Flights to Rio de Janeiro (RIO)

A sun-soaked metropolis that nearly 6.5 million people call home, Rio de Janeiro is one of South America’s most sought-after travel destinations and one of its most recognizable. Along with the splendid beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, there’s the majestic Sugarloaf Mountain, which guards the bay, and the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue that towers over the city. Needless to say, your vacation photos will be spectacular.

Most people who have been to Brazil will tell you that it’s impossible not to have a good time here, whether you’re sunbathing on a perfect stretch of sand, socializing with the locals well into the early hours, or using the city’s improved travel infrastructure to explore what there is to see.

Rio de Janeiro is a foodie's paradise, with offerings ranging from quick and easy joints on the street or the beach to five-star high-class restaurants where the only thing better than the service is the food. A list of the best restaurants in Rio de Janeiro starts with Aprazível, hidden on a hilltop that overlooks the city, and Satyricon, which sits just off the water at Ipanema Beach and features fare so fresh you wouldn't be wrong to think it was caught right in front of you.

If you're after a traditional local meal, order leão veloso, a seafood-based soup with lobster, olive oil, and onion that is frequently served with tomato and saffron. Another popular local delicacy is coconut water, which comes fresh off the many trees; fresh fruit juices are just a bodega stop away. Make sure to have quindim, an egg yolk, sugar, and coconut cake, for dessert.

When it comes to accommodations, most areas in the city have dozens of options in every price range. Chances are you want to be based by the beach; two of the best hotels near the sand and shore are Arena Copacabana Hotel and Hotel Maria Santa Teresa. Rio also has a lively and vibrant backpacking culture; it's not unusual to see happy tourists with large packs and smiles on their face.