Where to Stay

Where to stay in Rio depends as much on your budget as on the purpose of your visit. There are three main areas in which to choose accommodation: the more expensive and sophisticated beach front of Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon, the business-minded City Centre and the suburb of Barra da Tijuca.

Centro

The City Center is a convenient area to stay if you are only in Rio on business. The Center is strictly a business area, with good restaurants and some stores, but definitely not a place that would interest tourists. For the business traveler there are a few traditional options like the Aeroporto Othon, across from the regional Santos Dumont airport, the São Francisco and the Glória, on the outskirts of the center.

Barra da Tijuca

Barra da Tijuca is also a popular place to stay for its budget-priced hotels located just a few blocks from the beach. Here you'll be far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but still close enough to enjoy your vacation. The spacious, California-style layout of the Barra da Tijuca suburb makes it a good option for those with a car. About 15 kilometers (10 miles) from the rest of town, you will mostly find long-stay lodgings, called "apart-hotels," that typically come with a lounge, one or two bedrooms, a bathroom and a kitchenette. Praia Linda is a moderately-sized hotel that features comfortable guest rooms, an eclectic food menu and a garage. Tryp Barra First is another good option in this district. It features a modern decor and shuttle service to the beach.

Copacabana

Copacabana is where the most traditional hotels are, with a long stretch of road in front to walk along and numerous bars to choose from. On the beach front, the majestic Copacabana Palace shares the distinction of five stars with the Le Meridien and the Rio Palace. The front is also home of the Othon, still expensive but not quite as expensive as its five-star neighbors. Moving away the beach a bit, there are some more budget-oriented options like the Savoy Othon, just two blocks away, right in the middle of the busy shopping area.

Ipanema

The shores of Ipanema and Leblon boast a favorite hang-out of politicians and celebrities, the Caesar Park, as well as some good but inexpensive options like the Marina Palace, the Praia Ipanema and the Sol Ipanema. On the back streets but still close to the beach and in the heart of the best shopping area in town are some other good places, like the Arpoador Inn, the Ipanema Inn, the Everest and the Leblon Inn, this last with fully-equipped flats.

São Conrado

On the way to São Conrado you will find the five-star Rio Sheraton. Perched on a cliff and partially hanging over the sea, this hotel has one of the best views in Rio, and features sports facilities like tennis courts and a large gym. In São Conrado itself there is the Intercontinental, luxurious and also with a large sports complex that includes three tennis courts. Right on top of the beach, it has a spectacular view of Pedra da Gávea.