Rio de Janeiro is one of the largest capitals in the world, with world-renowned neighborhoods such as Ipanema and Copacabana. Still, in addition to its most popular neighborhoods, the city has several others worth it to know.
Check out our guide with tips on the most interesting and coolest neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro. And explore the best of the Marvelous City!
1. Saúde
Located in the port region of Rio de Janeiro, Saúde was recently elected by Time Out London magazine as one of the most interesting and coolest districts in the world (and was the only Brazilian district on the list).
The region, formerly known as Pequena África (Little Africa), in addition to being home to historical places such as Morro da Conceição, Pedra do Sal, and Cais do Valongo, has cool and traditional bars located in Largo São Francisco da Prainha to enjoy a beer and snacks.
Carioca Tip:
You can combine your visit to the neighborhood with a visit to the Museum of Tomorrow or a walk along the Boulevard Olímpico, close by. Check out more tips about Boulevard Olímpico in the post What to do in Rio de Janeiro with children.
2. Barra de Guaratiba
Barra de Guaratiba is a neighborhood in the West Zone of Rio de Janeiro that is still little explored in terms of tourism but perfect for those who enjoy nature, beaches, and adventure.
It is an excellent suggestion for those looking for a route beyond the traditional Rio beaches with a more hippie atmosphere.
The neighborhood borders the Restinga de Marambaia, a restricted area with 43 km in length and access only with the authorization granted by the Navy and the Brazilian Army. Although entry is not allowed, there are some incredible viewpoints to observe the Restinga de Marambaia from above, including a rock on the way to the famous Pedra do Telegrafo Hike. The view is amazing!
In addition, the neighborhood is known for being a place for hiking and adventure sports, such as the option of hiking along wild beaches (the most unspoiled and beautiful beaches in Rio) or rappelling at Pedra da Tartaruga. You can also explore the gastronomic hub of the neighborhood next to it – Pedra de Guaratiba, with excellent options of restaurants to enjoy seafood.
Visit Barra de Guaratiba booking one of our tours:
Jeep Tour Wild Beaches and Jeep Tour Pedra do Telégrafo Hike
Carioca Tip:
Be sure to visit Sitio Burle Marx, a garden with more than 3,500 species of tropical and subtropical plants, and unanimously recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Learn more here.
3.Botafogo
Affectionately called ‘BotaSoho’ by the Cariocas, the comparison with the famous New York neighborhood lives up to the nickname. The area became a reference in gastronomy, fashion, and everything cool in the city.
It is the neighborhood where all the tribes meet democratically, and new trends are launched (and later copied by other districts in the city). The area has recently received several establishments with a hipster vibe, such as breweries, artisan bakeries, and organic and fusion restaurants, making it the new epicenter of good Rio cuisine.
Botafogo is also rich in art galleries, museums, and shopping malls. Not to mention the neighborhood’s view to passersby and residents – on one side the bay of Botafogo with Sugar Loaf Mountain and on the other, Christ the Redeemer that can be seen from all points of the neighborhood.
To feel a little of Botafogo’s mood, check out our experience Sugarloaf Hike and Happy Hour at Urca.
4. Santa Teresa
With its steep hills, cobblestone streets, and colonial architecture, no one can`t help falling in love with the bucolic atmosphere of the historic district of Santa Teresa.
A bohemian neighborhood that has attracted artists for generations, Santa Teresa still reserves a delicious ride on the historic cable car (one of the oldest in the world still in operation) that passes over the arches of Lapa and takes you on a visit to the past.
In its most famous squares – Largo dos Neves and Guimarães, you will find several traditional bars and restaurants in Rio, such as Bar do Mineiro, where you can enjoy a beautiful feijoada and a delicious Caipirinha. Not to mention the various artisan ateliers and museums such as the Parque das Ruínas which has one of the most beautiful views in the city.
Visit Santa Teresa neighborhood booking your private tour with us here.
5. Barra da Tijuca
Once a large wetland, Barra da Tijuca, on the west side of Rio de Janeiro, has undergone a radical transformation in the last 30 years and has become a modern neighborhood with huge shopping malls and streets with interesting bars and restaurants.
In addition, its 14.4 km coastline of white sand makes it the city’s longest beach. With its greenish and clear waters, the beach is perfect for those who want to enjoy a day at the beach with a bit of peace, as well as being the ideal place for surfing, windsurfing, bodyboarding, and fishing. Its edge has many bars, restaurants, and kiosks, and from Ayrton Senna Avenue, the beach does not have a sidewalk as it is an environmental preservation region (Marapendi Biological Reserve).
→ Want to know more about this and other beaches? Be sure to read the post “The 10 best beaches in Rio de Janeiro” or book our tour “The most beautiful beaches in Rio”.
Did you like our selection of the coolest neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro? Explore other regions besides the best known and discover a completely different Rio de Janeiro!
Count on our Travel Planning Services and our Carioca Experiences to truly know Rio de Janeiro.
