An Unforgettable Adventure in Beautiful Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

September 25 – October 3, 2026 | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Introduction: A Little Love Letter to Rio de Janeiro

As a travel blogger, I have the luxury of taking many trips. A lot of them stay with me long after I return home. My time in Rio is undoubtedly one of these experiences.

From the beautiful beaches and breathtaking mountain views to the vibrant streets, incredible food, and exhilarating Brazilian energy, Rio was a destination I’d been so excited to experience.

I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to spend a week in this amazing city. As if visiting Rio wasn’t exciting enough, I had another special reason for this trip: the Dallas Cowboys vs. Baltimore Ravens football game!

The Historic NFL Rio Game

Sports fans will love this one. On September 27, 2026, the Cowboys vs. Ravens game in Rio de Janeiro was historic on multiple levels.

1. This was the first-ever NFL game in Rio de Janeiro. The Cowboys and Ravens made history at the legendary Maracanã Stadium, one of the world’s most iconic soccer stadiums. Rio had never hosted an NFL game before.

2. This was the Cowboys’ first international regular-season game in 12 years. Dallas hadn’t played an international regular-season game since October 2014, when they defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars 31–17 at Wembley Stadium in London.

3. This was the third NFL regular-season game in Brazil. The previous two were:

*2024: Philadelphia Eagles vs. Green Bay Packers
*2025: Kansas City Chiefs vs. Los Angeles Chargers

*Both of these were played in Brazil’s largest city, São Paulo!

And the game itself? Nothing short of incredible. Baltimore defeated Dallas 34–31, with Tyler Loop hitting a 56-yard field goal as time expired. The game saw three lead changes, and 72,792 fans (including myself) attended.

My heart hurts as a Dallas fan, but it had no negative impact on my experience in Rio!

So let’s get into my incredible adventure and provide all the insights you need to have a great trip in Rio yourself!

Rio de Janeiro Logistics

A Little about Rio

For those who aren’t familiar, Rio de Janeiro is Brazil’s second-largest city after São Paulo. It’s a very vibrant city where stunning natural beauty meets lively urban culture.

Famous for its golden beaches, lush mountains, and iconic landmarks like Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio has something for every traveler.

From relaxing on Copacabana and Ipanema beaches to enjoying samba music, delicious Brazilian food, and energetic nightlife, Rio is a city full of color, rhythm, and unforgettable experiences.

Rio Climate

I know the weather plays a huge role in travel planning. That is why I created a blog post dedicated to climate zones, so you can better understand why the weather is what it is. Rio falls into the tropical climate zone.

Rio enjoys a warm, tropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild, relatively drier winters. Most rainfall occurs between December and March, often as heavy tropical showers, while the winter months tend to be sunnier and less rainy. Temperatures stay pleasant year-round, making Rio an attractive destination in every season.

Important Note: Rio is south of the equator, so it lies in the Southern Hemisphere. This matters because the seasons are reversed. Winter months in the Northern Hemisphere correspond to the summer season in the Southern Hemisphere.

I went in late September/early October, so this was the end of the dry season and the start of the rainy season. Fortunately, the weather was warmer and drier than expected. If you prefer a drier experience, aim for the winter months (for Rio, that is June – August).

Flights to Rio

Rio de Janeiro is served by two airports: Galeão International Airport (GIG), which handles most international arrivals and domestic flights, and Santos Dumont Airport (SDU), which primarily serves domestic routes.

While Galeão is farther from the city center, Santos Dumont is conveniently located in the heart of the city, offering stunning views on arrival.

I flew into GIG and departed from SDU to get the best of both worlds.

All three major US carriers offer daily nonstop service to GIG, so getting flights won’t be a problem.

For the Cowboys game, American Airlines offered a special one-time nonstop flight from Dallas straight to GIG, since regular AA service departs from Miami.

The nonstop flight was roughly 10 hours and arrived in Rio around 8:30 A.M. Thank you, American Airlines, for the enjoyable and convenient flight!

Getting Around Rio

Getting around Rio de Janeiro is relatively easy, with plenty of options including taxis, the metro, and even Uber Bike, a fun and incredibly affordable way to explore the city!

I stayed in Copacabana, a little further from the city center, so the metro came in particularly handy for getting around, especially for the game.

Uber is also widely available and convenient, while the bike option is perfect for shorter trips along the beautiful beachfront.

Hotels in Rio

When it comes to accommodation in Rio de Janeiro, you’ll find plenty of great options throughout the city, depending on the experience you’re looking for.

As mentioned above, I stayed in Copacabana, specifically the Windsor Copa Hotel, which was a great choice for me as I wanted to be within walking distance of the beach.

It was a great choice because of its location and daily buffet breakfast option.

Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon are all popular areas to stay, offering easy access to the beaches, restaurants, and plenty of city attractions. I recommend staying at a beachfront property rather than in the city center.

Things to do in Rio

Rio de Janeiro is a city packed with incredible sights, beautiful beaches, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring its iconic landmarks, soaking up the sun, or discovering its colorful neighborhoods, there’s plenty to keep you busy.

Here are some of the main attractions and activities worth adding to your itinerary!

The must-see attractions

1. Sugarloaf Mountain (Pão de Açúcar) – Take the cable car to the top of one of Rio’s most iconic landmarks for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, beaches, and surrounding mountains. It’s especially beautiful around sunset.

2. Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor) – No trip to Rio is complete without visiting this world-famous statue atop Corcovado Mountain. Besides seeing the impressive monument up close, you’ll enjoy spectacular views over the city.

3. Copacabana Beach – One of the world’s most famous beaches, Copacabana is the perfect place to relax, enjoy a caipirinha, watch the locals play beach volleyball, and soak up Rio’s lively atmosphere.

4. Ipanema Beach – Another beautiful stretch of coastline, Ipanema is known for its stunning scenery, trendy atmosphere, and incredible sunsets. It’s also a great spot to enjoy the local beach culture.

5. Escadaria Selarón (Selarón Steps) – These famous colorful mosaic stairs are one of Rio’s most photogenic attractions. Created by Chilean-born artist Jorge Selarón, the steps feature thousands of colorful tiles from around the world.

Beyond the main attractions, Rio de Janeiro has plenty more to explore!

You can wander through the charming streets of Santa Teresa, discover the lush greenery of Tijuca National Park and the Botanical Garden, or visit the beautiful Parque Lage. For something a little different, explore the lively neighborhood of Lapa, visit the futuristic Museum of Tomorrow, or catch a football match at the legendary Maracanã Stadium.

And if you’re looking for the perfect way to end the day, don’t miss the sunset at Arpoador, one of the city’s most beautiful viewpoints. Plenty of guided tours, excursions, and unique experiences are also available to help you make the most of your time in Rio!

I use Viator to book my excursions. Be sure to check them out in advance for the best pricing and availability. Tickets to the above attractions are often included at a discounted price when booked early.

The city also has excellent food options from many different cuisines. From convenient beachfront restaurants to more local cuisines in neighborhoods and everything in between, Rio’s food is some of the best I’ve ever had.

Tips & Tricks for Rio

I wanted to include my personal tips to help aid your Rio travel planning.

1. What to pack?

Rio is a fairly relaxed beach destination, so think lightweight and comfortable! Pack plenty of summer clothes, swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Sandals or flip-flops are essential for the beach.

I’d also recommend bringing a light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings and a small day bag for exploring the city. Don’t forget a portable charger and a reusable water bottle! If you are not traveling during Rio’s winter (June – August), bring an umbrella for the occasional showers!

2. Best time of year to visit?

Rio is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for.

December to March is summer in Brazil, bringing hot temperatures, lively beach life, and the famous Carnival celebrations, although it’s also the busiest and rainiest period.

April to June and September to November are lovely alternatives, with generally pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and more comfortable sightseeing conditions.

July and August are winter months, but temperatures are usually still mild and enjoyable. This is the dry season. I prefer drier weather, so this is the best time for me.

3. Additional Weather Considerations

As discussed above, Rio has a tropical climate, so you can expect warm temperatures year-round. Summers are hot and humid, with occasional heavy rain showers, while winters are generally drier and slightly cooler.

Even during the rainy season, showers don’t necessarily last all day, so don’t let the forecast put you off! Just remember to pack sunscreen and stay hydrated, as the sun can be particularly strong.

4. Currency and payment methods

Brazil’s currency is the Brazilian Real (BRL).

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout Rio, particularly in hotels, restaurants, shops, and larger establishments.

Contactless payments are also becoming increasingly common and serve as the primary method of payment for metro access. I’d recommend carrying a little cash for beach vendors, small cafés, and local markets, but there’s generally no need to carry large amounts.

If paying by card, choose to be charged in BRL rather than your home currency to avoid potentially unfavorable conversion rates.

5. Language and communication

The official language in Brazil is Portuguese, and while you may find English spoken in some hotels and tourist areas, it isn’t as widely spoken as you might expect. This is a big one, and I wish I had known this before departure.

Having Google Translate downloaded on your phone can be incredibly helpful, especially when communicating with taxi drivers, ordering food, or asking for directions. Learning a few basic Portuguese phrases is always appreciated by locals!

6. Safety awareness and common-sense precautions

Rio is an incredible city to explore, but like any large city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. Keep valuables and expensive jewelry out of sight, avoid openly using your phone while walking along busy streets, and don’t take unnecessary valuables to the beach.

Stick to well-populated areas, particularly at night, and use Uber rather than walking through unfamiliar or quiet neighborhoods after dark. When possible, please try to explore with local guides, as some areas can be challenging for solo travelers. It’s also best to keep your passport securely at your hotel and carry a copy instead.

A little common sense and awareness can go a long way towards enjoying your trip!

7. Transportation tips

Getting around Rio is relatively straightforward. Uber is widely available and generally affordable, while the metro is a great option for traveling between areas like Copacabana, Ipanema, and the city center.

One of my favorite discoveries was Uber Bike, which is a really fun and inexpensive way to get around, especially along the beachfront! Just remember that traffic can get quite busy, so allow extra time when traveling by car. Also, keep the language barrier in mind.

This was especially noticeable when using Uber Bike, so please be prepared ahead of time.

8. How many days should you spend in Rio?

I’d recommend spending at least 4–5 days in Rio de Janeiro to experience the main attractions without feeling too rushed.

This gives you enough time to visit Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, enjoy the famous beaches, explore the colorful neighborhoods, and experience some of the city’s food and nightlife if you have a week- even better!

You’ll have more time to slow down, discover hidden gems, and perhaps take a day trip outside the city. Don’t try to squeeze everything into your itinerary. Rio is just as much about enjoying the atmosphere, relaxing on the beach, watching the sunset, and soaking up the local culture as it is about ticking off the famous attractions! This is why I recommend the week if you prefer to squeeze in some relaxation time.

Otherwise, 4-5 days max if you plan to visit other cities. I flew home via São Paulo, and I highly recommend visiting there as well.

9. DO NOT FORGET YOUR BRAZILIAN VISA

When booking your flight, check whether a visa is required for your nationality. You can always use this website to find the entry requirements for any country. I am a US passport holder, so I need a Brazilian e-visa before departure.

You CANNOT get one on arrival, so please allow plenty of time before arriving in Brazil to obtain yours. My processing time, even with all the applicants going for the Cowboys game, was same-day, but I still applied months in advance.

Also, make sure to print at least 2 paper copies, as the check-in agent and the Brazilian immigration officer will take a physical copy. Please print these and don’t rely on your phone. It will make check-in and immigration much smoother!

Final Tip: Discover Brazil’s Afro-Brazilian history and culture

Please take the time to learn about Brazil’s rich African heritage.

Brazil has the largest population of African descent outside of Africa, with more than half of the population identifying as Black or mixed-race according to the 2022 census.

This heritage has profoundly shaped the country’s history, music, dance, food, religion, and everyday culture. Rio de Janeiro is no exception, with a particularly rich Afro-Brazilian history that is worth exploring. From samba and capoeira to traditional cuisine and historic neighborhoods, there is so much to discover.

Explore the country’s past, celebrate its cultural contributions, and appreciate the traditions that locals are so proud of. It will give you a much deeper appreciation of Brazil beyond the typical tourist experience!

A little extra context: Brazil’s 2022 census found that 55.5% of Brazilians identified as preto (Black) or pardo (mixed-race), while Rio de Janeiro’s Black population (using the combined categories) was 54.3%.

Where possible, I always love to encourage more thoughtful and culturally aware travel. You can always research the African diaspora for more information on African heritage outside of Africa. I highly recommend doing so.

My Favorite Photos from Rio

If you haven’t already gathered, Rio is a very picturesque city. Some of the photos truly don’t do it justice. I just decided to post a photo diary so you can see what I mean!

More about the Historic NFL Rio Game

Sports fans know the NFL has been trying to grow its international presence and has been successful over the past decade or so.

The Cowboys and Ravens played in the historic NFL Rio Game, the first-ever American football game in the city. It deserves its own section because, as an avid traveler and sports fan, being part of this history was nothing short of amazing.

I absolutely loved being one of the 70,000+ who helped create the electric atmosphere at Maracanã Stadium! This matchup was a major milestone for the NFL’s international expansion, and it will be talked about for years to come.

Final Thoughts on Rio

Is Rio worth visiting?

ABSOLULTELY

Rio de Janeiro was such a memorable destination, and my biggest takeaway is just how much this city has to offer. From its breathtaking scenery and world-famous beaches to its vibrant culture, incredible food, and welcoming atmosphere, Rio has something truly special.

I loved the contrast between the natural beauty and the city’s energy, and I can honestly say it exceeded my expectations.

If I were to visit again, I’d love to spend a little more time exploring beyond the main tourist attractions, discovering more of the city’s history, experiencing its local food scene, and perhaps taking a few excursions outside the city. There is still so much I’d love to see and experience!

I think Rio is a fantastic destination for a wide range of travelers, whether you’re a beach lover, adventure seeker, foodie, culture enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys exploring vibrant cities.

Like any major city, it comes with a few things to keep in mind, but with a little preparation and an open mind, Rio can be an incredibly rewarding place to visit.

More than anything, I’ll remember Rio for its colors, its energy, its people, and the feeling of being somewhere completely different from anywhere I’ve visited before. It’s one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve returned home, and I’d love the opportunity to go back one day.

Let’s hear from you! Have you visited Rio de Janeiro? I’d love to know about your experience, your favorite places, and any recommendations you might have for my next visit.

If you’re planning a trip and have questions I haven’t covered in this guide, please don’t hesitate to ask. No travel guide can cover absolutely everything, and I’m always happy to share more about my experience and help however I can.

Feel free to leave a comment or reach out. Comments are always greatly appreciated! They are turned on for this post. You can leave them below!

Thanks for reading!