Where to Stay in Rio de Janeiro
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Our pick for backpackers
Stay in Copacabana
Has a high concentration of affordable hostels and budget-friendly eateries, along with easy access to the beach.
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Rio de Janeiro
Copacabana
Mid-rangeIconic and bustling beachfront avenue lined with hotels, restaurants, and a lively promenade.
- +World-famous beach with a vibrant atmosphere
- +Wide range of accommodation and dining options
- +Good transport links
- -Can be very crowded and noisy
- -Safety requires vigilance, especially at night
Ipanema
LuxuryChic and vibrant beachside neighborhood known for its stylish boutiques, upscale restaurants, and iconic sunset views.
- +Beautiful beach with good infrastructure
- +Excellent dining and shopping options
- +Generally safe and well-maintained
- -Can be very crowded, especially on weekends
- -Expensive
Santa Teresa
Mid-rangeBohemian and artistic hilltop neighborhood with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and stunning city views.
- +Unique artistic atmosphere and charming streets
- +Excellent restaurants and bars
- +Cultural attractions like museums and galleries
- -Hilly terrain can be challenging for walking
- -Less accessible by public transport, requires taxis/rideshares or the tram
Leblon
LuxuryUpscale and sophisticated residential neighborhood adjacent to Ipanema, known for its fine dining and designer shops.
- +Quieter and more residential than Ipanema
- +Excellent restaurants and high-end shopping
- +Safe and pleasant for strolling
- -Very expensive
- -Limited nightlife options compared to other areas
Daily Budget (Budget)
BRL 200/day
Hidden Gems in Rio de Janeiro
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Feira de São Cristóvão
Experience the vibrant culture of Northeast Brazil right in Rio at this lively indoor market. You can find authentic regional food, crafts, music, and dance, offering a true taste of Brazilian heritage.
Escadaria Selarón
FREEThis iconic stairway is a vibrant work of art, covered in colorful tiles from all over the world, created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón. It's a unique and visually striking place to explore and capture memorable photos.
Confeitaria Colombo
Step back in time at this stunning, historic cafe with Belle Époque architecture. Locals flock here for delicious pastries, traditional Brazilian sweets, and a charming atmosphere that feels like a museum.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Rio de Janeiro