Just thinking about the Cidade Maravilhosa conjures up thoughts of samba parties fuelled with caipirinhas, captivating beaches backed by lush granite peaks and an easy worry-free life. Cariocas has a zest for life and it doesn't take much for a drink with locals on the beach to turn into a raucous street party as the night creeps in. When you stay in a Rio de Janeiro vacation rental, it might be tempting to while away your days stretched out on Ipanema or Copacabana beach, but there's much to see including Christ the Redeemer, which watches over the city from Corcovado Mountain.
The fun doesn't stop with the city's attractions. For a first-timer, it's unthinkable not to head up Corcovado Mountain to get face-to-face with the 38-meter-high Christ the Redeemer. If you're interested in tropical flora, don't miss out the nearby botanical gardens, complete with swaying palms, manicured lawns and swinging monkeys. The 215 tiled Lapa Steps were the life's work of Chilean artist Jorge Selaron, who painstakingly mosaiced the walkway in front of his home until his passing in 2013. For more art, continue on to the pretty district of Santa Teresa and dive into the galleries and studios.
Being in the Southern Hemisphere, the best time to nab a Rio de Janeiro vacation rental is during the summer months, between December and March. During this time, the climes are warm enough to hit the beaches and the colorful annual carnival transforms the city into the world's biggest street party. The cooler months, between April and May, or October and November, can be, arguably, even more pleasant, with a slightly cooler temperature. You'll also benefit from a serious drop in rental prices, have more room to stretch out on the beaches and have much shorter queues for the city's attractions.
If you're itching to spot some wildlife, your best bet is Tijuca, the largest urban forest in the world. It can be combined with a visit to Christ the Redeemer and easily reached from your Rio de Janeiro vacation rental. When you hike up through the park, you can expect to spot monkeys swinging through the trees, lazy sloths hanging from the branches and toucans showing off their colorful beaks. Other birds circle overhead on the morning thermals, while lizards scamper around on the forest floor. Get set to spot some of Brazil's most fascinating creatures.
Fly into Rio de Janeiro International Airport (GIG), the closest airport, located 7.9 mi (12.7 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you could book a flight to Rio de Janeiro (SDU-Santos Dumont), which is 0.8 mi (1.3 km) away.
If you're traveling by train, Rio de Janeiro Central Station, Rio de Janeiro Flag Square Station and Rio de Janeiro Sao Cristovao Station are the main stations in the city. It's easy to get around Rio de Janeiro by jumping on the metro at Colombo Tram Stop, Sete de Setembro Tram Stop or Carioca Station.
Whatever you're seeking in a vacation, you'll find a rental property in or around Rio de Janeiro that's a match made in heaven. Here are some of our faves:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Rio de Janeiro vacation rental for you.
Nothing's better than squeezing in a quick break to perk you up. Pack your overnight bag and take a breather at one of these irresistible weekend getaways in and around Rio de Janeiro:
Experience the culture and lifestyle of Rio de Janeiro from the comfort and privacy of your own studio apartment. Whether you're planning to take time out on your own or have fun with a few friends, you'll find the perfect studio apartment in or near Rio de Janeiro:
There are many highlights around Rio de Janeiro to add to your agenda. Satisfy the culture vulture in you with a visit to Rio de Janeiro National Museum and Quintandinha Palace.
Just because you only have a few short days off work doesn't mean you need to spend it in a bland hotel room. Take a vacation but still have the home comforts you love at one of these short-term rentals in or around Rio de Janeiro:
Whether spent in a cabin, a cottage or a houseboat, a romantic weekend getaway is a perfect way to add some zing to your relationship. Whisk your sweetheart away for a couple of leisurely days at one of these enticing escapes in or near Rio de Janeiro:
If you're in search of somewhere to reconnect with loved ones this vacation, why not go all out? These mansions for rent in or around Rio de Janeiro will fit your entire crew while doing it in style:
Nothing screams good times like a pool. Dig out your inflatable flamingo and check out these rental houses in or near Rio de Janeiro that feature this vacation essential:
Rio de Janeiro has a tropical savanna climate, with average summertime temperatures ranging between 75 ºF and 85 ºF. But there's no need to wait until summer to visit! Check out the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the ideal Rio de Janeiro vacation rental and plan your escape for whenever you like.
Whether your perfect escape is out in the countryside or by the beach, you'll have so much more fun if you share it with people you love. Book one of these large family vacation rentals in or near Rio de Janeiro and bring the whole crew:
If you're in the mood to sightsee, there are lots of family-friendly attractions nearby to add to your itinerary. Arcos da Lapa, Quintandinha Palace and Rio Water Planet are good places to start.
Get away from the hustle and bustle and treat your loved ones to a different kind of vacation. Stay in one of these family cabin rentals in or near Rio de Janeiro and get the camping experience — but with all the creature comforts you're used to!
For more options, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the Rio de Janeiro vacation rental that's perfect for your needs.
Add a splash of indulgence to your getaway by booking somewhere with an indoor pool. These amazing large houses in or near Rio de Janeiro have a swimming space to call your own, along with ample room for whoever you're bringing with you:
Use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find more great Rio de Janeiro vacation rental options for your next big getaway.