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Rio De Janeiro Cruises

This marvellous Brazilian city is overlooked by the Sugarloaf Mountain and the dramatic statue of Christ the Redeemer, giving way to a dizzying maze of colourful neighbourhoods and bustling
beaches below. Sun yourself on iconic Ipanema sands, or sip a caipirinha in the shade as you watch the world go by near Copacabana beach. Locals are passionate about music, whether it’s bossa nova or hip-hop. Visit during Carnaval to see the local samba schools put on a feast for the senses with kaleidoscopic costumes and merry dancing, but the party vibes don’t stop then in always-lively Rio de Janeiro!

Rio

What You Need To Know About Rio De Janeiro

What are the can’t-miss sights in Rio de Janeiro?

Apart from the legendary beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana, there’s a whole city of attractions to explore! Stroll through the historic downtown area to see 17 th -century churches like Convento do Santo Antonio, or soak in the artistic vibes scattered throughout the Flamengo neighbourhood. Here you’ll find museums like the National Museum of Fine Arts or Niteroi Contemporary Art Museum, which is hard to miss with its spaceship shape. Above it all sits the Corcovado hill – take the funicular to the top and you’ll get up close and personal with Christ the Redeemer as well as some spectacular views over the city and beaches below! (Sugarloaf Mountain is equally majestic and accessible).

How can you reach Rio de Janeiro from the cruise terminal?

When you arrive in Rio’s port, your cruise ship will probably arrange shuttle services to the city centre, Copacabana, or Ipanema beaches. However you can navigate the city on your own if preferred. There’s a taxi stand right in front of the terminal, as well as a super-efficient public transport system. This includes a metro and bus system, both of which provide comprehensive coverage of this sprawling city. The metro is easier than the at-times chaotic buses for first-timers to figure out, extending along to both Copacabana and Ipanema. The downtown area is quite walkable, allowing you to access most tourist sites on foot.

When’s the best time to visit Rio?

If you want to experience the unforgettable feast for the senses that is the Rio de Janeiro Carnival, visit the city in February. You’ll be able to take part in the street parties and parades if you wish, or simply spectate from the side lines! The months between December and March are the best time to visit in general, when the sun is shining and you can make the most of some quality beach time. However, be aware that temperatures can soar – think about postponing your trip to autumn or springtime if you prefer milder conditions!

RIO DE JANEIRO - DID YOU KNOW?

Rio’s glamorous beaches are probably its top attraction, part and parcel of daily socialising and recreation for residents. The most famous include Ipanema and Copacabana, immortalised in song and easily accessible even on short day trips. Another way to experience the recreational side of Rio de Janeiro as the locals do is by attending a football match at Estadio Maracana. It holds close to 90,000 fans at once, who can put forth quite a mighty roar when a footballer scores a goal! This spirited historic stadium is South America’s largest. Do you want to experience the thrill of dancing with a samba school even if it’s not Carnival season? Most of the school start their rehearsals several months in advance before the big show, and some welcome visitors for dance lessons and tours. So long as you’re not a vegetarian, be sure to visit a churrascaria during your time in Rio. These all- you-can-eat meat fiestas feature platters of excellent grilled beef, served with a bevy of fresh side dishes and plenty of wine to wash it down. Another local favourite is feijoada, made from black beans and pork stewed together and served with steaming rice. And you can can’t miss sipping on a cooling caipirinha cocktail.