Where to stay

Best neighbourhoods in Rio de Janeiro

Every neighbourhood scored for walkability, value, local feel, and more. Honest trade-offs on each — no superlatives without substance.

AllBudgetLocal feelNightlifeFamiliesWalkabilityMost central

Top pick

Ipanema

Rio's most iconic address — the beach, the mountains behind, and the most pleasant neighbourhood in the city.

Ipanema Rio de Janeiro — beach with Dois Irmãos mountains at sunset

Ipanema

Top pick

Rio's most iconic address — the beach, the mountains behind, and the most pleasant neighbourhood in the city.

9/10

Walk

4/10

Price

7/10

Local

8/10

Central

Copacabana Rio de Janeiro — beachfront promenade and Sugarloaf Mountain

Copacabana

Good

The original Rio — a 4km crescent beach, the most famous hotel in Latin America, and maximum energy.

9/10

Walk

5/10

Price

5/10

Local

9/10

Central

Santa Teresa Rio de Janeiro — colonial hillside neighbourhood and city views

Santa Teresa

Trade-off

The hillside bohemian village — artists, colonial architecture, and the best city view in Rio.

7/10

Walk

7/10

Price

8/10

Local

6/10

Central

Barra da Tijuca Rio de Janeiro — long Atlantic beach and modern neighbourhood

Barra da Tijuca

Avoid

Rio's suburban alternative — a 20km beach, big malls, and significantly lower prices.

4/10

Walk

7/10

Price

6/10

Local

3/10

Central

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