Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro: best areas and neighborhoods

With over 6 million inhabitants, Rio de Janeiro presents very different scenarios, from the wonderful beaches to the central financial district, from residential districts to favelas. We could call it the city of contrasts! And, precisely for this reason, when planning a trip to Rio the choice of where to stay becomes essential. Above all, focus your research on the safest neighbourhoods and the ones closest to major attractions.

So let's find out everything you need to know about where to sleep in Rio de Janeiro, the best neighbourhoods to stay and which ones you should avoid.

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In a hurry? Here's our recommended accommodation

Useful tips: the best neighbourhoods to stay in Rio de Janeiro

Not recommended areas: all the neighbourhoods in the north and west (except Joá, Barra da Tijuca and Recreio dos Bandeirantes). The favelas, located in different parts of the city, are also to be avoided. In the evening, you have to be vigilant, even in the most touristic areas.

Rio de Janeiro is a very large city and where you choose to stay depends a lot on the type of holiday you want to experience. The most desirable areas are definitely Copacabana and Ipanema. Copacabana is the kingdom of the beach and nightlife, so if you are travelling with your family, we recommend that you opt for the eastern part of the district, where the Leme district develops. Ipanema is quieter than Copacabana, very safe and full of things to do. Here, the area recommended mainly for families is the western one, where Leblon is located.
If you want to stay on the beach but are looking for a cheaper area then choose Botafogo. This district is near the Sugar Loaf, it has all amenities and from here you can easily reach both Copacabana and the centre.
Finally, another excellent area to stay is the Centre, more precisely the neighbourhoods of Lapa and Santa Teresa. The first is the hub of nightlife, a small bohemian neighbourhood, full of clubs and shops. Santa Teresa, on the other hand, is a quieter and more romantic area.

Best accommodation: we have selected the best hotels, B&Bs and hostels in Rio de Janeiro. Check out our recommendations and make your reservation on Booking

If you are in Rio de Janeiro for business or as a one-day stopover to other destinations, consider sleeping near the airport. Find the best solutions and selected hotels on booking.com

Zona Sul / Copacabana (Beachfront), the best for first-timers

• Pros: Iconic beach, vibrant nightlife, great for first-time visitors
• Cons: Crowded, can be pricey, tourist-heavy
• Main attractions: Copacabana Beach, Fort Copacabana, Avenida Atlântica
• Average prices: From $75,00 per night – find top stays on Booking

Recommended accommodation

Cobacabana is certainly the most famous beach in Rio de Janeiro and is one of the most desirable neighbourhoods to stay, along with Ipanema. The beach is approximately 3.4 km long, from Forte di Copacabana to Avenida Princesa Isabel, full of shops, restaurants and nightclubs, as well as some of the most famous hotels in Rio, such as the Belmond Copacabana Hotel. But despite being one of the busiest areas, you still need to remain vigilant, especially in the evening, so it's better to stay in the most touristic and popular areas.
This neighbourhood is suitable for every type of traveller: for young and old in search of the unbridled carioca nightlife, those who want to relax all day on the beach, and families with children. In the latter case, it is better to stay on the eastern side, towards the residential area of Leme.
As for transport, Copacabana is served by the metro, specifically by orange lines L1 and L4 and by green line L2.

Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about $75,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking

Zona Sul / Leme, best for families

Foto di tommyk_421.

• Pros: Less crowded than Copacabana, great ocean views, family-friendly
• Cons: Fewer nightlife options, slightly pricier accommodations
• Main attractions: Leme Beach, Pedra do Leme, Military Fort of Leme
• Average prices: From $80,00 per night – find top stays on Booking

Recommended Accommodation

Leme is a small, quiet residential neighbourhood east of Copacabana. Surrounded by greenery and with a beautiful beach, it is ideal for strolls and reaching the viewpoint with the colonial fortress Duque de Caxias. Plus, by staying here you will be really close to the famous Sugar Loaf (Pão de Açúcar) and the Botafogo neighbourhood.
This is an area recommended for families, who perhaps want to stay close to the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema but without being in the middle of the nightlife. On the seafront here, you will find small informal and quiet bars, traditional bakeries and restaurants.
The location is also really great, between Copacabana and Botafogo. The metro station of reference is Cardeal Arcoverde, where the orange lines L1 and L4, and the green line L2 pass.

Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about $80,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking

Zona Sul / Ipanema, best for beach lovers

• Pros: Beautiful beach, stylish boutiques, great dining and nightlife
• Cons: More expensive, gets crowded on weekends
• Main attractions: Ipanema Beach, Pedra do Arpoador, Rua Garcia d’Ávila
• Average prices: From $80,00 per night – find top stays on Booking

Recommended Accommodation

The second most famous beach in Rio de Janerio, after Copacabana, is definitely Ipanema. A chic and trendy area! But above all, one of the safest areas in Rio. Being a more touristic and exclusive neighbourhood, the prices are higher than in Copacabana and other areas. There is no shortage of clubs, restaurants and shops either, as well as wonderful sea view accommodations.

Ipanema is recommended for those who want to enjoy the beach, sea and tranquillity. Because, even if the day is very crowded, the evening is quieter than in Copacabana. Here, too, you can immerse yourself in the traditional Carioca lifestyle. If you are traveling with your family, it is better to concentrate on the eastern area, near the residential area of Leblon.

As for transport, Ipanema is served by the metro, more precisely by orange lines L1 and L4 and by green line L2.

Average prices in the neighbourhood range from about $80,00 for low-cost accommodation to €400,00 for more expensive options - compare the best accommodation on booking

Zona Sul / Leblon, the Luxury District

Foto di Mariordo.

• Pros: Upscale atmosphere, high-end shopping, quieter than Ipanema
• Cons: Expensive, not as lively as Copacabana or Ipanema
• Main attractions: Leblon Beach, Mirante do Leblon, Shopping Leblon
• Average prices: From $110,00 per night – find top stays on Booking

Recommended Accommodation

Leblon is a wonderful luxurious neighbourhood just west of Ipanema. Exclusive and very quiet, here you can stroll among high fashion boutiques, have lunch in french bistros and enjoy haute cuisine, or watch some shows at the famous Leblon Theatre. You will also be within walking distance of the famous Ipanema beach.

This is an exclusive area recommended for families and those travelling on a high budget. The neighbourhood is much quieter than Ipanema and the services are excellent. Here, you will find mainly luxury hotels and accommodation equipped with all comforts, ideal for a journey of relaxation and opulence.

The location is the least convenient between Ipanema, Copacabana and Leme, as it is the most distant district from the centre. But it is still well connected to the rest of the city by public transport: the reference stop is Jardim de Alah, where orange lines L1 and L4 pass, ideal for moving between the beaches.

Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about $110,00 - compare the best accommodation on Booking

Zona Sul / Botafogo, the best low-cost choice

• Pros: Stunning views of Sugarloaf Mountain, great restaurants, more affordable than Copacabana/Ipanema
• Cons: No direct beachfront, less tourist-oriented
• Main attractions: Botafogo Beach, Shopping RioSul, Sugarloaf Mountain cable car
• Average prices: From $70,00 per night – find top stays on Booking

Recommended Accommodation

If you want to stay near the beach but save a bit of money, the best solution is the Botafogo district, and the neighbouring district of Flamengo. It develops around the half-moon bay of the same name, where Praia de Botafogo is located, with a wonderful view of the Sugar Loaf, and easily accessible! From here you can also easily travel to Copacabana and the Centre of Rio.

It is an ideal neighbourhood for those who want to save money without giving up the sea. The prices here are cheaper than in Copacabana and Ipanema, and there is no shortage of hotels, services, shops and, above all, a good nightlife, so it is also popular with young people!

Botafogo is also in an excellent location: overlooking the sea, between Copacabana and Santa Teresa, crossed by the orange metro lines L1 and L4 and the green L2 line (reference Botafogo station). The only area to avoid is that of the Favela Santa Marta, which is located in the north western part of the neighbourhood.

Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about $70,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking

Centro / Lapa, best for nightlife

• Pros: Lively samba bars, historical landmarks, budget-friendly stays
• Cons: Can be noisy at night, some areas feel unsafe after dark
• Main attractions: Arcos da Lapa, Escadaria Selarón, Circo Voador
• Average prices: From $70,00 per night – find top stays on Booking

Recommended Accommodation

After seeing three areas by the sea, it's time to move to the historic centre of Rio de Janeiro. Here the best areas to sleep are Lapa and Santa Teresa. Lapa is one of the most central and evocative districts of the city, once inhabited by the bourgeoisie. Today it is an area with a bohemian soul, where the main attraction is the Aqueduto da Carioca. Completely renovated, Lapa has become the hub of the nightlife in the centre, with numerous clubs and discos.

If during the day the neighbourhood is quiet and tranquil, in the evening it becomes the hub of nightlife, thus making Lapa the best area in the centre for young people and those who want to have fun. The party goes on until the next morning, so we advise against it if you want to sleep at night or if you are travelling with your family.

The area is served by the metro, more precisely orange lines L1 and L4 and the green L2 line (reference stop Cinelândia), which leads to Copacabana and Ipanema. Towards Santa Teresa, however, you will have to use the historic tram.

Average prices in the neighbourhood start from $70,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking

Centro / Santa Teresa

• Pros: Charming colonial streets, artistic atmosphere, panoramic views
• Cons: Hilly terrain, fewer transport connections, not ideal for beach lovers
• Main attractions: Santa Teresa Tram, Parque das Ruínas, Largo do Guimarães
• Average prices: From $80,00 per night – find top stays on Booking

Recommended Accommodation

The second recommended area to stay in the centre is Santa Teresa, a residential neighbourhood which, after its foundation in 1750, became a very chic area of Rio. It is nicknamed the Montmatre di Rio and, among the main attractions here, is the wonderful Selaròn Staircase.

It is a very quiet neighbourhood, where there are numerous museums, therefore ideal for families and those seeking tranquillity. Obviously, as with all of Rio's neighbourhoods, it is still recommended that you are vigilant in the evening and stay in the most touristy streets, avoiding dark alleys.

As for transport, Santa Teresa is only served by the historic tram, so it could be a bit uncomfortable. To reach the beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana you must travel to Lapa by tram, and then move from there by metro.

Average prices in the neighbourhood start from about $80,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking

Places to stay near Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is a very large city. The best solution is to stay in the aforementioned neighbourhoods, full of accommodation and services and also among the safest. In Rio itself, many areas are not recommended. For example, it is better to avoid the northernmost neighbourhoods and those in the western part.

• Ilha Grande (127 km / 3 h 30 min): A paradise of lush nature and crystal-clear beaches, perfect for hiking, diving, and relaxing. No cars allowed! – Compare accommodation on Booking
• Búzios (170 km / 3 h): A charming seaside town with over 20 beaches, lively nightlife, and a Mediterranean feel. Ideal for a romantic getaway. – Compare accommodation on Booking
• Paraty (250 km / 4 h): A stunning colonial town with cobbled streets, waterfalls, and boat trips to tropical islands. A great mix of history and nature. – Compare accommodation on Booking
• Petrópolis (68 km / 1 h 30 min): Known as the "Imperial City," it offers cool mountain air, historical sites, and hiking trails. – Compare accommodation on Booking
• Arraial do Cabo (165 km / 2 h 30 min): Dubbed the "Caribbean of Brazil," this is the ultimate spot for white sand beaches and diving adventures. – Compare accommodation on Booking
   

Rio de Janeiro accommodation price map

Booking.com

Guide to the areas of Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is the second largest city in Brazil, with an area of 1,197.46 sq km and over 6 million inhabitants! Understanding how the city develops is essential to travelling with peace of mind. From an administrative point of view, the municipality of Rio de Janeiro is divided into 33 administrative regions (Regiões Administrativas), grouped into 7 sub-prefectures (Subprefeituras).

From a geographical point of view, the city is divided into neighbourhoods, called Barrios, while culturally and historically speaking, Rio can be divided into 4 large areas:

• Centre: or Centro Histórico, the oldest area of Rio, where the neighbourhoods of Lapa and Santa Teresa are located
• South Zone: or Zona Sul, the richest and most touristic one, which includes Copacabana, Ipanema, Botafogo and many other small residential and tourist districts
• North Zone: or Zona Norte, residential area, but not recommended for tourist stays
• West Zone: or Zona Oeste, one of the least recommended to stay in, except for the districts of Joá, Barra da Tijuca and Recreio dos Bandeirantes

Cool Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro

• Enjoy a Free Walking Tour: Explore the Centre and Lapa with a guided tour to discover the history and hidden gems of Rio. Check availability here. Or, in alternative, do a free tour of Copacabana and Ipanema!
• Street Art Tour: the street art of Rio is amazing, you absolutely need to explore it with a tour that explains its history. More info Here.
• Favela Tour: Get an authentic perspective of Rio by visiting Santa Teresa, led by knowledgeable local guides. More info here.
• Tijuca National Park Hike: Explore the world’s largest urban rainforest, with waterfalls, panoramic views, and wildlife spotting. Book a guided tour here.
• Visit a Samba School: if you love dancing and want to discover the secret of Samba, take part in this amazing tour. More info here.

Travel Tips for Rio de Janeiro

• Safety: Stick to well-touristed areas and avoid walking alone at night, especially in Centro and some parts of Copacabana. Use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber for safe transport.
• Best Time to Visit: The best months are April to June (after Carnival, pleasant weather) or September to November (fewer crowds, still warm). If visiting for Carnival, book at least 6 months in advance.
• Local Currency: Brazil uses the Brazilian Real (BRL). Many places accept cards, but always carry some cash, especially in smaller businesses.
• Beach Etiquette: Avoid bringing valuables to the beach. Vendors sell everything from caipirinhas to sunscreen, so pack light!
• Public Transport: Rio’s Metro is safe and reliable, especially for getting around Zona Sul. Buses can be risky, so stick to metro, taxis, or Uber for longer distances.

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