up with fireworks. The light show lasts up to 20 minutes and smoothly flows into a carnival and disco.
What to buy as a souvenir
Almost everyone associates Brazil with coffee, and this is what people often buy as gifts. Unusual varieties are easy to find in specialized stores, and the price per kilogram will pleasantly surprise you. Those who decide to visit other cities besides Rio can stop by private farms along the way. Most often, tourists purchase brands Pilão, Mielita or Santa Clara.
Adult connoisseurs of alcohol will definitely enjoy cachaça, a traditional strong drink made from sugar cane. It is drunk both neat and in cocktails. The most famous of them is “Caipirinha” - with the addition of lime. When buying cachaça, it is important to remember that you can only export a liter of alcohol per person.
Another gift option is a carnival costume or part of it. Most often they buy masks decorated with feathers and rhinestones.
Accommodation in Rio
In Rio de Janeiro, tourists are offered a large selection of accommodation in different price categories. Most holidaymakers prefer to stay in the Copacabana area due to its convenient transport links. The Orla Copacabana Hotel received the most positive reviews among mid-level hotels. Its windows offer beautiful views of Ipanema and Copacabana, and its well-trained staff will offer quality service. The average price for a room with two beds is 180 USD per night.
Prices are slightly higher at the Hotel Astoria Palace and Rio Othon Palace hotels.
Those who are not used to saving on comfort and are willing to pay for a room from 600 to 1500 USD can stay at Copacabana Palace Hotel. This hotel has hosted show business stars and royalty, so truly royal treatment is guaranteed.
Tourists with children can also rent an apartment or house. This will not only be convenient, but also economical, since even at the height of the holidays, when prices rise several times, the rental cost will not exceed 100 USD. You can select and book apartments on our website.
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How to get to Rio de Janeiro
Given the long distance, the most convenient way to travel from Russia to Brazil is by plane. However, in this case too direct message no, you will have to change planes - in Amsterdam or Paris.
Major airlines, including Emirates, Lufthansa, AlItalia, Air France, offer flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg. Ticket prices start from 70,000 rubles, however, if you follow promotions, you can save a lot. After a rather long flight (from 16 to 30 hours), the plane arrives at Galeão International Airport. The easiest way to get to the city from here is by taxi or bus (No. 2018). You can also rent a car, but after such a long journey it is better to rest and use the services of a driver.
To visit Brazil, tourists from Russia do not need a visa, but the maximum period of stay in the country should not exceed 90 days. Those who expect to walk around Paris or Amsterdam during a transfer will be disappointed: firstly, the airports are located outside the city, and secondly, a visa is required to exit the transit zone.
Rio de Janeiro, also known as Rio- one of largest cities Brazil, as well as major port, the administrative center of the state of the same name and former capital countries (1764-1960). Population – about 6 million 400 thousand inhabitants (2012).
The city is located on the Atlantic coast over an area of 1260 square meters. km, near Guanabara Bay, the entrance to which is preceded by the “calling card” of Brazil - a mountain called Sugar Loaf.
One of the peculiarities of Rio is that the city is partially located on small rocky mountains and on the hills, giving it a special picturesqueness and uniqueness.
It is currently the second most populous Brazilian city, as well as the country's 2nd largest industrial and financial center, after Sao Paulo.
Rio de Janeiro is known to tourists around the world primarily for its breathtaking landscapes - the golden beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema are adjacent to the Sugar Loaf, the statue of Christ the Redeemer and the giant bowl of the Maracanã stadium, which, by the way, is often called by locals the temple of the second Brazilian religion - football.
Perhaps one of the main cultural attractions of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil in general is the world famous Brazilian Carnival. The city is home to several dozen samba schools, numerous representatives of which annually during Carnival days stage colorful performances at the local sambodrome, as well as processions through the streets of Rio.
But, like anyone large city Rio de Janeiro also has its dark sides. First of all, this is a high level of crime, including that directed against foreign tourists.
And it’s not surprising, because in this Brazilian “city of contrasts,” respectable urban areas coexist with huge slums (favelas), huddled mainly on the mountain slopes, where almost 20% of Rio’s population lives, and often there is no even basic amenities, but also flourishing drug trafficking and crime.
And although over the past 5 years the standard of living in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro has increased noticeably, it is still better not to meddle in them on your own, so as not to accidentally spoil your holiday in Brazil, because the crime situation in this hotbed of crime leaves much to be desired.
But if the desire to see life in the favelas is still great, then it is better to order organized tour in one of the local travel agencies. As a rule, they already have agreements with criminal clans, so such excursions are safe and go without problems.
Districts of Rio de Janeiro
Officially, Rio de Janeiro is divided into 160 municipalities and 34 administrative districts. Traditionally, the city is divided into four main districts:
Centro or Historical center- the financial and business center of the city, with many historical buildings such as the Municipal Theater, the National Library, National Museum Fine Arts, Tiradentes Palace, Cathedral and the Pedro Ernesto Palace. The bohemian neighborhoods of Lapa and Santa Teresa also belong to this area. The famous Sambodrome is also located here.
Zona Sul or South zone– includes the main tourist areas such as Copacabana, Leblon, Ipanema and Flamengo. It is home to some of Rio's upscale neighborhoods and many of the main tourist sites, such as Laguna Rodrigo de Freitas, Sugar Loaf and Mount Corcovado with its Christ statue.
Zona Norte or Northern zone– this area is rarely visited by tourists; almost all the city’s stadiums are concentrated here, led by the famous Maracana.
Zona Oeste (West Zone) or Western zone- the farthest district from the city center, here are both the richest and poorest neighborhoods of Rio. Also located here is the Barra da Tijuca area, with an 18-kilometer beach, the longest in the city.
Story
Guanabara Bay was discovered by the Portuguese navigator Gaspar de Lemos on January 1, 1502. The Portuguese mistook the bay for the mouth of the river - hence the name of the city, translated from Portuguese Rio de Janeiro means “January river”.
The city of Rio de Janeiro was founded by the Portuguese on March 1, 1565, as a fortification to fight hostile Indian tribes and French pirates operating in local waters, and was originally called San Sebastian de Rio de Janeiro, in honor of the Portuguese king Sebastian I.
In 1763, colonial administration was transferred from Salvador to Rio de Janeiro, and it became the capital of Brazil for almost two centuries.
In 1960, the capital of Brazil was moved to the center of the country, to the city of Brasilia. Rio received the status of a city-state (Guanabara State). In 1975, the state of Guanabara was merged with the state of Rio de Janeiro, and the city became the capital of the united state.
In 2014, Rio de Janeiro will host the FIFA World Cup, and in 2016 the Summer Olympic Games.
Last changes: 04/23/2012Rio de Janeiro has a tropical, humid climate, from November to April it is hot, the maximum temperature during this period can reach 28-35 °C, and from May to September it is relatively cool.
The difference in average temperatures between the coldest and the coldest warm months in Rio it is no more than 3-5 degrees.
Average monthly water temperature: January-February +25 °C, March-April +22 °C, May-October +20 °C, November-December +23 °C.
Last changes: 05/01/2013Transport in Rio de Janeiro
Taxi
Taxi– is one of the best ways to get around Rio. There are yellow taxis with blue stripes on the sides and radio taxis (multi-colored). Yellow ones are a little cheaper (their drivers rarely speak English) and they are everywhere in the city, so stopping them won't be difficult (so there's not much point in ordering a taxi to the hotel). After you get into the car, do not forget to make sure that the meter is on.
There is a day rate and a night rate (from 21:00 to 06:00, 10% more expensive). The cost of a minimum trip on a yellow taxi is 4.40 BRL (March 2011), the cost for 1 km is 1.60 BRL. On average, a trip from Ipanema to Copacabana will cost 5 BRL, from Copacabana to the historical center - 20 BRL, to the airport - 50 BRL. It is customary to tip the driver - approximately 10% of the amount on the meter.
Radio taxis - their advantage is that all cars are air-conditioned and the passenger pays a flat rate, regardless of the time of day or idle time in traffic jams. You can order a car by phone or through the website. Unfortunately, not all radio taxis yet have full-fledged websites where you can see the cost of a trip online.
Radio taxi websites – Rio Airport Transfer (rioairporttransfer.com), Cootramo (cootramo.com.br), Radio Taxi Coopertramo (radio-taxi.com.br)
Buses
Buses- the most common type of urban public transport. Stops and boarding are carried out, as a rule, at the request of passengers, usually boarding at the front door and exiting at the back (the word entrada means entrance, saida means exit). Payment for the fare is made at the entrance to the driver or conductor; the trip will cost from 2.75 BRL (air-conditioned buses charge higher fares).
At almost all stops in the tourist South Zone of the city there are numbers and descriptions of routes.
During rush hour, buses are always crowded and there is a risk of being robbed (it is better not to take valuables and money with you on such trips).
Metro
In addition, some places in Rio de Janeiro can also be reached by metro– it is small and has only 48 km of tracks and 35 stations. To date, only two lines are open (out of the planned four) - the First Line and the Second Line.
The second metro line is of greatest interest among tourists, as it connects the tourist South Zone (Ipanema, Copacabana) with the historical center of the city.
The trains have a Portuguese-English public address system, all of them are equipped with air conditioning and light displays indicating the direction of the train and next station.
At stations there are posters in English and Portuguese describing nearby attractions.
Metro operating hours: on weekdays from 05:00 to 24:00, on weekends - from 07:00 to 23:00
By 2016, it is planned to put into operation the fourth line, which will connect the South Zone with the West (Barra da Tijuca and Recreio areas).
The third metro line (its construction is still in the planning stages) will connect Rio de Janeiro and neighboring cities Niteroi, Sao Gonçalo and Itaborai (part of the line will pass under Guanabara Bay).
Car rental
If you need more freedom of movement in Rio de Janeiro and its surroundings - rent a car. Largest companies Car rental companies include Localiza, Hertz, Avis.
Daily rental cost is from 100 BRL. Cars come with or without air conditioning, from economy class to business class. There is an additional option for installing GPS.
A Russian driver's license can be used to drive a car in Brazil for 6 months (after this period, foreigners must obtain a Brazilian license).
When driving a car, you must have your passport with you.
In addition, when drawing up a rental contract, it is necessary credit card. Be prepared for the fact that if you break traffic rules, the cost of the fine will be written off (this can happen even within 3-4 months after you return the car). Last changes: 03/19/2017
Beaches of Rio de Janeiro
Beaches for residents of Rio de Janeiro are more than just a strip of sand for sunbathing and swimming. People come here to chat with friends, make new acquaintances, play sports (beach sports, “gyms” under open air and surfing), as well as just sitting and admiring the ocean and the beach crowd.
Last changes: 12/15/2012Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro
Most of the most popular hotels with tourists in Rio de Janeiro are located in the tourist South Zone, along the beaches of Ipanema (here prices are usually 30% higher) and Copacabana (here are the main decent hotels in the mid-price category), but there are many small, cheap and clean hotels throughout the Flamengo and Catete area.
Accommodation in Rio is probably the most expensive in Brazil. There is a relative shortage of inexpensive hotel rooms, so it is recommended to make hotel reservations in advance.
In addition, prices skyrocket (sometimes more than tripling) during the New Year and Carnival. At this time most hotels in tourist areas They only sell 4-day packages, and even if you only want to stay a couple of days, you will have to pay for the package in full. During this period it is also recommended to make reservations in advance.
Besides New Year and Carnival, the busiest month is January - summer holidays in Brazil.
Last changes: 11/26/2014From stunning beaches to the big Carnival in February, Rio de Janeiro knows how to delight its guests, day and night. He offers many that have brought him unfading fame. Who hasn’t heard about the statue of Christ the Redeemer or Copacabana Beach, the largest nature reserve in the world? All this is Rio, as well as much else.
Until 1960, Rio de Janeiro was considered the capital of Brazil. Until now, many architectural objects remind of this, as symbols of that time. Rio, even today, is the most important city country, one of the most developed business centers, where many national and international conferences are held. A new type of tourism in the city is business tourism, attracting many wealthy visitors. However, Rio is not just for the rich. Here you can find hotels of all types and for all budgets.
Because the weather is warm and beautiful throughout the year, Rio does not rely on seasons to attract tourists. Those who come here will understand that their travel program will always be complete. Rio Carnival is an emotional explosion that combines emotion and creativity, plasticity and beauty, colors and sounds, eroticism and imagination. It's the biggest party on the planet and a testament to Brazil's cultural richness.
Where is Rio de Janeiro
Geographic coordinates of Rio de Janeiro: 22°54″ south latitude, 43°14″ west longitude.Cityis located in the southeast of Brazil, on the shores of Guanabara Bay of the Atlantic Ocean. Rio de Janeiro is located on a narrow plain, sandwiched on both sides by mountains and the sea to the south. Rio de Janeiro covers an area of 1260 sq. km and is home to about 7 million people.
Rio de Janeiro is the regional capital of the state of Rio de Janeiro. Cities near Rio de Janeiro:
Petropolis(Petrpolis) 68 km from Rio de Janeiro
Teresopolis (Terespolis) 96 km from Rio de Janeiro
Bizius(Bzios) 176 km from Rio de Janeiro
Paraty(Parati) 261 km from Rio de Janeiro
Districts of Rio de Janeiro
OfficiallyThe territory of Rio de Janeiro is divided into 34 administrative districts. But according to tradition, residents divide the city into 4 macrodistricts:Zona Norte (Northern zone),Zona Sul (South zone), Centro Historico (Historical Center) andZona Oeste (Western zone).
Northern zone
- This favela neighborhoods and locationindustrial enterprises. There are few beautiful buildings and entertainment venues here; only in Saenz Pena Square you can find boutiques, restaurants and cafes. The main attraction of the Northern zone isstadium "Maracana".
South zone divided by districts:Copacabana, Leme, Gloria, Flamengo, Botafogo, Catete, Laranjeiras, Ipanema, Humauta, Gavea and Leblon, Botanical Garden, Lagoa and Urca. The Southern Zone contains many city attractions: beautiful beaches, the statue of Christ on Mount Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountain.
Western zone includes the richest and poorest areas of Rio de Janeiro. The most prestigious area of this zone isBarra da Tijuca (Barra da Tijuca). It is in this area that there are the most restaurants, bars, nightclubs, sports grounds and the largest shopping center in South America.But main feature districtBarra da Tijuca is the city's longest 18-kilometer beach and will be one of the venues for the 2016 Olympics.
INHistorical center
The main historical buildings are located: the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Library, the National Museum of Fine Arts, the Tiradentes Palace and the Pedro Ernesto Palace. Also here you can find the main government organizations, banks, transport and excursion agencies, office buildings, seaport, railway stations, airport for domestic routes, expensive restaurants and shops. The Historic Center includes the districts of Lapa and Santa Teresa.
Hotels in different areas of Rio de Janeiro
How to get to Rio de Janeiro
There are no direct flights from Russian cities to Brazil. Flights are carried out with a transfer or connection in one of the European cities. Regular flights are operated by the following airlines:
Lufthansa (via Frankfurt),
KLM (via Amsterdam),
Air France (via Paris),
British Airways (via London),
Swiss Air (via Zurich),
TAP Portugal (viaLisbon), etc.
WITHThe average cost of plane tickets from Moscow to Rio de Janeiro and back is 66958 rubles. The fastest flight from Moscow to Rio de Janeiroamounts to16 hours 25 minutes.Rio de Janeiro is served by 2 airports:Galean, Santos Damont.
The Aviasales air ticket search engine helps its clients buy cheap tickets by comparing the cost of air tickets to Rio de Janeiro in 45 agencies, 5 booking systems and 728 airlines. You decide which airline to buy plane tickets from Moscow to Rio de Janeiro from. To find out the cost of tickets and plane schedules, use the search form.
Transport in Rio de Janeiro
The public transport system in Rio de Janeiro allows tourists to reach almost all interesting parts of the city.
Busis the main 24/7 mode of transport in Rio de Janeiro. Buses stop only on request. If you want to get on the bus, just wave to the driver. Boarding the bus occurs through the front door, and exit through the back door (translation: entrada - entrance, saida - exit). The fare should be paid upon entry to the driver or conductor, so it is better to prepare money in advance, preferably small change or small bills. To get off the bus, you need to pull the lace or press a special button in the cabin.
Metropolitanin Rio de Janeiro open from Monday to Saturday from 06:00 to 23:00, closed on Sunday. Total length metro– 48 km and 35 stations. Two lines are open: First line and Second line (orange and green). The trains of the two lines partially follow a common track, the First Line trains are painted orange, the Second Line trains are green. It is not possible to get to the beaches of Ipanema or Leblon with this type of transport. It is quite cheap and safe look transport equipped with an air conditioning system.More detailed information information about the city metro can be found on the websiteMetrorio.com.br
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Taxiin Rio de Janeiro - this is one of the most safe ways moving around the city, especially in the evening and at night.There are yellow taxis with blue stripes on the sides with red license plates and radio taxis red-blue color. To understand whether the car is busy or free, look at the red flag of the meter: if it is raised, the taxi is free, but if the flag is not visible, then the taxi is busy. Yellow taxis can be found in any part of the city, there are many parking lots in the city, most often they are located along all the beaches, near hotels, big stores and restaurants. There are two tariffs - day and night (from 21:00 to 06:00). Require the taxi driver to turn on the meter before departure andbMake sure that the meter is set from scratch and shows the number 1. In the evening, at night, on weekends and holidays, the meter can show the number 2, the cost at this time is 10% more expensive.It is customary to tip the taxi driver - 10% of the cost of the trip.
What souvenirs to bring from Rio de Janeiro
Brazilian coffee Cafe Iguaçu, Pilão, Mielita, Cafe do Ponto, Melita, Café Brasileiro or Santa Clara
Cachasa– national strong alcoholic drink made from sugar cane (São Francisco, Ypioca, Seleta)
Mate and a special cup for the drink - calabash and a straw - bombilla.
StatuetteChrist the Redeemer
Tmahogany brazil mascot
Decorating themprecious and semi-precious stones
Berimbau (one-string musical instrument)
SlatesHavaianas
PareoKanga(canga) with Brazilian motifs
NaturalBrazilian chocolate from Lacta and Garoto producers
ANDAmazonian Indian crafts
BBrazilian jeans from Colcci and Damyller
TOsuit with the colors of the Brazilian flag
FYoke is a symbol of happiness in Latin America
Best restaurants in Rio de Janeiro
Kurt – Rua General Urquiza, 117, Leblon district
L'Atelier du Cuisinier – Rua Teofilo Otoni, 97, Central District
Restaurante Visual – Rua Maria Do Carmo, Favela Rocinha
Sa – Av Atlantica, 3668, Miramar Hotel By Windsor – Terreo, Copacabana area
Le Pre Catelan – Av. Atlantica 4240, Hotel Sofitel Rio De Janeiro, Ipanema area
Prana Vegetariano – Rua Erere 11, LJ D, near the station where trains leave for the top of Mount Corcovado
L'Etoile – Av Niemeyer, 121. Hotel Sheraton, Vidigal district
Hachiko – Travessa Do Paco 10, Central District
Olympia – Rua Custódio Serrão 62, Lagoa district
Tasty and inexpensive. Budget option
Pizzaria Alessandro e Federico – Rua Garcia D’ávila 151, Ipanema district
Koni Store – Rua Maria Quitéria 77 and Rua Farme de Amoedo 75, Ipanema district
Shirley – Rua Gustavo Sampaio, 610, Leme district
L amas – Rua Marquês de Abrantes 18, Flamengo district
Bar Lagoa – Av Epitácio Pessoa 1674, Lagoa district
Cedro do Libano – Rua Senhor dos Passos 231, Central District
Amir – Rua Ronald de Carvalho 55c, Copacabana area
Carlota – Rua Dias Ferreira 64, Leblon district
Plataforma – Rua Adalberto Ferreira 32, Leblon district
Best beaches in Rio de Janeiro
Copacabana - one of the most famous beaches of Rio de Janeiro, it is also one of the symbols of the city. The length of the beach is 4 km. Strong current. There are many cafes and bars on the beach.Local traders and artists host a fair every day from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.Promenade along Copacabana - Avenida Atlantis - paved with stones with a pattern in the form of waves.
Ipanema Beach equipped with sports grounds, so hereYou can always meet people playing football and volleyball. Every Sunday the road along the beach is blocked from cars.
Leblond is the most calm and respectable beach in Rio de Janeiro, located in one of the most prestigious areas of the city. The length of Leblon beach is 1.3 km.
Arpoador – a favorite spot for surfers due to the big waves.Lengthbeach with white sand and pebbles – 800 metrov. The beach is located between the Copacabana Fortress and Francisco Otaviano Street.
Safety rules in Rio de Janeiro
Dress simply and carry with you only those things that you will need at this particular time.
Don't carry extra money with you.
Walk around the city during the daytime. In the evening and at night, it is better to walk along illuminated streets where there are a lot of people.
Do not put money, documents or other valuables in your back pockets.
There are a lot of pickpockets in Rio de Janeiro, so be careful when traveling on buses, subways and while walking during rush hours.
You should not wear expensive gadgets in plain sight: iPad, iPod, video cameras, cameras, tablets, players and phones.
Do not wear expensive jewelry, chains, rings, or watches when walking around the city.
Do not carry documents with you; a copy of them is sufficient.
Withdraw cash from your card only at ATMs in shopping centers, bank branches.
Sockets. Electricity
For electronics with European standard sockets, you need to purchase adapters, since in Rio de Janeiro they use type J sockets. The power supply voltage in Brazil is 110-220 V.
What is Rio de Janeiro famous for? All about Rio: what is interesting about the Old and New city, beaches and legendary places of the most beautiful city in Brazil.
If you remember the song about the “fairy tale city”, “dream city”, and forget that it is dedicated to St. Petersburg, then these are the epithets that can be safely awarded to the pearl - the magnificent Rio de Janeiro. Located on the picturesque coast of the Atlantic Ocean in a tropical climate zone and occupying more than 1200 km² of area, Rio is inhabited by almost seven million people, and if you take into account its suburbs, the total number of people exceeds 11 million!
The endless beaches of Rio de Janeiro with golden sand are legendary!
Considering the proximity of the “big water” and geographical location, it is worth saying that in Rio de Janeiro it is quite humid and hot, in summer the temperature does not drop below 25 degrees Celsius, in winter - below 20, of course, with a plus sign.
History of Rio de Janeiro
The history of the city began in the mid-16th century, when the Portuguese founded a settlement here. Due to its proximity to the ocean, the port city of Rio de Janeiro began to develop rapidly, and it only took a couple of centuries for it to become the capital.
Even after the declaration of independence in the 20s of the 19th century, Rio did not lose its capital status, which was lost only in the 60s of the 20th century. Before the Portuguese, several local ethnic groups lived here, among which the Tupi ethnic group prevailed. It is believed that these lands have been inhabited by humans for the last 50 thousand years, which is periodically confirmed by Brazilian archaeologists. With the arrival of Europeans and the emergence of slave settlements to which Africans, Chinese and representatives of other nationalities were brought, a special ethnic group began to form in Rio de Janeiro, the descendants of which today represent the local population, predominantly black.
What's interesting about Rio de Janeiro
Magical panorama of Rio - the most beautiful city in South America!
Today Rio de Janeiro is one of the most popular resorts in the world. It is here that the world famous Capacabana beach is located, where you can easily see world-famous show business stars. Here in Rio stands the famous Sugar Loaf, rising almost 400 meters above the bay.
Another attraction of Rio de Janeiro, known without a doubt to everyone, is the legendary statue of Christ the Redeemer, looking at the city from the heights of Mount Corcovado. And, of course, the carnivals of Rio are one of the most colorful, noisy and relaxed in all of Brazil.
Old town of Rio de Janeiro
In addition to those sights of Rio de Janeiro that need no introduction and are known all over the world, the city has many more places that you simply must visit when you come here on vacation.
The famous Capacabana Beach lies within the New City of Rio de Janeiro, as does the equally beautiful Ipanema Beach.
And it’s worth starting with the so-called Old Town, where the majority of buildings built during the formation of Rio de Janeiro are located. Here you can see the old customs house, stroll along the docks, look into the Arsenal, and also visit the buildings of the town hall and exchange. Of particular interest to travelers is Boticario Square with the ancient buildings located on it, as well as the monastic quarter and the monastery of St. Teresa itself, founded in the first half of the 17th century.
In Old Rio you can also see many picturesque palaces and stroll through the adjacent parks. The former residence of the emperor, called Quinta da Boa Vista, deserves special attention. Here you can not only enjoy the luxury of the apartments, but also take a walk in the shade of tropical trees in large quantities growing in the palace park.
In general, as for the nature of Rio de Janeiro, this is a separate story, and in order to experience all its beauty and see its richness, you need to devote several days to it and go on an overnight hike.
Fortunately, near the city there is one of the picturesque Brazilian parks - the Tijuca Forest, where you can find not only colorful parrots and butterflies, but also much more. On the territory of this large environmental site is the famous Botanical Garden of Rio de Janeiro, which houses a unique collection of plants and animals of the region.
New city of Rio de Janeiro
In the photo: Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden
But the park and the Botanical Garden are already located on the territory of the New Town. There are also many museums here, where you can clearly learn about the history of the city and the land on which it is located.
The famous Capacabana Beach also lies within the New City of Rio de Janeiro, as does another equally pretty beach, Ipanema. And also Flamengo Park, which amazes with its beauty. Of the new buildings located here, the famous Maracanã stadium, where the vast majority of Brazilian football stars began their careers, attracts attention.
And these are not all the beauties that will open to the eyes of a traveler who has decided to choose the amazing Brazilian metropolis with metropolitan manners as his holiday destination - Rio de Janeiro.
The two most iconic places Rio: Christ the Redeemer Statue and Sugarloaf
