In an emergency
- Emergency190
- Police190
- Tourist policeDEATDelegacia Especial de Apoio ao Turista), Av. Afrânio de Melo Franco 159, Leblon
- Ambulance192
- Complaints1746Rio city hall; (21) 3460-1746 from outside the city
The UK government lists 190 for police (911 also works), 192 for an ambulance and 193 for the fire brigade. The city hall tells foreign tourists who are robbed to report it at DEAT, the tourist police station in Leblon; Brazilians go to the nearest police station. Sources give different DEAT phone numbers: carioca.rio gives (21) 2332-2429, Riotur gives (21) 2332-2893 and 2332-2887, and an October 2025 state campaign gave a WhatsApp line, (21) 98596-7474. The tourist battalion of the military police (BPTur) is at Rua Figueiredo Magalhães 550, Copacabana, (21) 2332-7949. The Federal Police passport line is 194. US citizens can call +1-202-501-4444.
Fair prices
What locals pay. If you are asked for much more, you are probably being overcharged.
| Metro single rideFare since 12 April 2026. You can tap a contactless Visa, Mastercard or Elo card at the gates. A rechargeable Giro card costs BRL 11.90, including a BRL 4 deposit. | 7.90 BRL |
|---|---|
| City bus, BRT or VLT tram rideFare since 4 January 2026. | 5.00 BRL |
| SuperVia suburban trainThe 2026 fare. It did not go up in January 2026. | 7.60 BRL |
| Taxi flag fall (bandeirada)Since 2 January 2026, plus the metered rate per km. Rate 2 (Bandeira 2) is dearer. It applies from 21:00 to 6:00, on Sundays and holidays, and on steep climbs. | 6.30 BRL |
| Ferry Praça XV to Niterói (Arariboia)About 22 minutes across the bay. The Charitas fast boat costs BRL 7.70 and does not run at weekends. | 5.00 BRL |
| Ferry Praça XV to Paquetá islandThe trip takes up to 81 minutes. | 5.00 BRL |
| Santa Teresa tram (bonde) ticketA return trip, and you can get off and back on. | 20 BRL |
| Chope (draught beer) at a botecoChoperia Cotovelo starts at BRL 9.90 and Cachambeer charged BRL 8.40. A double-chope deal was BRL 10.90 in April 2026. | 8.40-10.90 BRL |
| Caipirinha in a simple barTime Out's October 2025 cheap-eats list gave BRL 18 for a caipirinha at a Santa Teresa bar. Batidas at Bar do Oswaldo cost BRL 11. | 18 BRL |
| Feijoada for oneRange at the restaurants Time Out listed in April 2026. Beco do Rato serves it for BRL 40 at its Saturday samba. | 48.90-89.90 BRL |
| Prato feito or set lunch (PF)Range at the cheap restaurants Time Out picked in October 2025. Os Ximenes charged BRL 27.60 for a plate for one. | 21.90-35 BRL |
| Pastel at a boteco or snack barA crab pastel cost BRL 8.90 (Time Out, October 2025) and a pastel at Cachambeer cost BRL 10.10. | 8.90-10.10 BRL |
| Bolinho de bacalhau (cod fritters)Price at Os Ximenes. At Al Farabi's counter, a croquete is BRL 12 and picadinho (beef stew) is BRL 45. | 31.70 for six BRL |
| Average meal outAverage price of a meal out in Rio, from a 2024 ABBT survey quoted by Time Out. | 60.46 BRL |
| Samba do Trabalhador entry (Monday)At Clube Renascença, Andaraí. Tickets are sold on Sympla or at the box office. | from 30 BRL |
| Feira de São Cristóvão entryCharged on Friday (except special shows), Saturday and Sunday. Other days are free. The box office takes cash only. | 10 BRL |
| Carnival 2027 Sambódromo stand ('Ingresso Sambista')An early ticket for a special stand. You pick the night after the parade order is drawn. Sold only through riocarnaval.com/ingressos (Ticketmaster). | 230 (half price 115) BRL |
Tickets
Official prices and the only places to buy. Anyone else selling on the street is a reseller.
- Christ the Redeemer by the Corcovado Train
Adults BRL 134 (any nationality); children 7-11 BRL 107; under-7s free on a guardian's lap. Senior (60+), student, ID Jovem and disability fares (BRL 70-107) are for Brazilians and foreign residents of Brazil only.
Buy at: https://www.tremdocorcovado.rio (official site, app, call centre +55 21 3512-4072 or accredited hotels); station at Rua Cosme Velho 513
The train company says its only official website for tickets is www.tremdocorcovado.rio and asks buyers to check the address before paying.
- Christ the Redeemer by the official vans (Paineiras Corcovado)
Price not verified (the official ticket shop did not load on 2026-10-14). Children 5-11 pay a reduced fare and under-4s are free.
Buy at: https://ingressos.paineirascorcovado.com.br (official shop); boarding points in Copacabana, Largo do Machado (opposite the Glória church, near metro exit A) and the Paineiras Visitor Centre
The Paineiras Corcovado consortium says its vans are the only transport authorised to drive the Tijuca National Park road up to the monument; other vans and drivers offering a ride to the top are not the official service.
- Sugarloaf Mountain cable car
Standard ticket from BRL 205; people born in or living in Brazil BRL 160; born in or living in Rio de Janeiro state BRL 89. Half price for 3-12s, 13-21s, over-60s and students (foreign students with a photo student card); under-2s free.
Buy at: https://www.bondinho.com.br (official site) or the ticket office at Av. Pasteur 520, Urca
Buy on bondinho.com.br: only tickets bought on the official site give the BRL 20 (up to 6 hours) parking deal at the Rio Sul mall garage.
- Museum of Tomorrow
BRL 20-40 depending on ticket type (city culture department listing, June 2026)
Buy at: https://museudoamanha.org.br/pt-br/ingressos-e-gratuidades or the museum ticket office, Praça Mauá 1, Centro
Buy on the museum's own site or at its ticket office.
- Rio Art Museum (MAR)
BRL 20; half price BRL 10 (includes people born in or living in the city of Rio); free on Tuesdays; free for under-5s and over-60s
Buy at: Self-service kiosks under the museum's pilotis at Praça Mauá, or online via museudeartedorio.org.br
No cash: tickets are card only, so anyone selling MAR tickets for cash outside is not the museum.
- Theatro Municipal guided tour
BRL 20; half price BRL 10
Buy at: On site only: the box office on Avenida Treze de Maio (Boulevard do Theatro), same day only, opens 10:00
Tickets are sold only at the theatre on the day of the tour, one per person, so any advance online 'tour ticket' is not the theatre's.
- Maracanã Stadium tour
BRL 94; half price BRL 47 (August 2026)
Buy at: Ticket office at the stadium, or online on the official Tour Maracanã site
Tickets are sold at the stadium box office and on the official Tour Maracanã site; no advance booking is needed on ordinary days.
- Real Gabinete Português de Leitura
Free
Buy at: No ticket needed; walk in at Rua Luís de Camões 30, Centro
Entry is free, so do not pay anyone for 'tickets'.
- Botanical Garden
Foreign visitors BRL 80; residents of Brazil BRL 40; half price for students, under-21s and over-60s; under-5s free. The garden museum and Casa Pacheco Leão are free.
Buy at: https://jbrj.eleventickets.com (Pix or credit card) or the ticket office at Rua Jardim Botânico 1008 (Pix or cash)
The garden's own site names jbrj.eleventickets.com as its online seller.
- Santa Teresa Tram
BRL 20 return, with one re-boarding in each direction on the same day (2025 fare)
Buy at: Estação Carioca tram station, Centro (tickets are sold there first)
Tickets are sold at the tram station; you do not need a tour company.
- Copacabana Fort
Price not verified for 2026
Buy at: On site at the fort
The web address fortedecopacabana.com is not the fort: in October 2026 it showed an Indonesian gambling site. Do not buy or enter card details there.
- Carnival parades at the Sambódromo (Grupo Especial, 7-9 February 2027)
'Ingresso Sambista' early stand ticket BRL 230, half price BRL 115. Frisas (boxes for up to six people) cost BRL 1,835-10,200.
Buy at: Online only, through riocarnaval.com/ingressos, which sends you to Ticketmaster
The official sales are online only, through Ticketmaster. Tickets come back on sale after the anti-fraud system cancels bad orders, so wait for an official sales round instead of buying from others.
Traps
- Watch outWatch the card machine on the beach
The UK government warns of payment machine and beach vendor scams in busy tourist areas, where the wrong amount is charged. Keep your card in sight and read the amount on the screen before you tap or enter your PIN.
Source: gov.uk - Watch outCard cloning at ATMs and shops
Card cloning at cash machines and in shops is common, says the UK government. Wikivoyage advises using the ATMs inside shopping centres.
Source: gov.uk, en.wikivoyage.org - Watch outCash with pink stains
If an ATM gives you notes with pink marks, go to the bank or the police straight away to change them. The marks can mean the notes were flagged as damaged or counterfeit.
Source: gov.uk - Watch out'Boa noite Cinderela' drink spiking
Gangs in Rio drug drinks to rob people. Police call it the 'Boa noite Cinderela' scam. In 2024 police arrested a gang that left a Dutch tourist drugged at an Ipanema hotel. A couple was also arrested for robbing tourists they met on dating apps, one of whom lost 19,000 euros.
Source: cnnbrasil.com.br, sbtnews.sbt.com.br - Watch outDating app dates
The UK government says criminals use dating apps to target foreigners, spike their drinks and empty their bank accounts. Buy your own drinks and keep them with you. The US consulate advises telling a friend before you meet an app date.
Source: gov.uk, sbtnews.sbt.com.br - Watch outFake Uber accounts and unlicensed taxis
Express kidnappings have happened in unlicensed taxis and through fake ride-app accounts. Do not hail cars on the street. Use the official airport taxi booths and check that the registration and driver match the app.
Source: gov.uk - TipReal taxis are yellow with a blue stripe
Rio's regular taxis are yellow with a blue stripe on the side. Wikivoyage warns that some drivers offer a fixed price instead of the meter. Check the meter has started when you get in.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - RuleThe couvert you did not order
Consumer group Idec says a starter brought to the table without your asking counts as a free sample, so you do not pay for it. A couvert artístico (music charge) is only allowed when there is live music and the price is posted at the door.
Source: idec.org.br - RuleMinimum spend is not allowed
Idec says a consumação mínima (minimum spend) in bars is an abusive practice under Brazilian consumer law. A fine for losing your comanda (tab card) also has to be reasonable.
Source: idec.org.br - RuleThe 10 percent is optional
The 10 percent service charge on a bill is optional, and the menu or bill must say so, says Idec. Pay it if you were happy with the service; you can ask for it to be taken off.
Source: idec.org.br - Watch outFake Christ the Redeemer ticket sites
The Corcovado train company says its only ticket website is www.tremdocorcovado.rio, and asks buyers to check the address before paying. The van consortium sells through ingressos.paineirascorcovado.com.br.
Source: tremdocorcovado.rio, paineirascorcovado.com.br - Watch outThe Forte de Copacabana website that is not the fort
The address fortedecopacabana.com now shows a gambling site, not the army fort. Do not buy fort tickets or follow links from it.
Source: fortedecopacabana.com - TipSugarloaf discounts only on the official site
Parque Bondinho gives its BRL 20 parking deal at Rio Sul only to people who bought cable car tickets on bondinho.com.br. Buy there rather than from resellers.
Source: bondinho.com.br - TipInformal parking attendants
In busy areas such as Lapa and near Praia Vermelha, flanelinhas (informal parking attendants) wave you into a space. Wikivoyage says paying what they ask is largely non-negotiable.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipFake Havaianas in small shops
Wikivoyage advises buying Havaianas flip-flops in supermarkets, because some small shops sell fakes.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org
Local life
- TipMeet 'at posto 9', not at an address
The beaches of Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon are divided by postos, numbered lifeguard towers with toilets and changing rooms. Cariocas arrange to meet by posto number. Wikivoyage notes that there is no actual Posto 6 tower; locals place it opposite Rua Francisco Sá.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - FunEach stretch of sand has its crowd
Posto 9 in Ipanema, opposite Rua Joana Angélica, has drawn artists, journalists and left-wing intellectuals since 1979. The sand near Rua Farme de Amoedo is the gay beach.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org, en.wikipedia.org - FunCopacabana by numbers
Leme is Posto 1, and Copacabana runs from Posto 2 to Posto 6. The posto towers first went up in 1936.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org, en.wikipedia.org - TipRent from your barraca
Permanent vendors at barracas (beach stalls) sell beer and rent chairs and umbrellas, says Wikivoyage. The city revised its beach rules in May 2025 and kept limits on how barracas spread chairs on the sand.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org, infomoney.com.br - Tip'Olha o mate gelado!'
On the sand you will hear 'Olha o mate gelado!', the call of the iced mate tea sellers. Time Out calls mate and Biscoito Globo crackers symbols of being carioca.
Source: timeout.com - TipMate com limão
Order mate com limão, iced mate tea mixed with lemonade, or suco de laranja com cenoura, orange and carrot juice. Both are sold by walking beach vendors.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - FunApplaud the sunset at Arpoador
On clear evenings, crowds on the Arpoador rock and Ipanema beach clap when the sun goes down. The habit began in the summer of 1968-69, led by journalist Carlos Leonam.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org, en.wikipedia.org - TipPegar jacaré
Body surfing is 'pegar jacaré', to catch an alligator. You wait for the wave behind you and ride it to the sand. Locals do it at Leme, Copacabana, Arpoador, Ipanema and Leblon.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - FunFootvolley was born here
Futevôlei, volleyball played with the feet, was invented on Copacabana beach in 1965. You will see games on courts all along the sand.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org - FunFrescobol, the beach bat game
Frescobol, two wooden bats and a rubber ball with no winner, started on Copacabana in the mid-1940s. Rio state marks Frescobol Day on 10 July.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org - TipAsk the lifeguard after rain
Water quality at the Zona Sul beaches drops after heavy rain washes pollution into the sea. Wikivoyage advises asking the lifeguard. Leblon and Ipanema are rougher than Copacabana.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipSwim in the bay at Flamengo
Praia do Flamengo, nicknamed 'Caribrejo', has calm water and a view of Sugarloaf. Time Out reported it as 100 percent fit for swimming in state Inea bulletins. Check the latest Inea report before you go in.
Source: timeout.com, timeout.com - TipPaddle an outrigger at dawn
Honu Va'a runs outrigger canoe classes at Posto 1 on Flamengo beach at 5:30 and 7:00. A trial class costs BRL 60, according to Time Out.
Source: timeout.com - RuleGlass and live music back on the beach
In May 2025 the city first banned, then allowed again, live music and glass bottles at beach kiosks, under rules. Noise on the seafront is the most common complaint to the 1746 city line.
Source: infomoney.com.br - TipSamba at a beach kiosk
With live music allowed again on the seafront, kiosks host samba. Time Out covered the opening of a samba kiosk run by the Coisas de Bamba team.
Source: timeout.com, infomoney.com.br - TipSunday on the Aterro
The roads through Parque do Flamengo close to cars on Sundays and holidays from 7:00 to 18:00. The park opened in 1965, with gardens by Burle Marx.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org - TipPicnic on the Aterro grass
At weekends the Aterro fills with fairs, picnics, outdoor yoga, football and runners. Time Out suggests spreading a canga (beach sarong) in the shade with a juice or a beer.
Source: timeout.com - TipSunday beach roads without cars
On Sundays and holidays the carriageway beside the sand in Copacabana and Ipanema closes to traffic, and locals walk, run and cycle on it.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipThe Lagoa loop
The Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas is about 7.8 km around, with a 7.5 km paved cycle path, rowing and pedal boats. Wikivoyage advises not walking its banks after dark.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org, en.wikivoyage.org - TipCity bikes by app
Rio has Itaú rental bikes, booked through an app.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipCold showers in the forest
A short walk from the Paineiras visitor centre in Tijuca National Park brings you to springs and natural showers. Cars are no longer allowed there, so armadillos and hawks show up. Do not feed them.
Source: timeout.com - TipPedra Bonita for the view
The Pedra Bonita trail is easy to moderate and ends near the hang-gliding ramp. The Tijuca park gate opens at 8:00.
Source: fuiserviajante.com - TipMonday is samba day
Two of Rio's best-known rodas de samba (samba circles) happen on Mondays: Pedra do Sal in the Centro and Samba do Trabalhador in Andaraí. The Pedra do Sal roda, on Largo João da Baiana, is free to watch.
Source: viajenaviagem.com, tribunadosertao.com.br - FunPedra do Sal and Little Africa
Pedra do Sal was listed as heritage by the state in 1984. It is at the heart of Pequena África (Little Africa), seen as one of the cradles of urban samba.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org, cnnbrasil.com.br - TipSamba do Trabalhador
On Mondays from 16:30, Moacyr Luz leads the Samba do Trabalhador at Clube Renascença in Andaraí. Entry is from BRL 30 on Sympla or at the door.
Source: tribunadosertao.com.br, timeout.com - TipBip Bip: samba without microphones
Singer Marcos Sacramento picks the roda at Bip Bip in Copacabana as a Zona Sul classic. It is acoustic, with no microphones.
Source: timeout.com - TipAn all-women roda
Samba Que Elas Querem is a roda made up entirely of women. Marcos Sacramento lists it among the best in Rio.
Source: timeout.com - TipTake the ferry for samba
Sacramento says Candongueiro in Niterói, going for over 30 years, is worth crossing the bridge or taking the ferry for.
Source: timeout.com, barcasrio.com.br - TipSaturday samba and feijoada
Beco do Rato in Lapa holds a Saturday samba from 12:00 to 18:00. Entry is free until 14:00 and feijoada costs BRL 40 (Time Out, October 2025).
Source: timeout.com - TipWatch a samba school rehearse in the street
Before Carnival, the big samba schools rehearse in the street for free. In 2026, Tuiuti practised on Mondays at Campo de São Cristóvão, Vila Isabel on Wednesdays on Boulevard 28 de Setembro, and Salgueiro on Thursdays and Sundays.
Source: timeout.com - TipFeijoada at a samba school
Samba schools open their quadras (halls) for feijoadas with live samba. Mangueira's Feijoada Verde e Rosa opened its 2026 season in January, with tickets on Sympla.
Source: timeout.com - TipGafieira manners
The gafieira is Rio's dance hall for samba de gafieira. Its unwritten rules were set down in Billy Blanco's 'Estatuto da Gafieira'. Tradition asks for collared shirts and only modest kisses on the dance floor.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org - TipChoro in the square on Sunday
At Praça São Salvador in Laranjeiras, the Arruma o Coreto group plays choro by the bandstand on Sundays from 11:00 to 14:00, next to a street fair. On Fridays the square fills with forró dancers.
Source: catracalivre.com.br, timeout.com - TipThursday in Lapa
Wikivoyage calls Thursday a good night for Lapa, when the party is in the street with samba, choro and gafieira. Leave valuables behind; pickpockets work the area.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipThe boteco is the living room
Botequins or botecos are simple bars with snacks and ice-cold chope, and Wikivoyage calls them almost inseparable from carioca life. Bracarense in Leblon is one of the most traditional.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipStand at the counter
Time Out calls the balcão (counter) the heart of the boteco. Time Out's list of counters includes Adega Pérola, Bar Luiz, Armazém Senado and Café Lamas.
Source: timeout.com - FunElbow on the bar
The owner of Choperia Cotovelo ('elbow') jokes that you lean your elbow on the counter, because at the table it is bad manners. Chope there starts at BRL 9.90.
Source: timeout.com - TipAsk about the colarinho
In Brazil the foam head on a chope is called the colarinho (collar). You can ask for more or less of it.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org - TipDrinks on the Urca wall
At Bar Urca, people take their drinks and snacks out to the mureta, the low sea wall across the street.
Source: timeout.com - TipRua do Senado
Time Out named Rua do Senado in the Centro the world's coolest street in 2025, for its old and new bars, antique shops and samba. A city bill in 2026 moved to recognise it as heritage.
Source: timeout.com - TipSunday at the Glória fair
Every Sunday from 9:00 to 18:00, Rua Augusto Severo hosts the Feira da Glória. It is over 100 years old, is said to be the city's largest street market, and has a roda de samba. It was declared heritage in July 2025.
Source: timeout.com - TipOrganic markets in the morning
The organic fairs run from about 7:00 to 13:00. Ipanema's is on Tuesday at Praça Nossa Senhora da Paz. On Thursday there are fairs at Tijuca (Praça Afonso Pena) and Leblon (Praça Antero de Quental). On Saturday they are at Glória (Rua do Russel) and Jardim Botânico.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipSunday hippie fair
The Feira Hippie fills Praça General Osório in Ipanema every Sunday. It is the place for crafts and souvenirs.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipFeira de São Cristóvão
This Northeastern fair in São Cristóvão has about 700 stalls and three stages. It started in 1945 and is national heritage. On Friday and Saturday it stays open from 10:00 until 4:00 the next morning, with forró and karaoke at night.
Source: feiradesaocristovao.org.br, tupi.fm, timeout.com - TipNortheastern food at the fair
At São Cristóvão, try baião de dois (rice and beans), sarapatel and carne de sol. Dishes cost BRL 25-75, according to Time Out.
Source: timeout.com - TipCadeg on a weekend
Cadeg, the municipal market at Rua Capitão Félix 110 in Benfica, is known for Portuguese food. Its 13th Bacalhau Festival ran from 24 October to 23 November 2025. The bolinho de bacalhau is listed as cultural heritage.
Source: diariodorio.com - TipAçaí in a cup
Cariocas eat açaí cold and thick, like a cream, in a bowl or cup, usually with granola and sliced banana. It is sold at beach kiosks and juice bars.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org, pt.wikipedia.org - TipCorner juice bars
Juice bars on street corners make juice to order and hang fruit at the entrance. You can ask for your own mix of fruits.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipJoelho at the lanchonete
At a lanchonete (snack bar) order a joelho, a Rio pastry of rolled dough with ham and cheese, or a coxinha or pastel.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - RuleLunch by weight
In por quilo restaurants you fill your plate at the buffet and pay by weight. Put it on the scale before you start eating.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipThe prato feito
The prato feito (PF) is a cheap set plate chosen by the cook. It is usually rice, beans, a meat and salad. Time Out found plates for BRL 21.90-35 in 2025.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org, timeout.com - TipFree cafezinho
A cafezinho is a small cup of strong, sweet coffee served after meals. Restaurants sometimes give it for free if you ask politely.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipFilter the tap water
Brazilians usually filter their tap water before drinking it.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipFerry to Niterói for the view
The ferry from Praça XV to Niterói takes about 22 minutes and costs BRL 5.00, the same as a city bus fare.
Source: barcasrio.com.br, folhadoleste.com.br - FunRide the old bonde
The Santa Teresa tram has run since 1896 and crosses the Arcos da Lapa aqueduct. A BRL 20 ticket lets you get on and off.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org, agenciabrasil.ebc.com.br - Watch outKeep the phone in on the bus
Wikivoyage warns not to use your phone next to an open bus window.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipFootball is a religion
Rio has four big clubs: Botafogo, Flamengo, Fluminense and Vasco. Their big games are at the Maracanã, which opened on 16 June 1950. The stadium tour closes hours before kick-off on match days.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org, timeout.com, fuiserviajante.com - TipFind shade when it is hot
During heatwaves Time Out suggests the shade of the city's parks, the natural showers at Paineiras and the calm bay water at Flamengo.
Source: timeout.com
Money
- TipContactless works on the metro
You can tap a contactless Visa, Mastercard or Elo card at metro gates instead of buying a ticket.
Source: metrorio.com.br - TipCredit or debit at the till
When you pay by card, you will be asked 'Crédito ou débito?' (credit or debit).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipPix is everywhere, but needs a Brazilian account
Pix is the Central Bank's instant payment system, launched in 2020. You need a Brazilian bank account or CPF (tax number) to use it. Some sales, such as Carnival frisas, take Pix only.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org, en.wikipedia.org, carnaval.rio - TipCarry small notes
Small vendors often cannot change BRL 50, 100 or 200 notes. Keep some smaller notes for the beach and street stalls.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipUse ATMs inside shopping centres
Wikivoyage advises using the cash machines inside shopping centres, and not carrying lots of money in your pocket.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - RuleTipping: the 10 percent
Restaurants usually add 10 percent to the bill. It is optional by law, and the menu or bill must say so.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org, idec.org.br - TipCard-only and cash-only places
MAR, the Rio art museum, takes cards only, no cash. The Feira de São Cristóvão box office takes cash only.
Source: museudeartedorio.org.br, feiradesaocristovao.org.br - TipBrazilian and resident discounts
Many sights charge foreigners more. Sugarloaf is from BRL 205, or BRL 160 for people born or living in Brazil. The Botanical Garden charges foreigners BRL 80 and Brazil residents BRL 40.
Source: bondinho.com.br, gov.br - RuleKnow the music charge
A couvert artístico is a cover for live music. It is only legal when there is a live show, and the price must be posted at the entrance.
Source: idec.org.br
Transport
- TipMetro hours
The metro runs Monday to Saturday 5:00-24:00, and Sundays and holidays 7:00-23:00. A single ride costs BRL 7.90.
Source: riotur.rio, metrorio.com.br - TipBuses, BRT and VLT
City buses, BRT express buses and the VLT tram in the centre all cost BRL 5.00 a ride in 2026.
Source: folhadoleste.com.br - TipAirport bus 24 hours
The BRT line from Galeão airport to Alvorada runs 24 hours a day, about every 20 minutes.
Source: riotur.rio - RuleTaxi rates
Rate 1 (Bandeira 1) applies Monday to Saturday 6:00-21:00. Rate 2 applies at night 21:00-6:00, on Sundays and holidays, and on steep slopes. The flag fall is BRL 6.30.
Source: riotur.rio, carioca.rio, folhadoleste.com.br - TipFerry to Niterói
Boats leave Praça XV for Arariboia in Niterói about every 30 minutes, roughly 5:30 to 23:30. The trip takes about 22 minutes and costs BRL 5.00.
Source: barcasrio.com.br, barcasrio.com.br - FunPaquetá: an island without cars
Paquetá is reached by ferry from Praça XV for BRL 5.00. Private motor vehicles are banned there. People get around by bicycle and electric cart.
Source: barcasrio.com.br, pt.wikipedia.org - TipThe Santa Teresa tram
The bonde runs from Carioca to Dois Irmãos every 20 minutes, weekdays 8:00-17:00 and weekends 9:00-17:00. A BRL 20 ticket is a return trip with re-boarding.
Source: agenciabrasil.ebc.com.br - TipLate metro for samba rehearsals
The metro stays open late on nights when samba schools rehearse in the Sambódromo.
Source: timeout.com - TipWhich metro line
Wikivoyage recommends metro lines 1 and 4 for visitors, rather than line 2.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipBeach road closes on Sundays
On Sundays and holidays, the carriageway nearest the sand on the Copacabana and Ipanema beach roads is closed to cars. On weekdays from 7:00 to 10:00, one side's flow is reversed towards the city.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org
Etiquette
- RuleCheek kisses
Cheek kissing is common among women and between women and men. Two men shake hands. Refusing a kiss outright is seen as disdain; offering a hand instead is odd but not rude.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipTen to fifteen minutes late is normal
Expect friends to arrive 10 to 15 minutes late. A dinner invitation for 19:00 means do not arrive before 19:00. Concerts, plays and long-distance buses still start on time.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - RuleThumbs up, not OK
The thumbs up means OK, yes or thanks. Avoid the OK hand sign, which can be obscene.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - RuleTipping is light
Tips are uncommon. Restaurants often add 10 percent, and no more is needed. Taxi drivers do not expect tips, though people sometimes round up. Bartenders are not usually tipped.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - RuleWeigh before you eat
In por quilo restaurants, put your plate on the scale before you eat anything from it.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - RuleKeep the noise down on the seafront
Noise on the orla (seafront) is the most common complaint to the city's 1746 line. Live music at kiosks is allowed only under the city's rules.
Source: infomoney.com.br - RuleRespect the dance floor
At a gafieira, tradition follows the 'Estatuto da Gafieira': collared shirts for men and only moderate kisses while dancing.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org - RuleDo not feed the wildlife
In Tijuca National Park, armadillos and hawks come close to the paths near Paineiras. Time Out reminds visitors not to feed them.
Source: timeout.com - TipPortuguese, not Spanish
Brazil speaks Portuguese, not Spanish. Spanish speakers often get by, but many sounds of Brazilian Portuguese are very different.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - RuleThe front of the bus
Larger buses have a front section before the turnstile meant for elderly, disabled and pregnant passengers. You can stand there, but you still pay.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org
Food
- TipFeijoada
Feijoada is a stew of black beans and pork. In April 2026 Time Out found it for BRL 48.90-89.90 a head at Rio restaurants.
Source: en.wikipedia.org, timeout.com - FunFeijoada for São Jorge
On 23 April, the state holiday of São Jorge, Rio celebrates with feijoadas and fireworks. Cadeg market holds feijoadas that day.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org, diariodorio.com - TipChope, not bottled beer
Chope, ice-cold draught beer, is the boteco drink. Chope costs BRL 8.40-9.90 at simple places listed by Time Out.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org, timeout.com, timeout.com - TipCaipirinha
The caipirinha is Brazil's national cocktail, made with cachaça, lime and sugar. Time Out found one for BRL 18 at a Santa Teresa bar in 2025.
Source: en.wikipedia.org, timeout.com - TipBolinho de bacalhau
Cod fritters are a boteco favourite and are listed as cultural heritage. Os Ximenes sells six for BRL 31.70.
Source: timeout.com, diariodorio.com - TipPastel
The pastel is a fried, filled pastry sold in lanchonetes and botecos. It costs about BRL 8.90-10.10.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org, timeout.com, timeout.com - TipCoconut water from the shell
Água de coco (coconut water) is sold on the beach and in kiosks. Caldo de cana (sugarcane juice) is another street drink.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipMate cocktails
Iced mate is not only a beach drink. Many Rio bars now use mate in cocktails, says Time Out.
Source: timeout.com - TipPão de queijo and tapioca
Pão de queijo (cheese bread) from Minas Gerais and tapioca crepes from Bahia are common in Rio snack bars.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - Watch outMethanol warning for spirits
The UK government reports deaths from methanol in spirit drinks in Brazil. Take care with gin, vodka and whisky from unknown sources.
Source: gov.uk
Safety
- RuleOfficial advice level
The US government's advice for Brazil is Level 2, 'exercise increased caution', because of crime and kidnapping. The UK government also publishes detailed advice for Brazil.
Source: br.usembassy.gov, gov.uk - Watch outPhones are the main target
Robberies are common, especially on buses, says the UK government. Thieves target phones, especially between 4pm and 9pm. Wikivoyage adds: do not use your phone next to an open bus window.
Source: gov.uk, en.wikivoyage.org - Watch outDo not resist
Attackers may be armed and on drugs. The UK government says to hand over your valuables without a fight.
Source: gov.uk - Watch outBeaches: take little, leave by dark
Thefts are common on city beaches, including arrastões, when groups run through grabbing belongings. Take no valuables to the beach, and do not go on to city beaches after dark.
Source: gov.uk - Watch outWhere thefts are reported most
The UK government reports frequent thefts around Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, Lapa and Santa Teresa. It says armed robberies have been reported on the walking trail up Corcovado.
Source: gov.uk - Watch outFavelas and GPS routes
The UK government advises against all favelas, including tours, hotels and bars sold to tourists. Tourists have been shot after entering one by mistake. Check that your GPS route does not go through a favela.
Source: gov.uk - Watch outShootings and police operations
Armed clashes, including police operations, can start with little warning. Fogo Cruzado is an app that has mapped shootings in greater Rio since 2016 and sends alerts.
Source: gov.uk, olhardigital.com.br - Watch outExpress kidnapping
Victims are driven to cash machines to take out money, and it can turn violent, says the UK government. Use licensed taxis or ride apps and share your trip.
Source: gov.uk - Watch outMethanol in spirits
People in Brazil have died from drinks containing methanol. The UK government says to take care with spirit drinks such as gin, vodka and whisky. You cannot taste or smell methanol.
Source: gov.uk - Watch outRip currents
Ipanema has strong currents. The UK government says to obey the warning flags and lifeguards.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org, gov.uk - Watch outRain, floods and landslides
The rainy season in Rio is November to March. Flash floods and landslides can happen. Alerts go out on digital street signs and to hotels.
Source: gov.uk - RuleCarry ID, keep the passport safe
Carry a copy of your passport and another photo ID, and leave the passport somewhere safe. Avoid showy jewellery, large sums of cash and phone use in the street.
Source: gov.uk - TipMosquitoes and vaccines
The CDC recommends a yellow fever vaccine for travellers aged 9 months and over going to Rio de Janeiro state, city included. It is not required for entry. Dengue is present, so avoid bites.
Source: wwwnc.cdc.gov - TipRobbed? Go to DEAT
City hall tells foreign tourists who are robbed to report it at DEAT, the tourist police station at Av. Afrânio de Melo Franco 159 in Leblon.
Source: carioca.rio - RuleVapes and drugs
Vapes are illegal in Brazil and customs can seize them from your luggage. Drug penalties are severe.
Source: gov.uk
Free
- TipFree Tuesdays at MAR
MAR, the Rio art museum in Praça Mauá, is free on Tuesdays. It is closed on Wednesdays.
Source: museudeartedorio.org.br - TipReal Gabinete Português de Leitura
The 19th-century Portuguese reading room at Rua Luís de Camões 30 is free to visit on working days, 10:00-17:00.
Source: realgabinete.com.br - TipFree samba at Pedra do Sal
The Monday roda at Pedra do Sal costs nothing.
Source: viajenaviagem.com - TipFree Sambódromo rehearsals
Samba schools hold free technical rehearsals in the Sambódromo before Carnival. For 2027 they are on 23, 24, 30 and 31 January.
Source: carnaval.rio, en.wikivoyage.org - TipThe Glória funicular
A tiny funicular from Rua do Russel climbs to the 1739 Glória church. Wikivoyage says the ride is free and the views are good.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipTiradentes Palace
The state legislature's palace on Rua Primeiro de Março lets visitors walk its first-floor corridors for free. Wikivoyage lists it as open Monday to Saturday 10:00-17:00 and Sunday 12:00-17:00.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipValongo Wharf
The Valongo Wharf, where almost a million enslaved Africans landed, is an open archaeological site. It became a World Heritage Site in 2017.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipFree drumming on the Aterro
Tambores de Olokun holds open, free drumming rehearsals on the Aterro do Flamengo.
Source: timeout.com - TipOpen studios in Santa Teresa
During Arte de Portas Abertas, held over a few days in May and November, Santa Teresa artists open their studios to the public.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipBeco do Rato before 14:00
Entry to the Saturday samba at Beco do Rato is free from 12:00 to 14:00.
Source: timeout.com - TipSunset at Arpoador
The Arpoador sunset, with its round of applause, costs nothing.
Source: en.wikipedia.org, pt.wikipedia.org - TipMilitary Museum
The Conde de Linhares Military Museum in São Cristóvão has tanks and artillery, and Wikivoyage lists it as free. It is open Thursday to Tuesday 10:00-17:00.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org
Fun
- FunWhat 'carioca' means
Carioca comes from Tupi. The old idea that it means 'white man's house' is now rejected by linguists. They think it comes from 'house of the Carijó', a Tupinambá village at the mouth of the Carioca river.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org - FunChoro was born in Rio
Choro, an instrumental music first played on flute, guitar and cavaquinho, appeared in Rio in the second half of the 19th century. Rio musicians began playing European polkas in their own way around 1870.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org - FunPelé's 1,000th goal
Pelé scored his 1,000th goal at the Maracanã in 1969. The stadium tour takes about 40 minutes.
Source: timeout.com - FunA reading room fit for a king
The Real Gabinete Português de Leitura was founded in 1837. Its building, in neo-Manueline style, went up between 1880 and 1887.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org - FunChrist the Redeemer's birthday
Christ the Redeemer was inaugurated on 12 October 1931.
Source: blog.paineirascorcovado.com.br - FunA garden from the Portuguese court
The Botanical Garden opened on 13 June 1808, after the Portuguese royal court moved to Rio.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org - FunHavaianas since 1962
Havaianas rubber flip-flops were launched on 8 June 1962.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org - FunThe Aterro is shaped like a boat
Seen from above, the Aterro do Flamengo looks like a boat, a fish or a wave, says Time Out. It was built on land reclaimed from the bay.
Source: timeout.com - FunThe oldest bloco
Rio has over 400 carnival blocos. Cordão da Bola Preta is the oldest still parading.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org - FunThe bloco with no timetable
Boi Tolo has no fixed time or route. It turned 20 in 2026, and the New York Times wrote about it that year.
Source: timeout.com - FunWalk on the Cagarras
In June 2026, ICMBio opened a trail on Ilha Comprida in the Cagarras islands, 5 km off Ipanema. Time Out says it is the first trail opened inside a conservation unit in Brazil. Humpback whales pass from June to August.
Source: timeout.com - FunWorld's biggest New Year
Guinness World Records lists Copacabana's New Year's Eve as the largest in the world, with 2.5 million people.
Source: timeout.com - FunSambódromo by Niemeyer
The Sambódromo on Rua Marquês de Sapucaí was designed by architect Oscar Niemeyer.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org - FunSamba by train
Trem do Samba honours early 20th-century sambistas who rode the train to the Zona Norte to escape police repression. Trains full of samba leave Central do Brasil for Oswaldo Cruz. To board, you donate 1 kg of food.
Source: timeout.com
When to go
- TipSummer heat and rain
Wikivoyage's climate chart shows January highs around 32°C with the most rain. June and July highs are around 26-27°C. The UK government says the rainy season runs from November to March.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org, gov.uk - TipRéveillon in Copacabana
New Year's Eve on Copacabana beach draws about 2.5 million people. The 2026 show had 19 fireworks barges, three stages and 1,200 drones.
Source: timeout.com, timeout.com - FunWear white on New Year's Eve
Wearing white and offering flowers to Iemanjá, the sea goddess, at New Year began with Candomblé followers in the 1970s. The fireworks last about 12 minutes.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org - TipStreet carnival from 16 January 2027
Rio's street carnival starts on 16 January 2027. Over 400 bloco parades were authorised in 2026. In 2026, megablocos gathered on Rua Primeiro de Março, on the route called Circuito Preta Gil.
Source: carnaval.rio, carnaval.rio - TipCarnival parades 2027
The Grupo Especial samba schools parade at the Sambódromo on 7, 8 and 9 February 2027. Carnival runs from 5 to 10 February.
Source: carnaval.rio, en.wikipedia.org - TipFree rehearsals in January
Free Sambódromo technical rehearsals for 2027 are on 23, 24, 30 and 31 January. The Lavagem da Sapucaí (washing of the avenue) is on 31 January from 17:00. About 360,000 people came to the 2026 rehearsals.
Source: carnaval.rio, carnaval.rio - Tip20 January: São Sebastião
The city's patron saint day, 20 January, is a holiday in Rio. The Corrida de São Sebastião road race starts at 7:30 on the Aterro.
Source: timeout.com - TipIemanjá festival, 1-2 February
The Iemanjá Carioca festival has celebrated the sea goddess on 1-2 February with music, art, film and food.
Source: timeout.com - Tip23 April: São Jorge
São Jorge's day is a Rio state holiday, marked with feijoadas and fireworks.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org, timeout.com - TipJune: festas juninas
In June, churches and squares hold arraiás (harvest fairs) with typical food and drink, including the Glória parish church on Largo do Machado and the Feira de São Cristóvão.
Source: timeout.com, timeout.com - TipJune to August: whales
Humpback whales migrate past Rio from June to August, says Time Out.
Source: timeout.com - TipLate October: bacalhau at Cadeg
Cadeg market's Bacalhau Festival ran from late October to late November in 2025.
Source: diariodorio.com - Tip20 November: Black Consciousness Day
20 November is a national holiday. In Rio, the Zumbi monument on Avenida Presidente Vargas is ceremonially washed at 9:00.
Source: timeout.com, pt.wikipedia.org - TipDecember: Trem do Samba
The Trem do Samba runs each December from Central do Brasil to Oswaldo Cruz. It reached its 30th edition in 2025.
Source: timeout.com - Watch outElection day, 25 October 2026
Brazil's second-round election is on 25 October 2026. The UK government advises avoiding rallies and demonstrations.
Source: gov.uk - TipRock in Rio
Rock in Rio's 2026 edition was held on 4-7 and 11-13 September at the Cidade do Rock. The next edition is listed for 2028.
Source: pt.wikipedia.org, pt.wikipedia.org
Words
- TipObrigado / Obrigada
Thank you (ob-ree-GAH-doo, said by men; ob-ree-GAH-dah, said by women).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipTudo bem?
How are you? / All good? (TOO-do BENG). The answer is also 'Tudo bem'.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipBom dia / Boa noite
Good morning (bon JEE-ah) / Good evening (BOW-ah NOY-chee).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipPor favor
Please (pohr fah-VOHR).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipCom licença
Excuse me, to get past (kong lee-SEN-sa).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipDesculpa
Sorry (dees-KUL-pah).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipA conta, por favor
The bill, please (ah KOWN-tah pohr fah-VOHR).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipQuanto custa?
How much is it? (KWAN-to CUS-tah).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipFala inglês?
Do you speak English? (fah-la in-GLES).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipSocorro!
Help! (soo-KOH-hoo).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipCrédito ou débito?
Credit or debit? You will hear this when you pay by card.
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipBotequim
A simple bar, also called boteco (boo-chi-KEEN).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipÁgua de coco
Coconut water (ah-gwa-djee-KOH-ku).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipMate
Sweet iced tea, sold on the beach (MAHTCH).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipAçaí
The purple fruit pulp eaten cold in a cup (ah-sah-EEH).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipCaldo de cana
Sugarcane juice (caw-do-djee-KAH-na).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org - TipLanchonete
Snack bar (lun-sho-NETCH).
Source: en.wikivoyage.org
Checked October 2026. Every item links to where it came from.