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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 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 background.

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 northern area 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 great Rio de Janeiro hotels 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.

While out and about in the city, 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.

Special events cover the Rio calendar and can certainly spice up a vacation. 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 along with plenty of food and drinks. The New Year celebrations in Copacabana Beach are extremely popular Rio de Janeiro celebrations, 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 missing out on the fun. Only packages are sold during this period.

No festivity would be complete without a souvenir to remember it and you get great shopping deals in Rio's centre. 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 shopping Rio information and other many great things to see & do in Rio de Janeiro.

While meandering through this metropolis, guests are always blown away by the contrasting architecture. 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 hotels page for our range of Rio de Janeiro accommodation including pictures of the premises.

When the sun goes down, that is when Rio comes alive! Travellers could enjoy 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.

When out on the town, be aware that 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 while taking advantage of all of Rio's charms.

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 Guidefor further information. Don't forget to take a look at our range of Rio de Janeiro accommodation, too!