Summary
The magnificent city of Rio is situated along the South Atlantic coast and ranks as the second largest city in Brazil, comprising several districts. Established in 1565 by Portuguese colonists, Rio de Janeiro is renowned for its relaxed beach lifestyle, breathtaking natural scenery, diverse architecture, revitalized villages turned trendy neighborhoods, and most prominently, its impressive annual carnival. This lively city is among the most frequently visited in the Southern Hemisphere.
Several areas of Rio have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to their remarkable beauty. There are numerous destinations to discover on a day trip, allowing visitors to appreciate the stunning city and its surrounding regions. Here is our curated list of the 15 best day trips from Rio:
1. Cristo Redentor
The iconic statue of “Christ the Redeemer” was completed between 1922 and 1931. Standing 30 meters tall, the statue rests on an 8-meter pedestal and extends its arms to a width of 28 meters. Constructed from reinforced soapstone and concrete, the Cristo Redentor statue weighs an impressive 635 metric tons.
This monumental representation of Jesus Christ was created by Polish-French sculptor Paul Landowski and crafted by engineers Heitor da Silva Costa and Albert Caquot. The construction, widely celebrated as a symbol of Christianity, was primarily funded by Brazilian Catholics.
The statue, with its outstretched arms, occupies a prominent location atop Corcovado Mountain in the Tijuca Forest. Rising 700 meters high, it is visible from nearly every corner of the city.
Access to the summit of the mountain is approximately 30 minutes via the cog trains utilized by the public.
2. Tijuca Forest National Park
Tijuca Forest is recognized as the largest urban forest in the world, encompassing an area of 32 square kilometers. Within this tropical rainforest lies a national park of 3,953 hectares, established in 1867.
The park safeguards the Tijuca Forest, the first reforested area globally, which began in the 1850s following severe deforestation by coffee plantations. It also protects several waterfalls, a variety of trails, and the historical remnants of the coffee industry.
Tijuca National Park is home to the Cristo Redentor statue on Corcovado and offers multiple viewpoints overlooking the city, making it a favored destination among tourists.
Visitors to the Tijuca Forest and National Park can anticipate sightings of diverse wildlife, including hawks, toucans, Capuchin monkeys, vibrant blue butterflies, and the distinctive Brazilian raccoons.
3. Petropolis
If you seek a retreat from the city’s bustle and wish to embark on new experiences, you should visit Petropolis, situated 68 kilometers from Rio. This mountain resort offers a tranquil environment enriched with historic architecture from the 19th century and charming accommodations.
Petropolis, an elegant resort in the green valley of Serra dos Orgaos, is home to the Imperial Museum, which was once the summer palace of Emperor Pedro II and houses significant artifacts from Brazilian history.
While in Petropolis, be sure to explore the Crystal Palace, Palacio Quitandinha, the stunning Cathedral Sao Pedro de Alcantara, and Museu Casa de Santo Dumont.
4. Volta Redonda
Volta Redonda is located 99 kilometers from Rio de Janeiro.
This city, known as the “City of Steel,” derives its name from its principal traditional export. There are several museums dedicated to the city’s steel export heritage in Volta Redonda.
In addition to museums, attractions in Volta Redonda include galleries and breweries. The picturesque surrounding countryside features rolling hills and valleys, and tourists flock here to engage in extreme sports such as zip-lining.
5. Prainha Beach
In Portuguese, Prainha translates to “Little Beach.” This idyllic spot is recognized as one of the cleanest beaches in Rio and is especially cherished by nature enthusiasts.
This crescent-shaped beach ranks among the most favored surfing locations in the city. Prainha Beach is flanked by rocky cliffs and lush evergreen mountains, enhancing its scenic charm. Surrounded by a tropical rainforest, this beach invites exploration of its hidden wildlife.
For those seeking tranquility and a sense of seclusion, Prainha Beach offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.
The optimal time to visit Prainha Beach is on weekdays to evade the crowds that arrive on weekends. The beach features volcanic black sands, a few quaint kiosks, restaurants, and large waves.
6. Angra Dos Reis
Angra Dos Reis translates as “Creek of the Kings.” This stunning archipelago, comprising 365 islands, was discovered in 1502. Located 168 kilometers south of Rio de Janeiro, Angra Dos Reis rests at an elevation of 6 meters.
This remarkable port serves as an excellent day trip destination, offering a variety of markets, churches, buildings, and exquisite secluded beaches. The opportunities for adventure in Angra Dos Reis are boundless, providing an escape to a truly unique environment.
Visitors may venture out to sea or explore the picturesque hiking trails and impressive waterfalls inland.
7. Cabo Frio
Cabo Frio translates to “Cold Cape.” This location is beautifully situated between lagoons, sand dunes, and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. It was established on November 13, 1615, making it the seventh oldest city in Brazil.
This sizable town attracts visitors keen to observe its colonial architecture and, undoubtedly, its profusion of stunning beaches. The main beach in Cabo Frio is Praia do Forte, boasting a lengthy 7.5-kilometer coastline providing ample space for beachgoers. Other notable beaches include Praia das Dunas and Arraial do Cabo.
8. Ilha Grande
Ilha Grande translates to “Big Island.”
This previously underdeveloped island served as a prison facility until two decades ago; currently, it is fiercely protected. Characterized by hillsides, vibrant tropical forests, and stunning beaches teeming with wildlife, this island is a highly recommended day trip destination for every tourist. Once you arrive on this serene island, you may find it difficult to depart.
In addition to being home to endangered species such as brown howler monkeys and maned sloths, Ilha Grande boasts one of Brazil’s premier beaches—Lopes Mendes.
9. Sugarloaf
Sugarloaf Mountain is one of Rio’s most recognizable landmarks and ranks among the foremost attractions in the country. The peak rises 396 meters above the harbor and is celebrated for its cableway that offers sweeping views of the city. This landmark was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012.
The name “Sugarloaf” is derived from its conical shape. Positioned on a coastal point extending into the ocean and surrounding the harbor, Sugarloaf is linked to Rio by a low-lying strip of land.
10. Paraty
This quaint colonial town, located 125 miles south of Rio, derives its name from a local swamp fish. Paraty’s historic town center features well-preserved colonial buildings and historic landmarks.
Set against the backdrop of the Bocaino Mountains, which are visually stunning, the area provides an ideal natural setting for jungle exploration.
Though slightly farther (a four-hour drive) from Rio than other day trip options, Paraty’s charm and charming streets will capture your heart.
Should you have extra time, it is worth visiting the nearby sugarcane plantations.
11. Maracana
For any football enthusiast, a visit to Brazil’s largest stadium, which accommodates over 78,838 spectators, is essential. The venue hosts both matches and concerts.
Maracana stadium is named after the Maracana River and features an arena known as Maracanazinho, meaning “The Little Maracana.”
12. Buzios
The vibrant village of Buzios is situated only a few hours from Rio. Originally a fishing community, Buzios has evolved into a chic destination replete with stunning beaches and a lively nightlife scene.
The peninsula boasts 23 beaches, making it a favored locale for surfers, divers, and snorkelers. Generally, the eastern beaches are windier while the western beaches offer a serene, tranquil atmosphere.
Buzios’s proximity to Rio enhances its appeal as an ideal day trip destination. The beaches are not the sole attractions; the Emerencias Reserve, home to beautiful endangered golden monkeys, is also noteworthy.
13. Jardim Botanico
This botanical garden is nestled at the foot of Corcovado and encompasses 350 acres. This ecological haven combines scientific research with show gardens.
The Jardim Botanico features an Orchidarium, a greenhouse constructed from iron and glass in the 1930s, which hosts over 2,000 orchid species. Additionally, the Japanese Garden, recognized as a UNESCO biosphere reserve, includes koi ponds, bonsai trees, wooden bridges, cherry trees, and over 8,000 species of flora and fauna.
14. Quinta da Boa Vista
This public park features gardens, villas, imperial palaces, and museums. The palace once served as the residence of the Emperor of Brazil from 1808 to 1889.
The park has significant historical value and houses the National Museum, which boasts the largest archeological, botanical, ethnographic, and zoological collections in Brazil, totaling over one million items.
Visitors can expect to see more than 2,000 species of birds, mammals, and reptiles within the park’s zoo.
15. Catedral De Sao Sebastiao
This cathedral, also known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian, was designed by an architect inspired by Mayan pyramids. Constructed between 1964 and 1979, it is commonly referred to as the “New Cathedral.”
The cathedral can accommodate 5,000 worshippers and features four glass windows that rise to a height of 64 meters, creating a brilliantly illuminated interior. The church itself reaches 94 meters in height, and at night, a bright beacon illuminates the structure, making it visible in the skyline.
