Top 7 Free Activities in Rio de Janeiro

The amazing city of Rio de Janeiro is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Brazil. While there are plenty of ways to enjoy a luxurious vacation in Rio, it is certainly not necessary for having a memorable experience.

Stretching your budget may include staying in a hostel and eating inexpensively, but it shouldn’t mean compromising on experiences. There is a wealth of activities that you can enjoy during your visit to Rio, and this list can help you plan ahead so that you can maximize your savings.

Relax on the Beach

The beaches in Rio are the heart of the city’s social scene. Laying a towel on the sand, soaking up the sun, and watching the vibrant atmosphere is completely free. The Copacabana and Ipanema beaches are the most popular, where you can enjoy beach football or volleyball, and if you bring your swimsuit and board, swimming and surfing are also popular activities.

Hike the Tijuca Forest

Address: Estr. da Cascatinha, 850 – Alto da Boa Vista, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20531-590, Brazil

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The Tijuca Forest is renowned for its stunning range of footpaths and exploration opportunities. This area, previously used for coffee and sugar cultivation, was replanted to provide a clean supply of drinking water for Rio. It features beautiful sculptures, lovely fountains, and charming garden spaces.

Visit the Centro Cultural Banco

Address: R. Primeiro de Março, 66 – Centro, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20010-000, Brazil

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Phone: +55 21 3808-2020

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Sponsored by the Bank of Brazil, this art museum is one of the city’s most popular attractions, housed in an exquisite art-deco building. The center showcases a diverse range of exhibitions that highlight some of the best artists in the country.

Explore the City’s Artistic Side in Lapa

Address: Lapa, Rio de Janeiro – State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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Lapa is known as a vibrant, bohemian area of the city that attracts many artists and performers. This means there’s no shortage of galleries and public art installations. For those looking to enjoy Rio’s nightlife, Lapa also boasts some of the best bars and clubs.

See the Catedral Metropolitana

Address: Av. República do Chile, 245 – Centro, Rio de Janeiro – RJ, 20031-170, Brazil

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Phone: +55 21 2240-2669

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This cone-shaped structure is one of the most striking modern buildings in Rio and was designed with inspiration from Mayan pyramids. Inside, it accommodates up to 20,000 worshipers and features four enormous stained glass windows that provide spectacular religious depictions.

Take in a Horse Race at the Jockey Club

One of the most interesting attractions in Rio is the Jockey Club. Although the stands may not always be full, observing the races is an engaging experience. You can watch from free areas in the stands, or enjoy a meal in the paid sections while placing a bet.

Stroll the Leafy Streets

The charming area around the Santa Teresa Convent is a delightful middle-class neighborhood that was once favored by the city’s elite. Today, it features tree-lined streets and winding roads that create a local atmosphere, complemented by lovely boutiques and coffee shops ideal for exploration.