Rio rewards a solo traveller with beaches, mountain views, forest trails and lively nights, and this plan moves through them at a comfortable pace. Each day groups nearby sights together so you spend more time enjoying them. The days mix sun, culture and nightlife, with plenty of room to wander on your own.
Arrival and Beach Day
Settle in, then enjoy Copacabana and finish the evening in the lively streets of .
Morning
Arrive and check in
Land at the airport and settle into your hotel or hostel.
Afternoon
Relax at
Spend time on one of the most famous beaches in the world, enjoying the sun, sand and sea with a refreshing caipirinha in hand.
Evening
Explore and the
Head to , known for its lively nightlife, and visit the colourful , covered in tiles from all over the world.
Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain
Take in two of the city's most iconic viewpoints, then end the day watching the sunset at Ipanema.
Morning
Visit
Start early and take the train up Corcovado Mountain to see the iconic statue, where the view from the top is breathtaking.
Afternoon
Ride up
Take the cable car up for another stunning view of the city.
Evening
Sunset at
Watch the sunset at while enjoying some delicious Brazilian food.
Tijuca Forest and Botanical Garden
Escape the city into green forest and gardens, then wind down in the artsy neighbourhood of .
Morning
Hike in
Explore the , the largest urban forest in the world, and hike to the top of for a panoramic view of the city.
Afternoon
Stroll the
Visit the , home to over 8,000 species of plants, and relax in its peaceful surroundings.
Evening
Discover
Head to , a bohemian neighbourhood known for its art galleries and restaurants.
Favela Tour and Samba Show
Learn about Rio's communities by day and let the energy of samba carry you into the night.
Morning
Take a favela tour
Learn about the history and culture of Rio's favelas and gain a unique perspective on life in these communities.
Evening
Experience a samba show
Feel the energy of a samba show. There are many options, but the most famous is at in .
Museum Day and Farewell Dinner
Spend the day in one of the city's museums, then celebrate your last night at a top restaurant.
Morning
Visit a museum
Explore one of Rio's museums, such as the or the National Museum of Fine Arts.
Evening
Farewell dinner
Have a farewell dinner at one of Rio's top restaurants, such as or Olympe.