3-Day Christmas Family Holiday Itinerary in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

3 days

Christmas ornaments on an outdoor tree in Rio de Janeiro
Christmas Tree in Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon
VLT train passing through the Christmas decoration of the Rio de Janeiro port region
Copacabana beach fireworks during New Year's Eve
Feliz Natal handwritten in the sand in Rio de Janeiro

About Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Experience the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This city is a tropical paradise, boasting iconic landmarks like the Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain. Explore the lively Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, or immerse yourself in the city's rich history at the Museum of Tomorrow. Rio's nightlife is a spectacle in itself, with samba clubs and bars offering a taste of local music and cuisine. The city is also home to the world-famous Carnival, a festival of dance, color, and culture. Whether you're an adventurer, a history buff, or a beach lover, Rio de Janeiro has something to offer everyone. Come and experience the warmth and vibrancy of Brazil's most captivating city.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Iconic Landmarks of Rio

Morning

Start your day at the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This colossal statue offers panoramic views of the city and is a must-visit for any traveler to Rio.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Brazilian lunch in the neighborhood of Santa Teresa, known for its winding, narrow streets, colonial-style houses, and vibrant arts scene.

Afternoon

After lunch, visit the Selarón Steps, a set of world-famous steps in Rio de Janeiro. They are the work of Chilean-born artist Jorge Selarón who claimed it as 'my tribute to the Brazilian people'.

Dinner

Have dinner in the Lapa district, known for its lively nightlife and samba clubs. Here, you can enjoy traditional Brazilian cuisine.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Lapa Arches, a historical landmark and vibrant nightlife spot where you can enjoy live music performances.

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to the Sugarloaf Mountain. Take a cable car ride to the top of the mountain and enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant in the Botafogo neighborhood, which offers a great view of the Sugarloaf Mountain.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon at the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden, home to over 6,000 species of tropical and subtropical plants and trees.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in the Leblon neighborhood, known for its upscale restaurants and boutiques.

Evening

End your day with a stroll along the famous Copacabana Beach, one of the most famous beaches in the world.

Morning

Start your final day with a visit to the Maracanã Stadium, one of the world's largest football stadiums.

Lunch

Have lunch in the Tijuca neighborhood, known for its local eateries serving traditional Brazilian food.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Tijuca National Park, the largest urban rainforest in the world.

Dinner

Enjoy your final dinner in the Ipanema neighborhood, known for its elegant restaurants and trendy boutiques.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Ipanema Beach, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and enjoy the evening.

Attractions in Itinerary (9)

Christ the Redeemer

1
Christ the Redeemer

One of the Seven Wonders of the World, this statue of Jesus Christ stands atop the Corcovado Mountain.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Selarón Steps

2
Selarón Steps

The Selarón Steps are a set of world-famous steps in Rio de Janeiro, decorated by artist Jorge Selarón as a tribute to the Brazilian people.

Attractions
Landmarks
Lapa Arches

3
Lapa Arches

Also known as the Arcos da Lapa, this is an iconic symbol of Rio. Originally built to bring fresh water from the Carioca river to the city, it's now a popular spot for photos.

Landmarks
Architecture
Sugarloaf Mountain

4
Sugarloaf Mountain

A peak situated in Rio de Janeiro, offering panoramic views of the city and beyond.

Attractions
Landmarks
Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden

5
Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden

A major tourist attraction, the garden houses rare species of plants from the flora of Brazil and other countries.

Parks
Gardens
Copacabana Beach

6
Copacabana Beach

World-renowned beach that stretches for 4km, famous for its New Year's Eve celebrations.

Beaches
Landmarks
Maracanã Stadium

7
Maracanã Stadium

One of the world's largest football stadiums, it has hosted numerous international football matches and concerts.

Sports
Landmarks
Tijuca National Park

8
Tijuca National Park

One of the largest urban rainforests in the world, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and a wide variety of wildlife.

Parks
Attractions
Tours
Ipanema Beach

9
Ipanema Beach

One of the most famous beaches in Rio, known for its beauty and social life.

Beaches

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Feijoada

Feijoada

A hearty black bean stew with pork, served with rice, collard greens, and farofa. It's considered Brazil's national dish and is a must-try when in Rio de Janeiro.

Caipirinha

Caipirinha

Brazil's national cocktail made with cachaça (sugar cane hard liquor), sugar, and lime. It's refreshing and popular throughout Rio de Janeiro.

Pão de Queijo

Pão de Queijo

Delicious cheese bread balls made from cassava flour. They are a popular snack in Rio de Janeiro and throughout Brazil.

Brigadeiro

Brigadeiro

A sweet, chocolate truffle-like dessert made from condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and chocolate sprinkles. Brigadeiros are a staple at Brazilian parties and a popular treat in Rio de Janeiro.

Acarajé

Acarajé

A deep-fried ball of black-eyed pea dough, filled with vatapá, caruru, tomato salad, and shrimp. It's a popular street food in Rio de Janeiro, especially during festivals.

Coxinha

Coxinha

A popular Brazilian snack shaped like a chicken drumstick, filled with shredded chicken and covered in dough, then deep-fried. It's a common sight in snack bars and bakeries in Rio de Janeiro.

Pastel

Pastel

A thin, crispy pastry filled with various ingredients like cheese, meat, or palm hearts. Pastels are a popular street food in Rio de Janeiro's markets.

Moqueca

Moqueca

A traditional Brazilian seafood stew made with fish, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and coriander, cooked in coconut milk. It's a popular dish in Rio de Janeiro, especially in coastal areas.

Açaí

Açaí

A bowl of frozen and mashed açaí palm fruit served as a smoothie and often topped with granola, banana, and other fruits. It's a popular and refreshing treat in Rio de Janeiro.

Churrasco

Churrasco

Brazilian barbecue, usually consisting of large chunks of meat skewered and cooked over open flames. It's a popular meal in Rio de Janeiro and a must-try for meat lovers.

Empada

Empada

A small, round pie filled with various ingredients like chicken, shrimp, or palm hearts. Empadas are a popular snack in Rio de Janeiro's bakeries and beach kiosks.

Quindim

Quindim

A sweet dessert made from sugar, egg yolks, and ground coconut. It's a traditional Brazilian dessert and a popular treat in Rio de Janeiro.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is between December and March when the weather is warm and sunny enough to hit the beaches. The city's festive atmosphere is at its peak with the celebration of Rio Carnival, usually held in February. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect large crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a less crowded period, April to June and September to November are also great times to visit, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 12

Mon

Carnival Monday

February 13

Tue

Carnival Tuesday

February 14

Wed

Carnival end (until 2pm)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 21

Sun

Tiradentes Day

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi

September 7

Sat

Independence Day

October 12

Sat

Our Lady of Aparecida / Children's Day

October 28

Mon

Public Service Holiday

November 2

Sat

All Souls' Day

November 15

Fri

Republic Proclamation Day

December 24

Tue

Christmas Eve (from 2pm)

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 31

Tue

New Year's Eve (from 2pm)

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Public buses are a common way to get around in Rio de Janeiro. They cover a wide range of routes and can take you to most parts of the city. However, they can be crowded during peak hours and the routes can be confusing for first-time visitors.

The subway system in Rio de Janeiro, known as the MetrôRio, is a fast and efficient way to travel around the city. It has two lines that cover key areas including downtown, the South Zone, and the North Zone. It's particularly useful for avoiding traffic during peak hours.

Taxis are plentiful in Rio de Janeiro and can be hailed from the street, ordered by phone, or picked up from taxi stands. They are metered and relatively affordable. It's a convenient way to get around, especially if you're not familiar with the city's public transport system.

Ridesharing services like Uber and 99 are widely used in Rio de Janeiro. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to taxis. You can order a ride from your smartphone and track your journey in real time.

Rio de Janeiro has an extensive network of bike lanes, making cycling a viable way to get around. The city also has a bike-sharing program called Bike Rio, which allows you to rent a bike from one of the many stations around the city.

The Santa Teresa Tram, also known as the 'bonde', is a historic streetcar that offers a unique way to explore the Santa Teresa neighborhood. It's not only a mode of transport but also a popular tourist attraction.

Ferries operate across Guanabara Bay, connecting Rio de Janeiro with Niterói and other locations. They offer a scenic way to travel and can be a pleasant alternative to road transport.

Renting a car can give you the freedom to explore Rio de Janeiro at your own pace. However, it's worth noting that traffic can be heavy and parking can be difficult in some areas. It's recommended for those who are comfortable with driving in busy city conditions.

Motorcycle taxis are a quick and efficient way to get around Rio de Janeiro, especially in areas with heavy traffic. They are commonly used by locals and can be found in most parts of the city.

Vans are another form of public transport in Rio de Janeiro. They operate on fixed routes and are often faster than buses. However, they can be crowded and are usually used for short distances.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

CurrencyR$ BRL

Time zoneFederal District

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 192 or 193 ; Fire: 193; Police: 190

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type N

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Rio de Janeiro, Brazil as a first time visitor

1

The official language is Portuguese, not Spanish. English is not widely spoken outside of tourist areas.

2

The currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.

3

Tipping is not mandatory in Brazil, but it's customary to leave a 10% tip for good service in restaurants.

4

Public transportation is extensive and includes buses, metro, and taxis. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hour.

5

Rio de Janeiro is in the Brasilia Time Zone (BRT), which is 3 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-3).

6

The electrical outlets in Brazil are type N, with a standard voltage of 127/220V and a standard frequency of 60Hz.

7

Tap water is not safe to drink. Always opt for bottled water.

8

Rio de Janeiro can be hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C).

9

Brazilian food is diverse and flavorful. Try local dishes like feijoada (black bean stew with pork) and acarajé (deep-fried ball of black-eyed pea dough filled with shrimp).

10

Be cautious of your belongings at all times, especially in crowded areas. Petty theft can be a problem.

11

Avoid isolated areas, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated places.

12

The sun can be intense, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.

13

It's customary to dress casually. However, Brazilians take pride in their appearance, so avoid wearing overly casual or sloppy clothing.

14

Healthcare facilities are generally good in Rio, but it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

15

The legal drinking age in Brazil is 18.

16

If you're a smoker, be aware that smoking is banned in many public places, including restaurants and bars.

17

Public restrooms may charge a small fee for use, so keep some change handy.

18

If you're visiting during Carnival, book your accommodations well in advance as this is a very busy time.

19

Brazilians are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Don't be surprised if you're greeted with a kiss on the cheek.

20

Always respect local customs and traditions. For example, it's considered rude to arrive on time for a social gathering. Brazilians usually arrive 15-30 minutes late.

Basic Portuguese to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Olá

O-la

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Tchau

Chow

Saying farewell

Please

Por favor

Pohr fah-vohr

Making a request

Thank you

Obrigado

Oh-bree-gah-doo

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Sim

Seem

Affirming something

No

Não

Nown

Negating something

Excuse me

Com licença

Kohm lee-sen-sah

Getting someone's attention

I'm sorry

Desculpe

Dess-kool-peh

Apologizing

Do you speak English?

Você fala inglês?

Voh-seh fah-lah een-glesh?

Asking if someone speaks English

I don't understand

Eu não entendo

Eh-oo nown en-ten-doo

Expressing confusion

Where is...?

Onde está...?

Ond-eh es-tah?

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Banheiro

Bahn-yay-roh

Looking for a restroom

Help

Ajuda

Ah-zhoo-dah

In case of emergency

Food

Comida

Koh-mee-dah

Looking for something to eat

Water

Água

Ah-gwah

Asking for water

Beer

Cerveja

Ser-veh-zhah

Ordering a beer

Check, please

A conta, por favor

Ah kon-tah, pohr fah-vohr

Asking for the bill

How much does it cost?

Quanto custa?

Kwan-toh coos-tah?

Asking for the price

I would like...

Eu gostaria...

Eh-oo gohs-tah-ree-ah

Making a request

Good night

Boa noite

Boa no-ee-che

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Swimwear

  • Beach cover-up

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Flip-flops for the beach

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Sunscreen

  • After-sun lotion or aloe vera

  • Insect repellent

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa if required

  • Driver's license

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Power bank for charging on the go

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow for the flight

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks for the flight

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Books or e-reader for the flight

  • Travel guidebook for Rio de Janeiro

  • Phrasebook or language app for Portuguese

  • Beach bag

  • Beach towel

Weather Conditions

When planning your trip to Rio de Janeiro, it's important to consider the city's tropical climate. Rio experiences a hot and humid summer from December to March, with temperatures often reaching 86°F (30°C) or higher. This is also the city's rainy season, so be prepared for occasional showers and thunderstorms. From June to September, during the winter season, the weather is generally cooler and drier, with temperatures ranging between 68°F (20°C) and 77°F (25°C). Evenings can be slightly cooler, so it's a good idea to pack a light jacket or sweater. Regardless of when you visit, it's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing due to the city's overall warm climate. Don't forget your swimsuit for Rio's famous beaches, and remember to bring a good sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong year-round. If you're planning to visit during the Carnival, which usually takes place in February, be prepared for hot and humid conditions. Despite the possibility of rain, the festivities continue unabated, so a waterproof poncho could be a useful addition to your packing list. Lastly, keep an eye on the weather forecast leading up to your trip, as conditions can change quickly in Rio. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities accordingly. Enjoy your trip to this vibrant and beautiful city!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

35° / 23°

January is one of the hottest months in Rio, with temperatures often reaching 35°C. It's also the peak of the rainy season, so pack an umbrella.

February

35° / 23°

February is still very hot and humid, with similar temperatures to January. It's also the month of the famous Rio Carnival, so expect large crowds.

March

33° / 22°

March sees a slight drop in temperature, but it's still quite warm. Rainfall begins to decrease, but occasional showers can still occur.

April

30° / 21°

April is the start of the fall season in Rio, with temperatures cooling down. It's a great time to visit as it's less crowded and the weather is still pleasant.

May

28° / 19°

May is a comfortable month to visit, with mild temperatures and less rainfall. It's a good time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

June

27° / 18°

June is the start of winter in Rio, but temperatures remain mild. It's the driest month of the year, making it ideal for outdoor exploration.

July

27° / 18°

July is similar to June, with mild temperatures and low rainfall. It's a great time to visit the beaches as they are less crowded.

August

28° / 18°

August sees a slight increase in temperature, but it's still quite comfortable. It's a good time to visit the city's landmarks and enjoy outdoor activities.

September

29° / 19°

September marks the start of spring in Rio, with temperatures starting to rise. It's a great time to enjoy the city's parks and beaches.

October

30° / 20°

October is a warm month, with temperatures often reaching 30°C. It's a good time to visit the beaches and enjoy water sports.

November

32° / 21°

November is quite hot, with temperatures often reaching 32°C. Rainfall begins to increase, so pack a raincoat or umbrella.

December

34° / 22°

December is one of the hottest months, with temperatures often reaching 34°C. It's also the start of the summer holiday season, so expect larger crowds.

Did you know?

Did you know that Rio de Janeiro is also known as 'Cidade Maravilhosa' or 'The Marvelous City' due to its natural beauty, cultural events, and famous landmarks?

1 of 10

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