History of Rio de Janiero

Baia de Guanabara (Guanabara Bay) located in the southeast of Brazil is a natural port and the adjoining city was founded on January 1st, 1502, by the Portuguese. This city was named Rio de Janeiro (River of January) as the port was thought to be an enormous river mouth. Today the population is over 6 million, with more than 5 million people located in the big metropolitan area.

Called the Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvellous City) by Brazilians, Rio portrays a unique contrast of old traditions with modern culture, wetlands and rainforests, beautiful mountain ranges amidst a bustling metropolis and crushing poverty in the midst of tremendous wealth. Various degrees of poverty and wealth are visible in the way its people live. The exclusive rich areas of Rio form a stark contrast to the favelas or the slums as they are located close to each other. The Cariocas (local residents) are known for their enthusiasm and passion for life irrespective of their economic standing or their background.

Rio de Janeiro orientation

Located atop the Corcovado Mountain overlooking the city, the statue of Christ the Redeemer with his outstretched arms seems to encompass the diversity and thriving life of Rio. The famous Sugarloaf Mountain provides some of Rio's best views. Join one of the many great Rio de Janeiro tours to see the very best of the city!

Rio is divided into the South (Zona Sul), the North (Zona Norte) and the Centre (Centro) zone. Beautiful beach areas of Ipanema, Leme, Copacabana, Leblon, Sao Conrado and Lagoa are located in the South; the North hosts one of the main attractions of Rio: the Maracana Stadium (find out more about each of these regions in our Rio de Janeiro destination guide). The Centre is home to most of Rio's highlights with the monuments of the fallen soldiers of World War II in the South and the Morro de Sao Bento in the North.

The Ipanema and the Copacabana beaches face the Atlantic Ocean and have clean water and big waves. Boogie boarders and surfers are welcome at one of the many beaches where sailing is also permitted. The Copacabana beach area is known for its good Rio de Janeiro accomodations and is connected to the City Centre by the Metro. The urbanised beach of Ipanema is a favourite pick for the youth. The beach teams with zesty youngsters, and the side streets are full of street vendors selling different types of crafts and artistry of Rio. At the beach you can enjoy and explore the weekly Hippy Fair and listen to live music, get a henna tattoo, massage, or just relax.

Rio de Janeiro food

There are numerous dining choices and restaurants in Rio de Janeiro because the Cariocas like to dine out. They like to savour their meals and calmly enjoy the ambience at a leisurely pace. Seafood, chicken, pasta and beef are the general food choices, to which local flavours and tastes are added. Street food in Rio is safe, extremely delicious and inexpensive, with plenty of variety on offer.

Rio Carnival and other events

The famous Brazilian Carnival is the ultimate party of the world. The four-day-long Rio de Janeiro Carnival attracts thousands of people who enjoy the unique Samba dancing along with plenty of food and drinks. The New Year celebrations in Copacabana Beach are considered the major celebration in Rio de Janeiro, when millions of people all dressed up in white throng the beaches and enjoy the beautiful fireworks that illuminate the Beach of Copacabana in an all-night festival. During carnival it is important to book your Rio de Janeiro hotel early to avoid disappointment. Only packages are sold during this period.

Rio de Janeiro architecture

The architecture is quite diverse and offers interesting contrasts. The old monuments and buildings have been around for several centuries and are still standing proud and strong. The other buildings give Rio a modern look with their sophisticated and sleek architecture. The Nossa Senhora de Candelaria and other churches in the vicinity are worth exploring. Check out our Rio de Janeiro hotel page for our range of hotels including pictures of the premises.

Rio de Janeiro shopping

You get great shopping deals at Centro. In the neighbourhood of the city centre (Centro), enthusiastic street vendors sell musical instruments like berimbau, typical tourist merchandise, and beautiful jewellery locally designed.

Feirarte, a craft market fair in Rio where artists showcase their work in leather, glass, ceramics and silver, can be found at the city's most historic square, Praca XV. There is plenty of food and drink available too. The cities of Petropolis and Buzios located near Rio de Janeiro are other attractions worth visiting. Check our destination guide for further information about the many great things to see & do in Rio de Janeiro.

Rio de Janeiro nightlife

A night out in Rio could be an evening's entertainment at a live music venue, a post-soccer beer at a beach kiosk or a visit to some of the numerous clubs and chic bars. All the areas have clubs and popular bars, but the beach communities of Leblon, Ipanema and Copacabana are the most popular places for a night out.

Rio de Janeiro safety

The city has vast social inequalities and high crime rates, and while attempts are being made to control crime, visitors should remain alert. Petty theft is common, so be on your guard. But despite its problems and shortcomings, Rio will manage to seduce you with its charm.

Rio de Janeiro weather

The weather in Rio de Janeiro is hot and pleasant all year round, ranging from 20°C to 40°C (68°F to 104°F) and attracting thousands of visitors everyday. Its attractions can be appreciated at any time of the year. There are many special things to do and see in Rio de Janeiro, so pick your Rio de Janeiro accommodation and have a wonderful stay!

Rio is a place that will surprise you in every single detail! Come and experience this amazing city and become a 'Carioca'! Check our Tours and Activities in Rio de Janeiro section or Rio Destination Guide for further information. Don't forget to take a look at our range of Rio de Janeiro hotels, too!